Chill at Couch

Metallic bar stools are so cold. And straight-backed wooden chairs, so square. So say goodbye Scandinavia and hello Spain. At the all-new Couch, with a smorgasbord crafted by Spiga — yes, the late-lamented restaurant on Lavelle Road — and seating selected on the basis of loungeability.

Climb a grand wooden staircase to reach a simulated Spanish hacienda. Lie back on a sofa. Curl up in a chesterfield. Put your feet up on an ottoman. Or fashion the single pouffes and hassocks into your own layout. The bronzed glow-mesh partitions ensure you have plenty of privacy whether you want to huddle together or stretch out expansively.

The distressed cement walls and slate floors contrast wildly with whacky, scarlet rugs; the ultra-modern interpretation of the traditional chandelier picks up the lingering colours of the sunset over M G Road.

Nurse a long drink. Or order off the eclectic menu, which satiates every yearning, from tandoori to pan-Asian to Mediterranean. Our Trendy Foodie sampled the satay paneer, oriental salad, lemon fish and Greek-style rice and topped it off with the Oreo cheesecake. And came back raving.

Now if only they’d teach you to roll your tongue around Hola!

Couch Lounge Bar & Restaurant, first floor, SAI Complex, 114/1 MG Road, Bangalore. Tel: 41512898. Beer starts at Rs 80, cocktails at Rs 300. Tapas and salads start at Rs 120. Main courses at Rs 200.