Don’t count calories this weekend. Just don’t
If you’re anything like us, you’d agree that nothing feels better than the thought of a weekend around the corner. While it’s perfectly cool to have no plans, it’s tough not to— with so much happening in the Indian culinary scene across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Goa. Drop by these widely-known spots if good food equals a good mood for you.
Inspired by an Italian coffee-gelato-based beverage named Affogato al caffè, popularly known as simply Affogato, this Gelateria is an ideal weekend haunt to relish great coffee, buttery soft bakes, and frozen desserts. Most of the gelati on the menu contain no sugar and are made of sugar alcohol (a natural sweetener). So, what’re you waiting for?
Where: Affogato, Asha Apartments, Plot No 483, 17th Road, Khar West, Mumbai
The pitter-patter weather calls for a kadak masala chai or better yet, a ketli Banarasi masala chai with an indulgent platter of munchies on the side. If you’re too lazy to make yourself one, checking into café Maka’s signature world street food fest will be a fab idea. Apart from famous comfort fares, expect buzzing street food carts that offer quintessential delicacies such as Korean ramyun, grilled Bombay sandwiches, Egyptian Koshari rice, falafel wraps, chilli dog, vada pav and much more.
Where: Cafe Maka, Ambawatta One, Kalka Das Marg, near Qutab Minar, Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi
Off-days aren’t really complete without ordering in a good ol’ pizza. For Nomad loyalists, there’s even better news. The popular Pizza house has launched a dine-in outlet in Khar. Here, the menu isn’t limited to just its signature pizzas, but also features world breakfast specials, coffees, cocktails, wines and other beverages from around the world.
Where: Nomad Pizza, Plot No. 712, Bajaj Niwas, Ground Floor, Telephone Exchange, Linking Rd, Khar, Mumbai
On days when nothing feels good enough, tuck into cartloads of cheesy goodness by Baking Bad. To start things off, a classic Margherita is a great way to go. It lets the star ingredients shine and is just right for when you’re in the mood to eat something that’s light. On the other hand, if you’d rather jump to their trademark offerings, it’s the Heisenberg you should try.
Where: Shop D5, Ground Floor, Gulmohar Society, S V P Nagar, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai
At the risk of sounding cringe, we say this: the gran never disappoints. If you’re willing to brave the rains and step out, head to Sly Granny for their Mediterranean feast. Nosh on plates like the Roasted broccoli steak, served with tomato butter romesco, tapenade & dukkah, or savour the Avocado and beet tartare with an orange blossom soup. For drinks, we’d suggest The Quiet Gentleman(a combination of Bacardi, pineapple juice, kaffir lime, and simple syrup), or The Albania Coast (blending Gin, green apple chunks, mint leaves, tonic water and simple syrup.)
Where: Sly Granny, 3rd Floor, 618, 12th Main Rd, above Chicco, 7th Cross, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar, Bengaluru
Footie fans in ‘Luru may have something to be excited about. Get your folks and head to Hard Rock Café, for the popular American restaurant now has a new addition to the menu— Messi chicken sandwich. True to its name, the burger is a scrumptious powerhouse, packed with fresh fillings, juicy meat, and HRC’s selection of signature sauces. The launch is part of the brand’s ongoing partnership with the soccer legend Lionel Messi with Hard Rock International.
Where: Hard Rock Café, 40, St Mark’s Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru
If you have a liking for authentic Goan cuisines, MAAI is a spot worth checking out, as they serve up a volley of Portuguese-inspired dishes. The extensive menu features an array of seasonal vegetarian, vegan, meat and seafood dishes made using local produce. Pair it with their in-house delight—flavourful cocktails that promise to elevate your experience.
Where: Maai, House 491, Bounta Vaddo, Assagao, Goa
Irrespective of whether you’re a true-blue Mumbaikaar or a wide-eyed newbie in town, you can never really tire of soaking up the surreal views of the city’s skyline and enjoying a warm cuppa or concoction of your choice, while you’re at it. Lucky for you, you can now do that while waiting to board your flight, as the Novotel Mumbai International Airport has a new offering— 190ámsl.190’amsl features a wide range of curated cocktails, Japanese whisky and wines, alongside innovatively-made tapas. There’s a lot more to discover about this place, but we’d suggest you drop by to find that out for yourself.
When & Where : Average: ₹2,300 for two people (approx.). Happy Hours from Monday- Sunday 5 pm to 1 am, Novotel Mumbai International Airport