Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 28, 2024

Shankar Distillers, the latest venture by tech entrepreneur Varchasvi Shankar, has officially opened in Troy, Michigan. This advanced distillery features a state-of-the-art 45-foot continuous distillation column, so large that the distillery's roof had to be modified to accommodate it. Located in an industrial park, the distillery's glass ceiling is a distinctive landmark visible from I-75, just north of the 14 Mile exit near Oakland Mall.

Varchasvi Shankar, the first Indian immigrant to open an American whiskey distillery, celebrated the grand opening of Shankar Distillers on Friday, July 12. Shankar has also expanded into international markets, making the Varchas Whiskey line the first American craft bourbon exported to India. The distillery team includes master distiller Kylash Sivakumar and senior advisor Dennis Archer Jr., who have together crafted several award-winning spirits. Among their accolades is the Varchas Reserve 102 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which won gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its smooth, earthy flavor profile featuring notes of wood, leather, tobacco, and caramel.

image

Shankar expressed his enthusiasm for sharing these whiskeys directly with the public. “This is a dream come true for me. I never imagined that I would open a distillery in the USA. I came here for a technology career, but whiskey has always been my passion, and I'm thrilled to bring this unique cultural experience to the people of this country,” he said. “I'm excited to see visitors experience in person the fusion of Eastern and Western traditions in our spirits.”

Shankar Distillers offers a range of spirits, including Varchas Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Varchas Straight Rye Whiskey, Dasara Gin, and Varchas Vodka. Visitors can purchase these products along with branded merchandise like whiskey glasses, flasks, and T-shirts. The tasting room features plush lounge seating and a premium atmosphere, with a diverse cocktail menu that includes classics like Manhattans and barrel-aged sazeracs, as well as a unique gin and tonic made with Indian tonic. House specialties also include the “Gimme Some More,” made with Varchas Vodka, cucumber, and elderflower liqueur.

image

Shankar Distillers stands out not just for its story of transitioning from tech to distilling but also for the beauty of its bottles. The 750 ml glass bottles feature a two-headed eagle on the label, a symbol of Shankar’s home state of Mysore in southern India, and a 3D eagle on the cork, highlighting Shankar’s accomplishments in the United States. The distillery is proud of its Michigan roots, using locally sourced water and corn in its products.

For those interested in visiting, Shankar Distillers at 1030 Chicago Road in Troy is open from 3-10 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday, 3 p.m.-midnight on Friday, 11 a.m.-midnight on Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Tours are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. 

For more information, visit shankardistillers.com.


The Patio at 24/1, JW Marriott Bengaluru Introduces New All-Day Dining Menu

The Patio at 24/1, JW Marriott Bengaluru Introduces New All-Day Dining Menu

By Hariharan U

Published on July 12, 2026

The Patio at 24/1, located at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, has introduced a refreshed all-day dining menu curated by Chef Afzal Mahmood. Bringing together global flavours, contemporary techniques, and comforting favourites, the new menu has been designed to cater to guests throughout the day, from leisurely breakfasts to relaxed evening meals.

The breakfast selection is headlined by the Ms. Patio Big Breakfast, featuring eggs prepared to guests' preference, beef bacon, chicken sausage, and crispy potatoes. The offering is designed to provide a hearty start to the day while reflecting the restaurant's relaxed yet refined dining philosophy.

Guests can also explore a variety of globally inspired small plates, including Lebanese Batata Harra served with roasted red pepper dip and Edamame & Red Cheddar Croquetas paired with saffron aioli and jalapeño salsa, offering vibrant flavours and contemporary presentation.

The main course menu highlights Chef Afzal Mahmood's international culinary approach with dishes such as Homemade Almond Butter Ricotta & Young Spinach Ravioli finished with tomato basil pecorino fondue, Saffron Seafood Cappelletti served in a delicate creamy bisque, and Premium Pink Cut Salmon complemented by saffron caviar butter sauce and a refreshing citrus fennel salad.

For dessert, guests can indulge in A Must Eat Risotto, a creative sweet dish featuring white chocolate gelato and almond crumble, or enjoy the restaurant's signature Tiramisu, prepared using a family recipe that dates back 58 years.

Whether visiting after a game on the pickleball court, enjoying a casual breakfast meeting, or extending lunch into the afternoon, The Patio at 24/1's new menu offers an elevated yet approachable dining experience in the heart of Bengaluru.

The menu is available daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM at The Patio at 24/1, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru. The average cost for two is approximately INR 3,000 plus taxes.


Maize & Malt Introduces Viral Rose Jalebi Tres Leches with an Indian Twist in Bengaluru

Maize & Malt Introduces Viral Rose Jalebi Tres Leches with an Indian Twist in Bengaluru

By Author

Published on July 12, 2026

As Tres Leches continues to dominate dessert menus and social media feeds across the world, Bengaluru-based Maize & Malt has introduced its own Indian-inspired interpretation with the launch of the Rose Jalebi Tres Leches.

Bringing together the richness of the classic Latin American dessert with the familiar flavours of jalebi and rose, the new creation reflects the growing trend of reimagining traditional Indian favourites through contemporary culinary techniques.

The dessert features a light and airy sponge soaked in three kinds of milk, layered with crisp jalebi for texture and finished with delicate rose flavours. The combination delivers a balance of creamy richness, sweetness, and crunch, offering diners a fresh take on one of the internet's most popular desserts.

Designed for guests who enjoy innovative desserts as well as those seeking nostalgic Indian flavours, the Rose Jalebi Tres Leches blends global inspiration with local culinary traditions in a single serving.

Located in Bengaluru's Mahadevapura, Maize & Malt continues to expand its menu with inventive offerings that celebrate both international food trends and regional influences, positioning itself as a destination for contemporary dining experiences.


The Patio at 24/1 Unveils a New All-Day Dining Menu in Bengaluru

The Patio at 24/1 Unveils a New All-Day Dining Menu in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2026

The Patio at 24/1, located at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, has introduced a refreshed all-day dining menu curated by Chef Afzal Mahmood. Designed to cater to every part of the day, the new offering combines globally inspired flavours with comforting classics and thoughtfully crafted dishes.

Guests can begin their day with the restaurant's breakfast selection, Patio Breakfast Then I'll Change The World. One of the highlights is the Ms. Patio Big Breakfast, featuring eggs cooked to preference, beef bacon, chicken sausage, and crispy potatoes.

As the day progresses, diners can explore a selection of small plates, including the Lebanese Batata Harra served with roasted red pepper dip and the Edamame & Red Cheddar Croquetas, accompanied by saffron aioli and jalapeño salsa.

image

The main course menu reflects Chef Afzal Mahmood's global culinary approach. Signature dishes include the Homemade Almond Butter Ricotta & Young Spinach Ravioli finished with tomato basil pecorino fondue, the Saffron Seafood Cappelletti served in a delicate creamy bisque, and the Premium Pink Cut Salmon paired with saffron caviar butter sauce and a citrus fennel salad.

To end the meal, guests can choose from desserts such as A Must Eat Risotto, a playful creation featuring white chocolate gelato and almond crumble, or the restaurant's signature Tiramisu, prepared using a 58-year-old recipe.

Whether visiting after a game on the pickleball court, meeting over breakfast, or enjoying a leisurely lunch, the new menu at The Patio at 24/1 is designed to offer a relaxed and memorable dining experience throughout the day.

  • Venue: The Patio at 24/1, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru.
  • Timing: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
  • Address: JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, 24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd, Bengaluru – 560001.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.