Food

Taste The Trend India’s Newest Food Discoveries

From hidden gems and experimental kitchens to viral street eats and gourmet innovations, we spotlight the flavours and culinary concepts redefining India’s vibrant foodscape.

What’s new? Hunaaan
Where? Bangalore

After 18 years of serving up beloved pan-Asian fare, Hunaaan returns with a refreshed identity in Indiranagar and it’s every bit worth the wait. The new 40-seater outpost swaps traditional Chinese clichés for a clean, contemporary look. Think pinewood, rice-paper-inspired screens, soft lighting, and an open kitchen that greets you with sizzling aromas the moment you walk in.

But what hasn’t changed is the food still packed with flavour, balance, and consistency. The menu has evolved to include modern Asian favourites like Kimbap, Miso Soup, Signature Hunan Salad, and Cold Silken Tofu Salad, alongside hearty classics like Kung Pao Chicken, Tianjin Lamb, and Vegetable Dumplings in Hot Garlic Sauce. Sushi lovers will appreciate the reverse Uramaki rolls, while dimsum platters and small plates like Prawn Tempura and Baby Potatoes are crowd-pleasers. With a thoughtful balance of innovation and nostalgia, Hunaaan’s Indiranagar chapter offers a warm return to old favourites and a stylish reason to come back for more.

What’s new: Katana
Where: Bangalore

Tucked into a quiet pocket of Indiranagar, Katana is Bangalore’s latest addition to the culinary landscape and it’s one with serious character. This 45-seater izakaya-inspired bar brings together the precision of Japanese culinary tradition with the relaxed charm of a neighbourhood hangout.

Co-founded by Sandesh Reddy and Prasanna Pandarinathan, Katana doesn’t chase trends, it offers a soulful, sake-led experience that feels both intentional and intimate. The menu, shaped by Chef Sanjit Biswakarma, is a series of refined small plates: delicate yet satisfying. The corn custard on shokupan and spicy salmon rice bowl are early standouts, balancing richness with restraint.

At the bar, Pritish Shetty’s minimalist cocktails shine. Expect clean, layered drinks that elevate rather than overpower many built on sake or shochu, all meticulously composed.

The mood? Understated elegance. Designed by George Seemon, the space is moody but warm, all soft lighting, raw textures, and thoughtful details.

Katana isn’t just another “Japanese-themed” spot, it’s the real deal, built with reverence and creativity.

What’s new? KOA
Where: Navi Mumbai

Chic, sunlit, and soulful KOA, the much-loved Bohemian-themed café and bar, has opened its third outlet at Inorbit Mall, Vashi, after charming patrons in Thane and Juhu. Spearheaded by restaurateur Priyanka Jain, KOA blends Mediterranean aesthetics with laid-back charm: think window-side foliage, warm wooden textures, community tables, and soft, golden lighting.

The interiors exude a breezy, calming vibe perfect for long catch-ups and Instagram-worthy moments. The globally inspired menu features crowd-pleasers from American, Thai, Italian, and Asian cuisines. Highlights include Avocado Toast with Truffle, Crispy Lotus Root in Honey Chilli, Broccoli Pistachio Soup, and the indulgent Pull Me Up Tiramisu and Pistachio Tres Leches for dessert lovers.

KOA officially opened last month, bringing Navi Mumbai a slice of Boho heaven with flavourful plates, craft cocktails, and a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere that’s bound to become a new go-to hangout.

July 30, 2025

#Food, #India

Festive Recipes From Top Indian Chefs

This festive season, add a touch of gourmet to your celebrations with recipes straight from India’s chefs. Hashtag magazine offers chef-curated dishes that are perfect for family feasts or intimate gatherings. Easy to make and full of flavour here’s what should be on your festive menu. Baklava by Chef Dr. Alisha Dr. Alisha is a dentist by profession and a passionate foodie at heart. Her journey into the world of cooking began through unexpected life challenges, which led her to rediscover her love for food. This passion eventually gave rise to her popular digital platform, “Anyone Can Cook with Dr. Alisha.” Through her engaging content on YouTube and Instagram, she shares easy, flavourful recipes and culinary tips that prove cooking is not just for professional chefs it’s for everyone. Recipe: Ingredients: For Homemade Phyllo Sheets All Purpose Flour (Maida)– 2 cups Salt -1 pinch Baking powder – 1.5 tsp Oil or desi ghee – 1/4 cup Milk & Water – 1/2 cup & 3-4 tbsp (as per need) To Coat: All-purpose flour (Maida) – 1/2 cup Cornflour – 1/2 cup For Dry fruit stuffing: Almonds – 1/2 cup Walnuts – 1/4 cup Cashews – a little less than 1/4 cup Pistachios – a little more than 1/4 cup Elaichi Powder – 1 tsp For Sugar Syrup Sugar – 1 cup Water- 3/4 cup Lemon Juice – 5-6 drops Kewra Essence – 1/2 tsp Kesar Essence – 1/2 tsp Desi ghee & Butter – 1/2 cup (to grease the layers) For the Dough (Phyllo Sheets): In a large bowl, mix the maida, salt, and baking powder. Add 1 tbsp oil and mix well with the dry ingredients. Gradually add milk and water (or use) to form a semi-stiff dough. Add more water if needed. Knead well, cover with a damp cloth,

Food

Where the Brews Meet the Sky, Only at BrewfTop, Andheri

As the world lifts its glass this August 1st for World Beer Day, there’s no better place in Mumbai to join the global toast than BrewfTop, the breezy rooftop oasis at Berlin Brew Beer Garden in Andheri. Rooted in the convivial spirit of Berlin’s garden pubs and blended with Mumbai’s electric social energy, BrewfTop is more than a rooftop; it’s a destination for those who live to sip, savour, and celebrate craft. World Beer Day isn’t just about the drink. It’s about shared stories, clinking glasses, and discovering new flavours that transport you across continents. It’s a global celebration of brewing culture, and BrewfTop honours that with heart and hops. With panoramic views, soulfully rustic interiors, and a beer lineup that spans styles and stories, it offers the perfect backdrop for this international day of cheer. This year, BrewfTop invites patrons to soak up the golden hour with a curated experience that’s festive and flavour-packed. The rooftop will come alive with live music and DJ sets, making way for sundowner vibes that flow effortlessly into the night. Guests can dive into beer challenges, sip from sampler trees, or gather around beer towers built for communal joy. It’s all about pouring more than beer; it’s about pouring moments. The star of the evening? BrewfTop’s top-tier craft brews. The Berlin Hefeweizen brings a whisper of banana and clove in every sip, perfect for easy afternoons. The Tropical Guava Pale Ale is juicy, aromatic, and built for the bold palate. The Mango Lager is smooth, sunny, and deeply refreshing. For something darker and moodier, the Berlin Stout offers rich cocoa notes and espresso warmth. And for purists, the Rice Lager delivers ultimate crispness and clarity. Guests looking to explore the range of house-brewed flavours can opt for the Beer Tree, a tasting flight

Food

Raia Ristorante & Bar: Panjim’s New Culinary Hotspot

A multi-cuisine experience in Panjim that shines with fresh flavours, eclectic cocktails, and a vibrant ambience. Nestled in the heart of Panjim, Raia Ristorante & Bar is quickly becoming a go-to spot for food lovers looking for variety, flavour, and a vibrant dining experience. The name Raia, inspired by a village in Portugal and symbolizing sunrays, reflects the restaurant’s bright and inviting vibe. With airy interiors during the day and a cozy, elegant ambience by night, Raia sets the stage for meals that feel both special and comforting. We began with the seasonal Thai Mango Salad a refreshing plate of juicy mangoes tossed with bell peppers, onions, and a zingy Thai dressing. It was fresh, light, and the perfect start to the meal. This dish is a part of their seasonal menu, which highlights their commitment to using ingredients at their peak, offering guests a dining experience that feels both timely and indulgent. With a menu that changes to reflect what’s best each season, there’s always something new and delightful to discover From their small plates, the Avocado & Burrata Toast and the Mushroom & Truffle Open Toast stood out simple yet indulgent, perfect for an anytime bite. From the global menu, the Cilantro Prawns were a clear winner, marinated in a vibrant mix of cilantro, garlic, pepper, lime juice, and olive oil, offering a burst of flavour in every bite. The Onion Rings, crisp and golden, made for a satisfying snack, while the Kathi Rolls available in paneer, chicken, lamb, and beef were soft, succulent, and full of flavour. In the Italian section, the Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli was a standout. Handmade and filled with blanched spinach and ricotta, it came in a rich tomato-based sauce that was both hearty and delicate. We also tried their Wood-Fired Pizzas The

Food

Must Visit Cafes in Hyderabad

As the monsoon rain kisses Hyderabad’s streets, the city transforms into a cozy location for coffee and conversations. A cool getaway atmosphere naturally demands special cravings a cup of steamy coffee, a plate of piping-hot pakoras, or a decadent slice of cake. From charming garden nooks to rustic hideaways, Hyderabad’s cafes come alive during the rainy season, offering comfort, warmth, and the perfect ambiance to chase away the monsoon blues. MANOGNA REDDY explores these authentic cafés, which are the best hangout spots in Hyderabad during monsoons. Let’s enjoy monsoons the way they are. Aaromale Located in Film Nagar, Aaromale is a charming café that blends culinary delights with a creative ambiance. The café offers a fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines, offering dishes like BBQ chicken pizza, peri-peri chicken, and onion strings. The dessert menu includes indulgent options such as cheesecakes, ice cream, and brownies. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s an ideal spot for casual hangouts and meaningful discussions. The café is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service. Aaromale offers a perfect setting with its rich greenery, and a roof made of terracotta cladding gives a cozy look attuned to the tradition of the Western Ghats. Lé Vantage Café Bar Located in Jubilee Hills, Lé Vantage Café Bar offers a serene and elegant setting with a blend of European and Mediterranean cuisines. The café features a beautiful outdoor seating area adorned with white umbrellas and lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for brunches, evening cocktails, and casual gatherings. The ambiance is both romantic and relaxed, making it a popular choice for various occasions. The menu includes dishes like chowder, leek potato soup, avocado halloumi sandwich, pesto pasta, and beverages such as hot chocolate and Orange Twist. The café also offers indoor games like chess and Scrabble