Ismat Tahseen
Get your gang of buddies and tap your beer mugs together, for Oktoberfest is here! The world’s largest beer festival and carnival – originally held in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria – is a huge fete in the German town, with parades, breweries set up in tents, floats, dancing and live music galore. The festivity is rung in with week-long gastronomic events around the world with folks enjoying their favourite beer and German food in bar nibbles, mains and desserts as they chill out and party. Here’s looking at places in Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Delhi that are bringing Oktoberfest to life, so raise a toast to the traditional fare and chilled brews…
MUMBAI
Bavarian Feast at L&S Bistro, InterContinental Marine Drive
Here’s a hotspot to earmark. Step into the heart of Bavaria in Mumbai at L&S Bistro, InterContinental, Marine Drive. Drawing inspiration from the rich history of the famous Bavarian festival, this event promises to be a culinary journey filled with authentic Bavarian flavours, hearty food, and a festive atmosphere. Choose from a diverse array of small plates, from Crispy Potato Pancakes with Broccoli and Emmanthel, Savoury Brezels to Chicken Schnitzel, the layered goodness of Kasespatzle Pasta, the heartiness of Eintopf with a flavourful Broth, succulent Sauerbraten and Currywurst. Conclude your dining experience with the decadence of Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte or the perfect balance of sweet and tart in the Classic German-Style Trifle. Relish that with Bira White and Blonde and beer pints.
Name: L&S Bistro, Intercontinental Marine Drive
Address: Intercontinental 135 Marine Drive, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Rd, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Contact: 022-66399855
Cost for two (price): INR 3000 (with taxes)
Oktoberfest experience at JW Marriott, Juhu
A load of gastronomic fun awaits at JW Mariott, Juhu. The essence of Oktoberfest is synonymous with great food, a lively atmosphere, and, of course, outstanding beer and Lotus Cafe’s Oktoberfest Sunday Brunch on 1st October promises an unforgettable culinary journey, sumptuous traditional German brews alongside a traditional German feast. Tuck into Classic German Potato Salad with a choice of bacon and chorizo, Maultaschen (Poached Chicken Dumplings in broth), Braised Sticky Baby Pork Ribs, Sailors Sweethearts (Fresh tilapia, mushroom, sauerkraut, dill and caper butter Sauce), Pork Nuremberg Sausages and Pork Meatloaf with Black Pepper amongst other fare.
To end the repast, bite into Viennese Apple Strudel, Bundt Cake and the iconic Kaiserschmarrn. Adding a sweet traditional note will be the hotel’s associates dressed in traditional ‘Dirndl’ dresses with ‘Lederhosen’ juggling mugs filled with beer, as Bavarian music and culture fills the air. On until October 3.
Address: JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, Juhu, Mumbai
Contact: + 91 22 6693 3344, +91 90046 16506
Cost for two: INR 7,788 (excluding alcohol), INR 10,502 (inclusive of alcohol)
Oktoberfest ARK 2.0 at Courtyard by Marriott, Mumbai International Airport
Grab your friends and get into the spirit of the festival with ARK 2.0. The festive experience includes Beer Bucket Specials that comprise Budweisers, Hoegaardens and Seven Rivers and Octoberfest beer cocktails. Don’t miss the Craft Wheat Beer Selection featuring Becks, Bira, Hopper, Copter 7 and more as you also tuck into starters like Sauerkraut and lamb balls, Curliest pork sausages with mix green, Devil on Horseback (dates and cheese wrapped with bacon wild arugula and cherry tomato), Toad in the Whole (Slow cooked onion and chicken sausages baked with the batter of savoury pancake), pretzel breads. For the main course try the Käsespätzle (Baked Creamy cheese spaetzli), Grilled Bratwurst, Grilled lamb chop and. Baked fish and round that off with desserts like Green Apple Strudels and Praline Cream Caramel. The highlight will be the Hoegaarden White with drinks like Sweet Summar and Mango Breeze, Tropical Nector and Peachy Zest, Hoegaarden Rose with Smoky Orchard, Corona Cocktails and Beer Buckets.
Address: Courtyard By Marriott, Andheri Kurla Road, Andheri East, Near Mumbai International Airport, Chakala, Mumbai – 400059
Contact: +91 9819702421
Cost for two (average): INR 2,500 ++
Themed food at ITC Maratha’s Oktoberfest celebration
Experience the vibrant and authentic flavours of Oktoberfest right in the heart of Mumbai at the Peshwa Pavilion and Bombay High Restaurants, ITC Maratha. Prepare to be regaled with an indulgent culinary journey encompassing the rich traditions of international cuisine accompanied by a wide selection of craft beers, both local and international, to complement the delicious sauerkraut, soft pretzels, bratwurst sausages and other Bavarian fare. On till October 3. Try the Bucket of 3, One on One Draught Beer and go for top-up offers with short eats. This will be accompanied by live music performances that capture the festive spirit of Oktoberfest, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Address: ITC Maratha, Andheri East, Sahar, Mumbai – 400099
Contact: +91 022 28303030
Cost for Two (approx.): INR3,500
Culinary creativity and craft beers at KMC*
The Oktoberfest celebration is getting an elevation at KMC with its Oktoberfest-themed offerings. The gastronomic experience promises authentic German flavours with a touch of creativity in a curated menu pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of Germany. Among the delecatble dishes you’ll find Curly made of curly sausage with lettuce and dynamite potatoes, Platter that features Pork Frankfurter or Chicken Nuremberg with Chilli-Garlic Butter, Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Sauerkraut. Also explore the delightful world of Currywurst with a choice of Chicken-Garlic Kroker or Spicy Pork Sausage, smothered in a tantalising Hot Sauce Curry accompanied by Pickled Green Chillies and Aioli.
Accompanying these are KMC*’s lineup of refreshing craft beers on tap from the Gold Lager, crafted with the finest Citra hops that packs a zesty punch to Light Wheat, a crisp, low-calorie brew with a twist that combines the refreshing snap you desire with hints of orange peel and coriander. Paying a nod to the style most Indians started their beer journey with – Lager, Bomabe is a take on the classic Lager – fermented low and slow with a super clean malt profile, lovely fluffy head retention, and dry hopped for a gentle reserved bitterness and slightly fruity aftertaste.
End your meal on a sweet note with indulgent desserts like the Beer Float, a unique combination of beer and house-made corn ice cream that’s reminiscent of buttery popcorn. Inspired by the traditional Kaiserschmarrn dessert, KMC* is serving a velvety vanilla ice cream sandwiched between cinnamon brioche toast and served with an organic blueberry compote. Such a delectable treat!
Traditional trail at The Westin Mumbai Garden City
It’s a wholesome feast at The Westin Mumbai Garden City in the way with all the flavours of Germany to brighten up Octoberfest. Begin your meal with a choice of breads and spreads like Brotchen with schmand und glumse with bacon bite spread, Pretzels with Pate De Porc and Vollkornbrot with Chicken Spread. Try the Chacruterie Platter and traditional salads like Bayerischer Wurstsalat, Kartoffelsalat and Bavarian Apple & Sausage salad. The mains offer an elaborate choice of Frankfurter Hot Dog with chili Pineapple Relish and Sauerkraut, Chicken Schnitzels with Bavarian Braised Apple & Red Cabbage and Kasespatzle, the German Mac n Cheese.
Address: Oberoi Garden City, International Business Parl, Yashodham, Goregaon, Mumbai – 400063
Contact: 9769994581
Cost for Two (approx): INR 5,000 plus taxes
Infuso menu at Juliette Ristorante & Bar
Indulge in a culinary journey through Europe and the Mediterranean as Juliette Ristorante • Bar unveils ‘Infuso’ – a delectable beer-infused menu just in time for Oktoberfest. From the rich and comforting Beer Barley & Cheddar soup to the flavourful Brewed Seafood Ceviche Salad, and the enticing Beer Butter Garlic Prawns, each dish is a celebration of flavours. Don’t miss the Beer-Infused Pumpkin Risotto, featuring a delightful blend of seasonal ingredients and beer infusion. ‘Infuso offers a diverse selection of courses, including soup, salad, small plates, and big plates, promising a memorable dining experience that pairs perfectly with the spirit of Oktoberfest.
Address: Juliette Ristorante & Bar, Raheja Classique, 12, next to Infinity Mall, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400053
Contact: 093245 94718
Cost for Two: INR 1800
German flavours meet festivity at The Burrow
It’s an exuberant celebration at The Burrow, BKC. Get ready to raise your glass and bite into delectable flavours as the Oktoberfest menu is transports you straight to Germany! Curated by Chef Yashasvi Modi, it presents a variety of dishes. Set things rolling with the Red Wine Poached Fig Crostini, succulent Frankfurters, Zwiebelkuchen – a savoury masterpiece featuring a blended trio of onion, creamy brie, and crispy bacon in a delectable tart and the German Bacon Potato Salad and Meatball Soup. For the mains, the choices are the Veggie Burger with zesty piri piri sauce and melty cheddar cheese, Chicken Schnitzel and Slow-Cooked Barbecue Pork Ribs. Fish lovers will relish the Lemon Garlic Fish, cloaked in a velvety mustard cream sauce that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Bavaria. For a sweet finale, treat yourself to the decadent Black Forest Pastry, adorned with kirch cherry compote.
The Burrow’s beer cocktails have you covered with options like Dear Mary – a refreshing and fruity drink made with Tequila, Cointreau and kirsch and topped with larger beer as well as The Burrow Raddler – a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavours with Moonshine Cider, Bombay Duck Larger and Sour Punk candy. Also try the Baby Gunniess Shot – a classic drink with Kahlua & Bailey’s and The White, a light and refreshing drink made with Peach Shrub, Whitbier, and Bacardi. On till October 3.
Address: The Burrow, Adani Inspire, G Block BKC, Patthar Nagar, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East.
Contact: 022-35113057
Cost for two (approx.): INR 2,200
Say Prost to the German food festival at Sofitel Mumbai BKC
Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the elegant, luxury hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, is toasting to Oktoberfest 2023 with a German Food Festival, offered at the hotel’s Pondichery Café from September 16-October 3, 2023. Considered the world’s largest beer festival, Oktoberfest celebrates the best beers and foods to match, for a two-week period. At Sofitel’s Pondichery Café, guests can enjoy a variety of international beers, beer cocktails, and traditional German cuisine. On offer is a range of sausages on the grill, including options like Bratwurst, Frankfurter and Thuringer; doner kebab; a variety of schnitzel (pork, water buffalo and chicken); Rollmops (pickled herring); Maultaschen (meat-filled dumpling); Spatezle (house-made egg noodles); and Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Gateaux). The traditional German spread will be served for both lunch and dinner at Pondichery Café, accompanied by the range of beers available for this special festival (they will also be available at the hotel’s Le Bar).
Address: Pondichery Café, Sofitel Mumbai BKC, C 57, G Block BKC, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai – 400051
Contact: +91 91673 91130
Cost for two (approx): INR 7,000 +taxes (drinks additional)
Munich to Mumbai at World of Craft, Phoenix Palladium
Photo courtesy: Phoenix Palladium
Bellona Hospitality Service Limited brings the essence of Munich’s Oktoberfest to World of Craft at Phoenix Palladium. The East Zone has got transformed to play host to the celebration with brands like Dobarra, Poult, and Fyole Cafe set to make this memorable.
Poult, known for its delectable fried chicken and gourmet burgers, ensures that your beer is perfectly accompanied by mouthwatering delights. Dobaraa, a high-energy bar serving lip-smacking cocktails like the Cosmopolitan and Smoky Regroni, as well as refreshing draught beer and an extensive bar food menu. Live singers, DJs, and various artists will grace the World of Craft stage, crafting an immersive Oktoberfest Carnival experience.
To conclude your meal on a sweet note, Fyole Caffe – All Day Café has curated delightful options including Apple strudel, yeast dumplings with vanilla sauce, and tempting pretzels to satisfy your sweet cravings. On until October 3.
Woodside Inn’s Bavarian indulgence
Photo courtesy: Woodside Inn
To tune into Oktoberfest, this year, presents its Oktober celebration is whisking guests away to the heart of Bavaria, immersing them in a captivating experience of German culture, flavours, and authentic brews. The culinary adventure commences with the luscious Potato Terrine paired with the flavourful obatzda dip, have a comforting bowl of German potato and leek soup, elevated with a touch of chili oil or try the artfully composed Gurkensalat salad. Stealing the spotlight are dishes like Nuremberg hot dog and Lager-braised chicken thighs paired with a fried potato terrine and gypsy sauce and the innovative Bavarian squash burger starring a Chayote squash patty accompanied by obatzda, currywurst sauce, and sauerkraut in a milk bun.
Indulge in a fitting finale with the decadent Black Forest pull me up enriched with in-house cherry brandy and melting chocolate. And finally, raise your glasses to some authentic German brews such as the Gold Rush from Gateway Brewing Co, a deep gold festive lager that boasts a rich, toasty caramel flavour, the majestic Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops delivering a mild bitterness and exuberant floral notes and Champagne Supernona from Bombay Duck Brewing, a Berliner Weisse served with Saray & Co. orange and rosemary syrup. On until till October 8.
Address:
Colaba – Indian Mercantile Mansion, Wodehouse Road Colaba Causeway, Colaba, Mumbai – 400039
Bandra – 3/4, Dheeraj Pali Arcade, Dr Ambedkar Road, Pali Naka, Bandra West, Mumbai – 400050
Andheri – Shop No.11 & 12, Link Plaza Commercial Complex, Bhau Tatoba Toraskar Marg, Andheri West, Mumbai – 400102
Contact: 93217 28192 (Colaba), 79 6815 8311 (Bandra) and 96194 22492 (Andheri)
Cost for two: INR 2,500
PUNE
German cuisine and brews take centre stage at Conrad Pune
Conrad Pune, the flagship luxury hotel for Hilton Worldwide, is whipping up the fun with its Oktoberfest celebration at Coriander Kitchen. The restaurant is transformed to exude an inviting, vibrant ambience area to play host to the festivity as you indulge in the authentic flavors of German brews and hearty treats prepared by skilled chefs. Mark you calendar and head here to being Oktoberfest to life. On until September 14.
Address: 7, Mangaldas Road, Sangamvadi, Pune-411001.
Contact: 020-67456745, +91 9168603850
Cost for two: INR
DELHI
Celebrate Oktoberfest in style at Zoca Diner
This Oktoberfest, Zoca Diner is churning up the fun at Oktoberfest as it presents an array of exciting additions to its menu. The wide choices will tantalise your taste buds from the delectable Makhni momos to farm-fresh pizzas, Harissa Grill Chicken, refreshing coolers, the exquisite Chinese Platter, flavorful Murg Anagara and succulent meaty grills. Pair these with special cocktails and other chilled drinks along with Zoca’s Instagram-worthy aesthetics that add to the celebration. Looking to host a kitty party or a family get-together this Oktoberfest? This is the place to do so.
Address: 3rd Floor, Spectrum Metro Mall, Sector 75, Noida, 201301
Contact: 9205061691
Cost for two: INR 1800
Quench your thirst for the finest beers at Flow
Let the good times and fantastic brews roll at Flow, Delhi. For his Oktoberfest, #GoWithTheFlow of the festive spirit with the symphony of flavours and a free beer. They’re pouring the finest German beers like Pilsner, Weizenbock & Marzen Lager along with presenting some amazing food options. Reserve your tables through Instagram and get a beer on the house, too!
Address: 2nd floor, Commons, DLF Avenue, Saket
Contact: 9899199141
Cost for two (approx.): INR 6,000
A beer and barrel of fun at Cafe Delhi Heights
Those who frequent Cafe Delhi Heights will know how their Mom’s Butter Chicken Masala Burger and Grilled Chicken Breast are such hot favourites. The eatery is also adding a lot more to its menu for the Oktoberfest celebrations, that are on until October 3. Grab the forks and knives and tuck into traditional dishes like currywurst, bratwurst chowder, German potato salad and much more and wash that down with Oktoberfest drinks.
Address: 68, 1, Janpath Rd, Atul Grove Road, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi – 110001.
Contact: 97110 34033
Cost for two: INR 3,500
BENGALURU
Play games, chug beers at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel
Say cheers to an Unlimited Beer Delight as Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel ushers in an extravagant beer fest at their very own equestrian-themed RBar. While enjoying endless beers, indulge in some lip-smacking appetizers as recommended by chefs. Looking to play a few games, chug beers, and eat delectable food while you’re at it? Then this is the place to be. On until October 1.
Address: RBar, at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel
Contact: +91 95139 44520
Cost: Bottomless Beer for 150 mins (2.5 hours) and 1 appetizer per person at INR 1700 ++
Special brunch at Lush, Renaissance Race Course Hotel Bengaluru
The Renaissance Race Course Hotel Bengaluru also has an exotic Oktoberfest Brunch at Lush where you can relish the richness of German cuisine with dishes like Dark Beer-Marinated Chicken, Oktoberfest Strudel, Bavarian Egg Dumplings, Schnitzel in Creamy Mushroom Sauce with Beer Stein Noodles, Roast Pork Loin in Bavarian Beer Sauce. Some of the German Desserts include Vanilla Bean Custard with German Sour Cherry Sauce, and German Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Black Cherry Preserve.
Experience interactive Live Stations such as The Wolf’s Schnitzel Burger, Wurstel, and Bratwurst Grills, complete with Sauerkraut and condiments. The place is transformed into a Bavarian-themed venue, complete with raucous antics, and upbeat music. On Sunday, October 1.
Address: Lush, at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel
Contact: +91 95139 445
Cost for one: INR 1895++ (without alcohol), add INR 1000 for Beer Package
Oktoberfest at Royal Orchid, Bangalore
Located in the prime Indiranagar area, this property has decked up its newly-launched Beer Garden for the Oktoberfest celebration, which is on until October 3. Guests can enjoy renowned beers on tap and a specially-curated menu for it. Meat lovers are sure to go for the Bacon Wrapped Beer Brat Bites, Spicy Tuna & Cheese Bagels, traditional German Frikadellen (Medallion) and vegetarian options include German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffel Puffer), Sauerkraut Jalapeno Poppers, Veg Bitterballen filled with delectable mushrooms, to name a few of the dishes. Also enjoy two hours of unlimited drinks and food while immersing yourself in the captivating melodies of live music with a DJ.
Address: Jeff’s, Hotel Royal Orchid Bangalore
Cost per person: INR 1999/- + taxes (2 hours unlimited)
Contact: +91 9148146225
