Chef Bala Launches Anthara, a French-American Culinary Destination in Bangalore

Chef Bala Launches Anthara, a French-American Culinary Destination in Bangalore

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 10, 2025

Chef Balasundaram Murugesan, fondly known as Chef Bala, has launched Anthara, a French-American patisserie and dining space in Bangalore’s vibrant Marathahalli neighbourhood. Spanning 2400 sq ft, Anthara offers an immersive gastronomic experience that unites the elegance of French patisserie with the bold comfort of American flavours.

Nestled amid blooming bougainvillea and warm earthy tones, Anthara has been designed to encourage guests to pause and savour life's simple indulgences. From day to night, the venue transforms from a vibrant café to a laid-back dining and lounge setting, inviting patrons to explore handcrafted coffees, custom-styled sandwiches, refined plated dishes, and an array of artisanal desserts.

Speaking about the launch, Chef Bala said, “Anthara is the culmination of my passion for soulful cuisine and my belief in the power of hospitality to connect people. With Anthara, I wanted to create a space that feels personal yet refined — where food isn’t just consumed, but truly experienced.”

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The culinary programme at Anthara showcases a daily rotation of house-baked breads, forming the base for rich, American deli-style sandwiches. A thoughtfully curated beer and coffee pairing menu complements the comfort food offerings. The French patisserie section highlights refined creations like éclairs and macarons, prepared using traditional techniques and premium ingredients.

Built on the principles of innovation, global quality, neighbourhood connection, and heartfelt hospitality, Anthara brings a refreshing dining experience to the city. Chef Bala also hinted at future expansion plans, aiming to reach more communities across Bangalore in the next five years.

With a menu that balances indulgence and authenticity, Anthara sets a new standard in Bangalore’s dining scene—where every meal is a story and every visit, a memory.


Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hosts IPL 2026 Viewing Experience at Hydeout Bar & Lounge

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hosts IPL 2026 Viewing Experience at Hydeout Bar & Lounge

By Hariharan U

Published on April 22, 2026

As the excitement of the Indian Premier League 2026 builds across the city, Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway has introduced a dedicated match-viewing experience at Hydeout Bar & Lounge.

Designed as a lively, open-air setting, the venue offers a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere where guests can catch live matches with comfortable lounge seating, ambient lighting, and a social, fan-driven vibe. The experience will run until May 31, 2026, aligning with the ongoing cricket season.

To enhance the match-day experience, the venue has introduced themed beverage offers inspired by cricket moments. Highlights include the Powerplay Bucket, featuring four beers available until the sixth over, and the Hat-Trick Bucket, where guests receive a complimentary beer if a hat-trick occurs during the match.

Additional offerings include the Free Hit Bucket, paired with snacks such as French fries or masala peanuts, and the Fan Jersey Bucket, which rewards guests wearing an India jersey with a 20% discount. These curated combinations aim to bring together sport, socialising, and casual dining in a single setting.

With its focus on shared experiences, themed offers, and a vibrant viewing environment, Hydeout Bar & Lounge positions itself as a go-to destination for cricket enthusiasts looking to enjoy the IPL season in a more engaging, community-driven atmosphere.


Penguin Overseas Launches ‘So Good Soju’ to Tap India’s Evolving Drinking Culture

Penguin Overseas Launches ‘So Good Soju’ to Tap India’s Evolving Drinking Culture

By Hariharan U

Published on April 22, 2026

Penguin Overseas has announced the launch of ‘So Good Soju’ in India, marking its entry into the fast-growing low-ABV, flavour-forward beverage segment that is reshaping consumption patterns among younger consumers.

Positioned as a modern lifestyle drink, the brand reflects a shift towards lighter, more social, and experience-driven drinking occasions, from house parties to casual evenings out. The launch taps into the rising popularity of Soju, globally recognised as the largest-selling spirit category by volume.

In India, this growing familiarity is being driven by increasing exposure to Korean culture across music, entertainment, and cuisine, translating into higher demand for approachable and versatile alternatives to traditional spirits.

Manufactured locally, So Good Soju combines global inspiration with local relevance, backed by Penguin Overseas’ 17-year experience in building the Soju category in India. The product is designed to deliver a clean, smooth, and balanced drinking experience, using natural flavours.

The portfolio is available in both still and sparkling formats, with current variants including Peach, Green Apple, Yuzu Lime, and K-Bomb, while additional flavours such as Strawberry, Blueberry, Green Grape, and Lemon are in development.

Commenting on the launch, Jaspreet Singh, Founder and CEO, Penguin Overseas, highlighted the shift in consumer behaviour towards lighter and flavour-led drinking experiences, noting that the brand aims to make social drinking more accessible and enjoyable.

Positioned as an accessible yet premium offering, So Good Soju is priced competitively, making it more affordable than imported alternatives while maintaining a strong flavour profile.

Currently available in Maharashtra and Haryana, the brand is set to expand into Delhi, Karnataka, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Tamil Nadu in a phased rollout.

With its vibrant flavour range, easy-drinking profile, and cultural relevance, So Good Soju aims to play a key role in shaping the next phase of India’s evolving social drinking landscape.


Catch the Cricket Fever at The Hood by Olive in Bengaluru

Catch the Cricket Fever at The Hood by Olive in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 22, 2026

Cricket season brings with it a lively buzz, and The Hood by Olive in Bengaluru is all set to match that energy with a vibrant match-day experience. Located in Ashok Nagar, this neighbourhood bar creates a setting that feels both social and engaging, making it a great spot for fans to come together and enjoy the game.

The space combines a stylish design with a relaxed layout, offering comfortable booth seating along with a casual indoor courtyard. Guests can catch every moment of the match on large screens while soaking in the upbeat atmosphere that builds with every over.

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Alongside the screenings, the menu adds to the experience with a mix of global flavours. From Lebanese Shankleesh to Japanese Toro Temaki and crispy Arare Shrimp, there’s a wide range of options to choose from. The drinks menu features signature cocktails as well as classic beers, giving guests plenty of choices to keep the mood going throughout the match.

Whether it’s a quick outing with friends or a longer match-day plan, The Hood by Olive brings together food, drinks, and cricket in a way that feels easy and enjoyable.

  • Address: The Hood by Olive, Krishna Manaera, 14/1, Wood St, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025
  • Timings: 12 pm - 1 am.

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