Chai just got redefined with the arrival of Infinitea at Vasanthangar. With a mind-boggling variety of tea, there are over 90 varieties you can buy and taste here; white tea, flower tea, black tea and more. The seating arrangement consists of wooden chairs with small round tables to allow for a more spacious feel as the area is not too large. The entire place is WiFi enabled and it's not uncommon to find regulars clicking away, while a cuppa rests on their tables. A refreshing break from the run-of-the-mill coffee bistros, besides being a tea house primarily, Infinitea also serves and delivers exotic Mediterranean dishes.
The Baluchi located in The Lalit Ashok at Kumara Park, comfortably seats 62 diners and specializes in Afghani and Baluchi cuisine which include the famous Raan Baluchi or the leg of the lamb. Live ghazal (poetic Indian music) evenings go well together with a plate of steaming hot Prawn Balkas and juicy lobsters served in thick copper utensils. Baluchi also holds 4 food festivals around the year that include themes like Biryani or Kebab festivals. The traditional attire of the stewards transports any diner into the desert sands, minus the heat of course. Do hop onto the Afghan Express for a culinary ride down the desert dunes.
The Pan Asian OKO is the perfect place to sit indoors with the family or to sit out in the open with beer buddies. Located in The Lalit Ashok, this 142 seater restaurant can accommodate patrons both indoors and outdoors. The bar at OKO is located more towards the outdoor sitting area and therefore most of the groups seated outside, frequent the bar more as compared to the families seated inside. The Teppanyaki is the highlight of OKO where you can see the chef preparing your course as you sit beside the counter sipping a martini. Evenings are a big hit with couples as the tables outside are lit with pretty candles and the lights are dimmed to a bluish hue, lending a mesmerizing effect. OKO is definitely recommended!
Since Taj Residency is one of the oldest hotels in the area, it goes without saying that it must run a signature restaurant too. Memories of China dates back almost to 1986 when it was first established and quickly went on to become one of the most loved Chinese restaurants in the city. Peking Duck is one of the most ordered for dishes that regulars always order and love to indulge in. Besides duck, sea food is also a popular preparation at Memories of China. Festivals like the Dim Sum festival take place once in three months and are well attended by the expat Chinese community and Bengaluru's socialites. The restaurant has a reputed Chinese chef, whose touch adds authenticity to the dishes. There are many places to eat 'Chinese made the Indian way' but only one to sample authentic chopstick delicacies.
Mostly frequented by businessmen who stop by for a quick bite and drink, Alampur is the non vegetarian restaurant within Hotel Chalukya, that has a well stocked bar as well. The restaurant serves mouth watering Continental, Chinese and local cuisines. The Andhra and Fish Thali here are extremely popular and serve as the trademark of Alampur. They also provide catering for functions and private parties on request. The bright colors running along the sign board catch any first time visitor's attention and gives the impression of going away into some faraway land, upon entering the gate of Alampur.