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.


Mumbai’s Top Sushi Destinations to Celebrate International Sushi Day

Mumbai’s Top Sushi Destinations to Celebrate International Sushi Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 17, 2026

International Sushi Day on June 18, 2026, is set to shine a spotlight on Mumbai’s growing love for Japanese cuisine. Across the city, restaurants are celebrating the occasion with unique sushi experiences, ranging from unlimited conveyor belt offerings and live sushi stations to carefully crafted signature rolls and premium nigiri selections.

Leading the celebrations is Harajuku Tokyo Café, which is extending its popular conveyor belt sushi experience for the entire day. Known for its vibrant Tokyo-inspired setting, the restaurant will offer unlimited access to some of its most-loved creations, including the Spicy Salmon Roll, Philadelphia Roll, Prawn Tempura Roll, and Rainbow Roll. The all-day experience is designed to give guests an immersive and fun-filled Sushi Day celebration.

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Another popular destination for sushi enthusiasts is Torii, a restaurant that has earned a reputation for its thoughtful approach to Japanese cuisine. Its signature sushi menu includes favourites such as the Avocado Tempura, Dirty Torii, Katsu Chicken Roll, and Tornado Asparagus. With a strong focus on technique and quality ingredients, Torii offers an ideal setting for those looking to enjoy a refined sushi experience.

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Amaru is taking a different route with a special Sushi Edition of its well-known Sunday brunch. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared maki rolls and nigiri from a live sushi bar while also exploring a live ceviche station, curated cocktails, a dessert bar, and entertainment from a live DJ. The brunch combines Japanese flavours with Amaru’s lively dining atmosphere, making it a unique way to celebrate the occasion.

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For diners seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience, OJU offers a menu centred around craftsmanship and premium ingredients. Located above Neuma in a restored Colaba bungalow, the restaurant features a sushi and maki selection that includes Yasai Maki, Avocado Tempura Sushi, Otoro, Hotate, and the popular Prawn Tempura Maki with spicy red yuzu kosho mayo. The restaurant’s intimate setting and attention to detail continue to make it a favourite among sushi lovers.

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As International Sushi Day arrives, these Mumbai restaurants are showcasing the diversity and creativity of Japanese cuisine, offering everything from casual sushi feasts to elevated dining experiences for enthusiasts across the city.


Foo Celebrates Sushi Day with a Creative Lineup of Signature Sushi Rolls

Foo Celebrates Sushi Day with a Creative Lineup of Signature Sushi Rolls

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 17, 2026

As Sushi Day approaches, Foo is inviting diners to explore a sushi menu that brings together precision, craftsmanship, and high-quality ingredients. Rooted in traditional sushi-making techniques while embracing modern flavour combinations, the menu offers a fresh take on one of the world's most loved culinary creations.

Among the highlights is the Truffle Togarashi Black Rice Maki, featuring black rice paired with asparagus, avocado, cucumber, and Philadelphia cheese, finished with a hint of togarashi for added depth and spice. Another standout is the Shishito Charcoal Tempura Uramaki, which combines tempura shishito peppers, avocado, crisp filo, and a spicy sauce to deliver layers of texture and flavour.

Plant-based diners can enjoy The Foo Vegan Maki, a thoughtfully crafted roll made with black rice, avocado, Thai chilli, yam bean, and guacamole, complemented by a rich miso sauce. The Foo Wild Salmon Uramaki offers a colourful presentation with vibrant blue rice, salmon, avocado, guacamole, and spicy cream sauce, creating a bold and memorable sushi experience.

Adding a fusion touch to the menu is the Peruvian Lobster Roll, which combines lobster tempura, avocado, spicy crisps, and anticucho sauce. Inspired by Japanese and Peruvian culinary influences, the roll delivers a distinctive blend of flavours and textures.

These signature creations represent only a part of Foo's extensive sushi selection, which continues to attract sushi enthusiasts across the city. With a balance of traditional craftsmanship and modern creativity, the menu serves as a fitting celebration of Sushi Day and the enduring appeal of sushi culture.


Naveen Kandhol Unveils Signature Mocktail Menu with Innovative Flavours

Naveen Kandhol Unveils Signature Mocktail Menu with Innovative Flavours

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 17, 2026

Celebrated beverage expert and creative mixologist Naveen Kandhol, The Mixologist has introduced a new signature mocktail menu, bringing together fresh ingredients, modern techniques, and exciting flavour combinations. The collection has been designed for guests looking for premium non-alcoholic beverages that offer the same level of creativity and craftsmanship often associated with cocktails.

The newly launched menu features five carefully crafted mocktails, each delivering a distinct experience. The Lemon Basil Spritz combines lemon syrup, fresh basil, lime juice, and soda to create a refreshing drink with bright citrus notes and a subtle herbal touch. The Strawberry Balsamico blends white balsamic reduction, strawberry syrup, lemon juice, pineapple juice, and foamer, offering a balanced mix of sweetness and acidity.

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For those who enjoy fruit-forward flavours, the Peach Alba combines peach nectar, lime juice, peach syrup, and egg white to create a smooth and velvety beverage. The Rosemary Cherry Tonic brings together cherry syrup, rosemary syrup, lime juice, and tonic water, delivering an aromatic and refreshing profile. Completing the collection is the Hazelnut Cold Brew Shakerato, which combines hazelnut syrup, espresso, vanilla essence, and soda for a refreshing coffee-inspired drink.

Speaking about the launch, Naveen Kandhol said, “Mocktails have evolved significantly in recent years, and today's consumers expect the same level of creativity and craftsmanship in non-alcoholic beverages as they do in cocktails. This menu has been carefully designed to showcase bold flavors, premium ingredients, and memorable experiences. Each drink reflects a balance of innovation and approachability, allowing guests to explore exciting flavor combinations while enjoying a sophisticated beverage experience.”

The new menu highlights Naveen Kandhol’s continued focus on pushing the boundaries of mixology while responding to changing consumer preferences. By incorporating fresh ingredients, artisanal syrups, botanical elements, and contemporary presentation styles, the collection offers an elevated alternative for guests seeking alcohol-free beverage options.

The launch is expected to appeal to a broad audience, including wellness-conscious consumers and beverage enthusiasts eager to explore new flavour experiences. With this latest addition, Naveen Kandhol further strengthens his position as a leading name in beverage innovation and contemporary mocktail culture.

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