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Chill Out

Time Out

Ritika Ramtri Kumar

A bustling commercial hub by day, Pune transforms after dark into a sparkling seductress. No matter what the weather’s like outside, Puneites love to let their hair down. The following’s a quick list, in no particular order, of some of the favourite hangouts.
Vaish and Roops (and if you are unfamiliar with Pune jargon, Vaishali and Roopali), win our vote for both their easy ambience and sumptuous udipi fare. Another eternal favourite, the Poona Coffee House, which has been famous for its delicious entrees, dedicated staff and clients, also comes out tops. We suggest you try out the Malabari Parathas and Murgh Chettinad with piping hot appams.
If you are a foodie a trip to Curry on the Roof, might well be worth your while. You can sample Japanese, Indonesian, Chinese and Thai cuisine. Shangrila Garden Restaurant boasts of yummy sizzlers. Ever heard of an Indian sizzler?
If you like world cuisine, then Polka Dots, which serves European, Mexican Southeast Asian and Indian cuisine, promises to delight you. Fashioned after roadside cafes in Europe, Polka Dots is a casual dining place, which does not serve alcohol. You could enjoy a relaxed seafood meal at Banjara Hills or visit Xtasy- the Restobar and Grill Room at the Pride Hotel, for grills and continental food.
The ambience is especially lively and the music eclectic. You can even shake a leg if you please to. As far as shaking a leg is concerned, when the music at Scream gathers momentum, it does so with a vengeance. Quite the place to let your hair down as DJ Agnel spins out hip-hop, retro and rock tracks. You can also nibble on tikkas, fried fish and starters from the tandoor.
When it comes to cool theme lounges, Apache -The Fluid Lounge is quite unlike the proverbial watering hole. It serves only beer and snacks as you unwind with rock music. Or you could choose to relax at Symphony Blues where the music is cranked down by a notch, to accommodate conversation. If you can’t handle high decibel levels, then this is the place to be. A good hangout is a party that goes on every evening for years. It’s a place where laughs come easy, and you can even nurse a heart on the rocks. Things change, but a hangout stays the same. See you at one!