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.

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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.

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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.


BarNaan Brookfield Launches New Signature Menu Celebrating Tandoori Specialties & Biryanis

BarNaan Brookfield Launches New Signature Menu Celebrating Tandoori Specialties & Biryanis

By Hariharan U

Published on May 11, 2026

BarNaan Brookfield has unveiled its new signature menu curated by Gurneet Singh, bringing together authentic Indian flavours, contemporary presentation, and globally inspired elements.

The newly launched menu celebrates the depth and diversity of Indian cuisine through a carefully curated selection of tandoori dishes, classic curries, comforting homestyle preparations, and aromatic biryanis, designed to appeal to both traditional diners and modern global palates.

One of the standout highlights of the menu is the Tandoori Salmon, where salmon fillets are marinated with yogurt, lime, and house-ground spices before being cooked in the tandoor, offering a refined seafood interpretation of traditional Indian grilling techniques. The popular Tandoori Chicken also remains a key feature, prepared with cream, herbs, and spices before being charred to perfection.

The “Classics” section of the menu pays tribute to iconic Indian dishes with preparations such as Tikka Masala, Korma, Saag, Rogan Josh, Madras, Vindaloo, Jalfrezi, and traditional Curry, each crafted using balanced spice blends and authentic cooking methods.

Chef Gurneet Singh has also introduced a range of house specialties that blend comfort with indulgence. Signature dishes include the much-loved Butter Chicken served in a rich tomato-butter gravy, Loaded Tikka Fries topped with paneer or chicken, mozzarella cheese, and tikka masala sauce, along with the flavourful Paneer Butter Masala prepared using house spice blends and tandoor cooking techniques.

Adding a nostalgic touch to the dining experience, the “Mom’s Specials” section features comforting dishes inspired by Indian home kitchens, including Malai Kofta, Chana Masala, Daal Tadka, and Aloo Gobi, celebrating traditional regional cooking styles and familiar flavours.

The biryani selection forms another major highlight of the menu, featuring Vegetable Biryani, Chicken Biryani, Lamb Biryani, Shrimp Biryani, and the indulgent House Biryani layered with chicken, lamb, shrimp, fragrant basmati rice, herbs, and aromatic spices.

Speaking about the launch, Chef Gurneet Singh shared, “This menu reflects our vision of presenting Indian cuisine in a way that feels both authentic and contemporary. We wanted to preserve the soul of traditional Indian cooking while introducing creative elements and elevated flavours that resonate with today’s diners.”

With its refreshed culinary direction, BarNaan Brookfield continues to strengthen its position as a destination for modern Indian dining, combining tradition, innovation, and warm hospitality in a contemporary setting


Masala Library, BKC Celebrates Mother’s Day with a Complimentary Signature Dessert Experience

Masala Library, BKC Celebrates Mother’s Day with a Complimentary Signature Dessert Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on May 10, 2026

Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra is inviting guests to celebrate Mother’s Day with a thoughtfully curated dining experience that blends modern Indian gastronomy with refined culinary artistry.

Known for its innovative approach to post-colonial Indian cuisine, Masala Library offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional flavours, where technique, presentation, and storytelling come together to create a distinctive fine dining journey.

This Mother’s Day, the restaurant is honouring mothers with a special gesture, a complimentary signature dessert for every mother dining at the restaurant. The experience is designed as a tribute to the women who shape our lives, offering a sweet and memorable ending to a carefully crafted meal.

Guests can expect an elevated dining experience that reflects the restaurant’s philosophy of pushing the boundaries of Indian cuisine while preserving its cultural essence. From thoughtfully plated dishes to immersive flavours, the celebration is positioned as both intimate and experiential.

Reservations for the experience can be made at +91 84549 00900. Located in the heart of Bandra Kurla Complex, Masala Library continues to stand as one of Mumbai’s most recognised destinations for progressive Indian fine dining.

This Mother’s Day offering brings together culinary innovation and emotional warmth, making it a fitting tribute to the most important woman in every guest’s life.


Harajuku Tokyo Cafe Celebrates Mother’s Day with “Okāsan Special” Brunch

Harajuku Tokyo Cafe Celebrates Mother’s Day with “Okāsan Special” Brunch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 10, 2026

This Mother’s Day, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe is bringing together flavour, comfort, and celebration with its specially curated “Okāsan Special” brunch experience.

Inspired by the warmth and spirit of Mother’s Day, the brunch offers guests a thoughtfully planned menu that balances Japanese-inspired flavours with comforting favourites. Designed to feel relaxed and cheerful, the experience promises an afternoon filled with good food, conversations, and memorable moments with loved ones.

The menu begins with flavourful starters such as Spicy Avocado Cream Cheese, Dynamite Shroom, and Spicy Salmon Cream Cheese, followed by comforting mains including Kara Miso Ramen, Katsu Curry Rice Bowl, and Yaki Udon (Mazemen). Each dish has been crafted with attention to detail while reflecting the café’s signature Tokyo-inspired style.

Adding to the celebration are free-flowing cocktails and mocktails, creating a lively and easy-going atmosphere throughout the brunch. To make the occasion extra special, every table dining with their mothers will receive a complimentary cupcake, adding a sweet and heartfelt touch to the experience.

Blending charm, comfort, and contemporary Japanese-inspired dining, the “Okāsan Special” brunch is designed as a warm tribute to mothers and the moments shared around the table.

  • What: Okāsan Special Mother’s Day Brunch
  • Where: Harajuku Tokyo Cafe
  • When: 12:00–2:00 PM & 2:00–4:00 PM

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