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.


KEFI Opens in Versova as an All-Day Café Focused on Comfort and Craft

KEFI Opens in Versova as an All-Day Café Focused on Comfort and Craft

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 4, 2026

KEFI has opened in Versova, Andheri, bringing a thoughtfully designed all-day café experience to one of Mumbai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Conceptualised as a modern third space, the café offers comfort-driven food, elevated beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down, connect, and return often.

The name KEFI is derived from the Greek word kefi, meaning joy, passion, and the spirit of living in the moment. This philosophy lies at the core of the brand and is reflected across its food, space, and overall guest experience. Sharing the brand’s vision, Monica Kapoor, Co-Founder and Creative Director, said, "KEFI is about creating joy through food, space, and shared moments , a place people naturally return to."

Adding to this, Aatif Khan, Co-Founder and Director of Business Strategy, said, "For me, KEFI is about building a brand that lasts , one that grows thoughtfully, scales responsibly, and retains its soul at every stage."

Designed as a seamless all-day dining destination, KEFI transitions effortlessly from early morning breakfasts and quick coffee stops to work meetings, relaxed lunches, and comforting dinners. The menu focuses on modern café cuisine with global influences, offering flavour-forward dishes that balance familiarity with finesse. Key highlights include Khan's Keema Pao, Chef's Shakshuka, the KEFI Grilled Steak, Desi Chicken Curry, and the indulgent Dark Desire Cake. The culinary direction is led by Monica Kapoor, with a focus on elevating familiar favourites while retaining their comforting essence.

The beverage menu complements the food offering with a mix of nostalgic classics and contemporary creations. Signature drinks include the Retro Classic Cold Coffee, Bloody Matcha, Flirty Rose Iced Tea, Sweet Kiss, and the Golden Glow Smoothie, designed to suit KEFI’s relaxed, all-day rhythm.

The interiors are co-curated by the founders and reflect a shared preference for airy layouts, calming tones, and natural light. Minimal yet warm, the space features elemental textures and an open design that invites guests to linger.

With its soulful philosophy, comfort-led menu, and thoughtfully curated space, KEFI is poised to become a neighbourhood favourite in Versova, offering a café experience where joy is felt not just through food, but in every moment spent within.

Address: KEFI Eatery and Cafe, Inlaks Nagar, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400061

Operational Timing: 8 am to 1 pm


Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style at Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style at Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 4, 2026

This Valentine’s Day, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park invite couples to celebrate love with thoughtfully curated dining experiences, romantic settings, and indulgent sweet treats. Spanning the Valentine’s weekend, the hotels promise memorable moments through chef-driven menus, elegant décor, and intimate dining options designed to make the occasion truly special.

At Neo Kitchen, the all-day dining restaurant, guests can enjoy a series of specially curated Valentine’s Day offerings. The celebrations begin with a Valentine’s Day breakfast featuring interactive food counters, offering a fun and engaging start to the day for couples.

The highlight of the experience is the intimate Valentine’s Day dinner at Neo Kitchen, where guests can indulge in a lavish multi-cuisine buffet crafted by the culinary team. The evening is enhanced with soulful music, engaging moments, and a charming selfie booth, allowing couples to capture lasting memories in a romantic setting.

The Valentine’s Day breakfast and dinner at Neo Kitchen will take place on 14th February. Breakfast is available at a reasonable price, while the dinneris specially curated for couples with  indoor seating and under-the-sky dining experience, which includes a bottle of sparkling wine.

For couples seeking a more exclusive and intimate celebration, Neer, the poolside restaurant, offers a romantic five-course set menu curated by the chefs. The experience includes a bottle of sparkling wine, personalized thank-you cards, and a dedicated Valentine’s Day photo booth, creating a refined and elegant atmosphere under the stars. The poolside dining experience at Neer will be available on 14th February from 7 pm onwards.

Adding a sweet touch to the season of love, Techtonic introduces a special range of Valentine’s Day pastries and cakes, available from 6th February 2026. The pâtisserie also presents thoughtfully curated Valentine’s Day hampers featuring a selection of gourmet treats, making them ideal for gifting and sharing with loved ones.

With its blend of romantic dining, elegant experiences, and indulgent treats, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park offer couples the perfect setting to celebrate love and create unforgettable Valentine’s Day memories.


Gnome Opens in Bengaluru as a Secret Culinary Garden and Cocktail Bar

Gnome Opens in Bengaluru as a Secret Culinary Garden and Cocktail Bar

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 3, 2026

Gnome – Culinary Garden & Cocktail Bar has opened its doors at Embassy Tech Square in Bengaluru, introducing a 15,000 sq ft hidden dining destination that feels like a secret garden tucked away from the bustle of the Outer Ring Road. Designed as a 300-seater, the space brings together lush outdoor zones, cosy indoor seating, and playful design details, offering a more intimate and immersive alternative to the city’s growing large-format dining venues.

Founded by Nikhil Wahi and Kapil Dua, the minds behind Biergarten, Natraj Chole Bhature, Dubki Beach Club, and Avo’s Kitchen in Goa, Gnome unfolds as a thoughtfully crafted blend of two contrasting worlds. The lower level features an abundant green garden with sunken seating, sculpted gnomes, a striking glass vivarium, and amphitheatre-style seating, while a handcrafted forest mural by ceramic artist Jayati Kaushik adds depth and character to the space.

Speaking about the vision behind the concept, co-founder Nikhil Wahi said, “With Gnome, we wanted to create a place that feels intimate and exclusive, where hospitality and guest experience come first.”

Cocktails take centre stage at Gnome, curated by Pankaj Balachandran of Countertop. The bar menu features bold, flavour-forward signatures such as Italian Problem, Dirty Laundry, and Technically Breakfast, along with the refreshing ‘Booze & Juice’ concept, where freshly pressed juices are paired with classic global spirits. Craft beers from Red Rhino and Toit are also available, catering to Bengaluru’s loyal beer audience.

The kitchen, led by Chief Mischief-Maker Chef Nithin Haridas, Corporate Chef at Biergarten, along with Head Chef Sumit Chamoli, presents a global menu that feels familiar yet playful. Spanning Indian and Tandoor, Asian, Continental, Pizzas, Burgers, and Bakery offerings, the food is designed for sharing and easy indulgence.

Bar nibbles such as Rock Corn Tempura, Polenta Fries with cheese olive tapenade, and Cream Cheese & Zaatar Cigar Rolls set the tone, while salads bring balance to the menu. Dim sums, small plates, and hearty mains including Naati Chicken Kebab, Salmon Tartare Flatbread, Martaban Gosht, and Pindi Chhole with Amritsari Kulcha complete the experience.

With its mix of warmth, creativity, and playful mischief, Gnome positions itself as a premium yet welcoming gathering space in the Marathahalli - Kadubeesanahalli belt, offering a relaxed spot to unwind between work and home, just look for the gnome with the tall hat.

Address: 13/1, Embassy Tech Square Main Rd, Hobli, Kadubeesanahalli, Varthur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560103.

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