The Polo Bar at Al Habtoor Palace Dubai Earns Coveted Spot on Forbes 2025 Star Bars List

The Polo Bar at Al Habtoor Palace Dubai Earns Coveted Spot on Forbes 2025 Star Bars List

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 11, 2025

In a proud moment for Dubai’s luxury hospitality scene, The Polo Bar at Al Habtoor Palace has been named to the prestigious 2025 Star Bars List by Forbes Travel Guide. This exclusive recognition includes just 58 hotel bars from across 19 countries, all chosen for delivering outstanding beverage programs, luxurious service, and memorable guest experiences.

The recognition is rooted in Forbes Travel Guide’s meticulous incognito inspections, drawing from data collected during its 2024 and 2025 Star Ratings. The Polo Bar stood out for its rich atmosphere, elevated service, and refined drinks program that speaks to the city’s cosmopolitan flair.

Tucked within the iconic Al Habtoor Palace Dubai—already a Forbes Four-Star rated hotel for 2025—The Polo Bar is a sanctuary of equestrian elegance and timeless charm. Think deep leather seating, polished wood interiors, and a cocktail list that mixes classic sophistication with creative flair.

“We are honored to be distinguished on the 2025 Forbes Star Bars List—a graceful affirmation of our unwavering commitment to excellence,” shared Soufiane El Allam, Complex Operations & Commercial Director, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection. “The Polo Bar is where enduring sophistication seamlessly intertwines with Dubai’s spirited vitality.”

This recognition further cements Al Habtoor Palace’s status as one of Dubai’s most luxurious destinations. Located along Sheikh Zayed Road with views of the Dubai Water Canal, the palatial hotel boasts 234 lavish rooms and suites, world-class dining, a rooftop pool, curated art, and exclusive access to Palm Jumeirah’s beach clubs.

“The 2025 Star Bars represent the pinnacle of hotel bar experiences,” said Hermann Elger, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide. Bastien Gardrat, FTG’s Global Spirits Ambassador, added, “These awards highlight sophisticated ambiance, elevated service, artfully curated wine lists, and cocktails that are skillfully crafted and creatively presented.”

With this honor, The Polo Bar continues to raise the bar—literally—for what an exceptional hotel bar should be.


Papa Johns Debuts in India with Four Restaurants in Bengaluru

Papa Johns Debuts in India with Four Restaurants in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 12, 2025

Papa Johns, one of the world’s leading pizza chains, has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of four new restaurants in Bengaluru, located in Indiranagar, Hennur, Electronic City, and Sarjapur Road. Operated by PJP Foods India Private Limited (a joint venture between PJP Investments Group and Ambrosia QSR), the brand aims to deliver on its iconic promise of “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.”, featuring a special Ghee Roast Pizza crafted exclusively for India.

All Bengaluru outlets are supported by a centralised Quality Control Center (QCC) in Hennur, where Papa Johns’ signature fresh dough is prepared daily to maintain quality and consistency across all restaurants.

To mark the launch, Papa Johns collaborated with actor and content creator Danish Sait, who appears in a vibrant launch video celebrating the brand’s entry into India with humour and local flair.

Speaking on the launch, Tapan Vaidya, Group CEO of PJP Investments Group, said,

“This is a proud moment for us as we deliver the Papa Johns experience to Indian customers. Our pizzas are crafted with fresh, never-frozen dough, premium toppings, and a focus on consistent quality. Bengaluru is a fitting city to begin this journey, and we look forward to expanding rapidly across the country.”

Ravi Thanawala, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President at Papa Johns, added,

“India is one of the most dynamic foodservice markets in the world, and we are delighted to open our first store in Bengaluru. Opening both our first restaurant and a Quality Control Center represents a strong foundation for long-term growth.”

Vish Narain, Managing Partner at Pulsar Capital and Chairman of Ambrosia QSR, shared,

“Our endeavour is to provide excellent quality pizzas at affordable prices, appealing to diverse Indian tastes.”

The launch highlights Papa Johns’ international growth strategy and its mission to bring premium-quality pizza experiences to customers worldwide, with plans for nationwide expansion already underway.


Celebrate Diwali with Amrut MaQintosh Silver Edition Whisky

Celebrate Diwali with Amrut MaQintosh Silver Edition Whisky

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 11, 2025

 Raise a glass to festive grandeur with Amrut MaQintosh Silver Edition. As Diwali approaches, a time of warmth, light, and togetherness, this refined whisky invites you to celebrate cherished moments and meaningful connections. Crafted in the warm, humid climate of Bengaluru, it matures swiftly, with an accelerated aging process that enhances its depth and complexity.

Matured in American oak barrels, Amrut MaQintosh Silver Edition reveals gentle notes of vanilla and mellow oak, delivering a smooth, rounded profile. Its rich, layered character reflects dedication to quality, authenticity, and skilled craftsmanship, all guided by a sustainable vision.

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Tasting Notes

  • Nose: Bright mango, pineapple, vanilla, light honey with hints of oak and spice

  • Palate: Smooth, medium body with tropical fruit, caramel, and cereal balanced by gentle spice

  • Finish: Light to medium, with lingering honeyed sweetness, mild spice, and subtle earthiness

Ingredients: Grain ENA, Malt Spirit, Demineralized Water, Permitted Caramel

This whisky is the perfect companion for Diwali, whether it’s a serene evening with loved ones or a joyous celebration of treasured memories and laughter. It beautifully embodies the warmth and spirit of meaningful connections.


Celebrate Double the Sweetness this Diwali with The Malabar Coast

Celebrate Double the Sweetness this Diwali with The Malabar Coast

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 10, 2025

This festive season, The Malabar Coast is adding an extra dose of joy and sweetness to your celebrations. In honour of Diwali (20th & 21st October) and National Dessert Day (14th October), the brand is offering an irresistible 1+1 on its signature Rawa Kesari dessert, a traditional South Indian delicacy made with pure ghee, aromatic saffron, and a touch of love.

Available at Noida, Gurugram, and Indore outlets, this limited-time offer brings double the happiness and double the flavour. Whether you’re sharing it with family or treating yourself, each bite of this authentic dessert is a reminder of festive warmth and indulgence.

Offer Details:

  • What: 1+1 on Rawa Kesari Dessert
  • When: National Dessert Day (14th October) and Diwali (20th & 21st October)
  • Where: Noida: Block B, Industrial Area, Sector 62, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201309
  • Gurugram: Ground Floor, M3M Atrium, Shops 6–8, Sector 57, Gurugram, Haryana 122003
  • Indore: Phoenix Citadel Mall, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452016

Celebrate the season of light and sweetness with every spoonful of authentic Rawa Kesari. Because happiness, like desserts, is best when shared!.

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