THE GRUBHOGS BLOG

Mamma Mia...!!! Mothers Day n Mumbai

2011-05-05T07:41:00.015+05:30

For all Mumbaikar’s who are looking at making Mothers Day Extra Special for their Moms. Here are some of the Grubhogs pick of ways to Pamper your Mom........

Touch your mothers heart with a spa treatment on Mothers Day @

bambooo tree all day spaa.

You can also give a gift voucher on on Mother's Day. Your mother will surely appreciate the heartfelt emotions and treasure the memories forever..

Moms are always special, so make them feel even more @ THE ELBO ROOM this sunday!

There are a range of welcome drinks - flavored cosmopolitans and mojitos, beer and other cooling cocktails to choose from.

The food has lots to choose from - eggs to order, fresh fruit, pasta, pizza, panini, barbeque, antipasto, salads and obento boxes.

Time: 12 pm onwards

Offer: Mothers day drinks, food and gift special

Every mother is Special and she needs to be treated to something special.

Banyan Tree offers a Special Meal for Mothers-Only for Mother's Day.

Only for Rs.250-One Drink, One Starter & One Main Course (Veg/Non-Veg)

Bite into a new Menu  delicious, mouth watering variety of finger foods,
Soups, Salads, Pasta, Burger, Pizza, Grills & More.







Shop for Mother's Day chocolate gifts that will make her day special.

Choose from an array of decadent chocolate assortments at Pure Sin

Chocolates...Bite into Pure Sin Chocolates, for the taste of comfort, love and warmth, in every bite.

All Chocolates are home-made,hand crafted and eggless.

Magnificent Mother's Day Martinis @ Barcode53

The elegance of any of these martinis is sure to tell your mother that

you appreciate everything she's done for you and simply say "Happy

Mother's Day."

Choose from a range of magnificent martinis like:-
Blushing Lady (Vodka, Lemon, grapefruit juice, pomegranate liquer) ,

Tea Tini (Vodka, Iced Tea, Lemon juice),

Glamour Girl Martini (Cranberry Juice, Peach Schnapps, Flonari, Cherry),

Melon Cucumber Tini (Cucumber, Melon Vodka, Simple Syrup),

Rosy Rum Cosmo (Bacardi Limon, Triple SEc, Cranberry Juice, Mint leaves).

Check what's HOT this weekend...!!!

2011-04-30T17:23:00.009+05:30

This one really special !!

~~~KITSCH MANDI~~~
(art but kitsched up!)

more than 50 cool stall !!

Starts at 2:30pm and goes on all day !!

Flea Market
Art and Craft stalls
Short Films
Food Stalls
Live music & Dj Prashanth and Arjun Vagale !!

lots of Kitsch ! Sunday 1st of May @ PEBBLE the Jungle lounge.

Also...........

RED MOLECULE, DIGITORQ & PEBBLE in association with THIRD EYE

PRESENTS ...The Ultimate Psy-Trance Experience !!

---G.M.S--- for the very first time at PEBBLE !!

They are coming together in a BIG way ., the entire Bangalore crew welcoming their Psy-Tance idols ... a huge, huge opening line up

Nitin BeyondLogic., Marina ., Ryan .,Santosh Inspirals., Vivek Phoenix ., and more !!

Mammoth Gig ..!!! 9916695200 for further details

There is MORE................

TOGETHER IN THE CITY - A bouquet of 10 mins PLAY PRESENTED BY TORTILLAS @ Bacchus
Time : 9:00 PM SHARP
Entry : Rs. 200
For details please call at 40333888

...Tortillas is a newly formed group of professionally trained entertainers, finance consultants and communication experts, wholly focused on contributing to the entertainment scene on a pan India level.

Their first production will be a bouquet of five short ten minute plays, titled “Together in the City”. Woven together, the presentation will explore various aspects of relationships in a modern urban environment. In the ilk of the popular black box theater genre, troupe of seven actors don various roles in each performance with minimum set changes to ensure a tight, entertaining, and easily palatable 45 minute presentation, ideal for a variety of different settings using minimal props and sets for maximum impact.

Tortillas has already managed to attract some of the top theatre talent in the city.

Together In the City - Part 1, will star, Edgar Fernandes, Sandhya Mendonca, Anita Mithra, Shyju Varkey, Mario Jerome, Kavita Kashyap and Rency Philip.
Directed by Siddarth Selvaraj, a new and brilliant star in the film and theater circle , this is one show that shouldn't be missed!

Good things come in small packages.......and the ten minute play is no exception, funny, bizarre and laugh out loud, entertainment at its best!

And Finally...!!

MUZIC PRIZNERZZ!! PRESENTZ "THE LAST JAM" FEAT DJ "EDISON"

THIS SATURDAY, 30TH APRIL 2011

NOON 1PM TO 6PM
@ FLUID LOUNGE KALIDASA ROAD MYSORE.

Its Gonna be the Seasons LAST & BIGGEST BLOCKBUSTER PARTY!!
Flow in EARLY and dont miss out on any of the action!!!

BUZZ : RAVI- 9844402553
RACHIT- 9844112263

It's Here Finally...!!!

2010-12-02T23:01:00.007+05:30

The wait is over...... !!!

This is something that hundred's of fans have been looking forward too and have been following news bits ardently ever since it was announced that Manchester United Restaurant & Bar was opening its branch in Bangalore.

Glad tidings for all you MU fans........ Yes, Manchester United Restaurant & Bar is opening it's door on Dec 3rd 2010. Bright, open space, giant screen, et all. The perfect ingredient for a perfect lunch out with the gang.... It's open from 11:0o am - 11:00 pm.

There are a few more exciting places that have opened in other cities as well. Watch this space for the Grubhogs pick of the Spanking New Hotspots...!!!

Grubhogs is Buzzing..!!! :)

2010-09-24T09:43:00.013+05:30

There is a whole lot of buzz on Grubhogs.com.

With the site being revamped, it not only looks cooler but also has some real cool deals….

Special for Grubhogs and Dineclub members:-

Get 50% off at Braai, Phileas Hogg. 25% off at Casablanca, Potluck Vegetarian Restaurant and 20% off at Elite Royale, Punjabi Rasoi, Saffron Patch, Something Fishy, Coastal Junction and Retro Lounge Bar.

Grubhogs.com has also teamed up with Mydala to give you some great deals in your city.

Everyday there is something new!

Check out the deals for the day in your favorite city.

This isn’t the end!!! there is more to it…..

Yes! Write a review this week on Grubhogs.com

and you could win a gift voucher at

Cafe Coffee Day worth Rs.250!

So What are we waiting for....??? Log on to www.grubhogs.com and grab the deals of the week..!!!

Sinful Indulgence...!!!!

2010-08-05T10:06:00.011+05:30

When Ssssugar is your Weakness, tucking into anything Chocolaty is Heaven, licking the spoon clean is Bliss...!!! and indulgence for you means Desserts, Where would you head to get "That Fix"...???

Here are a few places that Grubhogger's delved into...........

Cubs has to be one of Mysore's top cake shops says Hungry Dog...!!

The Big Chill in Delhi is surely not a place to miss...

Anu feels "If you want to attain Nirvana it's gotta to be Spoonful of Sugar in Bangalore".

Never really will you come across varieties and shapes of chocolate to feast upon, to your hearts content and still feel you are not done yet... @ The Maple Leaf, Chennai

For all those insatiable, sinful, moments...!!! Lead us to Temptation, others will find it themselves....!!!

Brew it Right..!!!!

2010-07-14T10:24:00.011+05:30

Reviews on Grubhogs of some of the coolest Café’s around.

Café Noir in Bangalore

Fiddlesticks say's - I'm sure you'll all got that feeling that if a

restaurant is located in a posh part of town, then it's bound to be expensive. Me too, and this thought applied to Cafe Noir before I visited it. However, once there and a look into their menu, I realized that they weren't overly expensive, and going by the portions served, neither were the dishes overpriced.

We started off with a couple of drinks - a blue mint Froz and mint honey dew. Both were fantastic, and the colour of the mint honey dew blew me away. Although I was tempted to have the chicken and bacon quiche, I went with the tide and ordered a sandwich. All the sandwiches are priced at Rs 160, and trust me, they are well worth the money, both in terms of quantity and quality.

In terms of taste, I think all the sandwiches we had tasted great. We had the Orsay (having salmon), St Germain (having ham), Cafe Noir sandwich (having roast beef), Paris-Nice, and St Lazare (having chicken). We also had a Cafe Noir burger (beef). Needless to say, all were superb. You're also given a choice of breads: wheat, Panini, white, or baguette. All the sandwiches and burgers are priced at Rs. 160/- and given the size and the quantity of stuffing inside the sandwich, I think its well worth the money spent.

The desserts are to die for here. The dessert counter will be a gourmet's dream come true - you'll find pastries and cakes of all kinds on display, and selecting what to have was a real pain. Being spoilt for choice got a whole new meaning here! We eventually settled for a creme brulee, a fruit tart, and a ganache. The ganache was the best of the lot, while the creme brulee, although good, wasn't up to the mark according to a friend who'd eaten here before. All in all, a very satisfying meal, one that I won't forget for a while.

Kirky’s in Chennai by Caffeine

The bungalow turned cafe phenomenon in Chennai continues! Kirthika affectionately called Kirky runs the place and its kitchen. A little reminiscent of Amethyst this place seems a bit more updated and contemporary. The boutique on the lower level displays a collection of clothes and other odd items. The cafe is on the upper level and has a mixed menu of vegetarian and non vegetarian food, not too bad. I think the ambiance and location sells itself and although there is some good stuff to eat and drink, its seems like a place more favourable to just chilling with your favorite drink.

Aggie’s Café - Goa

Aggie's cafe is a favourite haunt of foreign tourists who loyally return each year. Aggie's has been around for years and with its popularity the place has grown too. From a small beach shack to one that is outfitted with a BBQ, sun beds, a larger kitchen and more. The BBQ is top on every one's list but it’s also the cold beers and friendly service that keeps tourists coming back.
On some nights they have live entertainment too and guests are happy to join in and dance the night away.

Brewers Café - Mumbai

Nishant while Hunting for a good place to unwind with a

few non-alcoholic drinks, landed up at Brewers Cafe.

Here’s what he has to say …

We got ourselves a good cozy seat, checked out the menu and ordered ourselves two cold coffees - one with chocolate and another without chocolate. These cool drinks were really good and rejuvenating especially in this heat.

We also ordered something to eat. French Fries with Mozzarella Cheese and Chicken nuggets. Having something crunchy with coffee shakes is always a win!

The chicken nuggets are a lot different than at McDonalds for instance and far better too. Thoroughly enjoyed the nuggets with the tomato sauce. It was a chicken cutlet/puff mix with some pieces of chicken.

Next up we ordered for the Chicken Burger which is quite cheap here. At Rs.46 it is a value snack. Chicken pattie is good and not overly cooked.

The food was good but we were disappointed in the end with the Mango Shake as it was just mango flavour.

I think Brewer’s cafe is a great place to hang out. The coffee is good. However, it is clear the emphasis is more on the coffee here so fruit flavoured drinks are out of the to-try list. Do try the pastas here, it seemed like they were everyone's favourite.

Brewer’s cafe isn't expensive so one can enjoy the time spent here without having to worry about burning a hole in one’s wallet.

"Art Arattai Aarpattam" - Fund raiser program in Chennai

2010-07-08T00:03:00.011+05:30

NalandaWay’s Art, Arattai, Aarpattam (AAA) is an annual children’s art, music, and theater festival. The festival provides a space for children, families and teachers to have new experiences of the arts, to experiment, to challenge, to be inspired and have fun together.

Six concerts / entertainment shows by Indian and international troupes will be performed during the festival. Some event's to look out for......
Ali Baba and Forty Thieves - By NalandaWay Children.

Live show by Vijay TV Super Singer Juniors.

Musical by Korean Troupe

Sing Along Program for Children.

Shrek Musical – Children’s English Play.

Kattai Koothu – Performance by Street theatre group.

For actual event dates and time, log on to Grubhogs.com or Nalanda

This July, for a change try someting different........ to create a difference.

2010-06-30T09:41:00.008+05:30

Every year Nalandaway Foundation conduct's an Annual children’s festival in Chennai called “Art Arattai Aarpattam”. This is a children’s cultural festival includes professional shows, an arts carnival and a film festival. It will be held from July 16 – August 1, 2010. It is a ticketed event and the funds raised go will towards the reahbilition of vulnerable children.

You can log on to www.grubhogs.com/chennai for more details.

Nalandaway Foundation,an NGO based in Chennai, works with children from challenging situations and the poorest districts in India, helping them raise their voices and issues through theater, visual arts, music, dance, radio and films. Over 5700 disadvantaged children and young people in the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Bihar and Jammu & Kashmir are involved in their projects and have helped them learn creativity, life skills and self-confidence.

Discover Mysore with Grubhogs.com

2010-06-28T12:46:00.008+05:30

Mysore a quaint sleepy town 139kms away from Bangalore, is not so sleepy after all...!!!
It's in fact one of the most sought after tourist and health destinations in India.

Apart from its Royal Charm and Majestic Splendour with Palaces, Zoo, Temples, Heritage buildings. Tucked away in quiet by-lanes there is a lot to discover, and do when you are here.

Mysore blends in the new with the old quiet easily... There are hordes of things for everyone to do here.
Discover Mysore with Grubhogs like never before...!!!

Watch this space for more on Discover Mysore..!!!

This Weekend @ Bangalore...!!!

2010-06-18T11:51:00.016+05:30

Here's some interesting line up of parties this weekend in Bangalore. Grubhogs pick of the best parties in town.....

You could be @ Bacchus with DJ Uri ..!!!

Blive!!! Brings Back DJ URI (UK) and this time
its TECH HOUSE that he is spinning for us!!!

"Or"
party on till sundown and later @ Pebbles with their trademark ~~SUNSET GROOVES~~

Featuring. Dj PROFF (AnjunaDeep-- Above & Beyond)

Dj MARINA (Moscow)

DUAL-DRIVE (Pune) (india#2 techno act)

Dj Black (Rudraksh Records)

Dj Imdad

"Or" Attending Houzy Night with DJ Vishnu @ Sutra

DJ Vishnu dropping the hottest and freshest in house beats for Sutra patrons this Saturday Eve.

Bangalore's best Steak 'n' Sizzlers

2010-06-16T22:56:00.010+05:30

When you think of Steaks, Sizzlers, and Continental food, there are quite a few options in Bangalore to choose from.....

At Millers 46, Deirdre feels "Nothing beats the steak there, and trust the guy taking your order to suggest the right consistency for your taste.

Aithal swears that the Finger chips with a spicy & tangy flavor & chicken shots is fabulous at The Grill House.

Yogini has been going to The Only Place since she was little and followed it through all its relocation's and remodels! and think it's Still "The Only Place.

On Ruth's plate "The sizzler did not really sizzle and smoke the way it was supposed to" at Cafe Y, but the Ham Roll her husband had was Yumm..!!

Grubhogs needs critics!

2010-06-02T22:40:00.005+05:30

It's a tough job but someone's got to do it!

Eat out a lot and have plenty to say about it? Find yourself inadvertently compartmentalizing the food, service and ambience to rate them? Well then, Grubhogs.com could be the ideal venue to vent, rant and rave!

If you live in any one of the Grubhogs.com cities (B'lore, Chennai, Goa, Mumbai, Delhi/NCR or Mysore) and would like a little pocket money for your words, let us know. We are looking for Grubhogs scouts for each city for a limited time. As a scout you will add informative and interesting reviews of the places you visit.

Email us at grubhogs@grubhogs.com if you'd like to sign on.

Disclaimer: We do not pay for meals at the restaurant, instead we help subsidize the meal with a nominal pay per review. Reviews have to be authored by the Scout. They could have appeared previously on a Scout's personal forum such as a blog. Scout selection preference for those with an exisiting online and/or print presence. For more details email us at grubhogs@grubhogs.com

Summer nights in Bangalore

2010-06-02T10:28:00.013+05:30

Grubhogs.com is always looking for great fun ways to spend your summer nights.

For starters try something different, attend the try-outs to become a superstar DJ!

Kingfisher Ultra Soul Flyp is back with a fantastic addition - The 'Soul Flyp Academy of Talent in Music' for identifying & promoting the superstar DJs of tomorrow!

On Jun 12 2010 @ 4:00 pm at the Pebble -Princess, 3 palace Grounds, ramana Maharishi road

We were most taken by the Bacchus line up this June. So here it is:

** EVERY MONDAY with Vachan spinning some of the best ELECTRONIC DANCE MUSIC there is and its HAPPY HOUR all Night**

**BREAkING RULES** Every Wednesday DnB sessions @ Bacchus with VACHAN

4th June (FRIDAY) - LADIES NITE SPECIAL WITH DJ PHABI D (UK, BERLIN)

15th June(TUESDAY) - FOREVER YOUNG WINE FESTIVAL presents RIPPLES IN TIME A performance by By Tripura Kashyap and Kirtana Kumar

19th JUNE(SATURDAY) - Blive!!! Brings Back DJ URI (UK) and this time its TECH HOUSE that he is spinning for us!!!

26th JUNE(SATURDAY) - Blive! presents Reggae Rajahs (Delhi)

Enjoy and for more on events and restaurants in Bangalore log on to Grubhogs.com!

Bored Kids? There's always Summer Camp - Chennai

2010-04-01T23:31:00.009+05:30

Bored kids? Summer seem realllly looong? Here are some summer camp ideas for your kids.
Chennai Edition

Funty by Theatre Y: A 14 day program for kids 8 to 16 years of agethat is an exciting blend of basic acting, voice, story-telling, writing and poetry skills. Special exercises are included that enhance the process of creative visualization as well. Programs will be conducted at studYo

Summer Camp at Hansel and Gretel Play Center: Junior and Senior campers aged 3 to 16 can take part in 2 week programs that include storytime, sing alongs, Puzzles, roleplay, art, public speaking and creative writing. Great flexibility too, they allow you to pick any 2 weeks period!. All programs are held at Hansel and Gretel Play Center.

Summer at Enhanting Elves: There are Summer camps, Summer weekends, Field trips and Evening classes for kids 3 years and upwards. Programs include Barn to the Wildlife, On the Wheels and The Lost World. Summer weekends are 3 hours programs of pottery and art. All programs are held at Enhanting Elves Activity Center.

Bored kids? There's always Summer Camp!

2010-04-01T08:03:00.006+05:30

Bored kids? Summer seem realllly looong? Here are some summer camp ideas for your kids.

Bangalore Edition

Camp Yakaboo by Hippocampus: Every summer kids from ages 6 to 14 can experience a world of adventure, art, theatre and more at their Summer camps. This years camps include Art, Aeromodelling, Gardening, Adventure and water sports adventure! All camps are at the Pitter Patter Montessori school in Koramangala and begin in April.

Summer Camp 2010 at Alpha Kids: Starting early April enroll your kids ages 6 to 15 for programs that include Aeromodelling, Candle Making, Floral Fantasy, Cooking without fire and more. All camps are held at Alpha Kids Preschool and Day Care Center.

Summer funk at Uvasaggaha-ram: This is a 15 days nutrition camp for kids aged 5 to 12. Apart from activities like flower making, dance, gardening, the kids participate in workshops that help encourage nutritious eating habits, yoga & exercise. All programs are held at Uvasaggaha-ram

Taco Bell enters India with Desi Burritos!

2010-03-31T03:30:00.005+05:30

Yum Brands Inc. opened its first Taco Bell restaurant in India in March 2010 in Bangalore.

Taco Bell's India menu starts at 18 rupees giving it a bit of an edge. considering that's just below McDonald's menu and just above most street-food prices in the cities. The menu is beef-free with a host of vegetarian offerings, including paneer and potato burritos. Some items on the menu include Crunchy Tacos (potato, chicken), Volcano Tacos (potato, Chicken) Grilled Stuffed Burritos and fajitas (paneer, chicken, tangy chicken, Potato & Paneer Burrito) and Burritos (chicken, bean)!

The store is located in Mantri Mall in India's technology capital, Bangalore and has attracted a whopping average of 2,000 to 2,500 customers each day since its opening!

Have you tried their popular Paneer and Potato Burrito? Review their burrito here: Taco Bell's Burrito

Our Picks: North Goa's Boutique Hotels

2010-03-25T02:12:00.014+05:30

Grubhogs.com picks some of the coolest boutique hotels in North Goa. Next time stay away from the big budget brand name Leelas, Tajs and Marriotts and stay at these quaint hotels that have something unique to offer and experience.

Casa Candolim

This boutique hotel has newly built 8 suites with private balconies
providing a spectacular view of either the Beach Front or the resort's swimming pool and garden.

(See the entire list at here )

Casa Palacio Siolim House

The heritage hotel Casa Palacio Siolim House is the restored palace and the residence of the aristocratic Goan-Portuguese Governor of Macau.

Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel

The once armed fortress that belonged to the Portuguese is now a boutique hotel.

(See the entire list at here )

Pa usada Tauma

All the rooms have patios, are air-conditioned and decorated with colonial-style furniture.

Presa di Goa

Presa di GOA transalates as 'Captive of Goa' and is a country house restored and furnished in Portuguese colonial style

(See the entire list at here )

Yoga Magic
Yoga Magic is an eco-retreat where every effor it made to be eco friendly without compromising luxury. The hotel is about two kilometres from Vagator and Anjuna beaches.

Read more on these great hotels and many more at Grubhogs.com!

Real men drink a "Patiala Peg"

2010-03-02T11:31:00.010+05:30

The"Patiala Peg" is more than just the name of a legendary bar in Delhi, there is some interesting history behind this strong drink!

Here's the very interesting story behind the "Paitiala Peg" .

The Maharaja of Patiala, an avid sportmen, invited the Irish team; " the Viceroy's Pride", to play a friendly match of tent pegging, a game with its own unique morbid history. Think Polo but with a very sinister origin.

The Maharaja worried that Team Patiala would not be able to take on the Viceroys Pride and win the game. In an effort to the tilt the scales a bit in favour of Patiala he hosted a dinner in their honor.

In keeping with the usual ritual, pre dinner drinks were served. However the bartenders were instructed to serve the Irish men double large pegs of whiskey, to make them drink more, and get his team to win......

Well, the idea worked, the Irish team woke up groggy, couldn't concentrate on the game and Bingo!! the game was Patiala's. Incensed that the largers pegs of whiskey handed them the loss, the political agent of the Viceroy went up to the Maharaja to complain. The Maharaja replied, "Yes, in Patiala our pegs are larger". And a whole new drink; the "Patiala Peg" was born that practically put Patiala on the map!

A Patiala peg depending on whom you ask is a 75ml or 90ml pour of the whiskey neat. But here's how to make a Patiala Peg that's a bit easier on your insides -
Pour your choice of coke (1/2 cup) into a whiskey glass.
Fill the remaining (A little less then 1/2 Cup) with whiskey or brandy.
Put 2-3 pieces of ice in it.

Cheers..!!!! Drink up!!

Hotel Imperial at Janpath, Delhi has a legendary bar with some history attached to it that is named "Patiala Peg" . Here is a place you can try the drink in the midst of a great collection of photos from the era of the Maharaja of Patiala!

Claytopia, Harima, Tuscana and more reviewed!

2010-03-02T05:52:00.008+05:30

Bangalore

P Shetty reviews her favourite place "Bistro Claytopia" and finds it to be a "typical Bangalorean Place" with a " creative inclination rather than an "alcoholic inclination"!

R Prabu reviews "Harima" 's Sushi platter and says although it cost a "bomb", it was a great way to sample everything on their Sushi Menu

Chennai

M Ranjan enjoyed the unique concept of "On the Rocks" but was a tad bit disappointed with the accompanying sauces.

Tuscana Pizzeria is the new rage in Chennai, at a rating of 4/5 stars our reviewers are all recommending its Italian Food.

Read these and more at Grubhogs.com !

"Darshini's all the way"

2010-02-22T23:27:00.006+05:30

If you've been living in Karnataka, especially Bangalore, Darshini's are hard to miss. One can find them almost everywhere. A perfect "Grub Place" for anybody looking to grab a quick bite. These places have no frills attached. Most of the time you have to stand and eat, maybe share your table with people you don't even know...!!! But, hey who cares about that... the Grub is good, clean and cheap.
Darshini's have it all, South Indian (Dosas, Idlies, etc), North Indian, Chinese, Juices, Chaat, Milkshakes etc.
What makes the Darshini's most attractive to the common man is the pricing - it doesn't burn a hole in your pocket especially if one has to eat out regularly, and needs quick service. So next time you are famished, and looking for a quick bite... try going to a Darshini, it's an experience you'll never forget.

Check out Grubhogs.com for all the Darshini's in Bangalore!

"Free your inner Critic" Contest is back!!

2010-02-13T21:01:00.001+05:30

Have you been to www.grubhogs.com recently? Its new, improved and so full of great and not so great restaurants, bars and clubs.

Celebrate Valentine's Days well past this 14th of February

Here is your chance to free your inner critic and tell the world what you
really think about the places you visit.

All you need to do is write a great review on Grubhogs.com!

The best reviews of places in Bangalore will win dinner coupons at some great restaurants!

And for reviews outside of Bangalore, there are cash prizes for the favorite!

There is no limit to the number of reviews you enter.

Just remember to enter them anytime between now and March 14th, 2010.

See you @ www.grubhogs.com

- The Grubhogs Team

Cool new Grubhogs badges for your Blogs!

2010-02-04T00:03:00.005+05:30

Jazz up your blog and wear your Grubhogs.com badge with pride!

We have three great looking badges that you can easily post to your website or blog.

Get the code at Grubhogs.com (http://grubhogs.com/widget/index) and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Remember to check out the all new Grubhogs.com and write us some great reviews!

What do we need to survive?

2009-12-10T22:10:00.000+05:30

The survival of human kind depends on 3 primary categories – Food and Water, Shelter and Clothing, Reproduction through marriage, kinship and education.

This forms the genesis for Culture, as it is a set of shared behaviours, ideas and principles, a certain way of life passed on from one generation to another. As humans, we have the need to interpret and explain the world around us and we do this through Religion, Philosophy and Science. The means to satisfy these needs becomes the reflection of a culture, hence the diversity of cultures. This acts as and instrument to achieve welfare thus making culture the core of an individual – wellbeing.

Likewise, Culture is as important to a Community and a National wellbeing, as culture is not only important in its own right, but also a crucial means of achieving highest possible quality of life and the broadest range of opportunities. In its widest sense, it contains the whole complex of distinctive spiritual, material, intellectual and emotional characteristics of a society.

What sense does it all make if culture includes only the Arts? And not the fundamental rights of human beings, value systems, traditions and beliefs?

Everyone is for justice, but not everyone is for social justice. When Progressives speak of social justice, they mean a society which is organized to provide, as far as possible, a good life for all its members, including a chance to participate in processes which affect their lives. A just society is one that meets people's needs, including the need to be productive.

We are living in an age of an extreme expression of capitalism – that functions under the sign of alienation. As the world draws closer together, each of us is more separated than ever before. Increasingly, we define ourselves primarily in terms of our economic role. We need a community morality, ways of encouraging each other to care and to act in behalf of the common good and the good of those who are least able to depend on themselves for their well being. The socialist principle "From each according to ability, to each according to need" is crazy in this world, but we can build a world in which it would be common sense. Public Justice along with Private Morality.

In conclusion, Culture and Social Justice needs to coexist to bring meaning to each other. This whole has many layers, like an onion. To understand it, you have to peel it, layer by layer. The outer layer contains the explicit, the observable products of culture – language, food, architecture, fashion, art etc. These are, in its own way symbols of a deeper layer. The inner layer or the core contains the values and the principles of a culture. Thus making it more difficult to identify it. Will an onion still be an onion without its inner layers? Can the outer layers still be born from a hollow centre?

Milky Way - All the way!

2009-11-22T05:00:00.003+05:30

-A candid review of Milky way- Chennai by Grubhogs Team Member; Veknash P

‘5000 students holed up in one place -‘school’..........
A heavy pocket and an ever growling belly’......
Perfect market for any coffee shop, bakery, snack giant.

And the latest snack giant to take swoop in is "Milky way". It recently opened a branch on Aligari Sami Salai, right next to Padma Sheshadri Bala Bhavan School in K.K. Nagar.

And since the doors opened you would be hard pressed to find a a single empty table between 3:00 to 5:00pm , so much so that the eatery has spilled on to the pavement with a hastily set up seating area!

Milky way is brightly lit, stylishly decorated and reasonably well priced all in an effort to cater to its target group: Teenagers. A shiny digital board screams out the "Specials of the day" somewhat increasing the novelty quotient of this place.

The place remains a teenage hangout but its patron however are not just teenagers. It even draws families and some times elderly folk who stop by for a bite after their evening walk.

Milky way also retains its appeal by having a mixed menu. Its menu card features softy cones and sundaes ranging in large number of flavors. And to mix it up also on the menu are a range of short eats and snacks. Try their simple Cheese sandwich (Rs 20), Cheesy veg double decker( Rs 70). French Fries or Sweet corn nuggets.

Just when some perpetual critics where starting to say that the charm is rubbing off and that they need something new- Voila! Milky way announces its Chat counter ( on which I cannot comment yet because it is yet to open).

Milky way has taken a lion's share of the student market on Alagiri Sami Salai, leaving the nearby coffee shop, four bakeries and two chat counters wondering how to get back in the game.
On Cricket match days, this place is an uncontrollable jungle of customers and cricket enthusiasts huddling around the television near the counter. Some students often buy a softy or a sandwich just to be able to stand in there and watch the match.

Kids love this place too in part to their promotion; “Eat for more than 150 and get an assured gift free.” These gifts range from Ben 10 files to Hannah Montana pouches, Winnie the Pooh pencils and blow Sketches. Which kid wouldn’t love this place.

So far this place is a clear winner!

In pursuit of Tea…After all, Tea is the drink!

2009-10-14T02:10:00.004+05:30

Being the second most consumed beverage in the world, the history of discovery of Tea has been shrouded in myths and mystery. This is the reason why today we perceive it as an exotic wonderment.
God bless the man who first discovered Tea! According to legend, Shen Nung, an early emperor of China, whilst sipping boiling hot water in his garden, caught a leaf from a nearby tea plant in his cup. The taste of the water was altered and he greatly enjoyed the result.
“The effect of tea is cooling, and as a beverage it is most suitable. It is especially fitting for persons of self – restraint and inner worth” - Lu Yu, Ch’a Ching
A Victorian critic, John Ruskin once said, “To see a thing and tell it plain words is the greatest thing a soul can do” and that’s exactly what Lu Yu did.
Lu Yu?! You might wonder, a peak into the past reveals that he was a highly respected ‘Sage of Tea’. He was best known for his greatest contributions ever – a monumental, first ever treatise on Tea - Ch’a Ching (The Classic of Tea) around the 8th century B.C.E. Yes, that is how far back Tea has been in existence in this world. In this book, Lu Yu talks about the character of Tea, having the combination of Peace, Harmony and Balance. He also gives the 10 aspects of Tea starting from growing to drinking and critical evaluation, while constantly reminding the reader that “its goodness is a decision for the mouth to make”
At around 1000 B.C.E. the Chinese evolved poetic names for Tea, a tradition that still prevails today, like ‘temple of heaven’ and ‘dragon well’ et all..They also claimed that Tea was an important element in the ‘elixir of immortality.’
Even the Zen Buddhists drank Tea before Bodhidharma (monk who introduced Zen to China from India) in temples as a ritual. Many of the rituals and customs of the Japanese Tea Ceremony can be traced back to this. Later it is said that when the Mongols took over China, Tea was not encouraged. Although, it is said that the custom of social tea drinking continued to prevail.
It was around the 1400 C.E., under the rule of the Ming Dynasty the concept of Tea started becoming global. The Europeans first heard about it as the ‘elixir of the east’ from the Arabs who then controlled the entire sea travel between the East and the West. First sold in apothecaries and a few coffeehouses, the acceptance of tea into British culture was relatively slow.
In 1667 Thomas Garraway, the owner of a coffeehouse known as Garraway's, was one of the first to serve tea. According to Garraway's advertisements tea in Britain had only been used as "regalia in high treatments." He advertised it as a medicinal drink, capable of curing almost anything, and charged £6 to £10 for a pound. Coffee preceded tea by only a few years, but in no time, Tea along with chocolate gained mighty importance. Thanks to a Portuguese Princess, Catherine Braganza, who married Charles II, made tea as the fashionable drink of the court! This high status led to the East India Co.’s greed to become the monopoly in trade and went on a mighty spree of importing Tea from both China and India.
The Assam Tea, although initially considered as an inferior to the Chinese varieties, quickly gained popularity and established itself as a breakfast tea of choice among the Brits even today!
Today, the philosophy of tea is not mere aestheticism in the ordinary acceptance of the term, for it expresses conjointly, with ethics and religion, our whole perception of man and nature.

The Grub pig meets the Tweet bird!

2009-09-18T04:20:00.009+05:30

Grubhogs.com is now on Twitter!

Get the latest on restaurant openings near you, great deals, exciting happenings and the best in your city every time Grubhogs.com tweets.

Click on the image below to follow Grubhogs

Love it or hate? - Cool reviews on Grubhogs.com

2009-09-08T23:53:00.007+05:30

People are spilling the beans on Grubhogs.com all the time. Here are some cool restaurant reviews on Grubhogs.com! Do you agree, maybe strongly disagree?

Grubhogs Mumbai

Mayuri S finds Mumbai's Tasting room in "Good taste" She writes "Soak in the atmosphere and munch away on the tray of goodies placed before you, various types of bite-sized breads, crisp bread sticks and a sinful swirl of garlic butter...." Read more here: Review

Grubhogs Chennai

Madras Yogini was disappointed that "Sparky's" did not live up to all the hype. "The food was mediocre but it was the service and presentation that was pretty bad. It seemed like there was no effort made ......" Read more of the review here: Review

Grubhogs Goa

Neil S and his 14 friends could not have liked "I-95" more. He writes "It boasts an excellent menu and lives up to it. We were personally attended to, with a touch of flair, flamboyance and finesse...." Read more of the review here: Review

Read these and more reviews on Grubhogs.com

What's new in Goa, Mumbai, B'lore and Chennai?

2009-09-01T22:21:00.010+05:30

Grubhogs.com gives you some of the cool, new and quaint dining spots in each Mumbai, Chennai, Goa and Bangalore.

For these and more great places in each of your favorite city visit Grubhogs.com!

Mumbai's new dining menu!

The Kabaab factory churns out kababs of every kind and size. The place is becoming popular for kababs that are not easily found elsewhere like Kakori kabab and Galawat kabab.

Kalbadevi gets a Rajasthani, Marawari and Gujurati specialty restaurant in Adarsh Annaporna

Goa's quaint and hidden finds!

Tucked away behind a busy street and away from all the retail mania you will find The Secret Garden. Continental food is on the menu but its also a place you can hang out over a cup of coffee and french toast.

Other cool spots we suggest you try: Shiro, Thalassa, Chef Fernando's Nostalgia

Chennai newest spots!

Crimson Chakra is a new cafe housed in a bungalow, a seemingly popular trend in Chennai. With special attention to detail this makes for a cool place to hang out on a lazy afternoon.

Shop a bit and feed your hunger at Abhirami Mall at the new restaurant Mingala, that specializes in Burmese cuisine

Bangalore's Latest!

Mast Kalandar opens another branch at Koramangala. The menu includes VFM combos and everything is a 100% vegetarian.

Dosas, Chettinad Biryani, spicy powders and more at this new South Indian speciality restaurant called Southin.

For these and more great places in each of your favorite city visit Grubhogs.com!

Chennai's evolving "Grub" Scene

2009-08-09T01:54:00.013+05:30

Here are some the most recent openings that are adding to Chennai's food repertoire

Dawn and Dusk: Who says Chennai sleeps at 10? Dawn and Dusk is the latest among the 24 hours delivery windows to open in the Nungambakkam area. Now food is just a phone call away at anytime of the day! Click here for more info: Dawn and Dusk

Mast Kalandar: This 100% Vegetarian Bangalore chain has opened its first branch in Shastri Nagar, Chennai. With various combo meals and VFM food, this place might be a good option for a quick or business lunch. Click here for more info: Mast Kalandar

New Tandoori Tadakka: Meat is not scarce here, have it any way you like cooked in the tandoor. They offer Valet parking, so more time to eat and less to bake in the heat looking for a spot! Click here for more info: Tandoori Tadakka

36 Degrees: Beat the heat in this cool ice cream and dessert place. Leave the heat and traffic behind at this calm spot with its green interiors and beige couches. Its right opposite the Chettinad School. Their smoothies are supposedly pretty good. Click here for more info: 36 Degrees

And two cool Cafes to check out!

Mocha Mojo: A definite stand out in the cafe scene. There is attention to detail and the menu. A very varied menu with foods from around the world. The interiors are colorful and contemporary. Click here for more info: Mocha Mojo

Cafe Evo: Tucked away in the campus of the Russian center this cafe has a great menu and often has some form of live entertainment. The management describes it as " a RestoCafe, a one-of-its-kind, a place for the evolving mind to reverie & recharge to mesmerize the world..." Click here for more info: Cafe Evo

Now go check them out and don't forget to tell us at Grubhogs.com if its a thumbs up or down!

Get dined and pampered at Mumbai's newest!

2009-08-01T22:57:00.011+05:30

Its been another few months and Mumbai has seen several new and unique restaurant and spa openings. Here is a sampler and remember to check out more new openings on Mumbai Grubhogs or in our "New to Grubhogs" section.

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty and Kiran Bawa open the Iosis Medispa in Khar. Shetty aims to bring affordable(?!) and unique proven methods of beauty care to Mumbai women.

Click here for Iosis Medispa

For the folks in Andheri (W) there is the new venture by restaurateur Pappi Singh, Oye! Punjabi while Borivali (W) gets a Goan-Portuguese inspired cozy restaurant called Tavira

If you are looking for a new Cafe, there is Cafe Indilite in Andheri (W) and Cafe Mangii in Khar(W). Both have received rave reviews. Cafe Mangii gets a thumbs up from us for its decor.

And if its your pets that need a spa treatment, head to Dog-aholics. A pet grooming speciality store where your pet will get all the fussing it deserves!

These and more on Grubhogs.com!

Mumbai gears for a "sea" change!

2009-06-30T01:15:00.005+05:30

The 40-minute drive across 1930s colonial-era Mahim Causeway from Worli to Bandra that includes battling 23 light signals and thousands of motorists is about to undergo a dramatic "sea" change!

On June 30th, 2983 days, 2.57 crore man hours, numerous delays and 340-million-dollars later, the Bandra-Worli Sealink will open to traffic.

The eight lane freeway hopes to cut down the commute to under 15 minutes and is expected to carry over a 100,000 vehicles a day from the suburbs to South Mumbai.

The spectacular engineering marvel has also inspired Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) to share it with non-motorists in the way of a ferry trip to the sea link from Bandra-Kurla Complex. This would be in addition to the planned open deck bus tour of the bridge.

Either way the ride across the bridge does not come free! The one-way toll is set at Rs 50 for light motor vehicle (cars), Rs 75 for mini-buses and Rs 100 for heavy motor vehicles (buses and trucks).

Congrats Mumbai! If anything this means easier access to all those restaurants, bars, and spas listed on Grubhogs Mumbai!

Oh Coffee! - Part II

2009-05-31T10:44:00.008+05:30

This week we present the second in the series on coffee. Taking a break from the history of coffee we delve into one of the most successful cafe's in India- Cafe Coffee Day.

Café Coffee Day is a part of India's largest coffee conglomerate, Amalgamated Bean Coffee Trading Company Ltd. (ABCTCL), the first to roll out the ‘coffee bar’ concept in India with its first café in Bangalore’s Brigade Road in 1996.

In this section we get the answers directly from the source. What was the inspiration behind this overwhelmingly successful chain, what drives its continued success and many more questions that you might have wanted to ask.

Inspiration? "Chairman Mr. V. G. Siddhartha drew inspiration from the many chic cafe mushrooming abroad that served everything from beer to coffee and often doubled as a place to surf the net. Using his background in coffee he decided to translate the same experience here in India but with coffee being at the core."
Management style? "All Café Coffee Day cafes are self-owned and not franchised"
Where do the beans come from? "Café Coffee Day serves the coffee it grows on the 7400 acres of its own estates plus another 2500 acres of managed estates. The group also sources coffee from 11,000 small growers, making its holder the largest individual coffee plantation owner in Asia"
Greatest Achievement? "Revolutionizing the ‘coffee culture’ in India by pioneering the ‘café’ concept."
What the Future holds? "By this calendar year end, Café Coffee Day will reach a total of 1000 cafes in India."
Challenges? "A challenge in this format of business is the ever fluctuating real estate prices."
Strengths? "We have a strong base of loyal customers who have grown with the brand from visiting our regular cafes as a student or young working professional to visiting our ‘Lounge’ format cafes with their families. "
New on the Menu?
Morning Glory (double shot of espresso, sweetened and spiced… on the rocks!)
First Light (rich caramel sauce, espresso with a swirl of cream),
Solar Eclipse (Cappuccino with spicy tones & Chocolate swirls)
Summer Breeze (Coffee on the rocks with milk foam). Caramellow (Coffee with rich caramel sauce & fruity banana flavouring dressed with whipped cream)
All-Day Refresher (Creamy cold coffee with the crunchiness of cookies).
Sunset Brew (Sinful combination of dark chocolate brownie with the richness of coffee).

(More from this interview in later posts- stay tuned)

Is this your favorite CCD?

Which is your favorite CCD? Log on to Grubhogs.com to rate and review your favorite!

Archie chooses his bride!!

2009-05-29T01:59:00.013+05:30

This might not have anything to do with all that we usually cover on Grubhogs.com, but news this big does deserve a place on our blog. Many of us in our thirties spent a great many years following the oh so envious adventures of Arhcie and his friends, Jughead, Veronica and Betty. In Archie world Veronica was the epitome of beauty and all that woman should be while Betty with her girl next-door goodlooks, intelligence and wit was the best platonic girlfriend you could have. Yet, the books always kept you guessing, who would Archie end up with?

Well it seems that question is about to be answered. Archie comics publisher announced that Archie is getting married and now the media is all abuzz.

Who does Archie choose? Veronica or Betty?

Well read no further if you rather wait for the issue on stand this September.

Unfortunately or fortunately all indications are that Archie picks the one he has been vying for his entire elongated teenage life - Veronica!!!

Here's to the new couple!

As for Jughead and Betty, there no suggestion that they might actually pair up. Jughead remains preoccupied with feeding his hunger. Hey, there you go, a Grubhogs connection. Jughead could sure use us!

The Latest on Mumbai and Bangalore's Food Menu!

2009-05-24T22:34:00.010+05:30

The food scene is continuously evolving.Here are some of the new Restaurant openings in Mumbai and Bangalore. Read about them, try them and dont forget to review them on Grubhogs.com

Recently in Mumbai:

Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf : The International Cafe chain opens its second location at the CR2 in Nariman Point. Click here for more details: CBTF

Masalacraft: China Bistro and Harmony have been replaced by a Mughlai-Coastal food restaurant, Masalacraft. Masalacraft bills itself as an "Ethnic Indian " Restaurant. Click for more details: Masalacraft

Firangi Paani: The BJN group opened another of its English pub styled restaruant in Bandra. Click for more details: Firangi Paani

Recently in Bangalore:

Suburbia: A place to "Eat, Drink and Play", try their coastal and continental creations, drink at their lounge or place Charades! Click for more details: Suburbia

12th Main: A Mediterranean & regional Indian specialty restaurant at the Mercure Homestead Residences. Click for more details: 12th

Chili's Bar and Grill: The popular international chain opens its doors in Bangalore. Click here for more details: Chili's

B'loreans gets a few more hours to live it up!

2009-05-20T11:05:00.004+05:30

Bangloreans now have a few more hours to live it up.

Bowing to the demands of the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) the State Government now allows movie theatres to screen their last show to end at 11:00pm. This ends a 25 year rule that pushes the final show of the day to begin at 8:30pm. Late eh!

Also no need to bury that after movie dinner tradition just yet! Eateries in the city can now stay open until midnight instead of 11 pm. While those at the airport, railway station and bus stand will be stay open 24/7.

Bars and pubs will have to stop serving liquor at 11 pm as earlier though they can serve food till 12 am.

This might not be much for a lot of us but at least the deadlines are moving in the right direction! Enjoy!

Check out the most happenings placed on Grubhogs Bangalore

Oh Coffee!!! - A series on the world's favorite drink

2009-05-20T01:16:00.007+05:30

The wonderful aroma, the heavenly flavors, the warm feeling of true bliss with every sip, we all know of the many excellent qualities of a great cup of coffee. I believe it can change the world one cup at a time if you choose to follow me down the coffee bean road. Here I present a brief history of coffee; the first in a many part series.

Today, coffee is a giant global industry employing more than 20 million people but it might just have had its humble beginnings in Caffa Ethiopia were the plan grew naturally. As the story goes a sheep herder Kaldi decided to try some of the "red berries" from this shiny green plant. He had noticed his sheep a bit more hyperactive after consuming them and was pretty soon just as hyped up as his herd! A monk, passing by, might have scolded him for "partaking of the devil's fruit" but pretty soon the monks themselves were all over the coffee beans. They discovered that this fruit could help them stay awake for their prayers!

Long before the Turks became the first to adopt coffee as a drink the Galla tribe in Ethiopia used to wrap the beans in animal fat as their only source of nutrition while on raiding parties. And long before "Starbucks" and "Coffee Cafe day" the Turks often added spices such as clove, cinnamon, cardamom and anise to the brew.

The Mysore Connection!
The virtues of the drink spread over continents but not without some drama. The transportation of the plant out of Muslim nations was forbidden by the government and like all good products the actual spread of coffee was started illegally. Arabia made export beans infertile by parching or boiling thereby controlling the spread. But only until the 1600s when Baba Budan an Indian pilgrim-cum-smuggler left Mecca with fertile seeds strapped to his belly. Baba Budan smuggled beans to mountains near Mysore, India, and started a farm there. Baba’s beans bore fruit and initiated the coffee industry in India as we know it today!

From Constantinople to Bangalore!
As the virtues of coffee spread around the world each country developed its unique blends and qualities. The First coffeehouse, Kiva Han, opened in 1475 in Constantinople, Starbucks opened its first store in 1971 in the Pike Place Market in downtown Seattle and Coffee Cafe day opened on Brigade Road, Bangalore in 1996!

Damn the "Devil's Drink!"

Coffee might have remained an elusive drink hard to come by many orthodox Christians had their way. But Pope Vincent III decided to taste it before he banished the "devil's drink". He enjoyed it so much he baptised it, saying "coffee is so delicious it would be a pity to let the infidels have exclusive use of it."

"Devil's Drink" to "National Drink"

In the 1700's, coffee found its way to the Americas by means of a French infantry captain who nurtured one small plant on its long journey across the Atlantic. This one plant, transplanted to the Caribbean Island of Martinique, became the predecessor of over 19 million trees on the island within 50 years. Coffee was declared the national drink of the then colonised United States by the Continental Congress, in protest of the excessive tax on tea levied by the British crown.

Today, coffee is a giant global industry employing more than 20 million people. This commodity ranks second only to petroleum in terms of dollars traded worldwide. With over 400 billion cups consumed every year, coffee is the world's most popular beverage. If you can imagine, in Brazil alone, over 5 million people are employed in the cultivation and harvesting of over 3 billion coffee plants.

Fun Fact: Espresso, a recent innovation in the way to prepare coffee, obtained its origin in 1822, with the innovation of the first crude espresso machine in France. The Italians perfected this wonderful machine and were the first to manufacture it. Espresso has become such an integral part of Italian life and culture, that there are presently over 200,000 espresso bars in Italy.

JOIN US NEXT TIME FOR MORE ON COFFEE!

Check out all the many cafes on Grubhogs.com
or Check out all the cafes at Grubhogs Cafes

Grubhogs Origins - "Grubbing with a dentist"

2009-04-12T10:26:00.005+05:30

Grubbing with a Dentist

Chai Kadai, a conversational online magazine, interviewed the creator of Grubhogs, Samir Nanjapa, taking him through a journey of food, ideas, and places. How did Grubhogs happen? Where is Grubhogs heading? He talks about the histories and unravels some mysteries about Grubhogs talking with Samyuktha PC. Read it here (or click on Grubbing with a Dentist).

And the Winners are!!

2009-01-12T23:29:00.006+05:30

Last November we announced the "Free your Inner Critic" contest with a 1000 rupee prize money. All you had to do was write a great review on Grubhogs.com!!Today we announce our winners:

SIDDHARTHA KHULLAR for his review of Baby Dragon in Noida

VERA MASCARENHAS MALKANI for her review of Hotel Fanoos in Bangalore

CONGRATULATIONS Siddhartha and Vera!!

Check out Grubhogs.com for the best and worst in your city.

www.grubhogs.com

Your opinion actually pays!

2008-11-15T11:02:00.001+05:30

"`FREE YOUR INNER CRITIC" CONTEST`

Contest Official Rules

This contest is exclusive to members of the Facebook group and Fan Page "Grubhogs-You Hungry" . All members are invited to free their inner critic and write a great reveiw on Grubhogs.com. Reviews are automatically entered to win a gift certificate worth Rs.1000.

ELIGIBILITY:

All entrants must over 13 years of age and a registered member of Grubhogs.com
Contest is only open to members of the the Facebook group "Grubhogs-You Hungry"
Entrants must write a complete review and answer all survey questions for any business listed on Grubhogs.com to be eligible.
Eligible reviews must be entered between Nov 8th, 2008 and Dec 25th, 2008.
There is no limit to the number of reviews per member that can be entered into the contest
The prize winner will announced within a few days of terminaton of the contest.
The prize will mailed to receipient anywhere within India.

Contest sponsor, advertising and promotional agencies and their respective affiliates and associates and such employees immediate family members and persons with whom such employees are domiciled are excluded from this contest.

JUDGING:

All entries will be judged based on their style, relevance and overall appeal. Conduct of the contest and selection of the winners are the sole discretion of Grubhogs.com. All decisons are final and binding.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

For questions and concerns regarding the contest please email: mailto:grubhogs@grubhogs.com?subject=Free%20your%20inner%20Critic

For information regaring the Facebook Group Grubhogs-You hungry:Grubhogs

Everyone's raving but these Grubhogs are ranting!

2008-10-17T08:35:00.007+05:30

"the grubhogs gab"
The grubhogs.com Newsletter
October Issue -1

Everyone's raving but these Grubhogs are ranting!

Have you read the reviews at Grubhogs.com yet? We must say Grubhogs do have very discerning tastes and no issue splitting ranks with the masses. Here is a sampling of an interesting trend where popular and otherwise highly rated restaurants have not found many fans among us Grubhogs.

"BARBEQUE NATION" heralded a new concept in dining with its on table grills and unlimited kababs. It got so popular that the restaurant wasted no time in opening branches in most major cities. Bangalore itself has three branches. A hot favorite in Bangalore, Barbeque Nation in Indiranagar does not seem to have won any fans on Grubhogs, Hungry hound thought it was a "cool concept but there could be more" and Maaz K rated it poor for the "cold service".

People throng BANANA LEAF in Mumbai for its clean, plush environs and authentic south Indian food served, you guessed it, on banana leaves. But is there more hype than substance? Mayuri S says "its a big Na Na". Her very informative review might make a good read before you visit the restaurant.

AGNI at the Park Hotel, Delhi may have been voted as the "Bar of the year" by The Hindustan Times but Tanya L says the music is Okayish, alcohol expensive and as for its clientele its just "ancient people of Delhi checking out young lil' things in short tiny bare nothings".

FREE YOUR INNER CRITIC AND WRITE YOUR OWN REVIEW TODAY!

BROWSE OVER 8000 RESTAURANTS, SPAS, SALONS, BARS, CLUBS, GYMS AND MORE AT GRUBHOGS.COM

Celebrity Owned Restaurants: Recipe for Disaster?

2008-09-26T09:57:00.003+05:30

"the grubhogs gab"
www.grubhogs.com Newsletter
September '08 - Issue 2

Celebrity Owned Restaurants: Recipe for Disaster?
Grubhogs.com explores this trend in India

These days, the own-your-own-restaurant trend continues, with actors, sportsman, musicians and even fashion designers getting into the act. Despite the fact that a restaurant is a risky place to park your money little seems to scare the celebrities away. Those establishments with real staying power serve great food and wine in a theatrical setting, which is why a few of the following might be worth a visit.

In MUMBAI we found ace cricketer Sachin Tendulakar's, TENDULKAR'S and model turned actor Dino Morea's CREPE STATION. Celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor of Khana Khazana fame has two restaurants "THE YELLOW CHILLI" in NOIDA and "THE YELLOW CHILLI" in DELHI.

Then there is designer Himansu Dimri and Sonali Sattar's restaurant and boutique in the outskirts of BANGALORE called GRASSHOPPER Actor Mohanlal sailed into the restaurant world with HARBOUR MARKET also in Bangalore.

"Free your inner critic" © and tell the world what you really think!
Review these and other restaurants now at Grubhogs.com

[www.grubhogs.com]

The Grubhogs Gab arrives!

2008-09-08T04:14:00.004+05:30

Grubhogs.com now pulishes a newsletter "The Grubhogs Gab"
Stay in touch with what's new, old, exciting and unique in your city and on Grubhogs.com!

Sign up to receive the newsletter: Send us a message with your email address to grubhogs@grubhogs.com

Grubhogs in the news!

2008-09-02T01:48:00.003+05:30

LIVE IT UP -- By Sunayana Suresh

One space that is completely changing everyday is the Internet. Newer and innovative sites come along in an effort to only make people like us live life to the fullest and make it easy too. It was the same idea that made Samir Nanjapa, who is in the US to follow his passion of having a guide for exploring ..........

Making traditional wines... from Goa, and from tropical fruit

2008-08-25T02:02:00.003+05:30

By Frederick Norohna

Dr. John Rodrigues of Chichinim, who was formerly doing product
development for Hoechst medicines now swears by the power of wine. He has four variants of Kokum wine in both sec (dry) and demi-sec (semi-dry)
types. You can smell it, taste it and buy it to drink at home. He talks, in May 2008, about the wide range of wines he has been working on, from the village he lives in, in Goa. See an earlier report at http://osdir.com/ml/culture.region.india.goa.saligao/2006-05/msg00009.html

Grubhogs is hiring!

2008-08-14T08:40:00.001+05:30

Grubhogs.com is a food and entertainment review website for 7 cities in India is looking for Community Officers, Community Managers, Front-end Website Developers and photo enthusiasts.

For a more detailed description of the job please click here: Careers

Please email us at grubhogs@grubhogs.com if you or anyone you know might be interested.

Include the following in your email:
Brief CV (no more than 1 page)
Brief description of how you fit the job
Your salary expectations

The 'Food-lanes' at Ghatkopar

2008-08-12T22:41:00.000+05:30

By Parvathy Nair

Ghatkopar, a suburb in Mumbai, famous for its food-lanes, Dandiya dresses, hobby shops, matching centres and good tailors. Pre-dominantly occupied by Gujaratis, this place has a culture of its own and you can smell it in the air as soon as get off the local train, at Ghatkopar railway station. You move out and you see roadside stalls lined with clothes, footwear, flower garland shops, xerox centres and food. Bad luck for all those of you who relish non-vegetarian food. This place is meant for pure vegetarians. Did I hear you say that you don't mind being a 'one-day vegetarian'. Great! Then move away from the station and come to Pant Nagar, the 'khau galli' or 'food-lane' of Ghatkopar. You will find yourself confused, what to have and what to have...no what not to have, because you will start praying to God to give you an extra stomach to relish all that you see in these lanes.

Lets start with something as simple and as mundane as dosas. I hate dosas, have been having it since my mom discovered that I could chew food. But here, dosas seem so exotic. Chinese dosas, palak dosas, jain dosas, paneer dosas, onion dosas.............hmmm.....and many many more. And the chutneys, mind-blowing. Fine, the dosas are done with. Keep walking. Stop! Look at those crushed ice golas - red, purple, yellow, green - dip it into the glass of sherbet and sense the cold crushed ice in your mouth...do I need to say anything more. A treat for the hot summers.

This place is famous for its Pav Bhaji and Chaats. You also get the popular Dhabeli. Its a potato mixture filled inside the local bread (pao), and garnished with roasted peanuts, chopped onions, pomegranate and some chaat masala. Its heavenly if you are treated by the right Dhabeli waalah (as they are popularly known as). The one to look for is a dhabeliwaalah who has stationed himself close to the famous Agarwals. He operates from under a tree. Word of caution here - only look at the dhabelis, avoid looking at him or the tree or the surroundings.

The paanipuris (Delhiites please read as golgappa) are also a delight here. Now comes the most popular Gujrati dishes, the dhokla and the khandvi. You can buy this from most local food shops here. Also check out other stuff like Khakra, Choonda, Thepla and some exotic mukhwaas. All this and more at Ghatkopar. A must checkout food-lane in Mumbai.

The author Parvathy lives in Mumbai and blogs at http://paro-kickingboredom.blogspot.com

Grubhogs in the news!

2008-08-10T11:58:00.003+05:30

Grubhhogs was once again featured in the news.

Read the article at Indulge
See what everyone is talking about at www.grubhogs.com

An unusual hotel from Panjim...

2008-08-07T02:01:00.007+05:30

By Frederick Noronha

A brief video report of Anandasharam, a simple yet popular place serving traditional Goan Hindu food, known for its tasty curries and fish-based preparations. You can eat home-style food, and the cost of a rice-plate: Rs 25 (as of August 2008).

The author and videographer Frederick Noronha lives in Goa and blogs at http://fredericknoronha.wordpress.com/

Blogged with the Flock Browser

"Cool Food Quotes"

2008-08-05T11:04:00.004+05:30

Compiled by Parvathy Nair

These are a few quotes on vegetarians, non-vegetarians, eggetarians and humanitarians. Please take it in the right spirit. If you think you will be unable to tolerate it, don’t read beyond these ellipses…

Avoid fruits and nuts. You are what you eat.
- Jim Davis

Many aspects of my method are based on my feeling and experience. For instance, I always give my bird a generous butter massage before I put it in the oven. Why? Because I think the chicken likes it and, more important, I like to give it.
- Julia Child

I love Thanksgiving turkey...it's the only time in Los Angeles that you see natural breasts.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger

Ever wondered about those people who spend $2 a piece on those little bottles of Evian water? Try spelling Evian backward.
- George Carlin

It is after you have lost your teeth that you can afford to buy steaks.
- Pierre August Renoir

I am not a vegetarian because I love animals; I am a vegetarian because I hate plants.
- Whitney Brown

I was a vegetarian until I started leaning toward the sunlight.
- Rita Rudner

Vegetarian: A person who eats only side dishes.
- Gerald Lieberman

Vegetarian - that's an old Indian word meaning "lousy hunter."
- Andy Rooney

I did not become a vegetarian for my health; I did it for the health of the chickens.
- Isaac Bashevis Singer,

How can you eat anything with eyes?
- Will Kellogg

Animals are my friends... and I don't eat my friends.
- George Bernard Shaw

The author Parvathy lives in Mumbai and blogs at http://paro-kickingboredom.blogspot.com

Grubhogs in the News!

2008-08-04T04:11:00.006+05:30

Catch some grub online! - July 30, 2008

Food and entertainment now has an Internet angle. The ultimate, hip new urban food and entertainment guide to seven of India’s major cities is finally here.

Taking the concept to the cities of Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Goa, New Delhi, Noida and Gurgaon, the website, grubhogs.com will be launched this week.

The brainchild of Samir Nanjapa, a Chennai-born, San Francisco settled teacher of clinical dentistry, unlike other existing print and online guides, Grubhogs will be a novel online interface of democratic opining and social interaction reflecting the passion of its users.....

Continue reading at :

GRUBHOGS.COM GOES LIVE!

2008-08-02T23:42:00.002+05:30

Grubhogs.com, the one stop guide to everything fun and food in 7 Indian cities went live on August 1st, 2008 to some great response. The website is now available and free for everyone to browse, add reviews and connect with other members!

See you at: www.grubhogs.com

Cuisine worth fighting for....

2008-07-27T01:02:00.011+05:30

- By Parvathy Nair

Yesterday, on my way to drop my son to school, my eyes fell on a hoarding. It showed the popular Afghan sport, Buzkashi. Adjacent to the picture was the line, ‘A cuisine worth fighting for…Baluchi cuisine. Baluch? Baluchistan? Afghanistan? Obviously, it had to be Afghanistan’s share of Baluch, as the sport shown on the hoarding was Afghani. Suddenly a series of pictures flashed through my mind. Pictures of mass exodus of refuges, tumultuous events, The Kite Runner, veiled women…And I thought to myself “Do people there really have a lavish cuisine to brag about?” It was more shocking because it was to be spread at Intercontinental, The Grand in Mumbai.........

Continue reading on the Grubhogs Mumbai Pages

Grubhogs in the News!

2008-07-25T10:38:00.010+05:30

The Grubhogs are here! - By Dipanita Nath
A new website is checking out every eatery, spa and salon in the city

It takes very little to turn an evening out into a bad memory — a disco where the music is all wrong, a diner that isn’t serving half the things on the menu, or a spa where the masseur has grubby hands. If only somebody had told you about these places before! Now the Grubhogs will do just that.

Grubhogs, a first-of-its-kind website to be launched in May, will have ordinary people writing about the highs and lows of their experiences at a restaurant, salon or spa that you plan to visit. The brainchild of 33-year-old Samir Nanjapa, a dentist based in San Francisco, the website relies on actual experiences to give the real picture......

Continue reading at

We are launching soon! Take a sneak peek

2008-07-03T22:39:00.005+05:30

Samithu Par Legend - Book Review

2008-07-01T22:45:00.008+05:30

- By Samyuktha PC

In 1950s, there was an absence of the idea of a cookbook. S. Meenakshi Ammal lost her husband, Samanna Iyer, two years after her son, Sankaran, was born. As a young widow with two kids and an old mother-in-law to tend to, she grew up in a tough household.

Even as a child she loved cooking and was brilliant at the art. She recognized cooking as something everyone could learn and that required guidance. She was often requested for recipes and kept writing them out and sending out to her friends and relatives. Her uncle, Rao Bahadur K V Krishnaswami Iyer, persuaded her to publish all her recipes as an anthology............

Continue reading on the Chennai Pages

Contribute to this Blog!

2008-06-26T23:20:00.003+05:30

The Grubhogs Team is almost set to launch the Grubhogs website. The one stop guide to everything entertainment and food in India!

But we are not stopping there, the Grubhogs Blog will offer ever more exciting information, stories, opinions, reviews are more on the Grubhog Cities.

You can also be a guest author on this blog. Send us relevant articles and we will publish them here.

Do you love eating? Do you love travelling? Grubhogs.com is the domain for you. Don't lose the chance of becoming our Featured Reviewer and Blog Reporter. Join now! Email us at grubhogs@grubhogs.com

YOU FIND IT, YOU REVIEW IT!

2008-03-29T06:53:00.000+05:30

GRUBHOGS.COM website launches July 2008

Grubhogs is launching a hip urban guide for India (BANGALORE, MUMBAI, CHENNAI, DELHI, GOA, NOIDA AND GURGAON) that aims to become the ultimate city guide for local restaurants, bars, clubs, spas, salons and more.

You will be able to add a place, write about it, read about it, its all in your hands! Even list an event for free!

We would love to see you there from the beginning. Sign on to our Facebook and Orkut groups before the website launches, talk about your favorite eatery, restaurant, spa or any establishment. You can even choose to become a "Featured Reviewer" on the website when it goes live!

Meet us @ Facebook group: Grubhogs - You hungry?
(http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8744734220&ref=mf)

Meet us @ Orkut group: Grubhogs - You hungry?
(http://www.orkut.com/Community.aspx?cmm=46214745)

Email us: grubhogs@gmail.com

THE GRUBHOGS BLOG

Mamma Mia...!!! Mothers Day n Mumbai

Check what's HOT this weekend...!!!

It's Here Finally...!!!

Grubhogs is Buzzing..!!! :)

Grubhogs.com has also teamed up with Mydala to give you some great deals in your city.

Everyday there is something new!

Check out the deals for the day in your favorite city.

This isn’t the end!!! there is more to it…..

Yes! Write a review this week on Grubhogs.com

and you could win a gift voucher at

Cafe Coffee Day worth Rs.250!

Sinful Indulgence...!!!!

Brew it Right..!!!!

"Art Arattai Aarpattam" - Fund raiser program in Chennai

This July, for a change try someting different........ to create a difference.

Discover Mysore with Grubhogs.com

This Weekend @ Bangalore...!!!

Bangalore's best Steak 'n' Sizzlers

Grubhogs needs critics!

Summer nights in Bangalore

Bored Kids? There's always Summer Camp - Chennai

Bored kids? There's always Summer Camp!

Taco Bell enters India with Desi Burritos!

Our Picks: North Goa's Boutique Hotels

Real men drink a "Patiala Peg"

Claytopia, Harima, Tuscana and more reviewed!

"Darshini's all the way"

"Free your inner Critic" Contest is back!!

Cool new Grubhogs badges for your Blogs!

What do we need to survive?

Milky Way - All the way!

In pursuit of Tea…After all, Tea is the drink!

The Grub pig meets the Tweet bird!

Love it or hate? - Cool reviews on Grubhogs.com

What's new in Goa, Mumbai, B'lore and Chennai?

Chennai's evolving "Grub" Scene

Get dined and pampered at Mumbai's newest!

Mumbai gears for a "sea" change!

Oh Coffee! - Part II

Archie chooses his bride!!

The Latest on Mumbai and Bangalore's Food Menu!

B'loreans gets a few more hours to live it up!

Oh Coffee!!! - A series on the world's favorite drink

Grubhogs Origins - "Grubbing with a dentist"

And the Winners are!!

Your opinion actually pays!

"FREE YOUR INNER CRITIC" CONTEST

Everyone's raving but these Grubhogs are ranting!

Celebrity Owned Restaurants: Recipe for Disaster?

The Grubhogs Gab arrives!

Grubhogs in the news!

Making traditional wines... from Goa, and from tropical fruit

Grubhogs is hiring!

The 'Food-lanes' at Ghatkopar

Grubhogs in the news!

An unusual hotel from Panjim...

"Cool Food Quotes"

Grubhogs in the News!

GRUBHOGS.COM GOES LIVE!

Cuisine worth fighting for....

Grubhogs in the News!

We are launching soon! Take a sneak peek

Samithu Par Legend - Book Review

Contribute to this Blog!

YOU FIND IT, YOU REVIEW IT!

"`FREE YOUR INNER CRITIC" CONTEST`