Where to take clients

Bengaluru’s vibrant dining and drinking culture often blurs the lines between work and play. Deals are struck over cups of single-origin coffee at bright, chic cafés which double up as workspaces for the tech-savvy crowd. A popular choice is Araku Coffee, whose arabica beans are sourced from the Araku Valley in the neighbouring state of Andhra Pradesh.

Bengaluru’s traditional dining culture and street food are best experienced at old-world darshinis like the iconic MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room), a quick-service breakfast spot serving dosas (rice batter crêpes), idlis (rice-and-lentil batter cakes) and filter coffee from as early as 6.30am.

For dinner and drinks with colleagues, celebrated chef Manu Chandra’s newest venture Lupa is a sleek space where the highlights are the eclectic, spice-infused cocktails and a salumeria offering that is unmatched in the city.

Finally, as the birthplace of India’s microbrewery movement, Bengaluru’s craft beer scene is unrivalled. There are hundreds of brewpubs to choose from for a post-work pint, including the supersized Ironhill spread over an area of 130,000sq ft. For a more private gathering, cosy Windmills is a great choice for live jazz music and a refreshing hefeweizen.