PlainGeets

To live in Bangalore and not know Koshy’s is a sacrilege.  And when I say “know” I don’t just mean know the address and use it as a landmark, but actually go there, at least once.

I’ve been to Koshy’s of course – not once, but several times. In my first year in Bangalore, I went there several times, mostly for breakfast and then I got busy discovering the other gourmand delights in Bangalore. I went back recently after a very long time to rendez-vous with colleagues and friends, over several occasions in the evening, when the charm is completely different.

Koshy’s isn’t just a café. Koshy’s is an institution that dates back to 1940 and retains its old-world charm in its décor of huge pillars, big ceiling fans, simple tables and the photographs and watercolors depicting Bangalore of the yesteryears. My favorite tables are the ones that overlook the busy St. Marks Road with the wooden blinds.

A popular amongst journalists, artists, theatre persons, students and most importantly tourists (it’s listed as a must-visit in every guide), the café (also known as Parade Café) boasts of having welcomed Jawaharlal Nehru and Queen Elizabeth II.  

What do they eat there you ask ? Truth be said, the menu at Koshy’s isn’t that delightful. They have a very old-world menu with a breakfast menu, some sandwiches, “short eats,” and desserts (including Peach Melba, if you please!), none of which excite the imagination in today’s era of fancy food. But there is something delightful in their simple chicken sandwiches and their toasted ham sandwiches. One bite and a warm contented feeling spreads across your body, leaving you smiling.

And then there is that wonderful ambiance – electric with the constant bustle of the crowd of people entering and leaving, of tidbits of conversation on the neighboring table, all of which is very conducive to meandering conversations with friends over a steaming cup of coffee or a sweating bottle of beer !

I won’t just recommend Koshy’s – I will go as far as asking when you’re going there next !