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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on March 30, 2024
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan foothills of Arunachal Pradesh lies a story of innovation and local pride. Here, in the village of Hong, amidst the Apatani tribe, flourishes a unique winery – Naara Aaba, the producer of India's first-ever organic kiwi wine.
The Apatani people have a long history of cultivating kiwi fruit, contributing significantly to India's overall production. In 2016, Arunachal Pradesh boasted a remarkable 26% share of the country's total kiwi output. So, when faced with a surplus of this delicious fruit, agricultural engineer Tage Rita Takhe saw an opportunity. Why not transform this local bounty into a product that could not only benefit the community but also put Arunachal Pradesh on the map?
Naara Aaba, which translates to “father's name” in the local dialect, embodies the spirit of tradition and innovation. Launched in 2017, the winery utilizes meticulous, small-batch production methods to ensure the highest quality. The focus is on organic practices, using only locally sourced, naturally grown kiwi fruit. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also allows the unique character of the Arunachal Pradesh terroir to shine through in the final product.
For those accustomed to the world of grape-based wines, Naara Aaba offers a refreshing departure. The kiwi wine boasts a vibrant, pale yellow color and a delightful aroma reminiscent of gooseberries and tropical fruits. The initial sip presents a burst of tangy sweetness, followed by a well-balanced finish with subtle hints of citrus and honey. This unique profile makes it a versatile drink, perfect on its own as an aperitif or paired with lighter dishes like salads, seafood, and even spicy curries.
Naara Aaba’s success extends beyond the delicious wine it produces. The winery has become a source of empowerment for the local community. It directly supports over 300 kiwi farmers, providing them with a reliable market for their produce. Additionally, the winery employs local residents, contributing to the region's economic development.
While securing a bottle of Naara Aaba outside of Arunachal Pradesh and neighboring Assam can be challenging due to transportation limitations, the journey to experience it firsthand is an adventure in itself. Arunachal Pradesh, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, offers a unique travel experience. Imagine sipping on a glass of Naara Aaba amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape – a truly unforgettable moment.
Naara Aaba's story is an inspiration. It showcases the power of local innovation, the importance of sustainable practices, and the potential of a community working together to create something truly special. So, next time you're searching for a unique and refreshing wine experience, remember Naara Aaba, a taste of the Himalayas waiting to be discovered.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on July 12, 2025
Bengaluru’s favourite urban hangout just got tastier:
Monkey Bar on Museum Road has introduced a new menu — staying true to its spirit while dishing out bold flavours, comfort bites, and international flair. From bar snacks to hearty mains, this refreshed menu adds new favourites to an already vibrant food scene.
Still housed in its signature high-ceilinged space with warm lighting and a buzz of familiar playlists, Monkey Bar remains a go-to for casual lunches, spontaneous dinners, and those long evenings that stretch into the night.
The update brings a mix of old-school comfort and fresh global flavours. Whether you're into small plates or classic mains, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Some of the new highlights include:
Tuna Cutlet and Classic Paneer Tikka – starters with nostalgic appeal.
Chicken Tsukune – Japanese-style skewers that bring izakaya charm.
Cheese Burger – a timeless favourite done right.
Hariyali Fish Tikka – herb-marinated, perfectly grilled and fresh.
Hummus & Pita – a Mediterranean must-have.
Loaded Keema Wedges – a spiced Indian take on cheesy indulgence.
Military Mutton Biryani – aromatic, slow-cooked and flavour-packed.
Mutton Kofta & Appam – a fusion of South Indian and Mughlai richness.
These additions join Monkey Bar’s well-loved staples like comfort bowls, flatbreads, street food-inspired snacks, and its fun mix of cocktails and craft drinks.
Monkey Bar isn’t just a gastropub, it’s a slice of Bengaluru life. It’s where old friends reunite, new plans are born, and spontaneous evenings unfold. The updated menu strengthens its status as a neighbourhood favourite that evolves with the city while keeping its soul intact.
With the right mix of nostalgia, innovation, and good food, Monkey Bar invites you to come hungry and stay a little longer.
Fact Sheet
By Nishang Narayan
Published on July 11, 2025
India’s largest and fastest-growing specialty coffee brand, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, is making its way to the Gulf. In a strategic move, Blue Tokai has partnered with Ambrosia Gulf, which will serve as its master franchisee for the GCC, starting with a flagship launch in the United Arab Emirates. This marks the brand’s first official foray into the Middle East.
With over 175 cafés across India and an international footprint in Tokyo, this partnership is a key milestone for Blue Tokai as it looks to bring its signature farm-to-cup coffee experience to a new audience.
Ambrosia Gulf, part of the Ambrosia Foods Group and backed by mid-market investment firm Pulsar Capital, will lead the expansion. The firm is already known for operating Papa Johns in India (with its first outlet set for September 2025) and managing Biryani By Kilo in the GCC, underlining its strong cross-border brand management capabilities.
“We’re excited to bring Blue Tokai to the UAE and share its incredible coffee story with the region,” said Vish Narain, Executive Chairman of Ambrosia Gulf. “We’re focused on building brands that prioritize quality, authenticity, and customer experience — values that Blue Tokai exemplifies.”
Echoing this sentiment, Matt Chitranjan, Co-Founder and CEO of Blue Tokai, said, “It’s an exciting time for us as we grow beyond India into a market that appreciates traceability, craft, and community. Ambrosia Gulf’s operational expertise and deep local insights make them the perfect partners for this journey.”
Adding to this, Shivam Shahi, COO of Blue Tokai, shared, “Partnering with a group that already operates leading food brands across India and the GCC gives us confidence as we scale internationally. This isn’t just expansion — it’s about building a regionally aligned presence while staying true to our values.”
Beyond launching cafés, the partnership also aims to introduce Blue Tokai’s FMCG offerings to the GCC, tapping into HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés) and direct-to-consumer channels, thereby significantly broadening the brand’s reach.
The first Blue Tokai café in the UAE is expected to open by Q4 2025. Coffee lovers can look forward to experiencing Blue Tokai’s celebrated single-estate coffees, manual brewing styles, and a transparent, craftsmanship-driven café environment.
Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar, a beloved culinary spot in Greenville for soulful Indian fare, has launched an exciting new menu curated by Sous Chef Kishor Singh. The refreshed menu is a vibrant celebration of India’s rich culinary landscape, seamlessly blending traditional flavours with a touch of modern sophistication.
Chef Kishor Singh, renowned for his deep respect for regional Indian cuisine and innovative approach, has thoughtfully reimagined both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The ‘Veg Entrées’ now spotlight regional nuances with creations like Sagg Paneer Pasanda, tandoor-charred Tandoori Paneer Makhni, and the comforting Dum Aloo Banarasi. Popular classics such as Dal Makhni, Raw Mango Curry, and Malai Kofta return with subtle, refined updates, staying true to their authentic roots.
For non-vegetarian lovers, the menu doesn’t disappoint. From the universally adored Butter Chicken to the fiery Laal Maas, each dish is a testament to India’s diverse flavour profiles. Highlights include Old Delhi Mutton Nihari, Prawn Mango Curry, and the coastal-inspired Fish Moilee in a delicate coconut gravy.
“This menu is not just about food, but about storytelling—each dish reflects a part of India’s culinary journey,” shares Chef Singh, whose expertise brings together age-old techniques and contemporary tastes.
Crafted using premium ingredients and traditional spice blends, Namak’s new menu encapsulates the warmth of Indian hospitality while inviting diners to embark on a journey of culinary discovery.
With its elegant ambiance, attentive service, and now an even more enticing menu, Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar continues to solidify its place as a must-visit dining destination in Greenville.
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