Turkey’s Beloved Bulgur Salad and How to Make It

Turkey’s Beloved Bulgur Salad and How to Make It

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 6, 2024

Kısır is a cherished dish from Turkey, woven deeply into the social and culinary fabric of the country. This zesty and vibrant salad, made primarily of fine bulgur wheat, is celebrated not only for its delightful taste but also for its simplicity and versatility. 

Kısır’s roots are firmly planted in the southeastern regions of Turkey, particularly in cities like Gaziantep and Adana. With a history influenced by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, it shares similarities with the Levantine tabbouleh but stands out due to its unique blend of ingredients and regional variations.

Traditionally, kısır is more than just food; it's a symbol of community. It often appears at social gatherings, from afternoon tea parties to family dinners, where it's served as part of a broader array of meze (appetizers). Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it an especially popular choice during the spring and summer months when lighter, more refreshing dishes are preferred.

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The base of kısır is fine bulgur, a type of cracked wheat that is both nutritious and filling. Unlike its coarser cousin used in pilafs, the fine bulgur is simply soaked rather than cooked, preserving its slightly chewy texture.

How to Make Traditional Kısır?

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper paste (optional for more spice)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (or more, to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced
  • Salt and red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Place the bulgur in a large bowl and cover it with warm water. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it softens. Drain any excess water and fluff with a fork.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the tomato paste, red pepper paste, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, and olive oil. Stir until smooth.
  3. Pour the paste mixture over the softened bulgur and mix thoroughly to ensure the bulgur is evenly coated.
  4. Mix in the chopped parsley and green onions. Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste. (Some regional versions include diced cucumbers or fresh mint for an extra layer of freshness.)
  5. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra parsley or a few pomegranate seeds if desired.

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Psst! Additional Tips 

If you prefer a more citrusy taste, add extra lemon juice. For a richer, slightly sweet flavor, increase the amount of pomegranate molasses. And, letting kısır rest in the refrigerator for an hour or so allows the flavors to meld together.

With its combination of hearty bulgur, bold seasonings, and fresh vegetables, it’s both satisfying and health-conscious. Moreover, kısır is vegan-friendly, making it suitable for diverse dietary preferences.


Thane Gets a New Vibehaus: At Bae Opens for Food, Conversations & Cocktails

Thane Gets a New Vibehaus: At Bae Opens for Food, Conversations & Cocktails

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

Thane’s dining scene just got a fresh new energy with the grand opening of At Bae, the latest venture from the House of MH04. Spanning 7,500 sq. ft. with seating for 260 guests, At Bae is designed to be more than a restaurant, it’s a Vibehaus, where food, conversations, and cocktails come together to create memorable experiences.

The interiors take cues from Scandinavian design infused with artistic rust tones, creating a space that feels both intimate and expansive. Lighting, textures, and curated music evolve through the day, managed by the in-house Vibe Manager to match every mood. Regular visitors can also join the Baelievers Club, an exclusive membership offering perks, priority event access, curated experiences, and surprises. The playful ‘Bae Wars’ keep the social energy alive with friendly competitions and signature shots.

At the heart of At Bae is Thane’s longest-running bar, stretching over 45 feet, featuring TOIT craft beers like Tint in Wit, Nitro Stout, and Basmati Blonde Ale. Signature cocktails bring global classics with an Indian twist, including:

Aam-Chi Thane – white rum, mango wine, mango cream cheese

Narcos of Thane – tequila, mezcal, jalapeño

Stone Sour – whiskey, Dagadphool, ginger honey syrup

With At Bae, we wanted to create a space that brings a whole new vibe to Thane’s dining scene,  one that feels familiar yet refreshingly different,” said Vihar Paymode, Co-Founder. “Whether it’s brunch, cocktails, or late-night conversations, At Bae adapts to your rhythm. Every detail, from Scandinavian-inspired design to curated playlists and handcrafted menus, is aimed at making people feel at home while discovering something new every visit.

Chef & Co-Founder Soham Joshi adds, At Bae was born to innovate familiar flavours, taking authentic regional dishes and giving them a contemporary twist. From Poha Crusted Malvani Prawns to Palak Burrata, we strike a balance between creativity and comfort. Each cocktail mirrors the same spirit of experimentation found in our menu.

The food menu celebrates global inspiration with a desi heart, featuring dishes like Malabari Tacos, Thecha Hummus with Mirgunda, and wood-fired pizzas. At Bae is more than food, it’s a destination to connect, unwind, and belong. Here, BAE can be anyone — a friend, family, loved one, or even the space itself.

About At Bae

At Bae, from the House of MH04, is Thane’s newest all-day dining and social destination. Combining global flavours with local soul, the 7,500 sq. ft. venue offers wood-fired pizzas, craft beers, and an experiential menu celebrating both international inspiration and Indian creativity. With vibe-led interiors, curated cocktails, and a focus on connection, At Bae is designed as a modern community hub where every meal and moment is meant to be shared.


Dave & Buster’s Makes a Power-Packed Mumbai Debut at Infiniti Mall, Andheri West

Dave & Buster’s Makes a Power-Packed Mumbai Debut at Infiniti Mall, Andheri West

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

Dave & Buster’s has officially arrived in Mumbai, bringing its high-energy American entertainment experience to the buzzing neighbourhood of Andheri West. After its successful debut in Bangalore, the brand has now opened doors at Infiniti Mall, in partnership with the Malpani Group, marking its second India location and adding a new spark to Mumbai’s social and gaming scene.

The massive 22,000 sq. ft. venue is built for all-out fun from state-of-the-art arcade games and Hi-Tech Darts to Nitro Bowling and bustling social zones. It’s a space where people can eat, drink, play, watch, and repeat, all under one lively roof.

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Dave & Buster’s full-service restaurant and sports bar bring a mix of classic American comfort food and locally inspired flavours to Mumbai. Think loaded nachos, smash burgers, crispy wings, and decadent cheesecakes, paired with signature cocktails and easy mocktails. The menu also highlights local twists such as Tandoori Wings and the spicy Atomic Chilli Paneer, alongside favourites like the Summer Fresco Salad, Buster’s Smash Burger, and flavour-packed Mexican Nachos.

The sports bar adds to the vibe with a creative cocktail lineup. Specials include Red Velvet, made with raspberry and gin; Mr. Perfect, a bold Scotch-based drink with a hint of coffee inspired by the classic film The Godfather; and Foam & Fury, a crowd-puller for those who love a punch of flavour.

Designed with curated zones, dynamic lighting, and evolving playlists, Dave & Buster’s Mumbai blends global energy with a local touch. Whether it’s a friends’ night out, a gaming session with the crew, a family outing, or team celebrations, the venue promises something for everyone. Private event spaces also make it ideal for birthdays, corporate gatherings, and group parties.

Bringing Dave & Buster's to Mumbai is not just a launch, it's the next chapter in redefining how Indians experience entertainment,” said Shreya Malpani, Director, Malpani Group. We envision Dave & Buster's Mumbai as a space where technology meets culture, where people can unwind, connect, and create memories. As we expand across India, we're committed to delivering experiences that feel global yet deeply local.

Dave & Buster’s Mumbai is now open to welcome families, kids, youngsters, office teams, and nightlife enthusiasts, offering an immersive blend of dining, gaming, and social buzz right in the heart of the city


Aqua at THE Park Navi Mumbai Unveils a Refreshed 24/7 Poolside Experience

Aqua at THE Park Navi Mumbai Unveils a Refreshed 24/7 Poolside Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

Aqua at THE Park Navi Mumbai has rolled out a renewed poolside dining experience, bringing back the charm and comfort that guests have always loved. Sitting right by the hotel’s iconic pool, the space now feels more open, relaxed, and perfect for every kind of outing  whether it’s a quiet dinner, a cheerful brunch, or a lively evening with friends. The venue runs 24/7 and brings an extra buzz on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with its weekend vibe.

The updated menu keeps the comfort factor intact while adding interesting global touches. Dishes like the Mutton Malabar Magic, slow-cooked with spices and coconut milk  and the Italiano Pool, which brings together pasta with Mafttati and Aligoté, highlight Aqua’s playful but thoughtful style. New plates such as the Falafel Gyaro, a Mediterranean-inspired wrap with a crisp, flavour-packed falafel, add variety for regulars and new guests alike. For those who love ending on a sweet note, the Aqua Special Pull Me Up and the Shortcrust Crème Brûlée remain crowd favourites.

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Aqua continues to be one of Navi Mumbai’s most-loved social spots. With poolside evenings, live music, and themed weekends, the vibe stays warm, easy, and perfect for unwinding. As the evening light reflects off the pool, the ambience turns cosy great for conversations, cocktails, or just relaxing with your favourite people.

Created for all kinds of moments, Aqua brings together comfort, good food, and a space that feels welcoming. From date nights and family dinners to weekend celebrations and after-work catch-ups, Aqua delivers a simple yet polished experience. With its relaxed attitude, modern look, and friendly service, Aqua at THE Park Navi Mumbai welcomes guests round the clock, making it one of the city’s top spots to dine and unwind by the water.

Venue: Aqua, THE Park Navi Mumbai
Perfect For: Date nights | Family dinners | Poolside parties | Weekend brunches | After-work evenings

About THE Park Hotels:
THE Park Hotels are among India’s pioneers in luxury boutique hospitality, known for their contemporary design, personalised service, and vibrant experiences across major cities and leisure destinations.

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