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Buhari Hotel – One Of The Prestigious Restaurants In Chennai

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If you are in Chennai, and you are getting a conservative vibe from the place about their food culture then you are wrong. There are an equal number of amazing restaurants for both vegetarians and meat lovers in Chennai. Over the years, a variety of delightful non veg cuisines have opened up across the city. But the Buhari hotel is one which stood out to me.

Buhari hotel in Chennai is one of the prestigious restaurant which opened its gates to the public in 1951, The place started with espresso machines serving steaming cup of coffee, which was accompanied by great  music of the times, and English cutlery so foodies can experience a different dining experience.

The man behind Buhari different dining experience was Mr A.M. Buhari who created various signature dishes to make its restaurant stand apart from various other restaurants in business. He created various different blends of biryani and chicken recipes which stood out to the public in Madras. Mr. Buhari who left his village and gone to Sri Lanka when he was 10 years old. Has taken some years to settle and find his passion. Mr Buhari was always fond of food and groceries of which he started trading which later led to introduction of Buhari Hotel in Colombo which has served Buhari’s signature dish.  The mildly spiced fragrant biryani which was a trademark dish of Buhari brand in Colombo has also travelled to Madras when Mr Buhari’s Father wanted him to return to India and open a branch of Buhari in Chennai.Now the restaurant has nine branches in city and  is looking forward to set up  more in  upcoming years.

The Mount Road branch which is the oldest one in Chennai for more than five decades. It has served various generations of celebrities, actors and superstars.and introduced many other signature dishes as well..Buhari hotel is not only known for mildly spiced biryani .It has also introduced chicken 65 recipe – a deep fried chicken dish with red colouring, It is also rumored or theorized that it takes 65 days to prepare the marinade for Chicken 65, or the dish got its name from the fact that the chicken was cut into 65 pieces before being cooked and served. There was another theory stating that dish might contains 65 chilli red peppers because of which it has a red fiery color , However, the truth is that  the dish was made for Indian soldiers in 1965 from which it got its name.

Buhari hotel also offers Chinese food, paronthas, and tandoori platters if you are not a Chicken or biryani person. There are also other various service and amenities which make food Experience at Buhari Hotel More worthwhile.

Home Delivery- Buhari Hotel also deliver food to homes which makes it easy to enjoy non-veg delicacies while enjoying the comfort of your home.

Room Amenities: Buhari hotel offers air-conditioned rooms  for the people who want to rest  after a hearty meal at restaurant.

Timeline

1951- Buhari Hotel First Branch opened in 1951 at Mount Road Chennai

1956 – A.M. Buhari introduced a jukebox and a coffee machine at the Anna Salai branch which made it stand out from other restaurants in Chennai.

1965 – Buhari hotel introduced Chicken 65

1996 – Founder Mr. A.M Buhari died.

Location, Price and Hours of Operation-

  • Location – Anna Salai, Mount Road, Chennai, Near Cosmpolitan Club, Opposite Mosque & Tarapore Towers
  • Prices – 500 to 1000 INR for 2 people (Depending on the dishes ordered) Meat dishes will cost more as compare to curries and rice dishes.
  • Hours of Operation- 10:00 am – 1:30 am (May vary by Branch)

If you happen to visit Chennai, do hop in to taste some delicious food at this iconic restaurant.

Featured Photo of ‘Southern India – Food’ by Jason Chung under CC BY 2.0

The Indian Coffee House And A Mystery Tea Shop In Prayagraj

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Loosened ties, torn pockets, dirty shirt and withered coat would be the best way to describe my daily school live in Allahabad city. A student of class ninth, the age was perfect when you start tasting a bit of freedom from home. More than the hormonal change, little facial hair and sudden change of voice, what made me grow was a company of friends which taught me a lot of things to cherish.

Prayagraj, which I still love to call Allahabad as it brings me back to the lanes I’ve walked, is a city Sangam and Kumbh Mela. Apart from all the religious places, the city also holds a history of the era of freedom struggle against the mighty British Empire. With a lot of buildings inspired by the Victorian era, Allahabad smells both like, a sophisticated cup of coffee and a playful pyala of chai.

Now as I talk about coffee and tea, mixing it with my misadventures as a guy growing up have been stitched together as short stories I love telling people. Like every other kid, school times have been the best years of my little life. The chemistry lab romance, frequent punishments and school bunk. Bunking school isn’t a good idea but when I think about it now as a grown up, I think I lived a colourful life.

Bunk stories are always associated with Addas (hangout spots) and two of my favourite ones would be the Indian coffee house and a small tea and samosa shop behind Samrat Hotel. Both have contrasting differences but are situated at the same place, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Civil Lines.

Indian coffee house has stood the test of time since the British era, serving frothy filter coffee to its customers. It is one of the 400 coffee shops under this chain. Established in the 60s, the Indian coffee house in Allahabad has entertained poets like Firaq Gorakhpuria and Harivansh Rai Bachchan including many more. Politicians like Lal Bahadur Shastri and Nehru Ji have also been a part of this community. Indian Coffee house was a place which the Indians would consider going and do what Goras Sahibs (British officers) would do, enjoy the locally brewed coffee and debate on intellectual topics for the benefit of this country.

In my era though, we would sit around the tables of this historic place and discuss what we had to do in our futures and debate about current topics while sipping on our favorite cup of joe. The uniformed butlers and the quick service is an add on to this intellectual adda.

Talking about the menu, Indian coffee house is famous for its south Indian filter coffee and Butter masala dosa which simply melts in your mouth. The famous potato cutlet and cold ice-cream cold coffee is another must have.

Shifting the focus from an intellectual hangout to a more disarranged chaos of happiness would be a small little samosa shop behind the Hotel Samrat near the Indian coffee house. I still don’t remember the name of the place but one would somehow find himself there when you enter the civil lines market. A shop tucked in a corner serves delicious samosas but I would rather prefer chola samosa. Hot, mouth warming piece off delight broken into pieces with masala chola(chickpea curry) on top with tamarind and mint chutney takes ones breath away. Unlike the Indian coffee house, this place is where you would sit and chatter about your school life dramas and crushes, heartbreaks and love affairs while toking on a cigarette. Many like me did try their first Marlboro at this little place, trying to walk straight after a puff.

So I leave it up to you to decide whether go for a cup of coffee, really good dosa with mindful discussions or a Kulhad chai some samosas and the bro code. Both are worth it.

Featured Photo of ‘Chai and samosa’ by Shalu Sharma under CC BY 2.0

5 Amazing Cafes Near Old Manali You Gotta Visit

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Manali! One of the most popular tourist destinations in India, isn’t it? Well, I’ve been there a couple of times too! and the last time was on my honeymoon. It was an arranged marriage for us, and there was very little that we knew about each other. Manali was the perfect destination to explore as newlyweds is what we thought, but what we forgot was that this little hill station undergoes major hustle bustle every single day – I guess it’s the cost that it has been paying for being an ideal tourist destination.

We did not want to give up to the hustle bustle, so we decided to explore things that were a little away from the main Manali town. And, guess what – we reached Old Manali. Known as the paradise for bag packers this area attracts thousands of people from all around of the world; yet its hushed. Located approximately 3 kilometers uphill from main Manali city, Old Manali homes amazing cafes that are perfect for spending time with your special ones along with some scrumptious food.

So, here I bring for you 5 amazing cafes in and around Old Manali that will sure add one unforgettable moment to your trip.

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Photo of ‘IMG_1598.jpg’ by Silver Blu3 under CC BY 2.0

5 Amazing Cafes Near Old Manali You Gotta Visit

1. The Johnsons Café and Hotel

Johnsons Café is a place where friends gather, and exactly the place where we as a couple became good friends. This beautiful café has been featured on Highway on my place and even on the Lonely Planet; well I did not know this when I was there. Set on the picturesque location of Circuit House Road, Johnsons café is very popular for its European cuisines. Their Trout fish is something to die for. The backdrop of the snow-capped mountains gives this place the perfect oomph.

Well, if you are on a budget then this place may be a little too expensive. But trust me the location, food, and ambience make it totally worth to every single penny you spend there.

2. Born Free Café

Scrumptious local and foreign delicacies, live performances, and people from across the world surrounding you – this is just a glimpse of being at the Born Free Café. This café is located on the Manu Temple Road in Old Manali. Himachali, American, Israeli, or Italian – This café covers different types of cuisines on its menu. Tangled with its cozy and energetic ambience this place will pull you towards its again and again and again.

And yes, along with the café, Born Free also offers hostel and coworking spaces. People say it is one great place to chill even when you are on a budget.

3. River Music Restaurant and German Bakery

Fresh, calm, and peaceful – the 3 beautiful words that describe this place perfectly. We explored this place when I was craving badly for cakes and pastries. And the River Music Restaurant and German Bakery is known for their huge offerings of delectable bakery products. Located on the Club House Road facing the Manalsu river and the aromas of freshy baked stuffs – My nose can never get over this café. And yes, there is nothing too great about the ambience but the feeling of having coffee and deserts beside the river is unbeatable.

Do try their Coffee, Cakes, and Sandwiches.

4. Cafe 1947

There was something really special about the place, no wonder I still feel its vibes. Café 1947 is very-very popular for its delicious Italian Treats. Along with the splendid view, their service and food are something that deserves a loud applaud. Located in Old Manali, the café falls on the way to the popular Manu Temple; and yes, it is considered as one of the best cafes in Old Manali – that’s the reason it is highly recommended that you do visit this place.

Pizza, Pasta, and Risotto – I’ve been their twice, and trust me every single time the food here was amazing.

5. The Lazy Dog

Bordered by lush green trees and set in the lap of a beautiful river the Lazy Dog café in Old Manali is one amazing place that ranks high on both food and ambience. With a western touch in its ambience this place organizes frequent live performances. So, along with food, the owners feed you a dose of good mood as well.

I found their outdoor seating really nice as it perfectly complements the Cold Manali with the sun on the top.

So, this was it! Dating in Old Manali or Eating in Old Manali – this list can be used for either of the cases. 😊. Hope you liked reading this, do let me know what you think. Also, if you know similar cozy corners in Manali do drop it to us in the comments section below.

Until we meet next CIAO!

Featured Photo of ‘The Bee’s Knees Cafe…’ by Jaskirat Singh Bawa under CC BY-SA 2.0

Go Chinese At These Delectable Chinese Restaurants Of Delhi NCR

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I’ve been a die-hard fan of Chinese cuisine. When I began my hunt for Chinese food in Delhi, I discovered some of the most amazing eateries on town. So the next time you crave for some scrumptious Chinese food make sure you hop into any of these restaurants. Here’s my pick on 7 most delectable Chinese restaurants in Delhi NCR.

Chinese Restaurants Of Delhi – 7 That Offer Scrumptious Chinese Food

War Thunder - Chinese Food
Photo of ‘War Thunder – Chinese Food’ by April in Paris ♡ under CC BY 2.0

1. Royal China

Located in Nehru Palace, this restaurant is truly royal from every inch. Royal China offers of the most beautiful views of the lotus temple. When it comes to food, there dim sums are something to die for. Well this one can be a little expensive, normally one meal for two could cost you around 5000 bucks.

2. EEST

Another one for a classy Chinese treat is EEST. This is one of those few resturants with Chinese cuisine to serve authentic ‘Ma Po Tofu’ with some scrumptious minced pork – drilling isn’t it? EEST is in MG road and the cost for two would come to around rupees four and a half thousand.

3. Shang Palace

Set inside Eros hotel at Ashoka road, this is the place for all Chinese food lovers. This restaurant belongs to the world popular group Shangri-La. You can expect the most authentic Chinese flavors here. Their Beijing Roast Duck is a must try. Cost for a meal for two is around rupees 4 thousand.

4. House Of Ming

House o Ming is located in Hotel Taj Mahal at Mansingh Road. The cost for a meal for two is around 4 thousand rupees. You can visit this restaurant for an exceptional Chinese meal. And don’t forget to try their sea food dishes, they are amazing.

5. Ano Tai

Located in Jaypee Vasant Continental in the bustling Vasant Nagar Ano Tai offers only authentic flavours. Talking about the crowd you can expect to see a lot of people from South-east Asia and China. No wonder their food is so very truly Chinese. The cost for a meal for two would come around rupees four thousand.

6. Nooba

Nooba is incredibly popular as a place to grab on the go. Their meal bowls are totally scrumptious and fulling at the same time. Alongside being truly Chinese with their food, they do add something new and experiment with the flavors and never go wrong. One of the must try dishes at Nooba is prawns with brocolli in delectable white garlic sauce. The cost for a meal for two is just 1200 rupees comparatively cheap to all the other options here.

7. China Club

If you got a desi palate, then china Club is the place to be. Located in MG road of Gurugram, china Club offers flavors which are close to several regions of China. Their Fried Bacon with spicy green chilies and brinjal stuffed with bean curd are out of the world, do try them. The cost for a meal for two is around 2500 rupees.

So, the next time your heart calls Chinese food, hop into any of these Chinese Restaurants Of Delhi. Trust me you will not be disappointed; they got some really good Chinese dishes cooking. If you got any other Chinese Restaurants Of Delhi worth adding here do drop it to us in the comment section below.

Featured Photo of ‘Chinese soup with mushrooms and tofu’ by Marco Verch Professional Photographer and Speaker under CC BY 2.0

“Tihar Food Court” – A Dining Experience With The Jail Inmates

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“Tihar Jail”, the moment we hear these two words we are reminded of the prisoners residing on the jail convicted of committing heinous or small scale crimes. Seldom can we think that it can serve delicious dishes within a Food court filled with an entertaining ambiance. But believe it or not, it is true and real. Within the complex of Tihar Jail, the largest prison in South Asia, resides the Tihar Food Court. It provides exclusive dining facilities inside a well decorated and spacious restaurant.

The Uniqueness of the Tihar Food Court

We often visit restaurants owned by a food major or it being part of a renowned food chain. Deviate from your regular choices and venture out once at the Tihar Food Court. You will be simply amazed to witness the generosity of the staff and the manager coupled with the taste of its delicacies. Thanks to Mr. Vimal Mishra, the Director General of Prisons, who was instrumental in generating the idea to set up the Food Court.

A question may arise as to who runs the Tihar Food Court? Is it the inmates? Well the answer is Yes. Do not worry, even if they are accused of some hate acts their behavior will not reflect any of their past actions. The motive behind opening up the Food Court inside the Jail is to bring about a reformation within the behavior of the prisoners. They have been extensively groomed in hotel management skills so that they can be engaged into a decent work and earn money for their living. A special program called “From Talent to Employment” has been framed for the inmates to learn cooking, serving and baking.

The Food court is essentially present in the semi-open prison premises where the food is served and the cooking is done inside the prison. The inmates are permitted to enter the semi-open prison only during the daytime to serve food and return back inside the prison by evening.

The Décor and the Food of the Tihar Food Court

The restaurant has the capacity of accommodating 50 guests. You will be astonished to see the paintings on the walls of the food court. They have been made by the inmates themselves, which portrays the hidden talent and skills of the convicts. It is a learning to the society that each and every individual possess an inherent capacity which needs to be explored and focused over above all negative qualities.

The tables and chairs are made of wood and colourful jute fabrics. They impart a simplistic look to the overall ambiance. Opened in 2014, the Food court serves dishes from both Indian and Chinese cuisines. Sea foods are a specialty of the restaurant. There are ample vegetarian dishes offered for the guests. The taste and food quality have been highly appreciated by many food lovers. The Indian common snacks samosas, chaats, sandwiches are quite a favourite among the guests. The price is also minimal, about INR 300 for two people.

You will experience lips smacking dishes in a simplistic environment at the Tihar Food court. The etiquette and manners of the inmates are worthy of praise. In fact there is no space for complaints. It is a real good attempt to alter the lives of the convicts by engaging into a noble job. Not only it helps them to showcase their culinary skills and interpersonal habits, but transform them into good human beings.

Location and Timings

The Tihar Food Court is located at the Tihar Jail Complex opposite to the Indraprastha Gas station in Jail Road. The restaurant is open all days from 11 AM to 4:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM.

The place can be reached by bus or a cab from any part pf Delhi. You must certainly not miss out the dining experience at the Food Court to witness the amazing ambiance with the inmates and the delicious foods cooked by them.

The Jail authorities have certain criteria to select the inmates for the hotel management training. They need to complete 12 years in prison with clean record and the minimum educational qualifications must be high school. After then special training are arranged for them to bring up their competency in culinary skills and serving the guests in the food court.

Tihar Food Court is an example of successful rehabilitation of convicts deployed into a prestigious job. They interact with outsiders which also refreshes and rejuvenates their mind. They are kept engaged in continuous work, ensuring their brains constantly functions on something good. Their minds stay focused on the fact that they are earning money through their hard work and skills. As guests visiting the food court we must ensure to appreciate their talents and attitude which will certainly contribute in improvement of their motivation and will power. A stress free happy mind would never involve in criminal activities in future. Let them lead a path of honesty and purity, an attempt for a better India.

Featured Photo of ‘Kachori chaat’ by Devika under CC BY-SA 2.0

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