Cheers to Hyderabad’s new ‘Anthm’

Financial District, Nanakramguda, is becoming the buzzing hub for high-octane, high-on-glamour nightlife in Hyderabad. The latest on the circuit, Anthm, which positions itself as a luxury lounge bar, has the feel of a relaxed getaway in the bustling corporate corridors of Gachibowli, much like the proverbial oasis in the desert.

With a pristine white ambience, billowing sheer white curtains, a white bar, and white poolside cabanas dotted with greenery and azure blue water bodies, Anthm impresses with its indoor and outdoor design. There are cruise-styled decks on the poolside and high ceilings inside, with a seamless, spacious vibe. It is no surprise that the interior designers of this luxurious, multi-sensory 45,000 sq. ft. space are the much-acclaimed duo Aamir & Hameeda Sharma.

Where Anthm scores, apart from its ambience, is the excellent choice and execution of beverages and food menu. Try their ‘Apple of My Eye,’ a divine bourbon-fresh apple juice-apple syrup concoction, or their signature ‘Golden Harvest,’ a Jim Beam unique blended with Indian spices, to know what I am talking about. The Cheesecake Martini was a clever innovation, using almond cold brew with Irish cheesecake and vodka. Do you have any idea how delicious that would have been?

The food menu is quite exhaustive in that it offers more than just finger foods or small plates, which most watering holes in the city are prone to doing. The haleem tarts were brilliant; the super crisp tart shells filled with fresh, hot, and delectable haleem will make for an excellent starter with the cocktails. Ditto for the Rock Shrimp Tempura (the mix of vegetable tempura was also good), Crispy Avocado Chaat, and Paneer Pasanda.

Tequila Lemon Thyme Prawn, however, while being a signature menu offering, did not deliver as much as I had looked forward to in terms of flavours, especially with its spirited first name, but both the delicious Lamb Chops with Mash Potato and Andhra Crab (stuffed in shell) more than made up for the miss.

The vegetarian Baked Cheese Mushroom Mexican Rice was well-made in the main course, and the pizzas, Fresh Garden and Spicy Jalapeno with Pepperoni were also well-made. Desserts are of the Basque cheesecake, Tres Leches genre.

While there are special DJ nights over the weekend, like underground music on Friday, commercial techno on Saturday, and Afro house on Sundays, there are plans on the anvil for more musical nights and Sunday Sundowners. Other highlights include special unlimited F&B (apart from regular a la carte) menus for Sundowner evenings and different DJs playing on Sundays.

Sandeep Krishna Padala, co–founder of Anthm, shares, “With a start in Hyderabad, we plan to take the Anthm concept and experience to several other cities next year. Our commitment to culinary excellence for discerning patrons positions Anthm as a distinctive and sought-after brand in the evolving gastronomic landscape.”

The young bunch of seven co-owners have brought a unique, energetic vibe to the lounge bar, and backed by the co-founders of Ironhill Hospitality, Anthm is raring to go!

Must Try Food: Haleem tarts, Andhra Stuffed Crab, Lamb Chops, Avocado Chaat

Must Try Drinks: Golden Harvest, Cheesecake Martini, Apple of My Eye