One Night in Bangalore

Malavika Jayaram, 38, lawyer
For a taste of old Bangalore and the best early-evening snacks, try the Veena Stores at Malleswaram, tel: (91-80) 2334 4838, a hole-in-the-wall that serves steaming hot idli (fluffy rice cakes with coconut chutney) and vada (fried lentil patties). Standing room only, though. Then go to Koshy’s, the grande dame of Bangalore’s café scene, tel: (91-80) 2221 3793, where the coffee and food is just an excuse for the conversation. This is where Bangalore’s bohemians gather. For drinks and live music, try B-Flat, tel: (91-80) 4241 4000, which features up-and-coming local musicians, as well as better-known acts.

Ruchika Chanana, 35, copywriter
For an early drink and delicious kheema (minced lamb) balls in a period setting, try the grungy Raj-era pub Dewars, tel: (91-80) 2555 5460. For Asian snacks and cocktails, go to Shiro, tel: (91-80) 4173 8861. Sample the avocado sushi or sit at the teppanyaki table, where chef Jun will entertain you with his chopping magic. For live jazz, world music and stand-up comedy, I like Opus, tel: (91-80) 2344 2580. Afterward, head to Empire on Church Street for a postmidnight bite of spicy chicken dosa (rice-flour crepes), tel: (91-80) 2559 3743.

(See 25 authentic Asian experiences.)

Manu Chandra, 28, executive chef, Olive Beach
By the time I finish at my restaurant, it’s very late and I am craving comfort food. I like the centrally located Ocea International Hotel, tel: (91-80) 4063 6261, which serves great South Indian food at very low prices. I usually order the chicken sukka (spicy dry chicken). I also like 6 Ballygunge Place, tel: (91-80) 4152 1390, which serves Bengali food — unusual in Bangalore. I often have the maccher jhol (fish in a mild gravy). For alfresco dining and good cocktails, visit Liquid, the open-air bar at the Ista hotel, tel: (91-80) 4089 4999, where you can make the most of Bangalore’s great weather.

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