What's HOT Chennai Events,Content and Review

Dotted pink drapes let the light through at Tuktuk Asia, a restaurant that doesn’t boast of great interiors. What I do say, though, is that this is a pleasant place to be, small enough to be cozy, bright enough to keep me happy: I can see what I’m eating. And there is a lot to be eaten, as the blackboard tells me. Of course, if there’s Tom Yum, I’m having it. Those prawns are large and succulent, with veggies peeping out and flavours holding forth in a clear broth. The chef has worked long and hard to get his Dim Sums right. He succeeded, I think as I bite into one, where the chicken meat and skin blend nicely. I like that he#39;s added a touch of salt to the skin. Since this is a Pan Asian place, there has to be Crispy Fried Schezwan Potato. A universal favourite, it doesn’t disappoint. Baby Corn Salt and Pepper is cut into discs rather that strips, which is a good way to get all that pungency right to the very core. Fortunately, none of the food is oily, even though it is fried. It is all about knowing when to put the food into the oil, at the right temperature. Heading into the main course, I opt for the Char Kway Teow, again a Pan Asian dish that has its origins in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei, with slight nuances distinguishing each region. Flat rice noodles, loaded with healthy stuff like bok choy, sprouts and baby corn, cooked at a high heat, Tuktuk Asia serves it in a sweetish textured dark sauce. A meal in itself, it is accompanied by pickled chillies for extra spice. For dessert, I’m having the famous Intense Chocolate Brownie. Believe me, it is intense, alright. I’m drooling as I am eating it. It is perfect, soft and fudgy. Pluses and Minuses: I love the food and the fact that this is a no-nonsense place, where the focus is on authentic, tasty food. Must try: Fish Balinese, Garlic Fish, Red Chicken Curry, Crumb Fried Chicken, Nasi Goreng, Prawn Sambal, Kung Pao Chicken, Laksa, Brownie Nut Sundae, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.

Work culture is quickly changing, and flexible work hours and freelancing are becoming increasingly commonplace. Though it offers several benefits, working from home can get a tad monotonous at times. If you’re looking for a change of scene, head out to thesecafés with free Wi-Fi, delicious fare and a soothing ambience, where you can settle down to work for a few hours instead. Chamiers Cafe, R A Puram This café is known for its chic ambience and eco-friendly decor with upcycled furniture and lots of greenery around. There’s a beautiful al fresco section where you can enjoy waffles and delicious bacon wraps, along with other Italian and Continental fare such as the Bruschetta Platter (Rs 210), pan-grilled Fish-Remoulade (Rs 280) and Caesar’s Salad (Rs 270) with olives, croutons, parmesan, grilled chicken and boiled eggs. If you need a caffeine kick, try the filling Coffee Shake Espresso (Rs 205). Besides offering free Wi-Fi, the restaurant is pet-friendly and shares space with a trendy clothing boutique. Price: Rs 1,000 for two Timings: 8 am to 11.30 pm Spoonbill, Alwarpet Owned by entrepreneur Charlie Singh, this café assures a menu of well-thought-out global street food with a gourmet twist. We recommend the juicy Chicken Momos (Rs 200 for 8 pieces), Lamb Bratwurst (Rs 310) and Chicken Burrito (Rs 280) – they serve great burgers, hot dogs and falafel as well. The spacious self-service restaurant comes with beautiful French windows that allow for plenty of light to filter through, while comfortable seating ensures you can work for long hours. Price: Rs 750 for two Timings: 11 am to 11 pm Bella Ciao, Kottivakkam Offering all your Italian favourites under one roof, Bella Ciao is a spacious outdoor garden café with cabana-style seating. The serene ambience – and strong W-Fi connection – makes it a perfect option when you need some peace and quiet to work. From the menu, try the signature Carpaccio Di Salmone (Rs 520), Affettati Misti (Rs 480) – a platter of salami, cured ham and grilled olives, Gorgonzola E Pancetta (Rs 450) – pasta with smoked bacon and cream, and Crostini Al Salame (Rs 350) for a hearty lunch. We also recommend the wood-fired pizza that comes topped with fresh mozzarella, accompanied by a refreshing glass of Dolce (Rs 190), a lime- and honey-based mocktail. And if you need a break, tune into one of their regular football screenings. Price: Rs 1,000 for two Timings: 6 pm to 11.30 pm (closed on Tuesday) Craveyard Cafe, Adyar Centrally located, the stylish little coffee joint is housed in a refurbished bungalow and comes with a chic ambience and a curated selection of gourmet salads, burgers and sandwiches. You can take your pets along too – there’s even a dedicated play area for them. They offer both outdoor and indoor seating with quirky décor elements such as small little green chairs, multipurpose stainless steel graters with bulbs for the overhead lighting, flat spatulas as wind chimes, etc. Try their Tandoori Nuggets (Rs 170), Craveyard Delight Pizza (Rs 280) and a Nutty Brownie Shake (Rs 150) while you work or surf the internet. Price: Rs 700 for two Timings: 11 am to 10 pm

If you’re looking at making healthier lifestyle choices, chances are you’ve thought about or have already switched from sugar to honey. Naturally sweet and great for our body when consumed in its purest form, we’ve rounded up all the young brands that sell this golden goodness for your daily fix. Of course, we tried them all out first! Honey Twigs Started in 2014, the boys behind Honey Twigs focussed on turning honey into a 21st century product – healthy and non messy in cute packaging. Easy to carry and consume, their 100% antibiotic free multi-flora and litchi honey have got a lot of people hooked, including us. The twigs are perfect for those who’re always on the move, but still watch what goes in their cereal bowl, pancakes and green tea. Sourced from the northern belt, it acquires its unique taste from a blend of nectar gathered from a variety of flowers, whereas the natural litchi one is sourced straight from orchards in Muzaffarpur. We loved the distinct litchi flavour and it has become a great addition to our brekkie bowl. Over the next few months, they are going to introduce a bunch of new variants like honey infused with cinnamon and vanilla – yum! Price: Rs 70 to 100 for 10 twigs/80 gms For more, click here Nirvaaha Organic Store Bringing raw and pure forest honey to our table is this quaint Delhi-based team which delivers across the country and also has a store in the city. They dish out both forest and farm honey. The former is usually less sweet and less thick, and being higher in wax, moisture and pollen content, is more medicinal in nature. An easy way to recognise forest honey – it has a small frothy layer that settles either on the top or as a circle around the top of the bottom indicating the high content of wax and moisture. Their farm honey, on the other hand, is chemical free and tastes closer to the usual variety we’re accustomed to. Price: Rs 123 to 176 for 250 gms For more, click here True Elements For those who love to experiment, even your honey’s got options. Log on to this website and order yourself some golden goodness in exotic flavours such as Acacia – a light coloured variant with a yellow-green tinge that is part floral and part fruity sans any major aftertaste. If you’re diabetic or simply seeking something less sugary, try the Neem variant that comes with a rich, dark-green hue and has a bitter-sweet taste. You could also try the Raw version with floral overtones and a natural, delicate aroma or the Ginger that’s got a hint of spiciness – strong yet refreshing. For those on the move, their honey shots are easy to carry and use. Price: Rs 300 to 340 for 350 gms For more, click here Societe Naturelle With mild flavours and antibiotic free, this range is perfect for folks who are looking for a healthy accompaniment to their brekkie or green tea. With breakfast platter and bigger bottles of the flavour you like, they have got everyone covered. We loved their Jamun and Eucalyptus versions. While the former is mild and easy on palette, the latter is for those who like an added punch in their muesli bowl or tea. Price: Rs 190 for 250 gms For more, click here Under The Mango Tree This gourmet brand offers a healthy dose of golden goodness from different regions of the country and works with marginalised farmers. We were impressed by their wide range of flavours that include mixed fruit, wild forest, litchi, sweet clover, golden arita, orange blossom, mango, sunflower, neem and ashoka, with more in the offing. We recommend the Dessert Bloom – from the Rajasthan belt with notes of jamun, neem and karunj. Price: Rs 260 for 200 gms For more, click here Pahadi Local This homegrown brand by Mumbai girl Jessica Jayne is gathering attention for all the right reasons. The luxury label identifies interesting local Himalayan products and packages them for users across the country. Currently, they’ve got Gutti ka Tel (apricot kernel oil) and Khal (apricot meal scrub) on their list, but they recently added a jamun and multi-floral honey to their range. They’ll start shipping in a few weeks. For more, click here

With the launch of fresh spots monthly, the neighbourhood of Pallikaranai might soon take over the cool hangout zone tag from nearby Velachery. The new compact casual dining spot at Zone By The Park comes close on the heels of Bazaar and is a beautiful rendition of contemporary meets traditional. We dropped in at Urban Spice Box for a quick fix over the weekend. AMBIENCE As you zoom up to the 4th floor, a level below the swimming pool, you’ll be greeted by courteous waiters who guide you toyour table. Settle down in one of their black metal chairs and gaze at the stars, or better still, the open kitchen where you can see your food being prepared. The décor has been kept as minimal as possible with a seating capacity of upto 36 people. Dimly lit with Winchester wall lanterns and ball lamps, USB tries to recreate a traditional South Indian kitchen with beautiful brown pilasters and wood coloured corrugated asbestos roof. The un-plastered walls are painted cream to add to the intimate mood. You can even sit by the gorgeous rooftop pool, while hushed instrumental music sets the tone. FOOD + DRINKS If you’re an early riser, you can try the breakfast menu from Bazaar since the kitchen only dishes out dinner but the space is accessible all day. Focussed on Awadhi, Mughal and Nizami cuisine, every dish has been given a signature contemporary touch. Chef S Kathiron and his team have put out a well thought out menu of the best dishes from the three royal lineages. Although you won’t find a mocktail or cooler in the menu yet, if you are in a mood to cool down with a beverage, the mixologists can make you one of their signature concoctions. We started our culinary expedition with the Murgh Chilgoza (Rs 195)– a light shorba blended with chicken broth, saffron and peanuts. Although we felt that the Tamatar Tulsi Shorba (Rs 175) was a little too light and could’ve been more frothy, the basil did bring in a certain tang. The tandoor section is irresistible and we especially loved the Sarson Mahi Tikka (Rs 475) that mixes basa with mustard, yoghurt and secret spices – all done to perfection in a clay oven. The other two recommendable dishes from the Tandoor section are the Tandoori Murgh (Rs 450) and Maas Ka Soola (Rs 450). While the former is seasoned with roasted spices over charcoal that adds nuance to the dish, the latter is a mutton dish made tender with yoghurt and flavoured with freshly ground spices. From the kebabs, the Kasturi Kebab (Rs 450) and Kakori (Rs 450) are show-stealers with perfect, authentic taste. The Hyderabadi Gosht Biryani (Rs 475), Lagan Ka Murgh (Rs 475) and Keema Kaleji with minced mutton and liver blended in handmade spices and gravy will have you licking your plate clean. No meal here is complete without royal desserts like the coconut heavy Elaneer Payasam (Rs 215) or the Kesari Phirnee (Rs 215). IN A NUTSHELL WH Verdict: A royal culinary treat of forgotten flavours. Meal For Two: Rs 1,800 Timings: 7 pm to 11:30 pm Follow them on Facebook **The writer was invited by the restaurant to preview their menu**

The growing number of students and the expanding young workforce in the city have given rise to a number of tiffin services lately. Offering a solution to the stress of planning and preparing meals daily, these services dispatch nutritious homemade meals to your doorstep. We’ve found four affordable ones that offer a varied meal plan with tasty, healthy alternatives to ordering from the nearest restaurant. Wats Cooking Set up by Mohammed Ismail and his wife Rilwan Fatima, this is service is an online platform that connects you with a network of home chefs who provide fresh, home-cooked meals across the city. They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner at pocket-friendly prices, with a section for sweets, desserts and savoury snacks as well. Though South Indian thalis dominate, you’ll also find options for biryani and North Indian, Continental and Chinese fare. The process is fairly easy – you sign up and choose a meal after which you’ll receive the details of the chef supplying it. We recommend connecting with the chef to iron out delivery and any other queries before placing your order online. Also keep in mind that orders need to be placed in advance – the amount of prior notice required varies from an hour to a day. Price: Rs 50 onwards To order, click here or call +91 9840529950 A Salad Company For those looking for a healthy, wholesome meal, the food here ticks all boxes with well-portioned meals that offer a balanced mix of leafy greens, veggies and proteins. They use fresh ingredients with no preservatives, refined flour, refined sugar, added colour, trans fats or MSG. You can order lunch and dinner from a rotating menu comprising Continental, Italian and Indian fare, with both veg and non-veg options, and have recently introduced a Saturday brunch menu as well. What cinches the deal is their competitive subscription rates and timely delivery – they deliver almost everywhere in the city, especially across several IT parks and offices. Price: Rs 140 onwards To order, click here or call +91 9444791746 MC#39;s Lunch Box True to their mantra that variety is the spice of life, this service offers a range of meal options. The menu is conceptualised by Chef Ramanan Rajamani while the food is inspected by their in-house nutritionist, Dr Dharini Krishnan. You can pick from South Indian, North Indian, Asian and Continental far – whether you’re a Poori Channa Masala fan, love your daily fix of pongal and sambar, or are in the mood for kebabs, pasta or sandwiches, they’ve got you covered. We love that they’ve included an option that lets you customise your own mealbox, and the neat and clean packaging and timely delivery impressed us too. They offer daily, weekly and monthly meal plans with special discounts for bulk and corporate orders. Price: Rs 50 onwards Where: 81/ 117, Mount Poonamalle High Road Lakshmi Nagar, Porur To order, click here or call +91 7601976076 Abar Khabo This food start up has created quite a buzz recently thanks to their authentic Bengali preparations and impeccable service. They provide daily and monthly tiffins as well as one-off home delivery options. The rotational menu comprises staples, viz., rice, dal and a couple of vegetable preparations, while fish, chicken, mutton and prawn dishes are also available on select days. The food is made with minimum oil and isn’t too spicy, making it suitable to all kinds of taste buds – we tried the Chingri Malaikari and Mutton Rezala that were both flavourful and cooked to perfection. Price: Rs 100 onwards To order, click here or call +91 7358235793

While fast, disposable fashion has become the norm and we’re constantly bombarded with advertisements enticing us to keep up with the Joneses and buy more, a few designers are paving the way to a future where sustainability and consumerism peacefully co-exist. These proponents of upcycling aim to change the way we buy and consume products by reusing waste to create products that are both useful for us, and beneficial for the environment as well as the local communities. Check out these sustainable, green brands for some retail therapy that’s easy on your conscience. Chindi This two-year-old socially responsible brand works with Mumbai’s marginalised women to turn textile waste into pretty home décor products such as rugs and bathmats, hair accessories, yoga mat straps, bags and even jewellery. Scrap material is sourced from sewing and manufacturing units and design houses, while craftswomen are trained in knitting, crocheting and sewing at Chindi Women’s Centre in Mankhurd. The women are given an opportunity to secure fair employment and financial independence, and the company also works with designers to create customised products. So they’ve teamed up with Nor Black Nor White to create ’80s-inspired scrunchies from the indie label’s production waste, while their latest collaboration with toy company Shumee has resulted in a range of bags to hold toys as well as plushy balls made from organic T-shirt production leftovers. We Recommend: Their Yoga Mat Straps and Hair Accessories Cost: Rs 150 onwards Shop here or order on hello@chindi.in Restories With this recently launched project, artist Ratna Gupta and advertising professional Shivani Bedi give a new lease of life to waste and discarded material by transforming it into elegant, minimal furniture. Their maiden collection includes side tables, bookshelves, storage boxes and lamps made from leftover scraps of plywood, plastic bags and bottles. Since the design depends on the material sourced, each creation is unique. We caught them at a pop up recently and loved their lamps – one crafted from plaster and an old water dispenser and another from plaster and an old plastic bag – as well as their sideboards that used a glass jar for a leg. We Recommend: Their Mache side table Cost: Rs 10,000 onwards Shop here The Initiative Inspired by a time when blankets and clothing were lovingly stitched, embroidered and passed down through generations, the focus of this label is on creating heirlooms through sustainable means. The project provides vocational training and employs women who are unable to take on other jobs due to educational constraints or family obligations. Each product is lovingly handcrafted – they offer bed covers, embroidered baby blankets, godhadis (a kind of blanket traditionally made in Maharashtra) made from old saris, utility rolls to store knick-knacks, and yoga mat bags – and can be tailomade. You can also send them fabric of your own to repurpose. We Recommend: Their Godhadi blankets Cost: Rs 1,500 onwards More here or order on hello.theinitiative@gmail.com Elrhino Influenced by a Rajasthan-based initiative that created paper from fibres obtained from elephant dung, retired engineer Mahesh Bora decided to replicate the model in his home state of Assam. In elephant and rhino dung, he saw a way to help curb the felling of trees for paper as well as provide an alternative source of employment for locals in a region where human-animal conflict is a grave problem. Elrhino sources dung from domestic elephants and agricultural land that rhinos wander in to, processes the undigested cellulose they contain and uses the dry fibres to create paper that is organic, acid-free and biodegradable. The company also supports the employment of rural women, encouraging them to create products from this paper to supplement their income. Besides selling sheets of handmade paper that can be used for crafts or as gift packaging, Elrhino also offers lamps incorporating traditional Assamese crafts, quirky coasters, photo frames and notebooks. We Recommend: Their 9 Yards Notebook and BOW Playing Cards Cost: Rs 350 onwards Shop here

Yakiniku means grilled meat in Japanese. I find this small restaurant at Hyatt Regency classy without being overwhelming. This is a space that is confident of its food. Elements in the décor reflect little bits of Japan. Framed art and origami bring in those special touches. Bamboo stems, subtle brown and beige furniture on a wooden floor. Stone-strip clad walls frame windows that let the light in as the sun bids adieu for the day. Soft Japanese music soothes my senses. Not even attempting to eat my food with chopsticks, I am going fork and knife at the half of fried eggplant, called Nasu Dengaku. Mildly sweet, it’s perfectly cut cubes have sesame seeds sprinkled on top with generous touches of Miso sauce. Those delicious cubes carry a message to eggplant haters: here’s your chance to change your views on this gorgeous vegetable. Ebi Tempura Maki is actually prawn tempura sushi. Even though it’s fried, I eat it happily. The tempura covering my sushi is light. That pinch of wasabi paste mixed with soya sauce and a bite of Japanese ginger pickle enhances the flavours blending together in my mouth. This is the first time I’m having octopus in any form. I take my first bite of the Takoyaki dumpling, and find it doesn’t really have a distinctive taste. Then I take another bite, with the octopus on my fork and find the meat dense, chewy. A dip in the Japanese style tonkatsu sauce along with familiar mayonnaise makes it a diverse mouthful. Of course I’m waiting for my Yaki Soba noodles. They’ve been made to appeal to the local taste buds while keeping Japanese flavours alive. I find it light and the veggies have a fresh crunch, alive with distinct flavours. Dessert is here. I’m liking the graininess in my Almond Jelly Soup (yes, soup!) It has a mix of almond jelly, milk, and chunks of fresh fruit mixed with tinned litchis. Thoughtfully put together textures, I’m thinking, as I slurp up the soup enjoying every morsel. Pluses and minuses: Yakiniku is a cosy nook. A perfect place to introduce the novice to Japanese cuisine, without being intimidated. Must try: Agedashi Tofu, Salmon Chanchan Yaki, Chawanmushi, Sashimi, Vegetable California Maki, Traditional Miso Soup, Vegetable Traditional Buckwheat, Teppanyaki, Green Tea Cake, Iced Yoghurt.

Chennai is slowly becoming the next big market for startups, leading to a rise in demand for suitable working spaces at prime locations.Even though most companies initially operateout of homes or even garages, eventually, anrespectable office space becomes a necessity. If you can’t afford a private space, fret not! Either one of theseco-working spaces will fitthe bill. TheWorks With four different workspaces at Perungudi, Kilpauk, Alwarpet and Taramani – this curiously named co-working office is run by Ashwin Shanker and his team. The sprawling office at OMR is around 4,500 sqft in sizeand is perfect for freelancers, small or medium scale businesses and entrepreneurial communities. The standard co-working space at Chennai’s IT corridor offers basic amenities like WIFI and a high speed internet connection, projector, training room, board rooms,conference rooms, and printing. The well-planned layout with beautiful ambience, ease of travel, customised rates and packages make this place a great deal. Where:180, Nehru Nagar 1st Main Road, OMR, Perungudi Cost: Rs 4,800 per month per seat Call +91 44 33185008or find them here Karya Space The most popular option with a waiting listmost of the time – Karya offers a fun, young working space in the heart of Mylapore. Founded by Arjjun Chander, the interiors are trendy and beautifully designed. Based out of a convenient location, it’s close to malls, restaurants, bars and even train/bus stations.They have private office space for four to six people in a fully operational work area with a package that includes a meeting room, internet usage, a self-service pantry area,a TV and their special filter coffee that is totally worth trying.There are three different plans one can choose from – Social, Hermit and Gypsy. While Hermit offers space for four to six people, there is ac, internet, printing, receptionist and conference room, Social offers all of them with Grade A office space and single workstations. Gypsy is more suitable for the ones who don’t require a full time office and would just like to have an address to host clients now and then. Where: 78/132, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore Cost: Rs 3,000 to 6,500 per month per seat Call +91 98840 86725 or find them here SwaStart Owned by entrepreneur Sooraj Ratna Kumar, SwaStart is a shared workspace concept by the award winning bio-chemical lab Swagene.The reason for starting SwaStart was simplytosharethe excess space in Sooraj’s office with other professionals, freelancers and entrepreneurs in need of a quiet oasis. Apart from cosy desks, ergonomic chairs, lockable drawers and WIFI,the office also offers a kitchenette, a dining area, and a meeting room. The self-service office space can accommodate upto six members . Where: Opposite Westin Hotel, Near Guru Nanak College, Velachery Cost: Rs 5,500 per month per seat Call +9144 4201 4700 or find them here iKeva Located in the fast growing business locale where Perungudi and Kandanchavadi converge – iKeva is home to several upcoming businesses and startups. The best part about working from here, apart from24x7 access, is the unlimited high speed Internet. You can also expect personal lockers, upbeat furniture, private meeting rooms, board rooms, mail and courier handling, a well-managed reception, dining area, power backup and free beverages – so there’s pretty much everything under one roof! The space can accommodate up to 30 employees. Where: Level 2, Agnitio Tech Park, Kandanchavadi, Perungudi, OMR, Near Rajiv Gandhi Salai Cost: Rs 8,500 per month per seat Call 91 44 6602 3299 or find them here

The music scene in Chennai has truly evolved. From excelling in classical vernacular music, to adapting to the EDM culture, the city has come a long way. But who doesn’t want to go back in time every now and then? And nothing brings back memories better than music. So, if you love rock and roll, head straight to these bars and unleash the 90s kids within you. Drizzle, Neelangarai Chennai based DJ Sulthan, the resident DJ at Escape pub plays retro music every Thursday at Drizzle, the sheesha bar and pub on the outskirts of the city in ECR. A known name in the retro and Bollywood music circuit in Chennai, Sulthan plays mashups of legendary rock and roll tracks and old school music with a mix of retro romantic classics. The pub sports a contemporary look, screens live sports and offers discounts in abundance, including complimentary shooters from 7 pm till midnight. Their Italian fare is worth a try when teamed with their Screwdriver (Rs 500) or a more elegant, Red Wine (Rs 600). The club provides a well ventilated smoking area beside the bar section and valet parking services. When: 7 pm onwards on Thursday Price: Rs 1,000 for two 10 Downing Street, T Nagar One of the most popular pubs in Chennai, 10 Downing Street flaunts a classy old school ambience with elegant chandeliers and checkered floors. The Irish setup hosts Retro nights with DJ Gavin every Friday, 7 pm onwards. Order a glass of Irish wine, like The Franc or Chante Cigale, or go for a regular course of beer (Rs 200 for a pint) as you tap your feet to classics from the 80s and 90s. The place offers packages and discounts from time to time and screens live matches, too. When: 7 pm onwards on Friday Price: Rs 1,000 for two Vintage Bar, Gopalapuram Living up to its name, the Vintage Bar at the busy Cathedral Road has been popular among r retro and classic rock lovers since ages. The bar stocks some of the best foreign imported liquors and single malts like 14 year old Oban (Rs 600), 12 years Glenfiddich (Rs 390) and Scottish Talisker 10 years (Rs 500). While the resident DJs mostly play retro on weekends, they have different playlists, like progressive and commercial, on certain days. On weekdays, the club plays pre-recorded retro sets. The bar’s old school decor and ambience makes it perfect for a casual outing with both, friends and family. Even though we wish the club had Happy Hours, a pint of beer for Rs 150 is a decent deal. When: 8 pm onwards on Saturday Price: Rs 1,000 for two Geoffrey’s, Arumbakkam Immerse yourself in nostalgia and transport to another world with the retro and jazz selections at this classic nightclub. The subtle lighting, framed posters on the walls and a deep blue bar area sets the right mood as you sip on to some the Jameson Irish Whisky (Rs 325) or Hennessy Cognac (Rs 375). Along with renowned guest DJs from other cities, the club hosts live bands and jam sessions as well. Oh and did we mention they stock international beers like Asahi (Rs 300) and Stella (Rs 300). To make things better, they serve a sumptuous Mediterranean and Vietnamese fare. When: 8 pm onwards on Friday and Saturday Price: Rs 1,200 for two

Shobana, the prolific dance from Chennai presents Dancing Drums is a dance concert on trance music where the artists will be seen performing Indian traditional Bharatnatyam dance. The music will be mostly sensual depicting the ever-evolving mythology of Siva, avatars of Vishnu, Mary Magdalene among other streams of consciousness. The dance will be in a re-contextualized form rich in movement and visual imagery. There will be Indian classical, qawwali, Bollywood and electronic music to show the various states of trance. Anantha R. Krishnan will be on mrudangam and percussions, Prithvi Chandrasekhar on piano along with Palakkad Sreeram, Revathi Kumar and Srividya Sailesh. Tickets: Rs 300 to 2,000. Tickets are available on Bookmyshow.

Shopping needs no excuses! We shop when we’re happy, we shop to fix a bad day and then there are the year round parties that call for new outfits. Whatever be the occasion, retail therapy remains constant, but what if your shopping could contribute to a good cause? Our list of portals that empower rural artisans and local craftsmen will ensure you do just that – shop and help support those who need it the most. Women Weave Women Weave is a charitable trust that was established in 2002 and has been working tirelessly to make Indian handlooms a self-sufficient industry for women from rural areas of the country. Handspun khadi and organic cotton are adorned with 100 per cent natural dyes and made into elegant scarves and fabric here, fresh from the loom. What We Love: Hand woven stole by Dindori’s women weavers Cost:Rs 900 onwards Shop here Shop For A Cause Be it home décor, accessories, apparels, or jute handbags – Shop For A Cause stays true to its name and stocks eco-friendly handicraft that boosts local artisans with minimal damage to the environment. Grass and reed baskets, fun stationery and other items made from recycled plastic and paper are all sourced directly from artisans, thus contributing greatly to their economy and empowerment. What We Love: Palm leaf fruit bowl Cost: Rs 60 onwards Shop here Sadhna They call themselves ‘A Women’s Handicraft Enterprise’ and rightly so. What started out as a group of 15 women with the sole aim to provide an alternative means of livelihood to those from rural, tribal and urban slum areas in southern Rajasthan has become a big movement now with a team of 625 female artisans. The website offers apparel for both men and women, home furnishings and accessories to cure all your retail cravings. What We Love: Potli bags Cost: Rs 450 onwards Shop here Crochet By Samoolam This collection, available on Jaypore, enables women from rural India to earn a sustainable livelihood. Samoolam literally translates to ‘collective roots’ in Sanskrit, symbolising the training imparted to these women to give them the opportunity to earn their livelihood through their skills . Usha Prajapati, who heads this project, returned to Gaya, (her hometown in Bihar) and took it upon herself to train women in the art of crochet. You can pick from their collection of scarves, key chains, accessories and more. What We Love: Multi-colour crochet hair clips Cost: Rs 450 onwards Shop here

From shutting everything down at 10 pm to allowing bars and eateries to operate till midnight, and some even beyond, in terms of nightlife, Chennai has come a long way. Here’s a list of late night food spots to take care of your 2 am hunger pangs. Nightu Foodie, Velachery Operating from the buzzing neighbourhood of Velachery, Nightu Foodie is the only restaurant that offers round the clock services. The place is popular among the young residents and those doing night shifts. It has a dine in section that can accommodate up to 20 guests. They also offer home delivery and take-away. If going for their North Indian dishes, try the Biryani (Rs 140 for chicken) along with their Murgh Mirchi Kebab (Rs 165), Murgh Hyderabad Masala (Rs 165). If you’re in the mood for some Chinese, try their Roasted Chilli Chicken (Rs 170), Prawn in Bell Pepper (Rs 220) and Chilli Paneer (Rs 150). Price: Rs 500 for two Timings: 7 pm to 4 am Shaack, Anna Nagar The premium family restaurant on 2nd avenue, Anna Nagar East has been a favourite among seafood lovers. You will be spoilt for choice with their endless options in Continental, Thai, Malaysian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Italian and South Indian fare. The place offers a cosy ambience along with live match screenings for those who don’t want to miss the Euro Cup action. Try their Chilli Basil Fried Rice (Rs 220 for chicken), Prawn Cocktail (Rs 220), Thai Crispy Chicken (Rs 220) and Cambodian Grilled Fish (Rs 240) among other dishes. Price: Rs 900 for two Timings: Noon to 4 am Dawn Dusk, Nungambakkam As the name suggests, DD is a dinner-only restaurant s at the posh KNK Road in Nungambakkam, situated near a lot of pubs that are open till midnight, thus making the restaurant a boon for party goers. They have a take-away counter, a dine in area that can accommodate up to 50 people. and home delivery upto 10 kilometres. The food is priced reasonably, with something for every one. In their snacks, try the Devil Chicken Wings (Rs 195) and Sloppy Joe Burger (Rs 195). For a heavy meal, we suggest the Tandoori Chicken (Rs 380), Chicken Stroganoff (Rs 330) or the Paneer Tikka Masala (Rs 225) with Tandoori Paratha (Rs 40). Price: Rs 600 for two Timings: 7 pm to 5 am Cozee – Box Out, Thiruvanmiyur Serving North Indian and Chinese dishes all night long, Cozee-Box Out came like a breath of fresh air for the young crowd of Thiruvanmiyur. For now, the food joint offers only home deliveries and take-aways and restaurateur Navjot says, they have plans to start delivering to more places soon. The tiny little place has a long list of delicacies including sumptuous starters like Tangri Kebab (Rs 189 for 3 pieces), Tandoori Prawn (Rs 219 for 6 pieces), Dry Ginger Chicken (Rs 189) and Malai Paneer Tikka (Rs 179), to pick from We absolutely loved their Chicken Kathi Roll (Rs 139) and Carrot Halwa (Rs 65). Price: Rs 400 for two Timings: 5 pm to 5 am

Chennai based choreographer, actor, dancer and Padmashri award winner Shobana will be showcasing a musical dance drama Krishna. It depicts a lot about Krishna#39;s life, his philosophy and why he is still beyond man#39;s understanding. It will be a joyous collage of music, dance, dialogues, delightful costumes and voiceovers of leading film actors like Surya, Konkona Sen Sharma, Shabana Azmi, Andrea Jeremiah and Prabhu, to name a few. Be there to witness the 100th staging of the Icon Krishna on an auspicious day (Janmashtami). The drama depicts the ninth incarnation of the lord and everything from Vrindavan and Mathura to Kurukshetra has been beautifully portrayed in the drama. Tickets: Rs 300 to 1,000. Tickets are available on Bookmyshow.

Till recently, colouring had always been considered a children’s activity, but not anymore. It has now found popularity amongst adults all over the world, who are looking for a respite from their fast paced lives. Adult colouring books have become as popular as other relaxing and therapeutic activities, and let’s face it, it’s way more fun! The themes and concepts of these books – ranging from caricatures, comics, traditional mandalas to even Indian history and mythology – promise something for everyone. So this week, pick up some colours and try one of these India themed options. Bagh-E-Bahar Making colouring books uber luxe is the history inspired Baag-E-Bahaar. From the house of luxury décor store Good Earth, this 96-pager takes you on a stroll through the Mughal gardens with their pristine imperial structures and expansive landscape of fruit trees and flowers in full bloom. Unlike other colouring books that focus on abstract images and motifs, what we loved the most about this recently launched colouring book was the intricate and detailed Persian and Indian imagery with a quintessential Good Earth aesthetic. Watch out for quotes by Sufi saint Rumi scattered all throughout the book that are an added bonus. Cost: Rs 899. Order here The Sita And The Jaya Series Illustrator and master storyteller Devdutt Patnaik’s The Sita Colouring Book emerged out of his acclaimed bestseller Sita – An Illustrated Retelling of the Ramayana, while The Jaya Colouring Book finds its origins in the popular Jaya – An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata. Most other colouring books focus on detailed and intricate patterns or images, but the illustrations in Devdutt Patnaik’s works are simpler and have a more open colouring surface for you to explore. Illustrations include iconic scenes from mythological and historical epics including the abduction of Sita, Draupati’s Swayamvar and the decisive battle of Kurukshetra. Cost: Rs 399 Order here and here Shankuntala And Her Magic Box Chennai based artist Subadra Kalyaraman is behind this self-published colouring book that features hand-drawn illustrations in the traditional Madhubani art form. The 19-page colouring book also features two pages of story panels with an original story written by Chennai based writer (and her husband) Balajee GE. It revolves around a girl named Shakuntala and her love for music. We love that the thickness of the paper (250 GSM) with its inbuilt perforations makes it easy for anyone looking to colour and frame each individual leaf as a decoration or give it as gift. Cost: Rs 1,470 Order here

Wanderlust is a funny thing – it engulfs you in a grasp so firm that it’s impossible to give up that urge of constantly exploring new places. Well-seasoned travellers are all about ditching the luxurious living options and discovering a place through a more local route. And we can’t think of a better way to experience a place than by seeing it through the eyes of a local, witnessing life as they do and soaking in the unique vibe of each neighbourhood. These 5 homestays, spread across India’s diverse terrain, are perfect to discover our country’s lesser-explored parts. Bon Farmhouse, Sikkim There’s an air of mystery that shrouds our Northeastern states, and we can’t think of a better way to discover their beauty than through the eyes of locals. Located in Kewzing village, amidst cardamom and tea plantations, this home is part of a fully functional farm that sees various crops harvested through the year and is home to plenty of livestock as well. The rooms are designed in the traditional Sikkimese style and are adorned with wooden furniture. There’s plenty to do when there – be it bird watching, undertaking day-long treks, camping overnight, fishing for trout, dabbling in local cooking, or indulging in a Dotho – a traditional hot stone herbal bath. Cost: Rs 3,500 onwards per night for a double room For reservations, click here Fort Rampura, Bundelkhand Ever wondered what it would be like to live like a king? You can find out for yourself at the majestic 600-year-old Rampura Fort where Raja Samar Singh welcomes you to a blue-blooded experience. The rooms are basic with antique furniture, though we love the intricate tiling work. Living like a royal awards you the privilege of doing nothing, and you’ll find plenty of space in this large fort to put your legs up and unwind with a book. Trek along the ravines of Chambal, enjoy a head massage from the local barber, try your luck at the family’s ancient billiards table, or sail along the Yamuna on a private boat. Cost: Rs 5,000 per night for a double room For reservations, click here Thotadhahalli Home Stay, Chikmaglur Nestled in the foothills of the Mullayanagiri hills (about 275 kms from Bangalore) in southern coffee country, this charming home is inspired strongly by Indian motifs. With terracotta tiles and wooden accents dominating the interiors, you’ll be in awe of the lovely brass and iron artefacts that dot the house. Chat with the Indhavara family, who have been in the coffee cultivation business for over 60 years, and you’ll realise the region’s rich legacy. Get a taste of Malnad culture through delicious food, and explore the surrounding coffee estate, mountain peaks as well waterfalls. Cost: Rs 3,000 per person, per day For reservations, click here Maachli, Sindhudurg With the aim to help you reconnect with nature, the Samant family’s homely abode stands bang in the middle of dense coconut, banana, and spice plantations. Each cottage is built using natural elements such as brick and bamboo, and is designed to maintain a macro-climate that rules out the use of an air conditioner. Soak in the natural surroundings as you lounge on one of the deck chairs on the balcony, take a dip in the stream that runs through the property, or partake in farm activities with the host family. There are plenty of temples and forts around the area as well, in case you decide to venture out of this peaceful haven that is! Cost: Rs 3,800 onwards per night for a double room For reservations, click here Phillipkutty’s Farm, Kerala Homestays can be an indulgent experience as well, and this gorgeous property that flanks Kerala’s famed backwaters stands testimony to that. Located on an island, the 35-acre farm offers individual cottages for guests to ensure privacy, while the host family resides in their own villa and are always available to sit down for a quick chat. The villas contain modern amenities such as air conditioners, televisions and refrigerators, yet retain a rustic charm with clay tiled floors and wooden ceilings. Traditional meals are cooked by the family matriarch and cooking classes are offered too, in case you want to snag a few handy tips. Take a walk through the 100% organic farm of spice and fruit crops along with fowl and cattle. With canal cruises during sunset, fishing using Chinese nets, invigorating Ayurvedic massages, and an ideal setting for bird watching – there’s plenty to do for the entire family. Cost: On request For reservations, click here

You cannot miss Sea Shell in Velachery. It is on the main road, occupies the entire building, and has different décor on each floor. The ground floor is busy with week-day diners, and the 2nd has a buffet that changes every day. I’ve decided to occupy the first floor and admire my view of the road from a vantage point. Looking up at the ceiling is inevitable. Intricately designed it is hand-painted with vibrant colours. Basic furniture stands on an easy-to-clean floor. Peppy music fills my ears as my stomach screams for food. One look at the menu and I’ve decided to go for the Jet Soup. It’s green, and holds promise. My first spoonful gives me a strong garlic punch. Then I get green chilli flavours that quite overpower the spinach, while minced veggies form tiny cubes of firmness in my mouth, setting the momentum for my meal. Tawa Grilled Pomfret, Kerala style has personality. The coconut oil fragrance traces its way into my senses while the tang from tamarind and those heady Kerala masalas take me to the land of the backwaters, where the fish is fresh and has a little bit of ocean in its tender white meat. My pomfret slice has a few bones that I need to watch out for. Arabian Platter has three varieties of chicken, one each of mutton, fish and prawn. I like the Pinka Dejaj (chicken) best: its mint and ginger marinade has hints of green chutney. The chicken is cooked well, managing to retain some of its succulence. Lax Basa fish lies mild yet somewhat juicy, letting the marinade take over the taste factor. That Malabar Fish Mango Curry makes up for what the Basa lacks. Even though it has ready-made coconut powder in the gravy, I enjoy the slight nip from raw mango while onions and tomatoes add to the thickness of the curry, which tastes great with Kerala Paratha. Dessert is Semiya Payasam from the buffet. Or Lime Mint Cooler. Or Sizzling Brownie: an option I did not try. Pluses and minuses: I like the optimism in the size of the restaurant and all those options on the menu. Wish they could add some typical Arabian desserts... Must try: Gobi 65, Paneer Pudina Tikka, Appam and Vegetable Stew, Kerala Fish Curry, Mushroom Manchurian Chilli, Puttu, Shawarma.

Nothing gives us more pleasure than discovering new places to eat in the neighbourhood. Be it the unforgiving heat or tireless rains, the Billy Banter in us is always ready to gourmandise. Here’s a list of some of the new additions on the food map of Chennai to take care of your weekend gluttony, unltil August. Prive, Mylapore This vegatarian newbie at the busy Radhakrishnan Salai is already buzzing with foodies. A nice, quiet ambience is what you can expect once you set your foot inside. The cuisines they serve include a bunch of North Indian, South Indian, Mexican, Chinese and Continental favourites. We loved their Chilli Baby Corn (Rs 230) tossed in soya sauce, Classic Honey Chilli Potato (Rs 215) and Quesadillas (Rs 210) that come with toppings like Mexican pickles, spinach and cottage cheese, and mushroom and creamy corn. Also try their Achari Paneer (Rs 289) with Tandoori Roti (Rs 60) for the main course. The restaurant also serves Bhel Puri (Rs 100) and Dahi Papdi Chaat (Rs 115). Price: Rs 900 for two Timings: 11 am to 11 pm Flavours Of Lalgudi, Alwarpet Named after a small village in Tiruchirapalli, the only cultural representation at the Flavours Of Lalgudi is in the form of paintings on the restaurant’s walls and its vintage decor. As far as it’s food is concerned, the focus is mainly on North Indian Vegetarian fare. We recommend the juicy Malai Paneer Tikka (Rs 210), the Stuffed Potato (Rs 200) with a filling of paneer and cheese in pudina paste, and Paneer Tikka Masala Dosa (Rs 150) from among the starters. They serve cheap combo lunches like the North Indian Thali (Rs 275) that comes with soup, Paneer Tikka, Butter Naan, Paneer Butter Masala, Mixed Veg gravy, Veg Pulao and Raitha. They offer a variety of assorted breads to choose from. Price: Rs 800 for two Timings: 11 am to 11 pm Rang Mahal, Purusavakkam Located at Dr. Alagappa Road, Rang Mahal or ‘Castle of Colours’ offers a variety of Northern, Southern and Chinese fare to pick from, at pocket-friendly prices. The highlights on the menu are their Honey Chilli Cauliflower (Rs 120) and Paneer Manchurian (Rs 130) from the Chinese starters, and the Khumbh Malai Kebab (Rs 110) and Hara Bhara Kebab (Rs 110) from the Indian kadhai. Try their Kabuli Nazarana (Rs 140) and Kashmiri Kofta (Rs 130) with Masala Kulcha (Rs 50) for a heavier course. Wash it off with a mocktail followed by a Fruit Custard (Rs 110) Price: Rs 600 for two Timings: 11 am to 11 pm Nut Cracker, Padur Non Vegetarians, thank you for your patience, we’ve found a place for you too. Serving Continental and Asian fare with some North Indian as well, Padur-based Days Hotel’s latest entrant is quite a hit among the youth of Chennai. Their kitchen is run by chef Jayaseelan and the ambience is perfect for an outing with family and friends. Nut Cracker serves amazing Continental breakfasts and we were impressed to see the Japanese Asa- Gohan (Rs 400) on the list too. It comes with a cool litchi juice, Gomoyo salad (spinach), Miso soup, Jasmine Rice, Salmon Yakothri and Tamagoyaki (egg roll) with Japanese tea . You can also indulge in their Western breakfast with Waffles (Rs 225), bacons and Cinnamon Pancakes (Rs 225) with melted butter and honey –maple syrup. Their must try dishes include Karuvepillai Kuchhi Meen (Rs 375), Shahi Gosht Tikka (Rs 375), Beef Tenderloin Steak (Rs 575) and Seekh Kebab (Rs 375). They have a separate menu for kids. Price: Rs 1,400 Timings: 7 am to Midnight

If you live around Greams Road, chances are that you might have heard about Weigh Out, the mutlicuisine buffet spot that closed down. The good news, however, is that there is a brand new authentic North Indian food destination called Kitchen 21 that has come up there to satiate our gluttony. The place is fresh and different, but does is make up for the one we lost? Let’s find out. AMBIENCE Sharing their space with the classic eatery Jalpaan, the latest entrant in the culinary scene, Kitchen 21, uses the sprawling space quite wisely, accommodating upto 80 diners at a time. A full glass panel on the entrance makes the restaurant completely visible from outside. Once inside, you will be welcomed by a street cart with jars of pickle and spices, giving you a desi feel, and large wooden buffet counters on your right hand side. The all-black interiors, walls adorned with photographs and quotations, and beautiful chandeliers make the place visually appealing and well-lit. Their not-so-desi playlist includes popular english numbers to keep your feet tapping as you dine. FOOD + DRINKS We were curious to find out what Kitchen 21 has in store for us, and we must say, we were not disappointed at all. They have a simple menu, offering the best of North Indian fare. A welcome drink is followed by a wide range of starters, mostly grilled. Our waiter suggested trying Chicken Tikka (Rs 260) and Chicken Honey Pepper (Rs 240) first, since we were too overwhelmed to decide what to pick from the infinite options. While the honey gives the much needed sweet coating over the chunks of chicken, it is the flavour of the spicy pepper that lingers on to your taste buds. You can also order their Tandoori Lamb Chop (Rs 280) – six medium sized succulent lamb pieces marinated overnight, with undisclosed spices. Vegetarians can go for the Dahi Kebab (Rs 180) infused with fresh yoghurt and dal, or Paneer Haryali Tikka (Rs 220). Their mint and dahi chutney makes the starters even better. Apart from weekend buffets for Rs 499, Chef Swamimalai A has also introduced a royal Andhra Rayalseema thali for both lunch and dinner (Rs 130 for veg; Rs 190 for non-veg) Next, we tried their Mutton Dum Biryani (Rs 240) and Malai Prawn Masala (Rs 340) comprising six to seven medium sized tiger prawns in a creamy gravy with milk, cashewnut paste and coconut powder, enough to serve two people. Those who like more spices in their food can go for the Chicken Kalmi Kebab Masala (Rs 280) or Kadai Prawn (Rs 320).The Peshawari Almond Naan (Rs 120) is a must-try from among the various assorted breads. Pair it up with Kashmiri Nalli Gosht (Rs 280). The well marinated, soft, juicy and tender lamb shanks infused in a spicy yoghurt curry with ground spices and fresh coriander is a clear winner. In beverages, we ordered their Chocolate Milkshake with a scoop of ice cream on top (Rs 165), and ended the meal on a sweet note with their Gajar Ka Halwa (Rs 120). The carrot based dessert scores full marks for the authenticity of its taste, aroma and texture. IN A NUTSHELL WH Verdict: Authentic North Indian food spot worth your penny. Meal For Two: Rs 800 Timings: Noon to 3.30 pm and 6.30 pm to 11 pm Follow them on Facebook. **The writer was invited by the restaurant to preview their menu**

The well known art and photography gallery presents a special art curated show entitled #39;Introspective Revelation#39;. The contemporary art showcase by multiple artists is an amalgamation of an eclectic medley of paintings, sculptures, assemblages and art installations by various well known artists from all over the country. The participating artists are Devidas Dharmadhikari, Dilip Chobisa, Henk Van Putten, Kumaresan Selvaraj, Madhuri Bhaduri, Mukthinath Mondal, Sachin George Sebastian, Sareena Khemka, Vinita Karim and Yuvan Bothysathuvar.

Tasveer gallery and Amethyst will be showcasing the preview of Maharanis: Women of Royal India and launch of the accompanying publication. Unlike the emphasis on royal kings or Maharaja, this exhibition and publication brings to the limelight the fascinating women who populated a bygone glamorous era. The gallery will exhibit a collection of regal portraits depicting the blue-blooded women - queens, princesses and other royal gharana women of India who fought purdah to come out into society. The book includes several additional photographs, four original texts by K.G. Pramod, Amin Jaffer, Martand Singh and Shilpa Vijayakrishnan. Entry is free. The preview will take place on Jul 29, 6.30 pm onwards.

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