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.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Brings India’s Culinary Heritage to the Table with A Taste of Tales

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Brings India’s Culinary Heritage to the Table with A Taste of Tales

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 13, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport is inviting guests to explore the rich flavours and traditions of Indian cuisine with A Taste of Tales, a specially curated dining experience that celebrates the country’s culinary heritage.

Hosted at Food Exchange, the experience draws inspiration from royal kitchens, treasured family recipes, and regional cooking traditions that have been passed down through generations. The Friday evening feast brings together a selection of iconic dishes from across India, offering guests an opportunity to discover the stories and cultural influences behind each preparation.

The menu features a variety of favourites, including succulent kebabs, aromatic kormas, flavourful dum biryani, and classic rasgullas. Each dish reflects the craftsmanship, traditions, and regional influences that continue to shape India’s diverse food culture.

Designed to offer more than just a meal, A Taste of Tales combines authentic flavours with the narratives that have made these dishes a lasting part of India’s gastronomic legacy.

  • Venue: Food Exchange, Novotel Hyderabad Airport
  • Dates: Every Friday in June 2026
  • Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM


Roseate House Hosts ‘Cyprus On A Plate by Coração Do Vale’, Showcasing Authentic Mediterranean Flavours

Roseate House Hosts ‘Cyprus On A Plate by Coração Do Vale’, Showcasing Authentic Mediterranean Flavours

By Hariharan U

Published on June 13, 2026

Roseate House, New Delhi, has partnered with Coração Do Vale and the Cyprus High Commission to present Cyprus On A Plate by Coração Do Vale, a week-long culinary showcase celebrating the flavours, traditions and heritage of Cyprus. The festival, running from June 11 to 17, 2026, offers guests an opportunity to experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine crafted using premium Portuguese extra virgin olive oil.

The culinary celebration commenced on June 11 with an exclusive dinner attended by food enthusiasts, diplomats and hospitality professionals. Present at the launch were H.E. Mr. Evagoras Vryonides, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus, and Raksha Kotian, Business Head, Leads Brand Connect for Coração Do Vale.

Curated by Chef Gagandeep alongside Chef Eleni Michael, a Cypriot chef, culinary consultant and food anthropologist, the menu was designed to showcase the diversity and depth of Cyprus’s culinary traditions. Through a carefully structured multi-course dining experience, guests were introduced to the island nation’s rich food culture and time-honoured recipes.

The experience began with an assortment of traditional cold and warm mezze, including Tsakistes, Tashi, Melitzanosalata, Village Salad and Louvi Hummus. The warm selection featured iconic Cypriot favourites such as Halloumi, Sheftalia and freshly prepared Cypriot Pita.

Among the standout dishes were Patzarosalata, a beetroot and potato salad infused with coriander chutney, and Ravioles, handmade Cypriot pasta filled with halloumi cheese and spearmint. The main course highlighted Tavas Lefkarítikos, a slow-braised lamb preparation cooked with rice, potatoes, tomatoes and aromatic spices, alongside Gemista, roasted vegetables stuffed with rice, herbs and mint, finished with feta and served with herbed potatoes.

Desserts offered a sweet conclusion to the culinary journey, featuring Anarokrema, a whipped ricotta cream layered with cinnamon, filo pastry, honey and walnuts. Guests also enjoyed traditional petit fours including Soutzioukkos, Loukoumi and Daktyla, paired with Cyprus Coffee and fresh mint tea.

Speaking about the initiative, Raksha Kotian, Business Head, Leads Brand Connect for Coração Do Vale, said, “We are delighted to see Coração Do Vale enhancing the experience of Cyprus on a Plate. It was more than a dinner; it was a cultural bridge elevated by Coração Do Vale. Every dish reflected centuries of Cypriot culture and offered guests an immersive Mediterranean experience in the heart of Delhi.”

The event also marks the launch of ‘World On A Plate by Coração Do Vale’, a new culinary series designed to celebrate the food cultures of different countries through specially curated gastronomic experiences. The initiative will spotlight international cuisines while showcasing the role of premium ingredients, with Coração Do Vale Extra Virgin Olive Oil serving as a central element across future editions.

Through ‘Cyprus On A Plate’, Roseate House and Coração Do Vale aim to bring global culinary traditions closer to Indian audiences, creating memorable dining experiences rooted in authenticity, culture and craftsmanship.


Amoeba Sports Bar Introduces Knock Out Kick, a Gin-Based Celebration Cocktail for Game Nights

Amoeba Sports Bar Introduces Knock Out Kick, a Gin-Based Celebration Cocktail for Game Nights

By Hariharan U

Published on June 12, 2026

Amoeba Sports Bar has introduced its latest signature creation, Knock Out Kick, a gin-based cocktail crafted by Mixologist Arindam Das. Designed to reflect the thrill of competitive moments and the excitement of victory, the cocktail brings together playful flavour contrasts with a modern, easy-drinking style.

Knock Out Kick is built around a refreshing blend of gin, peach syrup, fresh jalapeño, citrus and tonic water. The drink opens with smooth fruity sweetness from peach, followed by bright citrus notes, before unfolding into a gentle jalapeño heat that lingers subtly on the palate. The addition of tonic water enhances its crispness, making it both lively and refreshing.

Crystal clear in appearance yet layered in character, the cocktail balances brightness, fruitiness and spice in a way that makes it suitable for relaxed evenings as well as celebratory occasions. It is positioned as a go-to drink for game nights, social gatherings and high-energy evenings at the bar.

Speaking about the creation, the concept behind Knock Out Kick focuses on capturing moments of excitement and celebration through flavour, offering guests a drink that feels both familiar and surprising in equal measure. The cocktail reflects Amoeba Sports Bar’s focus on creating engaging, experience-driven beverage offerings.

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