Sometimes I think that my regular haunts are getting a touch too snooby, that double-whammy combo of snobbish and snooty. The more inclusive ones don’t serve alcohol and usually sport one perfunctory screaming child. So, I grinned and jumped when I heard about Bonobo, the new jungle-themed resto-lounge-bar named after an endangered primate with DNA that’s alarmingly similar to the human gene structure!

Apart from the conversation-starter name, with a tag line that read ‘bar.food.love’, I thought this might have some hangout-worthy potential.

What I saw, I liked: easy clean-line cane and wood furniture arranged at spacious intervals on an open terrace with jute-wrapped umbrellas that looked like trees, and lovely, textured, rattan-inspired walls. Large, well-stocked bars, both indoors and outdoors, cute jungle-inspired illustrations on the walls and cool dance groove music from a DJ made me happy to have found this watering hole. The vibe was young and although the service was a bit on the slow side, I certainly didn’t mind.

The menu had some delightful nibbles and drinks — an interesting mix of world cuisine and some brave, fun cocktails — my favourite being a naughty one called Lick My Peach. I would go back for the grilled sausages and teriyaki chicken skewers, both starters, while my friend enjoyed the grilled chicken and jalapeno risotto, creamy and hot, it managed to be satiating and greed-inducing all at the same time! I didn’t wait for the desserts this time, but am eager to sample the banoffee pie the next time I go, which will be soon. Guess I’m bananas about Bonobo already!

Bonobo, Kenilworth, Phase 2, 2nd floor, Off Linking Road, Behind KFC, Bandra, Mumbai; Tel: 26055050, 26055353; Timings: Open from 7pm to 1:30 am; Prices: A meal for two, with drinks, costs about Rs 1,500.

I was cheering A R Rahman as he walked up the stage to accept his Golden Globe for ‘Slumdog Millionaire’, when they zoomed in on Frieda Pinto. Her earrings — neck-skimming diamond chandeliers — glittered. I sighed. Sandra Bullock came on stage to announce the next award, sporting another stunning pair. I felt equally envious. Some lucky stars!

My dream — donning those delicately-studded earrings and jaaliwork cuffs — would have gone poof, had I not stepped into the Amrapali store in Delhi’s Khan Market the very next day.

Right there, in pride of place, were the beautiful rose cut diamonds-set-in-white-gold earrings that Pinto wore on the show. Arrayed alongside were the gold-enamelled, stone-studded bangles that graced Megan Fox’s wrists.

It turns out that many of the glitterati at the Globes — Sandra Bullock, Megan Fox, Maria Menunos, Frieda Pinto — had chosen handcrafted pieces from Amrapali to grace their necks, ears and wrists. No surprises here, given Amrapali’s recent rise and rise amongst the global cognoscenti: jeweller duo Rajiv Arora and Rajesh Ajmera have taken their brand to Milan and New York Fashion weeks, as well as to A-list celebs. Halle Berry is a huge fan (the gold–plated silver disc ear-rings — from the brand’s latest Mughal ‘09 collection — that she wore recently were on display too). So is Angelina. And Brad even wore jewels from the brand for his movie ‘Troy’!

Not all those pieces were at available at the store, but I could place an order for any ’starry’ piece if I liked, the girl at the counter told me.

I picked the jaaliwork cuff set with amethyst — a perfect complement for my new Sabhyasachi saree, as well as the little number from Guess by Marciano.

I can already hear the cheers.

Amrapali, 39 Khan Market, New Delhi, Ph: 41752024. Shop No 39, 62 Oberoi Shopping Centre, The Oberoi, Nariman Point, Mumbai. Ph: 22810981 ext 6839.Collage 21, Ground Floor, “Horizon” Building, Wood Street, Bangalore, Ph:25361130. Website: www.amrapalijewels.com. Price: Silver collection: Rs 1,200 onwards, Gold & Diamond collections: Rs 25,000 onwards.

“Italian?”
“So yesterday.”
“Chinese?”
“Puhleeze!”
“Spanish?”
Now we were talking! And so we headed off to Zara, the boyfriend and I. The moment we entered the newest restaurant on the block, the swirly, tilting columns, the signature Gaudi-style mosaic, the posters of flamenco dancers and bull-fighters and the Latino music transported us to the gorgeous, passionate land of Espana.

At the bar, my boyfriend faced a genuine dilemma. They stocked both his favourite single malts, Laphroaig and Talisker. While he dithered, I settled for a sinful strawberry mocktail. It felt like kilos of fresh strawberries had been crushed just for me, swirled with mint and something mysterious, and served in a pretty glass.

With the boyfriend still unable to make up his mind, I decided to sample some of the tapas, Spanish finger-food. First, we picked our way through the mushrooms in red wine and garlic. Then, morsels of spicy chicken sausages, followed by bite-sized cheese fritters.

Bull-y for the diet, I thought, and I ordered a pan-sauted fish with a lemon-butter sauce. Delish, with a piquant tang to it. And the boyfriend, glass of single malt finally put away, chose the grilled chicken with a spectacular, creamy mushroom sauce, laced with pepper.

We finished with a moist crepe, stuffed with chocolate and finely minced nuts. Superb. On the next visit, though, I’m determined to try the Key Lime pie, concocted with condensed milk and lemon juice.

The experience didn’t end with the meal though. We’ve signed up for flamenco classes. And we’re planning a honeymoon in Spain. We’re dancing the talk.

Zara, The Tapas Bar. New no 1 Ulsoor Road, Bangalore 9. Tel: 42066100. Website: www.orientalgroup.in. Meal for two without alcohol: Rs 1,100.

Winter was so brief this year. Yet, I’m not mourning for spring is around the corner, and it’s there in my step as well. And not just in my step: From tomorrow, namma Bengaluru hosts the Attakkalari India Biennial, a one-of-a-kind festival that celebrates the contemporary movement arts.

Note, not just dance, or theatre, but a much wider, edgier canvas that incorporates emerging technologies, digital arts and interactivity, as presented by troupes from 11 countries. I’ve already culled my must-see short-list from among 21 performances, prioritised by group renown and real-life rootedness.

* The Murder in the Elevator by Dance Theatre CcadoO (South Korea): A dead man is found in the elevator. His autopsy shows a 15-second brain image of the sky and a single tree that casts no shadows. How did he die? What does the image mean? And how does it affect me?

* Quantransitions & Charade by Rhythmosaic Dance Company (USA): Every phenomenon in this world happens in relation to another, whether it’s a teardrop or a falling leaf. A solo performance uses technology to explore the connections. No one can remain unaffected.

* Chronotopia by Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts (India). Inspired by the Tamil epic Chilappathikaram, dance establishes a link between human existence and external forces. Think of it as diet philosophy.

* Could I just draw your attention to the brevity of life? by Cie Philippe Saire (Switzerland): What’s the driving force of life? And exactly how fragile is this universe? Tough questions with surprisingly delicate answers.

* ETE-Extended Teenage Era by Samir Akika (Germany): A study of a generation of young artists that lives without steady jobs. Buoyed up by playfulness and full of subversive jokes, it could be a party — except it’s dance.

I’m all set to get moved.

Attakkalari India Biennial. February 6-15, 2009. At Alliance Francaise, Chowdiah Memorial Hall and Ranga Shankara. Performances start at 7.30pm, except at Alliance, where it begins at 6pm. Tickets Rs 100-400 at www.indianstage.in or telebook at 9986016207. For full schedule, visit www.attakkalaribiennial.org.

To be honest with all you guys, I’m a hardcore ‘Mumbaichi mulgi‘ with a weakness for roadside snacks. I may lunch at India Jones and sup at Seijo, but missal-pav, wada-pav wada, sevpuri, dosa, pavbhaji, bhurji-pav have always been my staples when I’m in the mood for comfort food.

Don’t get me wrong, though. I’m not one of those pani puri purists. I’m always game to try new stuff, especially if it has that really authentic street flavour. Which is why I was there for the ‘first day, first show’ at the Dus Din Dilli De festival at Hyatt Regency’s Glasshouse on Tuesday. Starring special treats from different streets of Delhi, the live counters being overseen by Chef Anil Khurana, had me queuing up for seconds and thirds of robust raaste ka khaana, capital style.

I started off with Bharwan Paneer Tikka, progressing towards the Pahar Ganj ke Aloo Puri te Halwa and the Chandni Chowk Ke Chole Bhature. The flavours and the freshness of the ingredients transported me to another world. As I took a lassi break and sank back into my comfy seat that gave me a splendid view of the hotel’s lush landscaping, I felt like I was in Delhi already. But my eyes were soon riveted on the chefs, as they expertly rolled out and tossed the paranthas nearby. I just had to grab a taste of Paranthewali Galli ke Paranthe with some very Punjabi Murg Lababdar. After that, it was difficult to find room for more, but I managed teensy bites of the Laung Kesar Ke Chawal with the Dahiwala Kukkad and some of the not-to-be-missed Prawn Mirch Masala — pure dynamite!

There’s just so much to try that I know I’m going to go back again and again to make the most of this 10-day bonanza. A good way to practice some national integration, right?

Dus Din Dilli De festival is on until Feb 13 at the Glasshouse, Hyatt Regency Mumbai, Sahar Airport Road; Tel: 66961624; Cost: Lunch buffet Rs 1,250 per person, dinner buffet Rs 1,295 per person (exclusive of taxes).

The sea of jostlers at the sales at my neighbourhood mall was enough to drive a girl batty, so best bud and I retreated to the nearest peaceful spot — NTC, the newly-opened global cuisine restaurant at the Park Plaza.

NTC, adorned by huge photographs that recreate a city skyline, has a breezy coffee-shop ambience. Pleasant faces greeted us. Smiling waitstaff took away our shopping bags and led us to a table that overlooked a serene water body. We took in the chocolate-y smell wafting from the bakery counter and, bingo, our happiness quotient went up.

This smart eatery, which had a recent low-key launch, is now out fully with an extensive menu that captures flavours from across the globe. For us, the menu translated into an important decision that could alter life and mood: What to start with? We decided on the Tomato and Red Pepper Soup. Served with cheese-topped crusty garlic bread, it turned out to be an aromatic and spicy broth.

Since I’ve given up my ‘be-veg’ matra this year, I went with the Grilled Fish with Sauteed Vegetables and Ratatouille Lasagna. My friend opted for the Massaman Lamb Curry, Steamed Rice and a tossed salad. The fish was soft, succulent and grilled to perfection, with a zesty lemon-butter sauce. I ditched the veggies to tuck into some of the lamb curry, which was hot and spicy. Yum’s the word! The lasagna, layers of pasta, cheese, zucchini, roma tomatoes and bell peppers, oozed perfection.

And then, it was time for my favourite part of the meal: dessert. Choices, choices, choices. Would it be the Creme Brulee, the Molten Chocolate Cake, the Cheese Platter or fresh fruit? I opted for what the chef said I shouldn’t miss. The Tiramisu, light and fluffy, was heaven in my mouth.

Now I know where to head to if I need some good food, good thoughts, and calm!

NTC, Park Plaza, C Block, Sector 55, Noida; Ph: 0120-4678888. Open from 7am to 1am. Meal for two: Rs. 1,200.

A bunch of fresh flowers makes my day. But hey, blooms wither. And, in keeping with the spirit of the times, I’ve decided to make every purchase an investment. So, when I realised my apartment needed cheering up, I headed out to Rosebys. With four stores up and running in Bangalore and roll-outs in Mumbai and Delhi on the cards, this is very much the go-to destination when in revamp mode.

Choosing the store closest to my home, I walked into an expansive, contemporary space arranged according to theme. This was the template for Rosebys’ concept interior decor stores across the country, I was told by the sales attendant. Not that I was paying much attention — all of it was focused on the goodies stacked against the walls.

Indulgence, Eco-Chic, Geo-Retro and Peony Garden: Each line came alive in individual nooks, starting with basics like bedcovers, bedsheets, towels and cushions to add-ons like photo frames, vases, candles, homeware and personal care products. Peony Garden, as the name suggests, is powered by flowers; the Indulgence line is about grown-up glamour. Eco-Chic celebrates earthy colours and prints, while Geo-Retro uses flamboyant geometrics and bold hues. There’s also a complete range from designer Varun Bahl.

Of course, I wasn’t going to go for any one look. Instead, I picked Eco-Chic desk accessories to go with the brown-and-blue bedspread from the Geo-Retro line. A pristine black ceramic vase from the Indulgence collection, which gelled rather well with the colourful Peony Garden tea-light holders in my living-room.

No flowers for it, of course. But a few dry twigs, collected from the neighbouring park, and daubed with paint and baubles. When I get bored, I’ll replace them with some funky Chinese chopsticks a friend gifted me.

But the vase, that’ll stay. That’s what I call an investment.

Rosebys. Bangalore: 405/1, 304, near 8th cross-junction, Sampige Road, Malleswaram. Tel: 9448487869. 623,11th Main, 80 feet road, Indiranagar. Tel: 9880082609. SCO-33, GF, Total Mall, Sarjapura. Tel: 9845022760. 153, KHB Colony, 5th Block, Koramangla. Tel: 9900197127. Mumbai and Delhi stores will open later this year. Prices start at Rs99 for candles and go up to Rs3000 for bedspreads.

Sundays are when I switch off my cellphone, switch on the stereo and treat myself to a hot bath, followed by some serious TLC at the nearby salon. My year-old Lhasa Apso, though, has other ideas. Peeved at being ignored, he keeps trying to convince me to take him for a walk instead. The only way out, I decided, was to introduce him to his very own pamper session.

So I toodled over to the city’s brand new doggy salon with my pooch in tow. Muddy Pawz, I discovered, is specially designed for the dog lovers who want to give their pets the very best of care — from a bath and blow-dry to nail-clipping, ear-cleaning and teeth-brushing. It couldn’t get cuter!

While Shobhana — earlier with Mumbai’s well-known dog salon Tailwaggers — gave my baby a haircut (a Muddy Pawz specialty), we chatted about how each dog needs customized cuts and grooming sessions, depending on the breed and condition of the coat. She assured me that all her equipment, from clippers to cutters, were imported to ensure the best possible care for our pets.

Muddy Pawz offers sessions on de-matting of hair and tick ‘n’ flea treatments — such a must during the monsoons, don’t you think? And they plan to introduce aromatherapy sessions for stressed pooches soon too.

My Apso, though, seemed to be in his bliss zone straight after Shobana was done with him — and he even got sprayed with his very own doggy perfume (you can choose from baby powder, green apple, peach and a basic floral).

I came out of the salon with a very happy puppy. Take a bow. Wow!

Muddy Pawz. # 266, 6th cross, Indiranagar, Ist stage. Bangalore 38. Call Shobhana on 988616522 for appointments (essential). Grooming charges start at Rs 800 and go up to Rs 1600.

If music be the food of love, play on. But I’ve just discovered the magical effect of having both — food AND music — on a platter. While I’d always enjoyed the home-style Italian cuisine and wine list at il terrazzo, now there’s something else that keeps my appetite whetted every Wednesday.

Daddy’s WindSong Wednesdays, put together by Riyaaz and Rizwan Amlani and Sameer Malhotra, has had some stellar performers taking centrestage at the rooftop venue (it’s the loungey space atop the del Italia villa) for the last few Wednesdays. From Yaana Gupta’s seductive sound to Shaa’ir & Func’s eclectic creations, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the soft-focus atmosphere created by these crooners as the sun dips into the ocean off Juhu Beach.

From previous experience, I can assure you that there’s nothing that puts a date into super-romantic gear than being uplifted by soulful serenades over Sauvignon Blanc. It can be quite a witchy evening, biting into slices of wood-fired pizza together or sitting back hand-in-hand under the stars as the music sets the mood.

But enough of the boys already. I’ll save the lovin’ for February 14th. Instead, this Wednesday, my gal pals and I’ve decided to just go and let our hair down by ourselves. It’s been a while since we caught up and I’m dying to introduce them to my new fave Wednesday place. I’m sure they’ll love the al fresco feel and the soulfood. And artiste for the evening, Ankur Tewari — who’ll be bringing in his birthday with us by giving us his brand of minimalistic melodies ranging from desi rock ‘n’ roll to acoustic ballads to folk rock — is sure to keep our mood mellow.

The perfect mid-week pick-me-up, I’d say.

il terrazzo, delItalia, next to Mocha, Juhu Tara Road, Juhu, Mumbai: Tel: 26184040/50; Entrance fee: Rs 500 per person.

You know just how frustrating it can be when you’ve been looking for the perfect book high and low and cannot find it? For the longest time, I was having no luck with Ma Thanegi’s travelogue ‘The Native Tourist’. I’d almost given up when a friend recco-d ‘Friends of Books’, and I struck gold.

Begun by husband and wife duo of freelance film-maker Arti Jain and software architect Manish Kumar, Delhi’s latest online library FOB has been around for a few months, but it’s still not well-known. The couple quit lucrative jobs in the US to come back and start an online space crammed with the books they would love to read: Arti’s the kind of word-hound who’s been known to scan shampoo labels, for lack of anything better. Manish is equally passionate.

Yes, I did find the elusive Thanegi in their vast catalogue, filled with all kinds of fiction, non-fiction and kiddie literature. All I had to do was register, choose a subscription plan, pay online, and I was good to go. My experience with FOB, with its really wide range, and easy, no-fuss approach, has tempted me to drop out of the other online book libraries I’m a member of!

I can keep the books as long as I like, without any penalties, which is great. Even better, if you call with a request, they do their best to source it for you. A gift-a-book scheme has just been launched: you identify the book and the person, and they’ll deliver! A book club is up next — Arti and Manish aim to go beyond being just a rental online library, to actually create a convivial community of book-lovers.

Well, they sure have a friend in me!

Log on to www.friendsofbooks.com or call Arti Jain on 9310606880/82.A one-time, refundable security deposit of Rs 750 is charged on sign-up. Choose from 12 plans ranging from a basic monthly plan for Rs 150 to an annual super plan for Rs 4750. Deliveries and pick-ups are free and take 1 or 2 working days.