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.


Monkey Bar Brings Back Childhood Memories with Limited Edition Back to School Menu

Monkey Bar Brings Back Childhood Memories with Limited Edition Back to School Menu

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2026

Monkey Bar is inviting guests to take a trip down memory lane with the launch of its limited-edition Back to School menu in Bengaluru. Available until 30th June, the special offering brings together nostalgic street-side snacks and classic cocktails, celebrating the flavours and memories that many grew up with.

Created around the idea of revisiting simpler times, the menu has been curated by Monkey Bar founders Nikhil and Tushar along with Chef Clyde. Inspired by school-day memories, neighbourhood hangouts, and after-school treats, the experience is designed to recreate the comfort and joy of familiar favourites.

The food menu highlights some of India's most loved street-side snacks. Guests can enjoy cucumber slices topped with chaat masala and lime, raw mango seasoned with chilli and black salt, whole guava prepared with traditional street-style spices, and Kolkata's famous Jhalmuri mixed with vegetables, peanuts, mustard oil, and bold local flavours. These simple yet flavourful snacks bring back memories of carefree afternoons and conversations with friends.

Complementing the food selection is a cocktail menu dedicated to timeless classics that have remained popular across generations. The line-up includes favourites such as the Manhattan, Mojito, Gimlet, Clover Club, Piña Colada, Caipiroska, Tequila Sunrise, Blue Lagoon, and several other well-loved cocktails. Served in their classic form, the drinks celebrate the enduring appeal of traditional cocktail culture.

With its signature laid-back atmosphere, Monkey Bar combines nostalgic flavours and iconic drinks to create an experience centred around memories, friendships, and shared moments. Whether it's reconnecting with old friends or revisiting favourite rituals, the Back to School menu offers guests a chance to relive the spirit of the good old days.

  • Venue: Monkey Bar, Museum Road, Bengaluru
  • Date: 30th June
  • Timings: 12 PM to 1 AM


Chinese Wok Enters 50th City with Belagavi Launch, Strengthens South India Presence

Chinese Wok Enters 50th City with Belagavi Launch, Strengthens South India Presence

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2026

Chinese Wok, the popular Desi Chinese QSR brand from Lenexis Foodworks, has achieved a major milestone in its growth journey with its entry into the 50th city across India. The brand has marked the occasion with the launch of its first outlet in Belagavi (Belgaum), further expanding its footprint in South India to 89 stores.

With this addition, Chinese Wok has strengthened its presence in Karnataka, where it now operates 38 outlets. The expansion highlights the state's importance in the company's cluster-led growth strategy and reflects its continued focus on building a strong presence across key regional markets.

Over the years, Chinese Wok has evolved from operating in a single city to becoming a national QSR brand with a presence across 50 cities. The company has played an important role in shaping and organising India's growing Desi Chinese dining segment. Belagavi, one of North Karnataka's rapidly developing Tier-II cities, presents a promising opportunity due to its expanding young population, rising demand for organised dining options and growing preference for affordable and flavourful food experiences.

Commenting on the milestone, Arvind R P, Chief Executive Officer, Lenexis Foodworks, said, "Our entry into the 50th city is an important milestone in Chinese Wok's growth journey and reflects the increasing consumer acceptance of the Desi Chinese category across India. Over the years, we have focused on building a scalable and disciplined expansion model that combines strong unit economics with a consistent consumer experience. Belagavi is a natural addition to our network as we continue strengthening our presence across Karnataka and South India. Looking ahead, our focus remains on accelerating growth across emerging markets while building deeper category leadership through accessibility, affordability and innovation."

South India remains one of the brand's key growth regions, supported by a strong urban customer base, an active dining-out culture and increasing demand for organised QSR experiences. With 89 outlets across the region, Chinese Wok continues to focus on sustainable expansion through its cluster-led strategy.

The new Belagavi outlet has been developed in a high-street format, catering to both dine-in and takeaway customers. Guests can enjoy the brand's signature Desi Chinese menu, including Value Woks, Hakka Noodles, Kurkure Momos, Cheese and Schezwan Fries, along with a range of meal combos designed for families and groups.

As the brand continues its expansion across the country, the launch in Belagavi and its entry into the 50th city mark another important step in Chinese Wok's vision of creating one of India's most accessible and culturally relevant Desi Chinese QSR platforms.


Father’s Day 2026: Serious Slice Declares “The First Slice is His”

Father’s Day 2026: Serious Slice Declares “The First Slice is His”

By Author

Published on June 19, 2026

This Father’s Day, Serious Slice is rewriting the rules of the family table with a simple idea “The First Slice is His.” The Bengaluru-based pizza destination is turning Father’s Day 2026 into a warm, relaxed, and slightly playful celebration that places dads right at the centre of the dining experience.

Across its Cunningham Road and RR Nagar outlets, the restaurant is moving away from formal set menus and instead focusing on comfort, familiarity, and a sense of easy celebration. The idea is straightforward: give fathers a day where they are not just present at the table, but properly celebrated.

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From the moment guests arrive, the experience is designed to feel personal. Tables will feature “Reserved for Dad” placards, along with handwritten-style notes that add a simple, human touch to the celebration. Live acoustic music from local artists sets a relaxed mood, making the space feel more like a neighbourhood gathering than a curated event.

The highlight of the celebration is the “First Slice” House Rule. As part of this playful initiative, the first pizza slice loaded generously with toppings is served directly to the father at the table before anyone else. It’s a small but symbolic gesture that flips the usual dining hierarchy and ensures dads get the first bite of the meal they usually help organise.

The menu itself stays true to Serious Slice’s signature approach, fresh, indulgent, and unpretentious. Guests can expect a casual dining experience built around sharing, laughter, and comfort food that brings families together without overcomplication.

With its mix of humour, warmth, and thoughtful detail, Serious Slice’s Father’s Day celebration focuses less on extravagance and more on appreciation. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest gestures, a slice served first, a note of thanks, or a shared laugh can make the biggest impact.

For reservations, guests can contact +91 99009 41336.

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