Unveiling Varchas Whiskey: Where Elegance, Heritage, and Innovation Converge

Unveiling Varchas Whiskey: Where Elegance, Heritage, and Innovation Converge

By Author

Published on August 22, 2023

Shankar Distilleries, a name synonymous with a rich whiskey heritage, proudly unveils their latest masterpiece – Varchas Whiskey – in India. This exquisite creation is grounded in elegance, tradition, and innovation, embodying the timeless artistry of whiskey-making that transcends both geographical boundaries and eras. As of now, Varchas Whiskey is available in Karnataka, Goa, and Gurgaon, marking its arrival with a promise of exceptional taste and experience.

Varchas Whiskey is more than a drink; it's a symphony of flavors that gracefully unfolds with each sip. Crafted by master distillers who pour their passion and expertise into every bottle, Varchas Whiskey is the embodiment of generations of commitment and mastery. From the meticulous distillation process to the final touches, this spirit captures the essence of time-honored practices, resulting in a product that stands out with its distinctiveness and excellence.

At the helm of Varchas is the visionary founder and president, Varchas Shankar, who brings his profound passion for whiskey and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Leveraging a heritage steeped in whiskey and spirits distillation, Shankar Distilleries has harmoniously combined tradition with contemporary craftsmanship to create a unique spirit. Shankar's personal journey is a testament to his dedication to whiskey. Originally hailing from Mysore, Karnataka, and now residing in the United States, his trajectory evolved from the technology sector to his true calling – the world of whiskey. Fueled by his unwavering passion and guided by his vision, Shankar embarked on the journey of establishing Varchas. This brand is a tribute to both his American home and his Indian roots, exemplifying the essence of premium whiskey that bridges cultures and continents.

Having solidified Varchas as a premium whiskey brand in the United States, Shankar now aims to share his creation with his motherland, India. The introduction of Varchas to the Indian market marks a historic moment, allowing whiskey aficionados across the nation to indulge in an extraordinary experience. Shankar's aspiration to introduce India to the allure of premium whiskey resonates deeply, reflecting his commitment to enhancing the palates and experiences of fellow countrymen.

The narrative that envelops this exceptional whiskey is poised to captivate hearts and taste buds alike, leaving an indelible mark on India's whiskey culture. With Varchas making its debut on Indian shores, available in Karnataka, Goa, and Gurgaon, a new era of whiskey appreciation is dawning. This era is one where elegance, heritage, and innovation intertwine harmoniously, creating a remarkable tapestry in the world of spirits. As you raise a glass of Varchas, you're not just savoring a drink; you're immersing yourself in a story that celebrates the art of whiskey-making and the passion that drives it forward.


Beerlin Opens in Gurugram as a Community-First Neighbourhood Brewery

Beerlin Opens in Gurugram as a Community-First Neighbourhood Brewery

By Hariharan U

Published on January 22, 2026

Beerlin has opened its doors in Gurugram, introducing itself as a people’s brewery rooted in community, comfort, and everyday experiences. Located at South Point Mall on Golf Course Road, the new brewpub overlooks the city skyline with the Aravalli hills forming a scenic backdrop, offering a setting that feels both urban and relaxed.

Envisioned as a modern neighbourhood brewpub, Beerlin is designed for regular, unhurried visits rather than occasion-led dining. The space encourages guests to drop in for a weekday pint, spend long afternoons, or settle into easy evenings with friends. The focus remains firmly on approachability, both in atmosphere and experience, making it a place guests can return to often.

At the heart of Beerlin is its in-house brewing programme, featuring freshly crafted beers that balance flavour with easy drinkability. The emphasis is on well-made, matured brews that are enjoyable across casual and extended sittings.

The design of the space adds to its appeal. Beerlin follows an Openhaus-style layout that blends indoor comfort with an open-to-sky outdoor setting. Natural light, warm materials, and a fluid layout allow the brewery to transition seamlessly through the day. Views of the Aravallis on one side and Gurugram’s skyline on the other create a distinctive visual contrast rarely seen along Golf Course Road.

Complementing the beers is a comfort-driven food menu built to pair effortlessly with the brews while standing strong on its own. The offerings include Indian mains and kebabs, global small plates, pizzas, pastas, Asian bowls, and classic bar favourites, striking a balance between familiarity and variety. The menu supports both casual grazing and full sit-down meals, reinforcing Beerlin’s all-day appeal.

Sharing his thoughts, Sandeep Pundir, Co-founder, Beerlin, said, “Beerlin was imagined as a modern neighbourhood brewpub—approachable, carefully crafted, and rooted in everyday life. We believe great craft beer takes time, with maturation and ingredient quality being essential. The space is designed to evolve through the day, whether for lively gatherings or calm moments overlooking Golf Course Road.”

With its emphasis on craft, community, and comfort, Beerlin positions itself as more than just a brewery. As Gurugram’s dining culture continues to evolve, Beerlin emerges as a people-first destination where good beer, good food, and easy conversations come together without pretense.


Republic Day Dining: Restaurants Worth Visiting in Mumbai This Long Weekend

Republic Day Dining: Restaurants Worth Visiting in Mumbai This Long Weekend

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 22, 2026

As Mumbai settles into the Republic Day long weekend, the city’s restaurants are setting the table with menus and experiences that balance celebration with comfort. From vibrant tricolour-inspired plates to slow, fire-driven dinners and relaxed café indulgence, these dining destinations offer plenty of reasons to step out and savour the moment.

Tokki & Tora is bringing a festive flourish with a specially curated tricolour food and drink selection that blends creativity, craft, and cultural celebration. Inspired by the Indian tricolour, the restaurant has introduced visually striking dishes and beverages in shades of orange, white, and green, while staying true to its Japanese and Korean culinary roots. From handcrafted tricolour dumplings served in bamboo steamers to vibrant sushi rolls and refreshing signature drinks layered with citrus and subtle sweetness, the menu is playful yet refined. Designed to be both Instagram-worthy and flavour-forward, these limited-period specials are available across Tokki & Tora outlets in Lower Parel, Andheri, and Powai, throughout the week from 12pm to 11.30pm.

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For those seeking a slower, more relaxed celebration, Onrique in Bandra offers an inviting space for an unhurried afternoon. Known for its warm hospitality and thoughtful ambience, the restaurant’s menu takes diners on a journey across Europe, from Liguria to Ticino. Guests can begin with Ligurian Olive Focaccia or Pinsa Romana, followed by comforting mains such as Josper-grilled Coq au Vin, Alpine Spätzle in a rich cheese sauce, or Seafood Nelusko with pistachio crust and mornay. Vegetarian options like Charred Aubergine with salsa verde and Grilled Peach Panzanella round out the experience. Onrique is open from 12 PM onwards at Santacruz West, making it an easy choice for a laid-back Republic Day meal.

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If the evening calls for something more immersive, DEA in Prabhadevi offers a bold dining experience built around fire-driven techniques, fermentation, and conscious craftsmanship. The menu unfolds slowly with dishes like Stuffed Chicken Wings with fermented berry hot sauce, Fire Threshed Baby Chicken with romesco and lacto-berry jus, and Dynamite Rice with Moora Uni. Desserts such as Fermented Cherry with roasted chocolate cremeux and Charred Pineapple & Amazake provide a memorable finish. As the night progresses, the energy rises, making DEA a compelling option for a Republic Day dinner that stretches into the night. DEA is located at 6th Floor, S.V. Swatantryaveer Savarkar Rd, Prabhadevi, and is open from 7:00 PM to 12:30 AM.

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For a more casual and indulgent plan, Indulge Creamery Café in Bandra West fits the bill perfectly. Designed as a modern creamery-meets-café, Indulge brings together premium ice creams, indulgent milkshakes, artisanal coffees, and comfort café bites. Whether it’s a morning coffee, a leisurely lunch, or an evening dessert run, the all-day menu and inviting interiors make it ideal for a relaxed Republic Day catch-up. Indulge Creamery Café is open from 8 AM to 12 AM in Bandra West, Mumbai.

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Luuma House is an inviting choice for those looking to spend Republic Day exploring diverse flavours in a contemporary setting, offering an all-new menu that seamlessly blends global influences with local sensibilities across continental, oriental, and Indian cuisines, making it perfect for groups with varied palates; diners can start with lighter plates like the Avocado Citrus Crunch salad with lemon-mint dressing or the comforting Burmese Khow Suey, move on to flavour-forward small plates such as the Spiced Ember Cottage Cheese, Inferno Tikka with smoky harissa, or Kozhikode Style Prawns in coconut milk, and then indulge in main course highlights including the Forager’s Camembert Pizza with truffle oil, slow-cooked Mewari Laal Maas, and the creamy Risotto Cremoso Alfa Barbabietola, before rounding off the meal with desserts like the zesty Lemon Curd Delight or the visually striking Mosaic, making it a well-rounded spot for an unhurried Republic Day meal; Address: Plot No. 47, Gulmohar Rd, JVPD Scheme, Vile Parle West, Mumbai; Timings: 12 pm – 1 am. 

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These locations are all set to impress you this Republic Day with thoughtfully curated menus, inviting ambience, and memorable dining experiences perfect for a leisurely celebration.


Natura di Napoli Brings a Thoughtful Neapolitan Pizza Journey to Serious Slice

Natura di Napoli Brings a Thoughtful Neapolitan Pizza Journey to Serious Slice

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 22, 2026

Naples is not just a city but a living ecosystem shaped by land, sea, fire, and everyday life. Its food culture is deeply tied to geography, people, and daily rhythms, and this connection forms the foundation of Natura di Napoli, Serious Slice’s latest Neapolitan pizza series. Drawing inspiration from the streets, markets, and kitchens of Naples, the series tells a story rooted in tradition, culture, and local ingredients.

Available exclusively at Serious Slice, Cunningham Road, Natura di Napoli breaks the city down into five defining influences: volcanic land, coastal sea, living markets, fire, and night. Each pizza reflects one of these elements, allowing diners to experience Naples layer by layer through flavour, texture, and technique. Rather than a standalone concept, the menu is designed as a continuous journey that unfolds one pizza at a time.

At the core of the series is Serious Slice’s 72-hour fermented dough, cooked in under 90 seconds in a high-heat oven. This minimal and deliberate approach stays true to traditional Neapolitan pizza-making, allowing the quality of ingredients and craftsmanship to take centre stage. What sets Natura di Napoli apart is its narrative format, where every pizza represents a distinct part of Neapolitan life.

“Naples is not a recipe, it’s an ecosystem,” says Atul Sunder of Serious Slice. “This menu is our way of listening to the city, its geography, its people, and its rhythm, and translating that into pizza without distortion.”

The menu features five pizzas, each symbolising a different force. Terra di Fuoco highlights Campania’s volcanic soil with San Marzano DOP tomatoes, fior di latte, smoked provola, basil, and olive oil. At the lighter end is Luna di Limone, made with Amalfi lemon cream, ricotta, honey, zucchini gialla, mozzarella, and tomato, offering a softer and more delicate experience.

“Neapolitan pizza is about knowing when to stop,” explains Anirudh Kheny. “If the dough is right and the ingredients are honest, the pizza speaks for itself.”

Guided by respect for origin and technical precision, Natura di Napoli is designed as a complete tasting story rather than a one-time concept. The series takes guests through Naples from land to sea, market to fire, and finally, night. Natura di Napoli will be available from January 21, 2026, onwards, exclusively at Serious Slice, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru.

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