KICO Wins Big at Food Connoisseurs India Awards 2025

KICO Wins Big at Food Connoisseurs India Awards 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 29, 2025

It was a moment of pride and celebration for KICO – Kicks & Cocktails, as the one-of-its-kind sneaker-inspired bar was awarded Best Newcomer Restro Bar at the prestigious Food Connoisseurs India Awards 2025 – West India Edition. Adding to the triumph, Atul Chopra, Partner at Yazu Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., was honoured with the title of Restaurateur of the Year (Male).

Launched as India’s first sneaker-themed cocktail bar, KICO brings together the vibrant worlds of sneaker culture, street fashion, craft cocktails, and shared gourmet plates in one buzzing venue. Located in Mumbai, the bar has quickly become a favourite among urban diners and style-savvy crowds.

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“This recognition so early in our journey is incredibly meaningful,” said Atul Chopra, co-founder of KICO. “We envisioned KICO as a space that’s more than a bar—it’s a cultural hub where people connect over fashion, flavour, and music. This award affirms that Indian audiences are open to bold, immersive experiences.”

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Atul Chopra, known for his dynamic ventures in the F&B space, previously launched the popular Three Wise Men in 2012 and has since built an impressive portfolio including Yazu – Pan Asian Supper Club, Juliette in Goa, and now KICO. His ability to spot trends and bring new-age concepts to life continues to shape India’s modern hospitality scene.

Co-founded by Ranbir Nagpal and Atul Chopra, KICO stands out with its unique blend of lifestyle and gastronomy, pushing the boundaries of traditional hospitality. With this win, the team behind KICO has further cemented their reputation for innovative, community-driven spaces that resonate deeply with India’s evolving urban culture.

KICO is not just a restro bar—it’s a statement. And now, it’s an award-winning one too.


Sheraton Grand Bangalore Showcases Flavours of Kongunadu at High Ultra Lounge

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Showcases Flavours of Kongunadu at High Ultra Lounge

By Hariharan U

Published on April 10, 2026

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway brings the bold and rustic flavours of western Tamil Nadu to the city with its latest culinary showcase, Flavours of Kongunadu, hosted at High Ultra Lounge.

Celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Kongunadu, the experience highlights a cuisine known for its robust spices, earthy ingredients, and deeply rooted agrarian traditions. The showcase offers guests an opportunity to explore flavours that are both hearty and intensely satisfying.

Curated by Chef Gopinath, the menu brings together a thoughtful mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Highlights include Kongu Mushroom Milagu Fry and Karuveppilai Baby Potato Roast, alongside signature dishes such as Mutton Kola Urundai and Pallipalayam Chicken Fry, each reflecting the authentic taste and character of the region.

Complementing the food is a curated selection of gin-based cocktails designed to enhance the flavour profile of the cuisine. Creations such as Pepper Leaf Gin Smash, Curry Leaf Gin Fizz, Spiced Tamarind Gin Sour, and Smoked Botanical Gin Tonic add a contemporary edge to the traditional spread.

Set on the 31st floor, High Ultra Lounge offers sweeping views of the Bengaluru skyline, pairing the culinary journey with a vibrant, high-energy ambience that transitions seamlessly from sunset to late evening.

With its blend of regional authenticity and elevated dining, Flavours of Kongunadu presents a unique opportunity for guests to experience the essence of Tamil Nadu’s western region in a contemporary rooftop setting.


Brigade Hospitality Relaunches The Baking Company with a Fresh, Urban Concept

Brigade Hospitality Relaunches The Baking Company with a Fresh, Urban Concept

By Hariharan U

Published on April 10, 2026

In a strategic move to align with evolving urban consumer preferences, Brigade Hospitality has relaunched its flagship bakery brand, The Baking Company (TBC), introducing a refreshed concept focused on quality, convenience, and contemporary design.

Currently operating at prominent locations including the World Trade Center and The Woodrose, the brand continues to position itself within high-end commercial and lifestyle spaces. Strengthening its presence, a third outlet is set to open later this month at Brigade Tech Gardens, with three additional outlets planned across Bengaluru within the year.

The relaunch reflects a conscious effort to reimagine the brand for today’s fast-paced, quality-conscious consumers. With a strong emphasis on freshness and accessibility, The Baking Company aims to seamlessly integrate into everyday urban routines while maintaining a premium positioning.

The Baking Company holds a special place in our portfolio, and this relaunch reflects our effort to reimagine the brand for today’s fast-paced, quality-conscious consumer. With a strong focus on freshness, convenience, and design, we aim to create a bakery experience that fits seamlessly into everyday urban life,” said Gurmeet Singh.

The menu has been curated to cater to diverse tastes, offering a wide range of bite-sized savouries, desserts, and beverages. Guests can expect an assortment of sandwiches, sliders, doughnuts, macarons, tartlets, and gourmet cakes. In line with changing consumer preferences, the brand is also expanding its focus on healthier options, incorporating fresh ingredients and select superfoods.

Operationally, the brand leverages a central kitchen model supported by a hub-and-spoke distribution system, ensuring consistency in quality, food safety, and efficiency across all outlets. This structured approach positions The Baking Company for scalable growth while maintaining product integrity.

With this relaunch, Brigade Hospitality blends the familiarity of a well-loved brand with a modern, forward-looking vision. As the brand expands its footprint, it aims to establish itself as a preferred urban bakery destination for India’s evolving consumer base.


Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar Hosts Korean Food Festival in Mumbai

Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar Hosts Korean Food Festival in Mumbai

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 10, 2026

Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar in Mumbai is currently hosting a Korean Food Festival, bringing the vibrant and bold flavours of Korean cuisine to the spotlight. The limited-time menu celebrates comfort food with a modern twist, inspired by the growing popularity of Korean dishes around the world.

As part of the festival, the restaurant has introduced two special additions that stand out for their flavour and presentation. The Big Bowl Ramen is a highlight, created as an oversized and filling dish for those who enjoy generous portions. Known as one of the biggest ramen bowls in Mumbai, it offers a hearty and shareable experience that adds a fun element to dining.

For those looking for something more indulgent, the Cheese Baked Ramen offers a rich and satisfying option. This oven-baked dish comes layered with gooey cheese and bold flavours, delivering a comforting and decadent experience. With only 10 portions prepared each day, it also adds a sense of exclusivity to the menu.

To go along with the food, the bar features eight beers on tap, including a seasonal mango cider that brings a fresh and fruity balance to the rich dishes. The combination of bold flavours and refreshing drinks adds to the overall appeal of the festival.

With its focus on flavour, portion size, and limited-time offerings, the Korean Food Festival at Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar creates a dining experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.

  • Address: Hotel peninsula redpine, Andheri - Kurla Rd, Bori Colony, Marol, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400059.
  • Timings: 4pm to 1am.

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