The Wine Company, Gurgaon




Monday Night and place with bustling nightlife are two words that seldom go together. But the 'bustling with activity' Cyber Hub, Gurgaon tries to defy all logic. One such place which seemingly attracts a line of crowd, coupled with loyal patrons waiting to move inside is The Wine Company.

As you move inside you see the servers getting busy in placing orders and along with Chef Abhinav getting busy and happily interacting with people. For them the night is too young and they have a large set of people to make happy.

The ambiance -At The Wine Company you can choose from a comfort of sitting outside which I would recommend if you are with your special one or want to have a conversation. Else in case you are with a group and inside is far better with the amazing selection of music they play.


The menu The restaurant does not follow one particular cuisine but offers you a wide selection of choices. If you are a wine connoisseur and know your wines, you would not be left dejected with the selections they serve. If you are trying in for the first time do not hesitate to ask the server for help or better take the recommended Wine Flights. The Mains are different selection all together and you can enjoy everything from a Hot Dog to a Sea Salt Rubbed Chicken. The selections just don’t stop to amaze you. If you are still confused just ask any of the servers for help or ask for Chef Abhinav and I am sure you would not be disappointed at all with what you are served. 


Wine Flights offer you a choice of four Wines, along with the way to savor them. The must have on each table is the ‘Karari Roti’—the Wine Company’s answer to Mumbai’s Masala Papad or even way better. The Karari Roti is far lighter and mingles so well with your Wine that you would not feel heavy for any minute. In appetizers we would strongly recommend Beetroot Goat Cheese Salad, Chicken Olive Tapenade and Lemon Garlic Prawns. I am not a prawns fan but this made me just go WOW.

Recommended drinks are their Sangrias both with Red and White Wine. By the time you finish your appetizers you are already on a Happy High and the ambience around you just seems to pep you up to go a little extra.

What we reviewed-Brunch meeting to a nice dinner with friends both make a lot of sense here The menu is fresh, it does seem weird if you are always looking out for a particular cuisine, but what’s food without the hint of weirdness. I suppose, in the name of leisure & convenience, The Wine Company is your best bet!


Text and pictures by - Anuj Bhagia

Dimsum Festival at JW Marriott



The high street versions of the street side Tibetan momos, dimsums are one of the most loved delicacies of Oriental cuisines. Celebrating everything which makes these steamed dumplings irresistible, JW Marriott Mumbai is celebrating the Dimsum week from 20th Feb to 1st march 2015, with chef Tenzin Khechok. Inviting bloggers for a special dimsum tasting table, the Thai specialty restaurant treated us to a variety of vegetarian and non vegetarian dimsums, including our favourites, Wild Mushroom Crystal Dumpling, shitake Mushroom Dumpling and Chocklet Bon. The non vegetarians were heard raving over the Prawn & Crab Dumpling and Prawn & Chicken Sui Mai. All the dimsums were prepared and served in traditional bamboo steamers and are available in options like fried, steamed and pan fried.

For those who swear by authentic Pan-Asian food, probably this is perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year.

Fact File 
Restaurant: Spices, JW Marriott Mumbai
Date: 20th February-1st March 2015

Time: 7 pm- 12 am

Magnum Masterclass, Mumbai 2015



It’s not often that you get a chance to get creative with ice-creams available at your local kirananawala, leave alone create eccentric sundaes out of them. With an intriguing coffee and chocolate masterclass, Luxury ice-creams Magnum, launched their newest flavour Choco Cappuccino with a lot of interesting insights at the Fourseasons, Worli, Mumbai. Barista expert Fritz Storm and Singapore’s prized pastry chef from 2 am dessert bar, Janice Wong took to the stage and got creative with some interesting coffee and dessert recipes. While Fritz taught the right way to brew, prepare and even drink coffee, Janice gave tips on quirky chocolate recipes. By the end of it, we chose from our range of ingredients and the newest Magnum ice-cream flavour- Choco Cappuccino and created our own quirky sundae!


The Magnum Choco Cappuccino is available at all leading outlets from March 1st and is priced at Rs 90

Definining indulgence at JW Marriott Mumbai


I had conveniently taken my body for granted, and treated it like a machine for the last 1 year, till I visited Quan—the spa at JW Marriott Mumbai. Focusing primarily on the chakras of the body and nature’s five elements, the spa combines the healing power of water and Indian Ayurvedic massage techniques to give the best of ancient wellness therapies to their patrons.

Agreed, the cost of this form of lavish relaxation comes at an equally lavish price, but with day spas in Mumbai charging competitive prices for hour-long massages, the 90 minute-long Ultimate Aromatherapy massage, priced at  Rs 5200 plus taxes is the best luxurious indulgence you can treat yourself to.


The treatment started with me filling out a consultation form while the therapist brought in saffron tea. Everything-right from the room to the kind of treatment and the oils used are customised according to the requirement of the body. A 5 minute foot cleanse later, my therapist knew exactly which areas to focus on and what essential oils my body needs. With a body massage, face cleaning and head massage, the treatment focused on complete relaxation by easing muscle tension and lymphatic drainage. Lavendar oil, which my therapist explained is the mother oil, can rid the body off all allergies while rose oil helps in toning, softening and improving elasticity.

I would strongly recommend that you just trust you therapist as he/she knows exactly what your body needs and works towards achieving the required result. The well-trained therapists are nothing short of healers as they even suggest a series of further recommended massages according to your body’s needs.

Please note, their weekends are pretty busy, hence a reservation is mandatory. Club it with their Sunday brunch and you can have a perfectly relaxing weekend right within the city!

If you are looking to find weekend getaways, these are best places to visit near Mumbai

Fact File
Treatment rooms- 10 including a couple’s room and Ayurveda room. Separate male and female areas. Walk-in guests accepted, for spa, steam and sauna. Fitness facilities strictly for memberships
Where- Quan Spa, JW Marriott Hotel, Juhu Tara Road, Mumbai
Recommended treatment- The Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience
For reservations, call +91 22 6693 3344
Spa timings- 8 am to 10 pm

Mumbai's beach style shack-The Big Kahuna, Lower Parel


Review in one line- I took a teetotaler to The Big Kahuna, and even she had a great time!



Where- The Big Kahuna, Opposite PVR, Lower Parel

Highlight! India’s first Tiki style bar- formally called the Mai Tai Lounge introduces Mumbai to Hawaiian drinks and how. Everything tropical and ‘beachy’, The Big Kahuna is ideal for those drunken Friday night scenes

Review in 5 words- Cocktails, Music, Hawaii, Tiki Style, Sliders

Why TBK-  There are several bars with good music in Mumbai, but something inspired from the Hawaiian and tropical theme, with excellent presentation, quirky cocktails names and really nice music , all together, is only at The Big Kahuna

What to wear- We were in our Friday office semi-formals, all set to embrace the weekend

Whom to go with- Please take someone who drinks, I took a teetotaler though, who had fun as well, obviously the food and mocktails kept her intrigued!

What to order 
Cocktails
The Big Kahuna (strongly recommended)
Suffering Bastard
Peach Paradise Sling

Mocktails
Sea No breeze
Coral Reef

Food
Tsukini
Lomi lomi bruschetta
Herbed mushroom crostini
Mushroom alfredo slider
Tangy cottage cheese slider
Jamaican jerk chicken

What’s for dessertDark Chocolate Temptation

Cost for two– Rs 1500 (excluding alcohol)

What we reviewedThe last time I had this much fun while reviewing a restaurant was Hoppipola. Not often is it that you get the perfect music, ambiance, food and company, all together on a Friday night, when you are running away from the clutches of work. The drinks were strong and well-flavoured, the food was well spiced to go with the drinks and the entire place got us all geared up for the weekend to follow! Everyone, including the staff, seemed to be having a good time, and that’s exactly what you need on a Friday night!

Will we go back again? Definitely, and for the food, along with the quirky drinks


World cup happy hours and more across Mumbai & Delhi


#Lovecricket @Colaba Social

Why go to work when you can work out of Colaba Social while watching the Cricket World Cup with special offers on breakfast trays and LLIIT’s (Longest Long Island Iced Teas)???
Scream your hearts out as you support Team India this World cup season and watch the opponents get#Cleanbowled on our larger than life screen.  Also, indulge in the breakfast trays at a special price and sip on tri-coloured LLIIT’s while cheering Team India all the way to the finals.
So #tray up before you #tank up and watch the craziest Cricket World Cup 
Offer:
Breakfast Trays at Rs. 250/-
3 LLIIT's at Rs. 1200/-
When: During the games
Where: Colaba Social, 24, Ground Floor, Glen Rose Building, BK Boman Behram Marg, Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai


World Cup Sunday Brunch at Ramada Powai Hotel and Convention Centre
  
This world cup season, celebrate the festival of cricket with our Crunch offer (Cricket + Brunch) at our very own Café Ambrosia, and shout your hearts out to cheer for team India as they take on their rivals. And, to add to the fun, you can also enjoy jumping into the pool to cool yourself in between the game, sip on wine and gorge on delicious treats as you raise your voices to cheer for your favourite team.

So cheer on, shout out and gear up for the most awaited World Cup only at Ramada Powai Hotel and Convention Centre

Price: Rs. 950/- per head inclusive of a complementary glass of wine
           Rs. 1250/- per head inclusive of unlimited alcohol 
When: 22nd February during the match
Where:Ramada Powai Hotel and Convention Centre, Saki Vihar Road,  Near The Residence Hotel & Apartments, Before Vihar Lake, Powai,  Mumbai, Maharashtra 400087
Contact for reservations:  022 6777 6000

 
ICC Cricket World Cup Specials At Ark, Courtyard By Marriott, Mumbai

ARK the newest lounge-bar at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai is celebrating the madness and excitement of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 for the month of February. Witness our star Indian players taking the South Africans players by storm LIVE at ARK, Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai this Sunday, 22nd Feb 2015, 9 am onwards.

ARK boasts a dramatic media wall consisting of 9 LCD television sets and will be screening the India matches, 9 am onwards. Guests can order from an a la carte menu, comprising a great selection of finger foods and bar specialty snacks from across the world like the Beer Brat, Fish and Chips and Philadelphia Stuffed Mushrooms, Asian Fish Cakes with Wok Tossed Calamari, bruschettas, wraps & sandwiches and an array of Indian selections like Nasiley Jhinge, Murgh Angara and Rajma Galouti to name a few.
Additionally ARK will also be offering special Beer Buckets at INR 1000++ for 3 beers.

Date- Sunday, 22nd Feb 2015
Timing- 9 am onward
For Reservations, Contact: +91-22-61369999
Address: CTS 215, Opp Sangam Big Cinemas, Andheri - Kurla Rd, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400059


Dimsum Week at Spices

 Spices, the Oriental specialty restaurant at JW Marriott Mumbai is launching its new Dimsum Chef -Tenzin Khechok with the commencement of Dimsum Week at the restaurant from Friday 20th  February to Sunday 1st March 2015.

Some of the signature dimsums include Truffle Edamame Dumpling, White Radish Cake, Wild Mushroom Crystal Dumpling from the veg menu and Prawn & Crab Dumpling, Spanish Rolls with Prawn & Water Chestnut, Prawn & Chicken Sui Mai, Hargav Dumpling and Chocklet Bon from the non vegetarian menu.

The dimsums will be prepared and served in traditional bamboo steamers and are available in options like fried, steamed and pan fried.

Restaurant: Spices, JW Marriott Mumbai
Date: 20th February-1st March 2015
Time: 7 pm- 12 am

 

Experience the Mediterranean with Aqaba’s Chandon Sunday Brunch

Sit back and unwind with family and friends in Aqaba’s al fresco section with its lush lawns, or inside the gorgeous restaurant with delicious food and drinks, and some bluesy jazz tunes setting the mood for their Chandon Sunday Brunch!

Showcasing his gourmet flair, Head Chef, Anuj Thapar has curated an a la carte brunch menu influenced by Mediterranean flavours, and perfectly complementing these dishes is Chandon sparkling wine, available at fabulous prices.
Aqaba’s unlimited alcohol packages also boast of a bar menu featuring a refreshing variety of sangrias, wines, beers and signature cocktails.
While the adults relish their weekend break, Aqaba will also provide fun entertainment to keep the little ones occupied. Kids will be entertained with different and exciting activities every week such as magic shows, face painting, movies and a variety of arts and crafts, along with a kiddie menu.

Where- Aqaba,Club House, Level P5, Peninsula Business Park, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai.
Date: every Sunday
Time: 12 pm onward

Kathiyawadi Food Festival at Khandani Rajdhani

The King of vegetarian thali proudly announces the Kathiyawadi Food Festival – a beautiful blend of rich spices and culinary delights from Gujarat’s royal Kathiawar region including dishes like Kathiyawadi Masala Khichdi, Bajri Rotla, Turiya Sambhariya, Khichiu, Fada Ni Khichdi, Adadiya Pak, Gol Papdi, Doodh Pak, Jalebi and Bhareli Dungri. Experience the taste of Kathiyawar combined with traditional blend of exquisite flavours and textures at the Kathiyawadi Food Festival all this month across all Khandani Rajdhani outlets.

Festival: Kathiyawadi Food Festival at Khandani Rajdhani
Duration: Till the 28th February, 2015

 
Monkey Bar Delhi presents 'The Amazing Monkey Bar Mobox'

Remember your school days and the mad scramble to share your tiffin box goodies at lunch break or pain stakingly dividing that last piece of chocolate with your besties?  So here’s your chance to bring back all those awesome sharing food memories with friends, family and siblings once again, with the amazing Monkey Bar ‘MoBox’. It's the coolest way to share your food and share some love too! TheMonkey Bar MoBox redefines the concept of sharing with a mobile crate packed with awesome goodies for a cracking good time with your besties and buddies. Pick a box to match your group or appetites – we have three cool versions with enough flexibility to suit your taste – the Starter MoBox (priced at Rs 750 plus taxes), Mega MoBox (Rs 990 plus taxes) or Dessert MoBox (Rs 650 plus taxes)or the ‘Do It Yourself’ Cocktail MoBox (Rs 400 plus taxes)- Here’s the perfect excuse to share the food, drink, fun and love. From 18th February onwards
Monkey Bar, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi 
Monkey Bar, Connaught Circus, P-3/90, New Delhi 110001. 


Sizzle Sizzle Sizzle festival Hard Rock Cafe
 Spice things up with a multi-sensory experience at Hard Rock Cafe.  You will be treated to a chance to savour the exotic delicacies and tempting drinks along with fascinating entertainment, as part of the celebrations for the ‘SIZZLE’ Festival. The ones who like it hot can relish the specially put together menu comprising of an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian sizzlers, with a contemporary blend of flavours. 
The unique fiesta will tantalize your taste buds with a large spread of classic and delectable dishes sizzled to absolute perfection such as Smoked Chipotle Pepper, Lime and Tequila Prawns, Hungarian Steak Stew, Lebanese Veg Fajita, Herb Lemon Crusted Chicken Scallopini and much more.  The staff at Hard Rock Cafe ensures a rockin’ time as you savour specially crafted Bacardi cocktails like Smoked Bacardi Gold Sour, Great Eastern Daiquiri and many more tantalizing ones.  Sizzle on as the DJs spin some groovy ‘rock n retro’ tunes. Not to miss the electrifying live performances by bands that battle out to win a once in a lifetime opportunity to perform at a global stage in Barcelona, every Thursday.

What: Sizzle Sizzle Sizzle Festival
When: February 20 – March 19, 2015
Venue: Hard Rock Cafe across India
Time: 12 noon to 11:30 pm
Telephone No:   011 – 47158888, 0124 –4949630






Wine pairings for the Indian palate



Labeling it as a drink for the classy and ones with discerning tastes is one fact wine aficionados love to embrace, but restricting it to just the astute section of the drinkers is a myth every wine lover would like to break.
While there are specific foods which go with specific drinks, owing to the variety in wines, there are a range of foods which you can pair with it—from Burgers to Khao Suey
Also, after a heady mixture of food and wine which gave us a weekend to remember without touching any other form of alcohol, people like us who attended SulaFest 2015 in Sula Vineyards, Nashik would definitely advocate the ‘fun’ quotient of wine.
 
Sovna Puri- Head-Tastings & Training & General Manager-Sales & Marketing, Sula Wines, takes 5 Sula wines and pairs each with 5 widely loved cuisines which vouch for the fact that wine is a drink for everyone!

Riesling- Indian and Chinese
Another white from Sula’s aromatic wines, Riesling can be paired with a range of foods ranging from Indian to Thai to Chinese. Paired perfectly with biryanis and BBQ dishes, the Riesling’s perfect balance of sugar and acidity pairs it completely with a range of cuisines.  
Can be paired with food from
Punjab Grill, China Bistro, Haoochi, Mumbai
Berco’s, Ego Thai, Raas, Delhi


Seco Rosé- Burgers and Sliders
Out of all the wines we tasted, this is my favourite and one of the most reasonable offerings from the Sula umbrella. Extremely light on the palate, and fruity flavoured, this wine works best with burgers and sliders
Can be paired with food from
Fork You, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi
Woodside Inn, Sundance Café, Hard Rock Café, Burger King, Mumbai 



Sauvignon Blanc / Dindori Reserve Shiraz- French Cuisine
A Sula signature, this wine works best with French food with an Indian twist 

Can be paired with food from
Soleil by La Plage (Nashik)
Le Cirque, The Leela (Mumbai and Delhi)
Le Bistro du Parc, New Delhi



Brut / Rasa- Italian, European
Flavored perfectly with the sliders, this wine also goes well with the modern European and egg varieties
Can be paired with food from
Cafe Zoe, Salt Water Café, The Good Wife, Indigo (Mumbai)
Tres, Cherie, Smoke House Deli  (Delhi)






Chenin Blanc Reserve- Asian
A light and refreshing wine, this fruity flavourful wine works best to balance out the spicy flavours of Southeast Asian dishes like Khao Suey 

Can also be paired with food from
Burma Burma, Busago, Trikaya (Mumbai)
Mamagoto, Asia Seven (Delhi)






14 Foods which are better than a boyfriend

iowagirleats.com


So what if you don’t have anyone in your life? The plus side is that you can eat for two, and as the saying goes, if someone stops you, eat them too! We list 14 foods which are better than any boyfriend!