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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on August 24, 2024
SŌZŌ, a trailblazer in Japanese culinary innovation, has introduced Mumbai’s first self-ordering izakaya dining experience with the opening of its flagship restaurant in Versova. This new concept blends the traditional flavors of Japanese izakaya cuisine with the convenience of modern self-service, offering a unique dining experience for patrons.
The restaurant is led by Head Chef Parvez Khan, who brings his expertise from working at renowned establishments like Wasabi by Morimoto, and Sameer Tirani, a visionary investor in the hospitality sector. Together, they have crafted a diverse menu that highlights "express-comfort izakaya" dishes. The offerings include a variety of Japanese comfort foods, such as the juicy SOZO BAO-GER, flavorful DONBURI bowls, warm RAMEN, and classic GYOZA, all made with high-quality ingredients sourced directly from Japan. These dishes are served quickly through an easy-to-use, self-ordering system.
SŌZŌ’s interior is designed to reflect the cozy, inviting atmosphere of a traditional Japanese home, fused with modern elements. The 1200 sq. ft space features traditional Japanese Noren banners, natural wood moldings, and a shoji-inspired ceiling, creating an intimate dining setting. A striking glossy red wall with a large glass window offers diners a view of the culinary team at work, while a serene Zen garden provides a peaceful retreat within the restaurant.
Beyond the food, SŌZŌ offers a carefully curated selection of beverages, including in-house drinks, frappes with boba, and Kombucha, all designed to complement the rich flavors of the menu.
Chef Parvez Khan expressed the vision behind SŌZŌ, stating, "We aim to revolutionize Japanese dining by merging the convenience of self-ordering with the immersive experience of a traditional izakaya." Partner Sameer Tirani added, "Our goal is to create a seamless, authentic, and value-driven dining experience that stands out by integrating traditional Japanese culinary art with modern service efficiencies."
SŌZŌ is open daily from 12 pm to 11 pm, offering both quick lunches and indulgent dinners in a setting that celebrates Japanese culture and culinary excellence.
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By Hariharan U
Published on April 22, 2026
As the excitement of the Indian Premier League 2026 builds across the city, Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway has introduced a dedicated match-viewing experience at Hydeout Bar & Lounge.
Designed as a lively, open-air setting, the venue offers a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere where guests can catch live matches with comfortable lounge seating, ambient lighting, and a social, fan-driven vibe. The experience will run until May 31, 2026, aligning with the ongoing cricket season.
To enhance the match-day experience, the venue has introduced themed beverage offers inspired by cricket moments. Highlights include the Powerplay Bucket, featuring four beers available until the sixth over, and the Hat-Trick Bucket, where guests receive a complimentary beer if a hat-trick occurs during the match.
Additional offerings include the Free Hit Bucket, paired with snacks such as French fries or masala peanuts, and the Fan Jersey Bucket, which rewards guests wearing an India jersey with a 20% discount. These curated combinations aim to bring together sport, socialising, and casual dining in a single setting.
With its focus on shared experiences, themed offers, and a vibrant viewing environment, Hydeout Bar & Lounge positions itself as a go-to destination for cricket enthusiasts looking to enjoy the IPL season in a more engaging, community-driven atmosphere.
Penguin Overseas has announced the launch of ‘So Good Soju’ in India, marking its entry into the fast-growing low-ABV, flavour-forward beverage segment that is reshaping consumption patterns among younger consumers.
Positioned as a modern lifestyle drink, the brand reflects a shift towards lighter, more social, and experience-driven drinking occasions, from house parties to casual evenings out. The launch taps into the rising popularity of Soju, globally recognised as the largest-selling spirit category by volume.
In India, this growing familiarity is being driven by increasing exposure to Korean culture across music, entertainment, and cuisine, translating into higher demand for approachable and versatile alternatives to traditional spirits.
Manufactured locally, So Good Soju combines global inspiration with local relevance, backed by Penguin Overseas’ 17-year experience in building the Soju category in India. The product is designed to deliver a clean, smooth, and balanced drinking experience, using natural flavours.
The portfolio is available in both still and sparkling formats, with current variants including Peach, Green Apple, Yuzu Lime, and K-Bomb, while additional flavours such as Strawberry, Blueberry, Green Grape, and Lemon are in development.
Commenting on the launch, Jaspreet Singh, Founder and CEO, Penguin Overseas, highlighted the shift in consumer behaviour towards lighter and flavour-led drinking experiences, noting that the brand aims to make social drinking more accessible and enjoyable.
Positioned as an accessible yet premium offering, So Good Soju is priced competitively, making it more affordable than imported alternatives while maintaining a strong flavour profile.
Currently available in Maharashtra and Haryana, the brand is set to expand into Delhi, Karnataka, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Tamil Nadu in a phased rollout.
With its vibrant flavour range, easy-drinking profile, and cultural relevance, So Good Soju aims to play a key role in shaping the next phase of India’s evolving social drinking landscape.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Cricket season brings with it a lively buzz, and The Hood by Olive in Bengaluru is all set to match that energy with a vibrant match-day experience. Located in Ashok Nagar, this neighbourhood bar creates a setting that feels both social and engaging, making it a great spot for fans to come together and enjoy the game.
The space combines a stylish design with a relaxed layout, offering comfortable booth seating along with a casual indoor courtyard. Guests can catch every moment of the match on large screens while soaking in the upbeat atmosphere that builds with every over.
Alongside the screenings, the menu adds to the experience with a mix of global flavours. From Lebanese Shankleesh to Japanese Toro Temaki and crispy Arare Shrimp, there’s a wide range of options to choose from. The drinks menu features signature cocktails as well as classic beers, giving guests plenty of choices to keep the mood going throughout the match.
Whether it’s a quick outing with friends or a longer match-day plan, The Hood by Olive brings together food, drinks, and cricket in a way that feels easy and enjoyable.
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