In a city as vibrant as Bengaluru, something new is always springing up. Refashioned classics, cultural fusions, intimate experiences—there’s always something fresh on the block to explore. Open yourself up to novelty this August; here are some spots worth braving the monsoon rains to reach!
Helen and Lorena’s
This new Porto-Spanish crafthouse brings together two distinct heritages. Helen reflects Portugal’s generous culture, while Lorena channels Spain’s cosy countryside charm. The culinary selection showcases both influences, from Portuguese pork chorizo with herb mash and red wine-braised chicken with smoky bacon and pearl onions to Andalusian garlic prawns, octopus à la plancha with flaky sea salt, lamb merguez sausage skewers, and lumpia cigar rolls with smoked pepper dip.
Lorena’s Panadería features baked goods and pies, including San Sebastian-inspired pastries. For dessert, the menu offers Crêpe Suzette, cherry Amaretto tiramisù, and Crème Catalane finished with torched caramelised sugar. These offerings can be accompanied by curated cocktails, including San Sebastian Stories, Bougainvillaea Balcony, and Pineapple Postcards. With delicious cocktails and comforting dishes, this is one crafty place you should add to your list.
Address: Ground Floor, Kodathi Gate, 117-1, Sarjapur-Marathahalli Road, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Price for two: INR 2,200
Kahaani
Inspired by India’s centuries-old culinary exchanges facilitated by trade and migration, Kahaani’s dining concept has taken Bengaluru by storm. A contemporary vegetarian menu explores the historical trajectories of common ingredients, curated around the theme of “Travelled Indian Stories”. It celebrates the rich culinary heritage of India and the global cultures it influenced. The menu includes signature dishes such as Vada Pav Pita, Paneer Ghee Roast Pita, Banana Galouti Kebab and Lotus Stem & Burrata Chaat.
Address: Essensai067, Whitefield, Bengaluru
Price for two: INR 2,000–2,500
Hunaan
After serving authentic Pan-Asian flavours to Bengaluru for nearly a decade, Hunaaan has opened a new chapter. Its beautifully revamped BEL Road restaurant carries the signature charm in fresh packaging. Jagdish Menda, Founder of Hunaaan, says, “This revamp is our way of celebrating 19 wonderful years with Bengaluru while creating a space that feels fresh, welcoming, and true to everything Hunaaan stands for.”
The handcrafted favourites that made Hunaaan a household name are the stars of the menu. The iconic Chilli Chicken, Prawn Tempura, and Dragon Chicken continue to cater to visitors’ palates. The signature sushi collection also remains vibrant, with options such as the Red Dragon Maki and the Crispy California. Wrapped in brand-new coverings, the essence of timeless classics lingers at this new Hunaan venture.
Address: Hunan Restaurant Samruddi, No.10, 1st Floor, 1st Main, ISRO Rd, New BEL Rd, R.M.V. 2nd Stage, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560094
Price for two: INR 1,300-2100
Yess Chef
You enter a 13-seat intimate bistro with old-school R&B playing in the background. As you make conversation with strangers, the chef places six courses in front of you. This is the experience that Yess Chef promises. Blending international techniques with Indian flavours, each plate manages to surprise you. The shrimp tartlet, halibut and butter-laden chicken are just some of the carefully curated dishes. At the end of the night, it’s not just the food you take away, but the memories of a remarkable dining experience.
Address: Raja Capital, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru.
Price for one: INR 3,500- INR 5,000
The Dual Room
Cafe by day, cocktail bar by night- The Dual Room is built around duality. If you’re not unidimensional, why should the places you visit be? It offers, under one roof, two very different experiences. It serves the right cup of coffee to perk up your slow mornings, high-quality matcha to satisfy daytime cravings, and carefully crafted cocktails to liven up your nights!
The mood, music and ambience transform the place at night, and the cocktail bar serves its signature drinks crafted around the seven deadly sins. The ‘Never Enough’, ‘Regal’, and ‘Look at Me’ are just some of the many blends which stand out. With cosy cups and exciting beverages, the Dual Room aspires to accommodate all aspects that define you.
Address: Ground Floor, 12th Main, Indiranagar, Thippasandra, Bengaluru
Price for two: INR 1500-1800
