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Beer pairing – Given India’s diverse beer styles

Indian beer culture is transforming, one that blends tradition with modernity and celebrates diverse flavours from across the subcontinent. From the hearty wheat beers of the north to the tropical-flavoured brews of the south, India’s beer scene is blooming. Microbreweries are popping up in cities like Bengaluru, signalling a golden age for beer lovers. And what better way to savour this vibrant evolution than by pairing beer with food that reflects India’s rich culinary heritage?

When we think of the ideal Indian gathering, it’s often filled with the clinking of glasses, the aroma of sizzling paneer tikka, and the sound of friends enjoying each other’s company. At the heart of this lively scene is an emerging and exciting pairing: beer and cheese, with an unmistakable Indian twist. This partnership shares an ancient bond — fermentation — the same process that brings both beer and cheese to life, allowing their complex flavours to interact and elevate each other in unexpected ways

Given India’s diverse beer styles — ranging from crisp lagers to bold Indian Pale Ales — the pairing possibilities are endless. Here are some inspired beer and food combinations to embark on your own flavour adventure:

  •  IPA & spicy paneer tikka The assertive bitterness of an IPA makes it an excellent match for spicy paneer tikka. The beer’s hops, which carry notes of citrus, floral, and tropical fruits, beautifully complement the complex marinade of garlic, ginger, chillies, and aromatic spices. The carbonation in the IPA cuts through the richness of the paneer, while its bitterness provides a balancing counterpoint to the fiery spice of the dish.

 

  •  Stout & smoked cheddar A robust stout, with its roasted malt undertones of coffee, chocolate, or dark fruits, pairs beautifully with the intense smoky flavour of cheddar. Whether you choose a dry Irish stout for a crisp contrast or a sweeter milk stout to create a creamy balance, this pairing enhances the smoky, savoury richness of the cheese, adding depth to every bite.

 

  •  Wheat beer & Kalakand The light and refreshing nature of a wheat beer, often spiced with hints of coriander and orange peel, offers a perfect balance to the rich sweetness of kalakand. The subtle fruitiness from the yeast in the wheat beer enhances the dessert’s sweetness without overwhelming it, while the beer’s refreshing carbonation cleanses the palate, preparing you for the next indulgent bite. A Belgian Witbier or German Hefeweizen is an ideal companion here.

 

  • Strong lager & chilli cheese toast A strong lager, known for its robust malt profile, pairs remarkably well with the bold flavours of chilli cheese toast. The lager’s clean finish helps slice through the richness of the cheese, while its crispness provides a refreshing break from the heat of the chillies. A European-style strong lager or a bock will stand up to the strong flavours of this popular snack.

 

  •  Pilsner & vegetable pakoda For a light and crispy snack like vegetable pakoda, a pilsner is the perfect companion. With its clean, subtly bitter profile, a pilsner refreshes the palate, cutting through the oiliness of the fried batter while complementing the spices in the pakoda. The pilsner’s crisp finish makes every bite feel like a new experience, ensuring a perfect balance of flavours.

 

  • Beer, cheese & the Indian spirit  The art of pairing beer and cheese, or cheese-based snacks, in India is more than just a culinary exploration — it’s a celebration of flavour, texture, and togetherness. The magic lies in how beer, an age-old drink, meets Indian ingredients and spices to create new, exciting experiences.

So, whether you’re savouring a smoky cheddar or indulging in a spicy paneer tikka, there’s a world of delicious pairings waiting to be explored.

Gather your friends, experiment with your favourite variety of cheese and snacks, and find your perfect beer companion. Through thoughtful pairing and mindful enjoyment, you can discover a whole new world of flavours.

in LifeStyle

Cake mixing- christmas is in air

Cake mixing is a ritual that is traditional and age old and has become very much a part of India for past many years. Traditionally cake mixing was a family affair and then it became a community affair as it’s more to mark the spirit of fun and frolic. Friends and families meet and do this ceremony with fervour and love marking the celebration of harvest as exotic fruits and nuts coupled with wine and liquor are mixed and kept for the traditional Christmas plum cake.

The ingredients that go into the cake mixing never include flour and eggs. So, the mixing takes place with

  • Cinnamon
  • Clove
  • Mace
  • Rum
  • Brandy
  • Whisky
  • Wine
  • Honey
  • Golden syrup
  • Raisin
  • Black Raisin
  • Cashew
  • Walnut
  • Almond,
  • Candied fruit
  • Cherries
  • Black currant
  • Dates figs and prunes

This tradition has been a warmth and bonding source and now it’s a merriment. Its believed that alcohol soaked fruits and dry fruits bring in not just warmth to the household but also good luck. The cake is aged with alcohol and this plum cake is the most loved cake with tea in England in the winters as it’s loaded with warmth, both of love and ingredients.

Bangalore is a witness to many luxury hotels doing cake mixing but each year the fervour and delight of JW MARRIOTT is unmatchable. The theme this year was Wild wild west and most of the guests were adhering to the cowboy n cowgirl look. It was beautifully executed as the whole crew entered with these amazing ingredients in their cow boyish attire while suitable music played. The whole affair was massive and when the you see the sultanas, prunes and black currants etc being soaked and loaded with wine then the warm yet intoxicating aroma of spices cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger that emerges totally seeps into your system.
The tradition goes that there is a way to mix it, its east to west.

There were kids getting tattoos done and biting on churros, doughnuts and sausages while adults enjoyed various kinds of cocktails served before the lunch started. It was a noon full of laughter, mirth and merriment, truly marking the beginning of the festivities. So gather your kith n kin and enjoy the festivity is in air,
Cheers !!

in LifeStyle

Shangri-La Hotel Bengaluru presents Taste of Malaysia

Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru And Tourism Malaysia Celebrate Second Edition Of “Taste Of Malaysia”

Chef Roslan Adnan and Antonio Fedelis from Sabah, Malaysia,
curatea 12-day-long authentic Malay food pop-up at b Café

Bengaluru, 10 October 2019Malaysia’s flavourful and diverse cuisine will take centre stage at the second “Taste of Malaysia” Food Festival at Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru’s b Café from 12 to 22 October 2019.

Guests are invited to embark on a culinary adventure of authentic dishes created by guest chefs Roslan Adnan and Antonio of Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa, Kota Kinabalu, who have flown in for the festival.

With its rich and diverse culinary history, Malaysian food is known for its intense and distinct fusion of spicy, sweet and sour flavours. It reflects the multi-ethnic and multi-cultural makeup of its population and is home to a melting pot of flavours, with influences from China, India and Indonesia.

A native of West Malaysia from the town of Banting Selangor, Chef Roslan has perfected the art of Malaysian cuisine since he was 18 years old. His culinary skills have taken him around the globe, promoting the rich and diverse flavours of Malaysian food. Settled in Sabah, he has built his reputation as a leading ambassador for Malaysian cuisine for the last 30 years.

Paying homage to the true essence of Malaysian cuisine, the buffet includes popular dishes, such as Soto Ayam, Rendang Ayam Cili Padi, Roti Jala, Nasi Kuning and Rebong Masak Lemak. Guests will finish on a sweet note with some of South East Asia’s exciting traditional desserts, including Kueh Lapis, Bubur Caca and Sago Nangka

Logi Dhasan Thanaraj, Tourism Malaysia deputy director (South India and Sri Lanka), said, “Targeting a million tourists from India, Tourism Malaysia is stepping up its promotions this year in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2020.

Where at B cafe @ShangriLablr
When -12th to 22nd Oct
Price – 1390 INR plus taxes for lunch and dinner 1759 plus


Zomato Review

in LifeStyle, Special Menu Tasting

Punjabi Tadka at Ssaffron – Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru

The Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru, is ready to treat our senses with delight by latest menu launch at the restaurant Ssaffron by the Chef who is leading the hotel’s culinary brigade across eight restaurants and bars, as well as in-room dining and banqueting.

About Chef Gagan

Chef Gagan has 16 years of culinary experience at luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants. His career has taken him across the globe and given with experience in the Maldives, Thailand, the UAE, and Switzerland. He worked as head chef at Shangri La’s – Eros Hotel, New Delhi and was instrumental in establishing the hotel as the most sought-after food and beverage destination in the city.

His passion for food and zeal for innovation have already started reflecting in the food and beverage offerings, and it was a great authentic Panjabi lunch with a twist the day we got to taste the new menu.

New Menu at Ssaffron

    • Warm quinoa salad
      Chicken tikka, rocket leaves, pickled onion, ginger lime dressing
    • Baigan aur palak patte ki chaat
      Crispy eggplant & spinach leaves, yoghurt, tamarind coulis
    • Jodhpuri mirchi vada
      Stuffed green chillies, ginger, potatoes
    • Prawn bhel puri
      Crispy prawns, puffed rice, peanuts, corn, coriander, lime
    • Palak mewa ki tikki
      Stuffed spinach patties cooked on griddle
    • Punjabi murgh tikka
      Chicken marinated with crushed spices, chili and yoghurt, smoked in tandoor
    • Awadh ki shammi
      Lamb minced kebab blended with aromatic spices
    • Lahori kadai murgh
      Hot and spicy chicken cooked in traditional iron wok
    • Karachi Kadai mutton
      Slow braised mutton cooked in iron wok over charcoal
    • Nalli Nihari

    • Gucchi mutter
      Morels cooked with green peas in tomato cashew gravy
    • Amritsari Paneer bhurji
      Crumbled cottage cheese cooked with onion, tomato, fresh chili and almond flakes
    • Dal Ssaffron
      Signature black lentils simmered overnight
    • Apple Jalebi with rabdi Gelato
      Crispy apple fritter soaked in saffron syrup, rabdi ice cream
    • Chutneys specially made from fresh seasonal fruits
    • Single Origin chocolate and vanila creme brule on ghewar

Why go to Ssaffron

The authentic punjabi tadka to the food worth the personal nuances added by the chef to his recipes are a consequence of his passion that makes each recipe unique and delectable.

Chef has also incorporated a few of flavors from his mother’s kitchen while few others that have been a part of his journey all around the globe. After having tasted this new menu I can vouch that the food at Shangri-La, Ssaffron has raised the bars and if you are looking for authentic flavors then this is the place. The aroma and flavour of freshly ground masalas of lahori kadhai murg is still fresh in my mind, the crunchy taste of freshly roasted and ground saunf and other ingredients is a sure shot delight and truly Lahori. The softness and well-balanced flavors of paneer bhurji actually reminded me of my mom’s handmade bhurji.

Hence it is a must go in this rainy season and savoured these spices and flavors.

Zomato Review


The Experience

I believe whether its food or any travel, it’s about who is your company and how is the hospitality that makes it an affair to remember. The experience at Shangri-La has always been amazing and I’ve had some of my best food tasting experiences here, courtesy the warm hosts, the ambience, the way the executive chef was a part of our table and shared his experiences with us, the impeccable hosting by the amazing Communication and the chats and conversations we exchanged made the luncheon an experience.


Book a Table

Phone
(91 80) 4512 6430

Email
ssaffron.slbl@shangri-la.com

Location
Level 18

Operating Hours
Lunch
12pm – 3pm (Mon – Sun)

Dinner
7pm – 11.30pm (Mon – Sun)

 

in LifeStyle

The Secret Of Making Your Coffee Taste Better

Coffee with a heart most people put a fixed number of scoops of coffee in a filter bag and then pour ‘water to the line’ in the coffee maker, close the valve, switch on ‘on’, (is the light on?) And the coffee is made. Or even easier: a cup in your Nespresso machine or pad in a pad device , check the water level, cup underneath, press the button and the coffee is made. It is often one of the first things we do in the morning and that are why routine is so pleasant. At Coffeelifious you can find more tips and recipes of making coffee.

Yet I think that you do yourself a great favour if you add a few small steps to the coffee making routine, it costs nothing extra and that makes it extra enjoyable. The difference between good coffee and good tasty coffee is like the difference between bread and fresh bread: it is really different.

Tips: How to make better coffee

Coffee is best when it is fresh, hot and full of flavour; these tips are aimed at getting those three things as optimally as possible. I describe below my routine of making coffee with a filter in a (drip) coffee maker.

First, I rinse the coffee pot into which the coffee will soon drip – leaving the taste of old coffee behind as little as possible. The water from the tap is now also ‘fresh’ because I used the remainder that was still in the tap to flush. Now I fill the jug with the amount of water that I need (approximately) and pour it into the coffee maker, up to the desired level. I now pour the excess water from the coffee pot and place it in the coffee maker.

Now I grab the coffee cup from which I will soon drink and fill it with hot water to the edge of the cup, I now put it ready on the counter.

Now I put a filter bag in the holder of the coffee maker and put fresh coffee beans in the coffee bean grinder and turn on the coffee bean grinder on the timer, enough for the amount of coffee I want to make. When the coffee bean grinder is ready, I put the freshly ground coffee in the filter bag and switch on the coffee maker.

When the coffee starts to drip and the end is approaching, I will tip the hot water from the coffee cup and dry it. Now I can immediately pour the hot coffee into the hot coffee cup without immediately cooling it down a number of degrees (after all: the coffee does not have to heat the cup now and keeps its temperature longer).

My coffee is now hot (and stays longer) because the cup is preheated, the taste of freshly ground coffee is a lot richer than (months ago) ground coffee and coffee beans are no more expensive than pre-ground coffee. The smell that is released when grinding coffee beans is a feast in itself, you will notice that the coffee tastes better because the aromas of the beans did not disappear a few weeks ago but are only released after grinding and your coffee is therefore really fresh is.

If the coffee pot is empty I rinse it out to prevent the old coffee taste in the jug. I also rinse the filter bag holder after I have thrown away the filter, for the same reason.

Of course it is necessary to occasionally clean your coffee maker. Read here how you can easily do that yourself.

Fresh coffee beans, why should I?

Unlike wine, coffee doesn’t get better if you leave it for longer. On the contrary: coffee loses taste and odour and becomes sour. This sounds logical, but this is not the case for everyone. Just ask in the supermarket about the roasting date of the coffee that is there, and you will not find a roasting date on the coffee bean packaging either. And even in special coffee shops (I don’t mention names but it looks very much like the name of a supermarket chain with a ‘K’ in front of it) there is no roasting date on the coffee bean bags (to the displeasure of the employees themselves).

Apparently it is not necessary to state this roasting date and you can safely buy six month old coffee, because you do not know when it is roasted and then it is hoped that those 500 grams of beans are a little tasty.

There is a way to know when the coffee beans are roasted: buy them from a coffee roaster that burns fresh daily and that also states the roasting date on the packaging.

in LifeStyle, Special Menu Tasting

AN ITALIAN FARE AT ALBA- JW MARRIOTT

JW and its signature Italian restaurant Alba is known for its radiant display of culinary supremacy. Recently, we were hosted to an exclusive media table at this delightful restaurant with some lip-smacking new menu that was curated to perfection by the twin chefs CHEF BRIAN and CHEF ILIYAZ.

Four hands collaboration at JW MARRIOTT Bangalore is this new menu by Chef Brian, who happens to be in town while he occupies the position of the executive chef at JW Marriott, Phuket resort and spa. He is the creative genius who has knowledge of Italian, Spanish and modern Australian cuisine. He is in Bangalore and has launched a new menu for the signature Italian restaurant, Alba, in association with Chef Iliyaz who is heading the kitchen at Alba.

The new menu reflects modern Italian flavors and is inspired by the new trends and is an attempt to revive the love of city for the Italian cuisine. The menu echoes rightfully the freshness and right sourcing of ingredients with unique flavors.
The media table saw the four-course menu with lavish choices for both veg and non-vegetarian. It was a culinary experience brimming with delectable flavors and impeccable service as the four courses were served paired with wine.

  • THE FIRST COURSE

PAN SEARED DUCK LIVER FOI GRAS

It was an impressive duck liver served on a bed of sticky date pudding, the texture of the duck was impeccable.

FATHER MICHAELS BURATTA WITH FRESH MANGOES

For the vegetarians was the freshly sourced Father Michael’s burrata with local mangoes and rocket leaves to give it the local flavors coupled with parmesan cheese. This presentation came with a coronet of tuille of spinach which interestingly was red in color with the dry texture of styrofoam.

  • THE SECOND COURSE

ROAST CHICKEN AND PARMESAN BROTH

The soup was a surprise as it was a very rustic Italian style with roasted chicken and parmesan in the broth of chicken. The texture was buttery and it was like a grandma’s recipe out of any common household of Italy.

MELON GAZPACHO

This cold and soothing soup was made out of basil granita, basil foam, and ricotta salts.

  • THE THIRD COURSE

SOUS VIDE DUCK BREAST

A very neat recipe with duck breast cooked to perfection with potato gnocchi melting in the mouth, grappa sour cherry here and there to give distinctness to the flavour and leek confit cooked slowly and achieved to perfection.

ROOT VEGETABLE GARDEN

This was chunky beet mash and veggies.

  • THE LAST COURSE

The last course were desserts and I loved both in their own ways.

FIVE SPICED PANACOTTA

This smelt of the spices in unison with slight sweetness from distance. The spices adding a fresh dash to the cool and amazing textured pannacotta with olive caramels and poached peaches that imparted a slight tinge of sour and sweet to the whole dish.

BEETS AND GOAT CHEESE SORBET

This is what I loved the most, the light sorbet with just the right amount of sweetness that was being perfectly balanced with the subtle salty flavour of goat cheese as u dig in the mix of white chocolate and goat cheese. As though the colours were not enough to make it look so fashionably yummy the edible lavender coloured flowers just upped the glamour quotient of the dish.

This was a delectable meal and we loved our conversations that were very interesting and made the experience so much more delicious topped by the grand hospitality & ambience of the hotel and the lovely company of the chefs who came after the last course was served.

The new menu is available for dinners and lunch so go ahead and have a super time with your family.

Zomato Reviews


Focaccia with olives and sundried tomatoes dip

Put Bruschetta

Put Bruschetta

Lamb Loin Cooked-Differently Hazelnut, Pumpkin, Artichoke

Spinach Risotto

Mushroom Harvest

Beetroot Tartar

Beetroot Tartar

JW Marriott Bengaluru Menu

click here to download Alba – JW Marriott Bengaluru Menu PDF. 

in LifeStyle, Special Menu Tasting

Alchemy continues to take its culinary experience on to a new high

Chancery Pavilion and celebrity chef Hari Nayak lend a new twist to the gastronomical offerings at Alchemy

Bengaluru, 26th June 2019: Chancery Pavilion delighted its patrons with an irresistible menu change at Alchemy; introducing refreshing flavors and tantalizing dishes that reflect global culinary trends with an Indian twist. Inspired by the fresh and local produce from various regions in India, globally acclaimed Chef Hari Nayak featured handpicked local ingredients in all its grandeur for the new menu. Showcasing over 20 unique dishes, chef Hari presented a unique mix of classic regional delicacies with acontemporary twist.

From lamb cafreal with chutney roti to chettiar chicken, nuts over coconut to textures of coffee, the new menu is bursting with plenty of choices for the gourmand. Those with a sweet tooth have a variety of dishes to choose from, including Mysore pak cheesecake. Alchemy’s most sought after dishes; chicken sukka bulgogi, konkan fish fillet, and gondhoraj lemon mousse can still be relished in the new menu. The highlight of the menu is not only its innovative use of fresh ingredients but also its cooking techniques. The new dishes are prepared by experienced chefs using modern and traditional techniques like flash freezing and slow cooking to enhance the flavors of the food. As a culinary veteran and travel enthusiast, Chef Hari has taken inspiration from his travel experiences across the country and has incorporated his favorite ingredients in this version of the menu.

Chettiar Chciken

Commenting about the launch, Chef Hari Nayak said, “The menu at Alchemy showcases an exceptional range of innovative, native delicacies in a contemporary way by dressing them in global culinary attire. While curating the cuisine, we aimed at transforming the ordinary to extraordinary. I have personally conducted an old fashioned research on the culinary options and handpicked a few preferred ingredients from various regions, like godhoraj lemons from Calcutta, fermented red chilies from Korea. Few of the dishes are conceptualized basis my childhood memories as well. One should definitely try the drool-worthy dishes like lamb cafreal, chettiar chicken and nuts over coconut.”

Nuts Over Coconut

Chicken 65 Naan

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Simarjeet Singh, General Manager, The Chancery Pavilion, Bengaluru, said, “We have received a tremendous response from our patrons for the culinary experience offered by Alchemy since its launch. This year, we have notched up the game by creating appealing food choices that are inspired from popular regional delicacies. We endeavor to build more excitement, making Alchemy one of the most sought after gastronomical destinations in the city. We are extremely keen and look forward to witness the responses from the food enthusiasts of the city about the new innovations at Alchemy.”

Alchemy also stocks a very good selection of high-end beverages and has master bar staff that consistently and passionately churns out perfect drinks. Alchemy is open for drinks and dinner between 11:00 hrs. to 01:00 hrs. on all days.

About The Chancery Pavilion:

The Chancery Pavilion, Bangalore’s new-age 5 star luxury business hotel of discerning choice. Inaugurated in March 2006 and set on an elevation amidst the heart of Bangalore’s central business district on Residency Road, The Chancery Pavilion is the perfect destination for business travelers, tourists, medical visits and even quick getaways. The Hotel offers an extremely competitive product to both business and leisure travelers. One of the USP of the hotel is the thoughtfully designed rooms for Long Staying Guests.

Food Menu

click here to download Alchemy Food Menu PDF. 

Podi Mushroom

Potato & Cheese Popcorns

Raw Banana Tuk

Soy Keema Pot Pie

Lamb Cafreal

Fish Kebab

Egg Roast

Malai Prawn

Cherrywood Smoked Garlic Chicken

Classic Prawn Ghee Roast

Cheddar Chicken Tikka

Coorgi Pork Belly

Duck Samosa

Okra Almond kadi

Smoked Almond Mutton Shorba

Channa Chop

Carrot & Water Chestnut Roll

Bocconcini Chat

Bean Curd Vada


 


Hari Nayak – Chef, Restaurateur, Author

Hari Nayak is an internationally acclaimed figure in the Indian culinary scene with many successful ventures as a chef, restaurateur, author and a culinary consultant. New York based Indian chef Hari Nayak believes in deconstructing, innovating and recreating culinary experiences. His sheer commitment and signature style cooking has led him to be one of the most sought after chefs around the globe.

Hari Nayak started his culinary journey working in India and then travelled to North America and attained professional training at the Culinary Institute of America. With a strong inspiration from his Indian roots, he started his career at restaurants in New York, London, and Paris and created a sensation with his unique style of cooking. He worked towards popularizing Indian food in the West by showcasing simplistic and modern ways of cooking the cuisine. Hari managed to successfully dispel the misconceptions of Indian preparation style and provided a modern outlook on the Indian cuisine.

He is the author of 6 bestselling books like Modern Indian Cooking, The Café Spice Cookbook and My Indian Kitchen which feature the simple yet eclectic style of Hari’s dishes. Chef Hari is determined to transform Indian cooking through his books, latest being ‘Spice Trail’ that highlights 100 modern global recipes for home cooks.

Apart from his restaurant undertakings in New Jersey- Matt &Meera, Dosateria in California and Tandur in Tennesse, Hari Nayak added more ventures under his belt by establishing a few modern Indian restaurants in the Middle East like Bombay Bungalow, My Mosa and Masti. He will also be actively curating the menu at Alchemy, the rooftop fine dine restaurant at Chancery Pavillion, Bengaluru. He continues to spread the word about Indian cooking and endeavors to see it among the top three regional cuisines in the world.

in LifeStyle

The Ardmore Legacy – Ottimo – ITC Gardenia

Another beautiful evening with a grand sit down dinner at the #ottimo the Italian restaurant at #ITCGARDENIA , class beyond description when the GM of the hotel Amaan Kidwai made impeccable arrangements where every course of Italian food and cheese was so appropriately paired with whiskey…
A rare tasting of the award-winning highland single malt scotch whiskey, The Ardmore Legacy and Teacher’s golden thistle aged 12 years, a unique blend of scotch with an islay cask finish.

This evening was curated uniquely by Sandeep Arora …Sandeep Arora is the Director of Spiritual Luxury Living Pvt. Ltd. (SLL), South Asia’s premiere International Luxury Spirits & Whisky Management Company.

Sandeep Arora is a certified Ambassador of Whisky, having studied whisky in Scotland. He is instrumental in introducing the concept of Rare Whiskies to India, in 2003.
A memorable affair with creme de la creme of food and its connoisseurs and amazing hospitality by @itcgardenia #loftyspectrums

 

in LifeStyle

Women & Whisky Appreciation

An unforgettable evening planned exclusively for women, for a chance to savour and celebrate the ‘Legacy’ of The Ardmore Highland Single Malt Scotch over impeccable cuisine and interesting conversations.

Hosted by India’s pioneering Spirits Ambassador, Mr. Sandeep Arora, the evening was an ode to the award-winning Highland Single Malt, The Ardmore Legacy. The guests got a chance to travel on an iconic journey of The Ardmore Legacy which was well complimented with a showcase of exemplary cuisine at The Leela Palace, Bengaluru.

The evening was curated in association with Mr. Sandeep Arora’s Spiritual Luxury Living, where he spoke about the exclusive luxury offering that is The Ardmore Legacy and its unique characteristics.

in LifeStyle

The Den Bengaluru- First Millenial Luxury Hotel

The Den Bengaluru gives you a wholesome stay option and that is exactly what I and lucky did-Eat, Work, Sleep and Play. The hotel offers luxury with a contemporary twist that resonates equally with the modern globetrotter as well as the traditional traveller. It’s the first millennial luxury hotel in India. It’s a 226-room hotel with 25 floors located on a 2.8-acre land parcel in the IT corridor of Whitefield. We were invited by this premium hotel in its suave pad of comfort in whitefield as soon as we returned from #cannesfilmfestival.

Jetlagged as we already were, what could have been a better retreat than to be a guest at The Den Bengaluru which is the first hotel expansion by renowned Israeli hospitality chain -Dan Hotels. Dan Israel Hotels Offer outstanding hotels and facilities located in Israel’s most desirable locations like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Eilat, Haifa, Herzliya, and Caesarea Hotel.

Breaking the traditional rules of sophistication, its philosophy redefines this hotel by blending in elements of grandeur with easy comfort and we surely experienced this while we were there. When we went there we had an interactive conversation with the very sweet Saheli who is communication manager of the hotel Over a cup of bitter aromatic coffee and some freshly baked croissants and pastries from The Deli. I love good coffee and I’m a sucker for it, and the start of the day was just so ravishing. Coffee and conversations take a friendship long way.As we went ahead with the day, lucky went on with the gymming and workout followed by swimming to relax his muscles.

Gym

Pool While he was breaking a sweat, I indulged in a deep tissue massage that left me completely refreshed after the long flight I had had. This luxury property is surely adorned with elegance and comfort and we had loved being here.

This was followed by an evening at The Nest- the high energy cocktail bar…a heady mix of good cocktails and chats with the very warm and hospitable GM of the hotel. He also made sure we try one of his concoctions that was so original. So it was this cucumber juice from the fresh pressery mixed with vodka and something more and voila I loved it…

Bar

And then we closed our day with a warm and happy dinner that was delicious. The Den offers The Creek – a multi-cuisine restaurant, Layla- Rooftop Mediterranean restaurant, The Nest –High-energy Cocktail Bar, The Deli- One stop brew-bakes, Coldpress – A Healthy juice bar, Club Lounge – tailor made F&B outlet and The Sanctuary- a holistic Spa and Wellness centre.

Spa

For more details on The Den, visit The Den, Bengaluru

in Fashion, LifeStyle, Wellness & Beauty

Summer Hair-Care with new Schwarzkopf Bonacure Fibre Clinix

Introducing the new BC fibre clinix! Bengaluru welcomes the all-new BC Bonacure and fibre clinix with a lot of enthusiasm & vigor. It’s a new breakthrough and it takes hair repair to the next level. So the hairstylists would be able to cleanse treat and boost your hair with fibre clinix. It’s a salon exclusive hair service for all hair types. And as the #myschwazkopf family celebrated its launch in Bengaluru for this special range of hair care, notable hair stylists, influencers and hair experts came together to celebrate this revolution in hair care.

So there have been three innovative technologies that have been brought to reinvent BC fibre clinix :

  1. Micellar technology introduces effective cleansing without its harsh effects. So it’s used in order to conquer drying effect that follows cleansing. So it’s being used n incorporated in each shampoo by BC.
  2. The trending skin care uses technology molecules that are supremely efficacious in taking care of skin and that’s what has been inspired the hair care. This makes Schwazkopf a solution for most of the hair concerns.
  3. Cell perfector technology makes sure that each of the protein lipids on outer layer of your hair are replaced thereby making them healthy.

So the new range of these products are ensuring effective cleansing, efficient solutions to hair problems and also takes care of hair from inside to outside.For strengthening and improving the hair texture there are peptides that take care of the damaged hair. Hyaluronic acid in the serums and boosters and shampoos n conditioners rehydrates the hair. As we all know hyaluronic acid rehydrates your hair and in today’s stressful environment our hair is robbed of moisture. There are many more ingredients which suit today’s modern lifestyle that cruelly leaves your hair limp and unhealthy. 

The event had a presentation and discussion on the products which was followed by personal consultation and treatment vouchers that would suit each hair type. My hair is dry and frizzy so I got my dose of shampoos, mask, conditioner, and serum to take care of the same. The treatment will follow soon for me and Lucky at the salon when I will be posting more on my Instagram channel stories and feed. The wine and dinner served by @JW Marriot was nothing less than superb.

So the technological revolution is here as Schwarzkopf brings in each product infused to give bounce and oomph to your hair thereby making you #believeinconfidence with @schwazkopfindiaSo keep bouncing and loving and go through this new range of products. Cheers 🥂

xoxo

in Fashion, LifeStyle

Holi, a Fashionable Rainbow – SS’19 IFW

Holi is a festival that doesn’t just celebrate colors of spring but also revelry, fun frolicking and nature’s beauty. It’s like that fashionable rainbow of colors which has hues of music, gujjiyas, bhang and great food -a perky social occasion when you get a chance to splash brightness into your own outfits too.

There could be nothing better than a pool party and Holi brunch with your friends who dance on all rang barse songs apt for this festival that embraces the romance of spring at its peak.

Outfits for various moods of Holi could be many but choosing one from SS’19 collection by the ace designer Masaba Gupta for a Holi brunch is feeding the untamed wild side of you, believe me!

So a wrap around maxi dress is what I wore for the brunch. I teamed it with some very chunky jewelry by Odette that enhanced the glam look which was just in the right proportion needed for a brunch outing like that.

The wild, untamed and young fashion that it is represents the young, daring women of today. The outfit is named as the scarlet deer forest wrap dress and it’s a resort wear apt for summer lunch outings- an untamed Nirvana…that’s the spirit of any festival fashion according to my philosophy. Oh yes, I do have achieved it too 😅

The brunch went on for the whole of the day and saw much fashion. So what better way than to celebrate the festival of colours in a totally fashionable way with your colourful bevy of beauties. The rusts and red colour is a runway hit right now and it’s been reigning since last year. Bring on the prints and slap some good sunscreen or a CC cream on your face finishing it with a bronzer and goggles and some flip flops.

Finally a celebration is complete with lots of fun n laughter and some chic fashion. Happy Holi Bangalore…😍😍💓

Now available at Bombay Attic, Lavelle Road.

in LifeStyle

Skin Care for Holi and Summers with Kiehl’s Masques

Holi is around the corner with its various hues that impart color and vibrancy to our lives. The spring season is any-which ways is a season of color and romance, it shows its beauty with nature blooming and blossoming into its full swing, birds chirping notes of love and breezy perfumes of flowers traveling through times and spaces carrying the scents of carefree life we once lived…my mind and heart is running into abyss of timelessness and limitlessness…

With this colorful season around the corner and also with the sessions of swimming we (Lucky and me) are taking with @hydrofitindia, we need a thorough skincare regime. And here today I’m going to discuss how important it is for us to take care of the biggest sense organ of our bodies.

We know there are few girls who won’t play Holi or they would rather not go ahead for a swim class in fear of getting rashes or bad skin and hair but what’s the point of missing out on all the fun. And we also know how men go ahead with everything but they hardly care for their skin. So let’s change the rules and let’s paint the town red this season and let us sparkle and glow with right skin care.

So for all the Sleeping Beauties and Justin Bieber’s out here, these are a few face packs and overnight masks that take care of your skin as you sleep.

Kiehl’s Cilantro and Orange Extract Pollutant Defending Mask: This is a miraculous hydrating facial masque with antioxidants that takes care of the skin against environmental hazards and pollutants as you sleep through the night. You just have to apply it after your regular cleansing routine and leave it overnight or tissue it off before you sleep. And you wake up to a bright happy skin. You can use it 2-3 times a week.

Ginger leaf and Hibiscus Forming Mask: This is also a cream mask that is used at night and could be left overnight and great for firming and smoothing the skin. Can be used 5 times a week.

Turmeric and Cranberry Seed Energising and Radiance Mask: It is a day time face pack that acts as a cooling and soothing pack for the summers that are approaching. It brightens up the skin and is a wonderful masque again.

Cactus Flower & Tibetan Ginseng Hydrating Mist: Come summers and my skin only quenches with the use of a lot of mists. And this mist has particularly proven to be really hydrating and nourishing as I have been using this over a month. Its ingredients that grow in extreme weather conditions make it a hands-down magically hydrating formula that is also infused with lavender, rosemary etc essential oils thereby making it a must-have in your bag anywhere you go.

I have been loving using these masks now for over a period of a month and hence giving the review now as we all are getting set to dive into a pool of colors. They are extremely good for skin care of a sensitive skin preventing breakouts and keeping it supple and adding a miraculous glow.

So go ahead and have a careless play of colors this Holi and summers as you know the formula to a great looking skin anyways.

Have fun and keep glowing with @kiehlsindia and @loftyspectrums
Cheers Xoxo

in LifeStyle

Automobiles MG Motor #futureiscalling

Automobiles have always been a big part of my life, and, I’m sure, they always will be. I believe most of the millennials grow up planning what car will they drive once they start earning their own money and as each stage of our life progresses the better cars replace the older ones … from bikes to cars the beautiful journey marks the progress chart of our professional and personal landmarks. That’s how automobiles hold value and importance in our lives.

As someone said, “a dream without ambition is like a car without petrol or gas…your not going anywhere.” Similarly, I feel automobiles occupy a major space and share of our milestone achievements.

Recently I got this chance to review the not yet launched cool car by @mgmotoindia.

What is it about cars that moves me… what is it that turns my heart on. The sound of a great engine, the uniqueness, and unity of an automobile’s engineering and coachwork, the history of the company and the car, and, of course, the sheer beauty of the thing.

The sound is so subtle in this petrol-fuelled car that you won’t realise when did it start, the buttery smooth ride, the efficient and powerful drive made me feel I’m racing ahead of the curve….VVAVA VROOM

The beauty of a 360 degree panoramic view that makes it so convincingly convenient, the fully loaded engine, the sun roof and the moon roof, 4 modes with interesting graphic changes and most of all, an amazing music system that comes with 9 Bose speakers. You can get more details if you check my live videos in my Instagram channel to make it easier for you to gauge the interiors and sophisticated engineering of this automobile.

Now doesn’t it give a heavenly feel… I surely got that purring feeling while driving it that is just so worthwhile. I have always loved driving and it’s my stress buster, and as you drive this futuristic model the stress that you have goes immediately out of the window.

This model I drove is MGHS and is soon gonna be available in India so are you ready to take over the future for I surely am ready as #FUTUREISCALLING @mgmotoindia

Cheers and keep vrooooming through the potholes of life with #loftyspectrums and #mgmotorindia and keep writing to us about your experiences with cars… I have a lot to share on this subject once the conversations start…meanwhile loving your mails and messages 💕💕

In collaboration with @MGMOTORINDIA

in Fashion, Inspiration, LifeStyle

Don’t choke-her, instead present her a Choker by Odette this New Year’s 2019

I started this new year’s first weekend with a party and unlike most of the fashion bloggers, I chose to repeat one of my outfits with a twist in style. Why not repeat… for I love the way it makes me look!! Simple ain’t it, why do we have to succumb to the pressure of sporting new dresses, new look each time; I mean to say that I’m a fashion blogger…it doesn’t imply I’m a model. Although I pose n post my pics on social media, my primary work is to talk and write about a trend or lifestyle if it appeals to me ( I don’t believe in writing for whoever pays well, I started this blog to express my opinions and my take on things and situations that appealed aesthetically or artistically to me), my job is to create content. But we have to use our pictures too, ain’t visual medium just the most appealing way to easily convey the message or promote/advertise a product.

Life of a blogger looks so hunky dory, we are always glammed up and attending various sort of social networking events, we are there for the launches of luxury fashion and lifestyle products and we meet the best of people.. right!

Yes it is, but it could also be very demanding, you gotta look your best most of the time, you have people who follow you not in social media but also in real life and girl you have to learn the art of being polite yet keeping your distance…

and then you have your own circle of women and c’mon when do women spare other women!! Nah! So expect the expected… like one of my followers after checking my story came to the hotel where I was dining with my family and insisted on getting a picture. Don’t take me wrong, I’m not trying to say I’m a star 🌟 but all I mean to tell is that I was a plain Jane n I loved his expressions when he felt so sorry for me while I was trying to transform from my role of a mommy, who was desperately trying to make sure her kids eat well, to a Diva who looks flawless ( I know it sounds familiar, isn’t this all of us women do while they juggle roles as a mom, daughter, wife, at workplace & then to a social outings, yes we put up different faces for different places, phases, and people!! It’s the story of all superheroes… aye I love watching #marvelcomics and #DC 🙂 )

Well anyway, talking about my look, I’m so thankful to Mamta Roy to have sent me some of the most exquisite pieces of jewelry from Odette.in and she made sure she sent me all kinds of looks to celebrate my Diwali. I rang in my new year wearing this cut lace powder lavender outfit with the lovely lace and pearls necklace n earrings by #odette for #loftyspectrums #happynewyearbash exclusively.

Lace jewelry is not an everyday thing and it takes out the feminine you to the forefront.

So talking about repeating a dress but with new jewelry and style, I wore this wonderful choker with self-pride finally for this party, teaming it up with my electric blue Ritu Kumar outfit that was on the ramp this fall season, and yes, I dared to repeat it.

Loved styling my look in a contemporary way, white sneakers that speak love 💖 aloud with this beauty on my neck from Odette and an electrifying dress.

I used eye make up from HUDA and Urban Decay bronzers n pinks with a little shimmer and I dazzled the night.

That’s what a girl needs at the stroke of midnight when new year knocks our lives- love, shimmer and Cinderella Shoes 👟: The time replaces our glass heels with snug fit sneakers when the dainty princess in you don’t wanna leave the sandals anymore behind for any Prince to trace you…I love my comfort zone when I wear my choker & shoes with nobody around to choke-her (me) with any kinda demanding love or whatever else !!! Isn’t that what you call as celebrating each year with a wiser version of yourself and taking the guts of leaving behind the sissy lil girl in you who demands all the attention to herself…but enjoying yourself thoroughly!!

C’mon Lady you are your own Lover, your fairy God Mom has indeed infested a lot of Magic in you that you are capable of making so many lives Magical n star-studded 🌟🌟🌟🌟

(I would like to imagine myself leaving the trail of stardust as I walk across embracing this year) – family, friends and your instafam (read peeps who are all your family instantly on your Instagram); finally this world is a big happy family…btw a few days back it was a rage to look happy in social media but our new age Instagrammers are trying to change the rules of the game by posting their crying faces on their stories, finally we gotta be different to make news, ah why am I being mean!!! but I gotta take this year with a new me too so adding few vices along with fewer virtues too 😋.

On that note wishing you all a fashionable New Years and do dare to not fit in… being myself …

So go ahead, visit odette.in today to buy some of the best chocker! Check out Odette’s Facebook page for more updates.