A few years back JP Nagar was known for theatres at Ranga Shankara and breakfast at Woody's, but things have changed a lot since then! A host of new cafes, restaurants, and breweries keep on cropping up here and there, probably as a need of the hour as traffic had gotten worse. As we step into the third year of the pandemic, some of these new places have actually become neighborhood as well as city favorites. Let’s take a look at my top recommendations in JP Nagar, Bengaluru that you must visit in 2022.
Khmer Kitchen in JP Nagar brings some amazing southeast Asian fare to Bangalore, featuring especially some Cambodian dishes that are prepared with the freshest ingredients and really make for the best comfort food! They also have a nice selection of dim sums, bowl meals, skewers & satays, and a lot more! The property itself was the residence of late actor and playwright Mr. Girish Karnad, which is now wonderfully adapted into the restaurant. There are larger-than-life-sized art and murals, with trees growing out of murals, like Ta Prohm and Bayon temples (remember Tomb Raider?) Quite a few open-air spaces for gatherings, and private corners for tête-à-têtes - we loved the vibe, and definitely recommend this as a must-place to visit in Bangalore!
Must try: Fish Amok, Veg Kreong Curry and their cocktails
For those not staying in or frequenting South Bangalore, URU may be one of the many breweries and restaurants that have popped up in the area over the last couple of years. But the discerning folks know that URU has a restaurant, cafe, bistro, brewery, gin garden, pet park and more, and it really is a destination worth checking out and recommending. The food selection, variety in beverages, the massive space and the vibe of the place ensure there’s something for everyone. It’s actually great to work out of, have meetings and catch up with friends, or host private events.
If you think JP Nagar hangouts have the luxury of space, you aren’t wrong and our next listing The Pump House will prove that and how! It’s a space that brings together food, beer and the craft beer culture that so thrives in this vibrant city. The beers are good, and the food ranges from bar snacks to comfort eats, all carefully designed and beautifully presented. This isn’t a place you’re going to go home hungry from! Multi-storied with different mood seating and an almost infinity ceiling across the floors, this place is good for meetings, catching up, or parties.
Must try: The craft beers, tandoor and wok specials
From one pub in Malleshwaram, 1522 has made its mark in Bengaluru as the “Neighborhood” Pub for all, winning multiple accolades on the way for their service and ambiance! Good bar food, inexpensive drinks and selection of cocktails, and a super fun place that’s pretty much the reasons to hang out here. A multi-level setup here as well, each floor is designed to reflect a different theme; so right from the 90s themed bar, with LED Neon lighting and wall graffiti, to an elaborate bar setup on a higher floor, to outdoor deck and a great view, there’s really a lot of variety to match your mood and vibe! The food is a mix of everything, but coastal is definitely a favorite across all their outlets, a place to hang with the regulars!
Must try: Cocktails, Neer Dosa, Ghee Roast, Curry Leaf Mushroom
Another great place to hang out in JP Nagar is Stories, near IIM Bangalore. Open architecture with a lot of greenery all around, perfect for that chill-out session that’s long overdue - that’s the vibe of the place. They have some interesting cocktails and mocktails, and chakhna to pair your drinks with, but don’t worry their menu has extensive food options right from regional to Italian, Asian, Indian – so no one’s going home hungry!
Remember the Bangalore of the 90s and 2000s with sports bars? That’s what you’ll get right here in JP Nagar at The Studs. Designed to be a hub for all sports enthusiasts, live screenings, Play Stations, pool table, dart boards – this is the place for groups whether it’s office team outings or to watch that game of soccer. The menu has a good variety, think share & care platters, all the way to fun food concepts, the “Diner” experience, global street food, and the classics. And a pretty impressive cocktail menu to keep things fun and interesting.
Must try: Orange Breakfast Martini, Jager Bomb Kaapi, The Studs Nachos, Pannacotta
Debolina Ray is a Bangalore-based traveler, food lover and fashion enthusiast. She is an extremely talented Food Blogger, and Food Reviewer. Being an avid connoisseur, Ray shares her informative insights on everything related to her experiences with food & dining on her very popular blogger site sheknowsgrub.com
