Responsible Drinking: 7 Key Practices to Follow

Enjoying a drink can be a blast, but the aftermath is far from fun. Here’s how to make sure you’re in control and still having a great time.

1. Know Your Limits

Understanding your own alcohol tolerance is crucial. Everyone has different limits, so it’s important to know yours. Pace yourself and be ready to say no when needed. It’s not just about avoiding a terrible hangover—it’s about staying in control and enjoying the night.

2. Eat Before You Drink

Having a meal before drinking slows the absorption of alcohol into your system. Think of your stomach as a sponge; food helps absorb alcohol more gradually. Skip the chips and opt for a hearty meal. Snacking throughout the night can also help maintain control.

3. Stay Hydrated

Water is your best ally. Drinking water alongside your alcohol helps prevent dehydration and keeps you in better shape. Remember, it’s all fun and games in movies, but in real life, dehydration leads to headaches. Sip water between drinks to pace yourself and prevent overindulgence.

4. Resist Peer Pressure

Friends might encourage you to drink more, but it’s essential to stay firm. Just like Hermione Granger’s confident refusal, saying no to extra drinks is a smart choice. True friends will respect your decision and you’ll enjoy your night on your own terms.

5. Plan Your Transportation

Always plan how you’ll get home. Never drink and drive. If you don’t have a designated driver, arrange for a taxi or ride-share. Avoid the chaos of last-minute transport issues by planning ahead. Safety first!

6. Avoid Mixing Drinks

Stick to one type of drink to maintain control. Mixing different beverages can sneak up on you and spoil the night. It’s not just about avoiding a hangover—it’s about staying clear-headed and enjoying yourself. Choose a drink and stick with it.

7. Take Breaks and Pace Yourself

Sip slowly and savor each drink. Think of drinking like a wine tasting—slow and mindful. Take breaks to dance, chat, or relax. This approach helps you stay aware of how much you’re drinking and ensures you enjoy the night.

The Morning After

Even with a great night out, it’s important to care for yourself the next day. Rehydrate, eat a nutritious breakfast, and take it easy. A glass of water with lemon and a hearty meal like eggs and toast can help you recover. Remember, taking it easy is key to feeling better. Cheers to responsible drinking!

The Coconut Boy in Bandra Unveils Exclusive Goan Snack Menu

Bandra, Mumbai: The Coconut Boy, renowned for its authentic Goan fare, is set to launch a special Goan Snack Menu this monsoon. Starting July 1, 2024, guests can enjoy a delightful array of Goan snacks from 4 pm to 7 pm, available for both dining in and delivery.

Delicacies from The Coconut Boy

Immerse yourself in Goan flavors with dishes like Chicken Steak Pav, Ros Omelette, Choris Pav, Roast Beef Sandwich, Prawns Stuffed Papad, and Goan Spicy Potato Samosa. Complement your snacks with refreshing beverages such as Cold Coffee, Tea, and Tender Coconut Water for a complete hi-tea experience.

The menu will also feature daily specials, showcasing unique Goan delicacies and classic favorites, ensuring an enticing experience each visit or delivery.

Don’t miss the chance to savor Goan snacks at The Coconut Boy this monsoon!

Menu: Goan Snack Menu
Date: Starting July 1, 2024
Time: 4 pm to 7 pm
Address: The Coconut Boy, 003, Epitome Building, 29th Road, Survey No F/858, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
Link: Instagram

Exclusive Interview: Award-Winning Chef Manuel Olveira of ‘La Loca Maria’ and ‘La Panthera’ Speaks to Lyfestyle!

There’s a reason Mumbai is often described as ‘Maximum City.’ Not only does it serve as an economic powerhouse, but it also stands as a melting pot of cultures, creating a vibrant culinary scene.

Among the city’s dining gems, La Loca Maria stands out for its Spanish cuisine, thanks to the talents of award-winning Chef Manuel Olveira and his wife, Mickee Tuljapurkar. Their success led to the creation of La Panthera, a chic, modern European restaurant that has quickly captured Mumbai’s culinary imagination. We at Masala! had the pleasure of speaking with Chef Olveira about his journey, culinary philosophy, and more. Here’s what he shared:

Lyfestyle!: How did your upbringing in Toledo, Spain, influence your cooking style and preferences? What cultural influences have shaped your journey from Toledo to Mumbai?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “Growing up in Toledo, surrounded by my family’s restaurant business, I spent countless hours in the kitchen with my mother. Watching her prepare traditional Spanish dishes, from paella to gazpacho, instilled in me a deep appreciation for fresh ingredients and bold flavors. These early experiences have been fundamental to my cooking style.”

Lyfestyle!: How do you incorporate Spanish culinary traditions with Mumbai’s diverse flavors at La Loca Maria?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “Moving from Toledo to Mumbai was a thrilling culinary journey. The vibrant Mumbai markets, with their rich spices and varied ingredients, inspired me to blend these bold flavors with the traditional Spanish techniques I learned growing up. While I remain true to Spanish cuisine, I occasionally adapt our dishes, like adding a hint of red chili to our patatas bravas, to resonate with local tastes without losing their Spanish essence.”

Lyfestyle!: What has been the most rewarding part of working with your wife, Mickee Tuljapurkar, on these restaurants?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “Mickee and I are each other’s confidantes. Her vision has been crucial in shaping both La Loca Maria and La Panthera. Working with someone you love adds a unique layer of trust and support. She has an amazing sense of humor and can always boost my confidence or clear my mind when needed.”

Lyfestyle!: How do you balance your personal and professional lives while managing two successful restaurants?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “Balancing work and personal life is challenging, but we’ve found a rhythm. We avoid bringing work conflicts home and always resolve disagreements without getting personal. Delegating responsibilities to our trusted team helps us manage both our personal lives and the demands of our restaurants.”

Lyfestyle!: What is your creative process for developing new dishes for La Loca Maria and La Panthera?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “Creating new dishes is exciting and can come from various sources—seasonal produce, travel experiences, and team brainstorming sessions. We constantly explore new flavor combinations and techniques to keep our menu fresh and appealing.”

Lyfestyle!: How do you keep the menu fresh and relevant with current food trends?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “We focus on innovation and adapting to feedback from our diners. Introducing seasonal menus, like Mango Specials or Black Truffle Menus, helps keep our offerings exciting and aligned with current trends.”

Lyfestyle!: How do you approach designing the bar program to complement the food at your restaurants?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “Our bar program is crafted in-house using modern techniques like fermentation and rapid infusions. At La Loca Maria, we offer signature cocktails, traditional Spanish drinks, and unique creations. La Panthera features a curated list of 14 signature cocktails paired with thoughtfully chosen tapas.”

Lyfestyle!: What are some must-try dishes at La Loca Maria and La Panthera?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “At La Loca Maria, don’t miss our paellas, Mushroom & Truffle Croquettes, and fish tacos. At La Panthera, try the Naples-style pizzas, beetroot carpaccio, and the New Zealand Lamb Chops.”

Lyfestyle!: What advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “The kitchen is demanding and often far from glamorous. Success requires drive, patience, and respect for every element of the kitchen—people, equipment, and ingredients.”

Lyfestyle!: How do you see Mumbai’s culinary scene evolving, and what role do you hope to play in its growth?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “Mumbai’s culinary scene is vibrant and evolving, with a growing appreciation for diverse cuisines. We aim to contribute to this dynamic scene by offering unique, familiar flavors and expanding our reach through collaborations and pop-up events.”

Lyfestyle!: Can you describe a typical day in your life as the head chef of two busy restaurants?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “My day starts early with exercise to stay energized. I spend time between both restaurants, overseeing food preparation, managing the team, and ensuring smooth service. It’s demanding but deeply fulfilling.”

Lyfestyle!: What is your vision for the future of La Loca Maria and La Panthera?

Chef Manuel Olveira: “We aim to stay ahead of trends while staying true to our roots. Our goal is to offer diverse Spanish and European flavors and create a vibrant culinary community. We’re looking forward to expanding our reach through collaborations and new ventures.”

Pizza night just got an upgrade with Papa John’s new Grilled Cheddar Pizza. For a limited time, Papa John’s is bringing cheddar—the beloved, sharp, and tangy cheese—right to your doorstep.

Cheddar is a staple in many favorite dishes, from sandwiches to mac ‘n cheese, and Papa John’s believes it deserves a starring role on pizza. This new creation features cheddar’s rich, creamy flavor on a classic Papa John’s base, taking your pizza experience to a whole new level.

Cheese enthusiasts should mark their calendars for the arrival of this special edition pizza. In addition to the classic Grilled Cheddar Pizza, UAE customers can enjoy a unique twist with a ranch sauce base, crunchy panko bread crumbs, and gooey cheddar.

“We’re dedicated to offering exceptional pizza, and cheddar is a perfect example of our commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor and quality,” says Karim Chaanine, Chief Marketing Officer at Papa John’s. “This new grilled cheddar pizza combines sharpness, richness, and a satisfying crunch, showcasing our promise to deliver ‘BETTER’.”

Papa John’s Grilled Cheddar Pizza is a tribute to cheese lovers and a testament to the brand’s commitment to ‘better ingredients, better pizza’. For more details, visit papajohns.com.

The Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant wedding, held on July 12, 2024, at the Jio World Convention Centre, was a spectacular celebration of luxury and opulence. Among the many highlights of this grand event was the extraordinary food menu, which featured over 2,500 dishes encompassing both Indian and international cuisines. Reports reveal that an entire floor of the venue was dedicated to this lavish spread.

The culinary experience at the wedding was nothing short of extraordinary. The food floor was a vibrant showcase of diverse cuisines, with stalls representing regional specialties from across India, including Maharashtra, Punjab, Kerala, and Gujarat. Special highlights included a chaat stall from Varanasi’s renowned ‘Kashi Chaat Bhandaar,’ serving favorites like samosa chaat and ragda-puri, and a stall from Cafe Rameswaram, known for its South Indian delicacies.

Adding to the grandeur, live food counters offered freshly prepared dishes, including Italian specialties and the viral pasta alla ruota, made inside a cheese wheel. The dessert offerings were equally impressive, featuring an array of cakes, pastries, hyper-realistic edible fruit desserts, tiramisu dessert caviar, and a wide selection of Indian sweets.

The Ambanis spared no expense in curating a remarkable dining experience, enlisting top chefs to design exclusive menus. Renowned Peruvian chef Virgilio Martínez, from Lima’s Central, presented an exquisite menu featuring zucchini and asparagus tiradito, cashew roll with mountain chimichurri, and avocado emulsion with Peruvian corn. Goan chef Avinash Martins also contributed, serving dishes like pao de queijo, grilled sweet potato, and grilled oyster mushroom xacuti.

This opulent affair truly set a new standard for wedding feasts, blending culinary artistry with unparalleled luxury.

Woodside Inn’s Beer & Burger Festival Enchants Mumbai’s Food Lovers

Some pairings are simply irresistible: wine with cheese, fish and chips, coffee and doughnuts. But when it comes to unbeatable duos, nothing rivals the classic combination of beer and burgers! Whether you prefer a perfectly grilled, juicy patty or a crispy, delectable option, there’s no better way to enjoy it than with a cold, refreshing beer. We experienced this match made in culinary heaven at Woodside Inn in Bandra, Mumbai.

Woodside Inn’s annual Beer & Burger Festival is back with a bang, celebrating its 17th year with a vibrant carnival theme. Running from July 8 to August 10, the festival transforms Woodside Inn’s outlets in Colaba, Bandra, and Andheri into a festive extravaganza, featuring ten inventive burgers inspired by global carnivals and six exclusive craft beers.

This year’s festival features a collaboration with renowned Chef Ralph from Praca Prazeres, who has curated a special Goan Carnival Burger for the event. Partnering with Windmills Brewery from Bangalore and Bira 91, the festival offers unique, limited-edition craft beers. If that doesn’t pique your interest, we don’t know what will!

A Global Carnival on Your Plate

The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the diverse selection of burgers, each crafted to transport you to different corners of the world. We sampled four standout options:

• Nigerian Yam-Boree: Inspired by Nigeria’s Calabar Carnival, this vegetarian delight features a hearty yam patty with a spicy pepper sauce, paired with a crispy bun and mouth-watering sauce.
• Balkan Blast: A tribute to Croatia’s Rijeka Carnival, this burger boasts succulent Balkan-style lamb with ajvar (roasted red pepper sauce). Tender and juicy, it’s a messy but delicious affair.
• Po’Boy King: Paying homage to the Mardi Gras celebrations in the USA, this burger features a crispy shrimp patty with remoulade sauce and Southern charm—perfect for seafood enthusiasts.
• Notting Crazy: Inspired by the Notting Hill Carnival in England, this burger combines a juicy chicken patty with tangy coleslaw and jerk seasoning, capturing the multicultural essence of the festival.

A Toast to Carnival Spirits

The festival also features an impressive lineup of six limited-edition craft beers, brewed exclusively for the event:

• Goan Gypsy: A smooth stout from Bira 91, infused with roasted chocolate malts, nutmeg, and coconut, inspired by the Indo-Portuguese dessert Bebinca.
• Xtra Hoppy Pale Ale: A collaboration with Windmills Brewery, this pale ale offers a hint of citrus with Maris Otter malt and Australian hops.
• Rio Redeemer: A refreshing lemonade lager inspired by Brazil’s carnival, delivering a vibrant citrus punch.
• Masquerade: A unique blend of craft beer and fine wine, creating a distinctive Sangiovese beer.
• Blanc Out: A delightful hybrid of French wheat ale and American IPA, perfect when paired with a Balkan Blast burger.
• Paradiso Tropicale: A tart ale bursting with orange and pineapple flavors.

The CarniWorld Experience: More Than Just Food and Drinks

Beyond the culinary delights, the CarniWorld festival is a celebration of global culture and festivities. Woodside Inn’s event lineup includes a shopping carnival, Goan band performances, and Queer Camp, with special events tailored to the festival. Whether you’re a burger aficionado, a craft beer enthusiast, or just looking for a fun, vibrant atmosphere, Woodside Inn’s Beer & Burger Festival promises an unforgettable experience.

When: July 8, 2024 to August 10, 2024
What: Woodside Inn’s 17th Beer & Burger Festival (Carnival Edition)
Time: 11:30 AM to 1:30 AM
Where: Woodside Inn, Colaba, Bandra, and Andheri

Embrace the Monsoon with a Cozy Hot Pot Feast from The Little Food Co

This monsoon season, warm up with a steaming bowl of Hot Pot from The Little Food Co. Inspired by Chef Bhakti’s travels through the bustling streets of Southeast Asia, our Hot Pot Delivery service is available throughout August, bringing the vibrant flavors of the region right to your home.

Transform your dining experience into a flavorful adventure with our Hot Pot kits. Each meal is more than just a dish—it’s a journey into the heart of Southeast Asia.

Hot Pot Offerings:

• Sichuan Hot Pot (Mushroom/Tofu): Dive into a rich vegetarian Sichuan broth filled with tofu and dumplings, forest mushrooms, Chinese cabbage, lotus root, pak choy, and edamame. Complemented by ramen noodles and served with Ginger Mirin and Chili Garlic dips, the meal is topped with spring onions, fried peanuts, and sesame furikake, accompanied by scallion buns and a fortune cookie.
• Chongqing Chicken Hot Pot: Savor the spicy Chongqing chicken broth with tender chicken and dumplings, alongside forest mushrooms, Chinese cabbage, and pak choy. Enjoy with ramen noodles, Ginger Mirin, and Chili Garlic dips, and topped with spring onions, fried peanuts, and sesame furikake. Comes with scallion buns and a fortune cookie.
• Chongqing Pork Hot Pot: Relish a savory pork broth with pork belly and dumplings, enhanced by forest mushrooms, Chinese cabbage, and pak choy. Ramen noodles, Ginger Mirin, and Chili Garlic dips add depth, finished with spring onions, fried peanuts, and sesame furikake. Served with scallion buns and a fortune cookie.

Each Hot Pot kit is designed for easy home preparation, featuring Sichuan and Chongqing broths with ingredients sourced from Singapore and locally.

“I travel to Southeast Asia frequently and always savor the hot pot experiences. My recent trip to Singapore introduced me to a Coconut Water hot broth that was unforgettable. Sichuan hot pot is irresistibly addictive. After hosting numerous hot pot gatherings at home, I wanted to share this joy with everyone through our delivery service,” says Bhakti Mehta, Head Chef and Founder of The Little Food Co.

Don’t let the rainy weather keep you down—celebrate the monsoon with our comforting Hot Pot delivery. Order now to enjoy a taste of Southeast Asia from the comfort of your home and create memorable moments with every bite!

Experience the Ultimate Sunday Brunch at Hakkasan Mumbai: ‘Lost In Shanghai’

Prepare for an immersive culinary adventure as Hakkasan Mumbai introduces its new Sunday brunch, ‘Lost In Shanghai’. This unique brunch experience transports guests into the vibrant atmosphere of an East Asian metropolis, combining the essence of Cantonese cuisine with a whirlwind of engaging activities. It’s an escape from the everyday hustle you won’t want to miss!

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a glass of Prosecco, setting the tone for an elegant yet lively atmosphere. The setting blends sophistication with East Asian vibrancy, featuring dim lighting, cozy conversation areas, and a generous selection of Don Julio to celebrate the occasion. The curated music by our DJ enhances the perfect vibe for an unforgettable experience.

Begin your culinary journey with comforting options like Wild Mushroom Clear Soup, Hot & Sour Soup, or Sweet Corn Soup with a chicken variation. For salads, choose between the Vegetarian Duck and Cress Salad or the Crispy Duck Salad, prepared with pomelo, pine nuts, and shallots.

Explore our small plate selections, including Har Gao, Crispy Tofu with Szechuan Peppercorn, Stir-Fried Chicken with Szechuan Peppercorn, Crispy Prawn with Wheat Flakes, and Carrot Cake. Enjoy a variety of steamed dumplings, such as Spicy Chicken Dumpling, Crab Dumpling with Singapore Chilli Sauce, Chicken & Prawn Dumpling, Edamame Truffle Dumpling, Vegetable Crystal Dumpling, Spicy Jackfruit Dumpling, and Truffle & Carrot Dumpling.

Elevate your brunch with our exquisite mains! Delight in the rich San Pei Chicken Claypot, spice things up with Stir-Fried Chicken in Chilli Oil, or savor the aromatic Stir-Fried Lamb with Ginger & Spring Onion. Enjoy the Stir-Fried Pak Choi with Burnt Garlic, Stir-Fried French Beans with Shiitake Mushroom, and Szechuan Mabo Tofu for a touch of heat. The Stir-Fried Lotus Root and Asparagus in Black Pepper and Four-Style Vegetables in Szechuan Sauce provide a vibrant, vegetable-forward feast.

Our rice and noodle selections are crafted to perfection, featuring Fragrant Chilli Fried Rice, Egg Fried Rice with Spring Onion, Szechuan Noodles with Chicken, and Hakka Hand-Pulled Noodles.

Finish your meal with decadent desserts such as Dark Chocolate Mousse, Apple & Vanilla Crème Brûlée, or a selection of ice creams for a delightful ending.

Don’t miss our sensational cocktails! Refresh yourself with the Tanqueray Your Tonic (Gin, Berries, Citrus, Herbs, Grapefruit, Tonic), Maravilla Paloma (Don Julio Blanco, Marigold Liqueur, Fresh Grapefruit Juice, Tonic Water), Lychee Bellini (Asolo Prosecco, Lychee Juice, Citrus), and Lavender Gimlet (Tanqueray Gin, Lavender Cordial, Bitter).

For spirits and wine enthusiasts, choose from Tanqueray, Don Julio Blanco, Asolo Prosecco DOCG Brut (Italy), Santa Rita 120 Sauvignon Blanc (Chile), and Santa Rita 120 Cabernet Sauvignon (Chile).

Join us for an extraordinary weekend experience and discover why ‘Lost In Shanghai’ is the ultimate brunch destination.

Mumbai’s Hidden Culinary Delights: Discover Underrated Gems from India Restaurant to Balsa

As Mumbai continues to expand and evolve, its culinary scene is brimming with hidden treasures that are worth exploring. These underrated eateries offer mouth-watering dishes that deserve a spot on your dining bucket list. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:

India Restaurant: Fort

Affordable and consistently delicious, India Restaurant is a must-visit for non-veg lovers. The Chicken Angara, with its minced chicken in a rich gravy served sizzling hot, is a standout dish that will keep you coming back for more.

Aparna Restaurant: Charni Road

This vegetarian haven on Charni Road is a treat for plant-based diners. With budget-friendly prices, the Mushroom and Spinach vegetable is a highlight, perfectly complemented by a refreshing glass of Lassi. A visit here is a delightful experience for any vegetarian.

Mao: Mumbai Central

For those who relish non-veg fare, Mao is a top recommendation. Bring a group of friends to enjoy the Chicken Kepsa Rice, served on a giant plate, and the Mutton Galauti Kebab. The ambiance is inviting, and the place offers great value and quality.

Rare Earth: Khar Road

Though it’s a vegan café that might not draw huge crowds, Rare Earth offers unique and delicious plant-based dishes. The café also features adopted pets for a fun dining experience. It’s a worthwhile stop, even if you’re not a vegan.

Balsa: Lower Parel

Located in the bustling Kamla Mills Compound, Balsa stands out with its appealing architecture and flavorful food. Often overlooked, it offers friendly service and a pleasant dining experience. If you’re in the area, Balsa is definitely worth a visit.

Explore these hidden gems and enjoy some of Mumbai’s most underrated culinary delights.