#indian furniture chai tables

[indiatrendzs]

Timeless California Coastal Design

Vintage Coastal decor embodies a relaxed, effortless charm, drawing inspiration from sandy beaches, azure waters, and the natural beauty of coastal landscapes. This style captures the tranquility of seaside living, creating an atmosphere of calm and serenity. Key features such as vintage carved doors, whitewashed credenzas, arched gates, and intricate carved accents infuse the space with timeless…

[mogulinterior]

Embracing French Country Decor in Tennesse

French country decor exudes a certain charm that feels both effortless a nd curated, capturing the essence of warmth, personality, and rustic elegance. While it may seem aspirational, achieving this style is surprisingly accessible. Let us guide you through the key elements that define French country decor, so you can bring this timeless aesthetic into your home with ease.

Find Us At Etsy MOGULGALLERY

The Art of Mixing and Matching

Creating a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere

In the kitchen, copper and antique brass are the metals of choice for hardware and appliances, adding a touch of vintage charm that complements the overall aesthetic. These materials bring warmth and a sense of history to the space, perfectly aligning with the French country ethos. https://mogulgallery.etsy.com

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[insaraffurniture]

How to Choose a TV Console That Complements Your Style

Is your living room stuck in the past? In today's India, where smart TVs are becoming as common as chai, your old TV stand might be letting your space down. It's time to upgrade! A stylish TV cabinet doesn't just hold your TV; it sets the tone for your entire home. Let's explore how the right choice from Insaraf Furniture can bring your living room into the 21st century.

Perfecting Your Living Space: Choose the Best TV Cabinet for a Modern Home

Selecting the perfect TV cabinet involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and space considerations to enhance your living room. Begin by assessing the size and style of your TV, ensuring the cabinet can accommodate your equipment and complement your room’s décor. Consider features such as storage options for media accessories, cable management systems, and materials that match or enhance your interior design. Prioritize quality and durability, opting for a cabinet that will not only support your TV securely but also stand the test of time. With careful selection, your TV cabinet can become a focal point that brings both organization and style to your modern living space.

Why Your TV Cabinet Matters?

Your TV isn't just a box any more—it's a statement piece. Think about it:

TVs are bigger and slimmer

They often look like art when off

They're the centre of your living space

A basic stand doesn't do justice to your high-tech TV. The right cabinet from Saraf Furniture complements its style and enhances your room's look.

Top TV Cabinet Styles For The Modern Indian Home

1. Solid Wood Widen Extendable TV Unit:

Perfect for growing families or upgrading to bigger screens just read Insaraf Furniture Reviews, this clever unit adapts to your needs. Crafted from sturdy sheesham or mango wood, it's built to last through Delhi's summers or Kolkata's monsoons. Start compact, then extend as your TV or collection grows. Its clean lines suit modern Mumbai flats, while the wood's warmth welcomes you home. With adjustable shelves, it's as flexible as your viewing habits.

2. Solid Wood Curved TV Unit with 2 Drawers:

Say goodbye to boxy designs and go to Saraf Furniture Reviews to read about good customer experiences on this Tv Cabinet! This unit's gentle curves soften your living room, making Ahmedabad high-rises or Bangalore tech-hubs feel more inviting. The solid wood—be it teak or rosewood—resists warping in any climate. Two spacious drawers hide remotes, making post-work movie nights hassle-free. Its flowing shape draws eyes to your TV, then gracefully guides them around the room, creating a harmonious space.

3. Solid Wood Wildress TV Unit:

The Solid Wood Wildress TV Unit is a celebration of wood's inherent charm, showcasing the unique knots, grains, and textures that make each piece distinct. Crafted from sturdy materials like sal or acacia, this unit tells a story through its natural imperfections and raw edges, evoking the spirit of jungle adventures. Its robust build and organic aesthetic transform your TV into a window to wild tales, blending seamlessly with both rustic and contemporary interiors. Ideal for nature enthusiasts living in urban environments such as Gurgaon, this TV unit offers a rustic sanctuary for your tech, bringing a touch of the wilderness into your home.

4. Solid Wood Kuber Plasma Unit:

Named after the god of wealth, this unit enriches your space with abundance and style. Its grand design suits spacious Chennai villas or old Lucknow havelis. Typically made from opulent rosewood or mahogany, it's a treasure chest for your entertainment. The "plasma" term nods to its origin in the flat-screen era. With ample storage, it holds everything from video games to family photos, turning your TV area into a shrine of memories and modernity.

Read More: Things to consider while buying a study table

TV Unit Buying Guide by Saraf Furniture Owner

Beyond Style: Smart Features to Look For

Built-in soundbar space

Hidden wireless charging spots

Pull-out gaming console tray

Convertible book/TV shelf

Size Matters: Picking the Right Dimensions

Measure your TV's width

Add 15-20 cm on each side

Check your room's size

Pro tip: In Indian homes, go 10% smaller to avoid crowding

Materials for Modern India

1. Engineered Wood: Stands up to Mumbai's humidity

2. Tempered Glass: Easy to clean in dusty Delhi

3. Bamboo: Eco-friendly choice for green environment

4. Metal: Cool touch in hot Chennai

Budget-Friendly to Luxury 

₹5,000-₹15,000: Good basics

₹15,000-₹30,000: Quality, smart features

₹30,000+: Designer pieces, custom options

Care Tips for Your New Cabinet

Use coasters for chai cups

Microfiber cloth for dusting

Cable clips to avoid tangles

No heavy items on glass tops

The Don't

❌ Don't block air vents

❌ Avoid direct sunlight on the TV ❌ Say no to wobbly stands

❌ Never ignore your room's flow

Your Modern Home Awaits

Your TV cabinet is more than a stand; it's a bridge between technology and style. In today's India, where tradition meets tomorrow, the right choice reflects your modern taste. Whether you're in a homey Shimla cottage or a posh Delhi flat, there's a perfect TV cabinet waiting to transform your space.

Ready to modernise? Read Saraf furniture Reviews and purchase the highest rated TV Cabinet, and watch your entire home step into the future. After all, in the heart of every Indian home, there's a space where family gathers—make sure it's a space that speaks volumes about your style.

More at: Saraf Furniture's focus on solid wood product quality inspires many in the industry

[xerodegreescafe]

Discover the Best Cafes in Udaipur - Top 6 Picks

Udaipur, the city of lakes, is known for its breathtaking palaces, forts, and lakes. The city has a rich cultural heritage that attracts tourists from all over the world. Udaipur is also famous for its street food and cafes. In this article, we will discuss the top 6 best cafes in Udaipur, Rajasthan, where you can have a relaxing time with your friends or family while enjoying delicious food and drinks.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Xero Degrees Cafe

Millets of Mewar

Ambrai Cafe

1559 AD

Cafe Edelweiss

Leela Palace

Conclusion

FAQs

Xero Degrees Cafe

If you're looking for the best place to enjoy some seriously cheesy pizza in town, you might want to check out Xero Degrees Cafe in Udaipur. This restaurant offers a wide range of pizza options, from classic round pizzas to heart-shaped ones. Additionally, they also have a unique Pizza in a Jar dish that's sure to tantalize your taste buds from the very first bite.

So, if you're planning a pizza date or just craving some delicious cheesy goodness, be sure to add Xero Degrees Cafe to your list of must-visit spots.

Millets of Mewar

Millets of Mewar is a unique cafe that specializes in millet-based dishes. The cafe is situated in the old city of Udaipur and has a rustic ambiance. They serve a range of healthy and delicious millet-based dishes, including sandwiches, pizzas, and smoothie bowls. The cafe also has vegan and gluten-free options. Their millet coffee is a must-try, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful.

Ambrai Cafe

Ambrai Cafe is a beautiful cafe situated near Lake Pichola. The cafe has a stunning view of the City Palace and Lake Palace. The ambiance of the cafe is serene and peaceful, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. They serve a range of Indian and Continental dishes along with a variety of beverages. Their kulhad coffee and masala chai are a must-try. The staff is courteous and attentive, making your visit a memorable one.

1559 AD

1559 AD is a cafe situated in the heart of Udaipur, near City Palace. The cafe has a regal ambiance, with antique furniture and decor. They serve a range of Indian and Continental dishes, including wood-fired pizzas and burgers. Their coffee and mocktails are refreshing and delicious. The staff is friendly and helpful, ensuring a comfortable dining experience.

Cafe Edelweiss

Cafe Edelweiss is a cozy cafe situated in the old city of Udaipur. The cafe has a vintage decor, with antique furniture and quirky artwork. They serve a range of coffee, tea, and bakery items, along with a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. Their signature dish, the Edelweiss breakfast platter, is a must-try. The staff is warm and welcoming, making your visit comfortable and enjoyable.

Leela Palace

Leela Palace is a luxury hotel in Udaipur that offers an unforgettable dining experience. The hotel has a beautiful view of Lake Pichola and offers indoor and outdoor seating arrangements. They serve a range of Indian and International dishes, along with a variety of beverages. 

Conclusion:

Udaipur is a city that is rich in history and culture, and its cafes offer a unique window into the city's vibrant and dynamic scene. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to relax with a cup of chai, or a lively cafe to soak up the city's cultural offerings, there is something for everyone in Udaipur. From the art-filled interiors of Bistro 1469 to the colorful murals at Tribute, these cafes offer a unique blend of food, culture, and art that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

FAQs:

What is the best time to visit Udaipur?

The best time to visit Udaipur is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.

Are these cafes budget-friendly?

Yes, all of the cafes mentioned in this article are budget-friendly and offer affordable prices.

Can I find vegetarian options at these cafes?

Yes, all of the cafes mentioned in this article offer vegetarian options on their menus.

Do I need to make a reservation at these cafes?

While it is not always necessary to make a reservation, it is recommended during peak tourist season to ensure a table.

What is the local cuisine of Udaipur?

The local cuisine of Udaipur is a mix of Rajasthani and Mewari cuisine, with a focus on vegetarian dishes and spices. Some popular dishes include dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas.

[folelserr]

This story that I am going to tell you does not belong to fiction nor does it have that sweetness of the imagined, in reality it is nothing more than what was lived.

In the city of London in Wimbledon there is a Victorian house, it is not an ordinary house, it is an old people’s house. But these old people are not common, they are crazy and rich or at least that is what they used to be. A care home but that word lacked cache for the manager, she called it a hotel.

Just like that I started working in that place, although I don't remember very well how. I know there was a lonely 40-year-old Korean cook who worked there and wanted me around, I don't really know why, maybe due to the fact of being a lone 40-year-old. 

Those mornings started very early, at 7:20. I put on my uniform, a button-down shirt, a short vest, a bow tie and a badge with my name on it that shouted “foreign Spanish-speaking employee” and I looked at myself in the mirror and everything was strange. I was only 21 years old and the irreconcilable contrasts in that space were bizarre, that of my youth and that of the house where old people die.

Sometimes I found myself lost in thought with death and the vision of the passage of time, I could glimpse a clock above my head and every second counted, time, tick tock. 

In the residents' room, between breakfasts and coffees, I watched the photographs they placed on the furniture. I recognized them in those photos, young and elegant women, happy, they looked confident to me, more that what I could even wish for myself and then when I turned my head I saw the other reality, the real one, old women with dementia begging for someone  to take them to the toilet or pouring tea in the cereals. Oh, by the way, that was the moment I decided I would never take my mom to a nursing home.

I couldn't help but delve into those thoughts, ending up locked in those four walls of the one who asks herself existential questions that she won't be able to solve and that left my young mind paralyzed. 

 - But, aren’t you only 21 years old? haha you're too young to worry about these things

Told me that voice in off that I don't want to mention , so I stayed calm. I'm too young now but... and what about for when I am not young anymore? He no longer had answers for this.

I explained so many things to him, the stories of the residents, life inside that house and he read me resilient. I told him how many old women kept a photograph of a handsome young man, who was young many years ago, on top of their bedside table. I was so sure that this was the photo of the eternal love of their lives, the one that was never consumed and he would say to me that many times people don't end up marrying the person they really love.

Thus, the day to day in that house was peculiar, everything very foreign to me, very British. With their "cup of tea" with milk at all hours, tea time in the afternoon, the cupcakes and that learned courtesy so characteristic of them. But I lived in a parallel world, I worked there but my head and heart were elsewhere,  in Poitiers specifically to be later in Paris or maybe I just wasn't there. I didn't exist, I just did, I moved, but if I don't think I don't exist.

The kitchen like everything else had its peculiarity, it turned out that we all were from somewhere else except from there. The Zimbabwean ladies who had various jobs and family to support, the Indian cook who made chai tea from time to time in a huge pot with milk and added foreign spices to it and I was lucky enough to taste it. Then there were the Filipinos, there were several, I smiled with amusement when many times they explained to me that we were distant relatives because the Philippines was once a Spanish colony  and I watched him curiously and saw his dark complexion and Asian features but nodded complacently. The one who worked with me as a host was chubby with a funny smile, a bum but at the same time the smartest one who, when saw me stressed and busy, told me, ""Take it easy man" He also explained to me that bosses are there to complain and that I shouldn't take it personally. I listened to him and nodded, determined to learn something from him.

There was another boy, this one was my age, he came from time to time as a cook. The first time I saw him I thought I fell in love, because of his eyes that meant a discovery. Later he would take me to some party in his community, I would go to his house where he lived with his mother and sister, he slept in the living room on a sofa bed and one night I took refuge under his wing when loneliness became unbreathable. Holding his hand meant to me the sanity of what is expected but this also became old and for one reason or another his eyes ceased to be special

My tasks in the fictional hotel were always repetitive, the most pleasant moment was when it was my turn to fold the napkins on the day a handsome musician came to sing and play the piano for the residents, who were mostly women. They would meet in the dining room where I was working and start playing romantic music from the 40's, my favorite was "It's a sin to tell a lie". 

 “Be sure it's true , when you say I love you It's a sin to tell a lie.  Millions of hearts have been broken just because these words were spoken ” 

They began to sing along with the musician, remembering the lyrics even though they couldn't remember what they had had for breakfast that morning. I listened to them and then I searched for the song  and went out into the streets of London listening to those songs in the privacy of my headphones, wondering if those ladies ever felt this sadness for an istant.

Understand that I am not exaggerating when I say that in that house one lived with death, dementia and decadence in its many aspects. One of the residents, a woman with sprouted wounds on her leg, was always screaming desperately from her room. "Help! Help!".  How disturbing was to get to the point of walking past by her door and ignoring someone's help. But I wasn't a nurse and that woman was crazy. 

Once I bumped into another usually lovely resident at her door, she stopped me and looked at me with those eyes of someone outraged at another human being. She blamed me for being able to hear that lady cry for help and ignore her. "You should be ashamed of yourself," she said. For a second she managed to make me feel guilty but that lady was insane too and I was tired of the madness so I walked away-

There was a time I had the absolute certainty to had seen someone dead in life and smelled death. That morning I went to bring breakfast to the room of this woman, the oldest in the house at almost 100 years of age. The old woman was waiting sitting in an armchair, I went over to leave her pouriche on the table. I don't remember looking at her face but her spoon slipped through her fingers and I bent down to pick it up. Her hands were moving in a very bizarre way, in circular movements, from one side to the other without being able to hold anything I looked at them hypnotized. I left the spoon on the table for her and looked up when she thanked me, her jaw was completely open, dislocated and her eyes were going back without her being able to help  it and that smell that I had never smelled before, "she is dead” I thought.  Suddenly horrified I jumped up, leaving a few meters of security between death and me and leaned on the door frame ,staying some seconds watching her while she greeted someone I couldn’t see, “Oh you've come by surprise and I'm not dressed up” she said to the invisible guest and I said goodbye to her.

[thevisafly]

                   Explore Berlin – What to Do, See, and Eat?

Berlin is a city that fascinates all kinds of people. No matter if you are an explorer, a music- lover, or a player, Berlin has you covered. It is a city of divergent seasons: long, gloomy winters when residents bundle up in layers to withstand Siberian winds, accompanied by humid summers spent relaxed in parks and alongside the lakes. In stately western Berlin, the extensive avenues are punctuated by shopping malls and Starbucks, beverage shops, entirely different in style to its former-Soviet eastern half, with its mass-produced, pre-fabricated Plattenbau residence blocks.

At Potsdamer Platz, visitors find a global capital city with shimmering glass buildings. But a more transgressive section to the town insists at twilight in the clubs and bars, despite growing property prices. The multiple sides to the city united together in 2019 to commemorate 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall.

What to do? Plunge into history: Barely 200 meters of the Berlin Wall persists, weathered to the wire, at Niederkirchnerstrasse that marked the boundary between Mitte in East Berlin and Kreuzberg in West Berlin. It’s available to walk the length of it. Rotate your head to see the Topography of Terror, a museum established in the erstwhile headquarters of the Nazi covert police, where a free exhibition features the most horrifying era of German history. From there, walk north past Checkpoint Charlie and Potsdamer Platz that has been restored since the downfall of the wall with a dizzying quantity of skyscrapers. As you move towards the Brandenburg Gate, look out for the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a gloomy figure of coffin-like solid slabs that tourists can walk in between. Wander the museums: There are five museums that jostle for space on Berlin’s Museum Island and attending them all would need more than a day. With a single ticket at €18 (£15), you can choose the highlights: the Pergamon Altar built on the terraces of the acropolis at the Pergamon Museum; the bust of Nefertiti, the Egyptian queen, at the Neues Museum; and the European figure collection at the Bode Museum. However, all are closed on Mondays so take care before leaving for the venue. Explore Berlin Take a dip: If you are visiting in summer, the Badeschiff is primarily a swimming pool on a barge. You can do lengths in turquoise water facing the River Spree. Just wipe off in the sun with a beer and a deckchair on the shore and enjoy the view. also, check the venue listings for formal parties and live harmony. The entry fee is around €5.50.

Where to stay?

In the beautiful northern region of Prenzlauer Berg, a prior public bathhouse has been remodeled into Hotel Oderberger. The baths have been painstakingly reconstructed, with domed ceilings enclosed by magnificent columns. It is quite the place for a morning swim (but be conscious that the guests will have to pay for it). The guest quarters are spacious and modern – some include stairs up to mezzanine bedrooms – and breakfast is a lavish spread of cheese, meat, and fruit with a live waffle-making section for the special pickers. The price ranges from £108.On the west side of the city, Max Brown Ku’Damm has become a favorite brunch spot for locals, with lines around the block on the weekends. The hotel, named after the nearby shopping boulevard, has 70 rooms with beautiful oak floors, white blinds and capricious features such as basketball hoops and Crosley cassette players. The hotel’s happy hour operates between 5-9 pm. Doubles from £54.

Where to eat? Approximately three million individuals of Turkish origin live in Berlin, numerous of them around Kreuzberg. The region has grown into heaven for Turkish food. More latterly it has embraced immigrants from Afghanistan and Syria, some of whom serve at the Kreuzberger Himmel on Yorckstrasse.

Explore Berlin You can rediscover legendary German cuisines at Knodelwirtschaft, a cozy dumpling eatery, on Fuldastrasse in Neukolln. Decide between two, three or four gut-busting cheese, meat, and spinach dumplings served on mutual tables illuminated by candlelight.

Where to grab a drink? Klunkerkranich, a sprawling rooftop bar in Neukolln, is the most competent spot to watch the sunset on pleasant evenings. While the venue gets crowded in the summer, the indoor bar does serve spiked chai and gluhwein in the colder months. Villa Neukolln may look like enough in the daylight, but gaze behind a massive curtain after midnight and you will find a low-lit Art Deco ballroom packed with beautiful bodies loafing on sofas and downing cocktails. The venue also entertains live acts and DJs who perform until dawn.

Where to shop? Vintage shopping swarms in Berlin. At the Dandy Horse, by Gorlitzer Park in Kreuzberg, tracks of vintage attire sit beside a furniture store and a vinyl warehouse. A flea fair takes place in Mauerpark, Prenzlauer Berg, each Sunday. During the daytime, the tourists and locals skim through secondhand furniture, vintage apparel and all style of assets at the market. As dusk overtakes, the park amphitheater packs up for Bearpit Karaoke, a true Berlin highlight. Additionally, on Sundays, a tiny market at Arkonaplatz sells mid-century fittings, enough of it renewed, beside trinkets and vinyl. For costumes, a vintage fair at Griessmuhle runs on the primary Friday of each month from 1 pm till midnight, serving food and live DJs. Germany has been an all-time favorite holidaying destination for a majority of Indian nationals. If you are planning for an upcoming tour to Germany, Feel free to apply for a visa online on our web portal. We will be happy to help.

Visa Online

Visa Online Application

[cordieflanagan2]

Antique Indian Haveli Jharokha Handcarved Coffee Table Unique Hotel Design Rustic Vintage Furniture Farmhouse Decor Chai Table https://ift.tt/2NY2y45

[indiatrendz]

Antique Indian Haveli Jharokha Handcarved Coffee Table Unique Hotel Design Rustic Vintage Furniture Farmhouse Decor Chai Table Amazing, Unique one of the kind table

[elevenhoursinfront-blog]

4th July 2017

Another day another dollar... Another case of frost bite and being overtired because of loud roommates. I got up and got myself ready in the girls bathroom. Today for some unknown reason, there were about 6 girls in there getting ready too. There's not enough space and it's really irritating. It gets so hot too especially when numerous hair dryers are going off. I went downstairs for breakfast and sat with George. He was telling me how Granny Bingo was last night. It was a gay bar, with gay men dressed as granny's, taking the mick out of gay men... There was a drag act - Karen from finance. I wish I could've gone but I had a bad case of the Monday's. I got to work and cracked on with the work. I rolled the most again yesterday so I'm getting on with the work even when I'm hating it... The girls at work were talking about an Indian restaurant and how it was only $10 for a buffet. I text Mel and Steve to see whether they wanted to go... That's tonight sorted then. Megan text me to say she and Dan had booked Tasmania for Saturday so they'll be leaving at the end of the week. Steve will be pleased... They're only going for 2 days through an organised tour so it won't be as good as our trip but at least they get to see Tas before heading to Cairns to find farm work. I flicked through Instagram on my break and saw that it's actually SNOWING in Tasmania right now... That has to stop, I don't have the clothing for snow! How ridiculous. Plus, we'll be driving, luckily we've got an SUV. Work went by quickly, thank the LORD. I walked home from work and met Mel as we were going to the chemist together. I needed new toothpaste, there was something else too but I forgot. We walked back from the chemist together to the hostel. Mel had her washing on and Jack couldn't meet us for dinner until 1900 so we had to wait. Steve wasn't going to be pleased as his stomach was eating itself again... Steve is working at a removals job in a big furniture warehouse place. He was meant to be there Monday only but they've extended him for a few days which is great as he had no work lined up. He said it's tiring because it's a lot of heavy lifting. He finished at 1600 and went to get a hair cut. I walked into the room and he was sitting there, hair cut and beard trimmed! The haircut he hated (so do I) but it'll grow back. He's practically bald around the sides and short on top... Fingers crossed it grows quickly. He's getting very lazy when it comes to his heard, he leaves it to get really long. I like a bit of a beard but not like Dumbledore. We sat in the room speaking to Michael (trying too, bless him). He explained that he was late for work this morning because someone stole his bike. That's must've cost him a fortune and he uses it every single day. I can't believe they went through the effort of sawing the chain off. Awful people. We left the hostel at 1830. Mel, Steve and I walked to 213 King Street which was about 15 minutes away. We met Jack outside and went in together. I was nervous as anything because I hate being the person who's planned an event. I kept thinking - what if they don't like it? What if it's horrible? Will they blame me? What do I do? Mel was shouting at me to calm down. We went inside and it wasn't your average restaurant. There were tables and a lot of Indian people. This is a great sign because it means great food, right? My dad always taught me that if there's loads of locals inside, it means the food is good. We basically lined up and selected what food we wanted. They had school dinner trays that were bright yellow. We got to pick 3 curries, popadom, chutney, salad, chai tea and unlimited roti bread! Steve and I had plain rice with ours too but we didn't realise that meant we couldn't have bread now... It completely ruined my dinner. They wouldn't let us have any bread and there were signs saying "no sharing!". Mel still gave me some of hers though. Steve didn't like it and ended up leaving the majority of it. He was angry he couldn't have bread. Mel enjoyed hers especially as a vegetarian, there were more options for her. I wouldn't go back. We walked home and decided against dessert. Mel wanted frozen yoghurt but it was shut. Steve and I went back to the room and tried to watch a film whilst eating After 8's. A couple approached us and asked us where was best to eat. They must've been 60-70 years old and they were from Queensland on holiday for 5 days. We showed them the best/easiest place to eat. We were chatting away with them for about 15 minutes - they were lovely. The wifi was back to being its useless self and didn't work, so no film for us. We got into bed and had an early night of 2230.

[grizzlygreybeard]

18th August 2107

Website

Tripadvisor

[Graham’s words] [Tim’s words]

Ambience including decoration, seating, welcome

Not a typical breakfast haunt for the bagmen.  Heading off piste for a change.

The restaurant was an inviting mix of traditional Indian colours and photos of Bollywood stars, bog standard wooden furnishings, and, for anyone with tinnitus, intrusive bangin’ music.

In St Mark’s Road its a short walk from residential streets with free parking (although you may have bricks where your wheels were when you get back).  Super grocer next door so you can pick up your large bags of fresh indian ingredients on the way out.  Mismatched dining furniture a style statement.  A bit cafeteria like with large and small tables and soft distressed leather sofas.  Sit-up or sit-down.

Service, attitude, efficiency

A friendly, smiling, efficient young man who clearly enjoyed his work and called the Bagmen ‘buddy’.  Normally, Graham bristles inside but not this time as he was so pleasant and nice.  At least he didn’t use the ubiquitous ‘guys’.

Order at the bar, grab a bottle of water and steel cups and then sit down.  Didn’t have to wait very long for the large piping hot Masala Chai in a glass and quite soon after steel platters of South Indian specialities.  Timely.

Menu

‘Twas a bit of a gamble breakfasting in a Indian cafe without first seeing the menu but it was typically short (for the Thali chain) with not a great choice.  Weren’t expecting black pudding but there was enough to find something to tickle your fancy. 

Food

A rice pancake at least two feet long filled with spiced potato and peas, with creamy coconut chutney and sambar (spiced lentils and tomato).  Graham’s instinct is always to use cutlery but this time it was strictly fingers.  The dosa was just right – light, crisp, gently oily.  The filling could have been spicier but the potato was well cooke, bite-sized, firm just the soft side of al dente.  The coconut chutney was creamy with strong taste, the sambar was equally good and slurped well.  Tim finished well before Graham and was content to watch him inch slowly towards the other end of the rice pancake.  Pity about the saliva flow, though.  No coffee this time, not when there is mango lassi.  Delicious, cooling, refreshing, a light sprinkling of sweetened fennel seeds which freshened the mouth.  A most satisfactory end to what had been a most satisfying breakfast.  Who needs the dreaded veggie breakfast?

Tim’s Sri Lankan omelette was well made with bags of flavour bursting out from green chillies and coriander.  Nice tomato chutney but a rather dull flatbread.  The green chillies played well with the Masala Chai as they both spark a peppery reaction leaving your mouth tingling.  He should have had the dosa but memories of dosa every morning for breakfast on his first trip to Tamil Nadu still haunt him.  Left still feeling hungry despite the lassi at the end.

Pricing

Its really difficult to reach any conclusion when eating a breakfast that is out of the ordinary.  £2 for the large chai and £3 for the lassi.  You can still walk out with change from a £10 note and have had a good interesting meal.  Not bad.

Overall impression

Graham is writing this review a few hours after finishing breakfast.  He is still full and regretting the carbohydrate intake (this may explain the afternoon nap?).  It was the Masala Dosa wot done the damage!

Would Graham return?  Yes, indeed, but next time a more modest omelette which would leave room for an evening beer or two.

This place worked well as a change of culinary experience and offers pretty good and authentic Southern Indian food.  Which now and again is nice.  It’s mainly vegetarian and if you are searching for something different this fits the bill.  A sprinkling of early morning clients is testament to its popularity and we gratefully escaped before two mums and their four toddlers went in to the echo chamber.

  Rating: 7 out of 12

Thali Cafe, Easton 18th August 2107 Website Tripadvisor   Ambience including decoration, seating, welcome Not a typical breakfast haunt for the bagmen.  

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Mindful Decor Earthing, Grounding Woods

Mindful decor begins with a simple principle that everything serves a purpose. Home decor that connects you to your roots or contributes to your home in a positive way. Handmade and rustic wood credenzas brings in good energy, and antique carved cabinets draw in the energy of the sun. Consider the function of the distressed teal credenza which serves as a statement media chest, the blue medley of…

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Elements of Wellness Design and Furniture

Elements of Wellness Design are built around the principles of natural beauty, energy symmetry, and color balance, all of which deeply impact and improve the health and well-being of individuals. Embracing Vastu FengShui design principles aligns with the body’s circadian rhythms and the five principal elements that we are all made of. The incorporation of these design principles serves to create spaces that support physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

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Set amidst fields of rice & corn, the iconic red Vietnamese flag dominates the stunning karst landscape at Lung Cu peak that marks Vietnam’s northern boundary with the Yunnan province of China. Untouched by mass tourism with only Home-stays for accommodation, Lung Cu, located in the remote Dong Van district of Ha Giang province, is the northernmost point of Vietnam.

Vietnamese flag sways at our homestay with another one on top of the tower at Lung Cu peak.

Dong Van Karst UNESCO Geopark in North Vietnam covers four northern districts of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac. Highway QL4 that’s starts from Ha Giang runs across all the four districts and motorbiking through this unique Karst landscape is a perfect way of visiting the Geopark. (Read more: Motorcycle Diaries: The extraordinary Karst landscape of North Vietnam)

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Riding through the unique Karst landscape of Dong Van Karst Unesco Geopark in North Vietnam.

Colorful villages & landscape of Dong Van Karst geopark.

A hearty meal of Pho – a Vietnamese soup noodle, multiple stops for caphe (Vietnamese coffee) and refueling our motorbikes, we had crossed kilometers of breathtaking Karst scenery riding inside Dong Van Geopark through the towns of Quan Ba & Yen Minh before we took the detour from the highway towards Lung Cu, the northernmost village of Vietnam bordering China and home to the Lolo & Hmong ethnic minorities of Vietnam.

Green Karst mountains till your eyes can see

The road to this quaint village passes very close to China border with just a crooked barbed wire separating the two countries at some places. We even parked our bikes and crossed over to the China side and saw a road and a few buildings in the distance. Following pointers of homestays, we rode up to the end of the village and found a homestay with unobstructed views of the peak & the red flag swaying on top of Lung Cu tower.

Red flag at Lung Cu tower that marks the international boundary with China

Our host spoke broken English but with the help of another guest, who helped with the translation, we were able to communicate with each other. He showed us to our rooms and brought us hot green tea as it drizzled outside. Sitting on low bamboo furniture in the balcony sipping on hot green tea with a view of the karst mountains & flag tower floating in the monsoon clouds and cornfields glowing golden in the sunset this was my first time at a homestay in Vietnam, and for a moment the smell of petrichor surrounded by the fields transported me to summer holidays I spent at our village in Himachal, where everyone would gather around the garden in the evening sipping on chai.

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Lolo Home Stay at Lung Cu

Village scenes early morning

Sunset over cornfields at Lung Cu

Walking around the village

Lolos are known for their colorful traditional costumes and the walls had framed pictures of their family dressed in traditional costumes on various occasions that offered a glimpse into their lives. Talking to our host that night over a communal dinner table cheering on shots of corn wine, we got to know that we were probably the first Indians to visit the village and he wanted to find out why we decided to visit Vietnam, “Isn’t it similar to your country?” he asked. To which (I wondered, they haven’t seen the Himalayas!) I said, yeah some parts of North Vietnam may be similar in some way to northeastern India but access to such remote places in India is not easy as mostly they are protected areas that need special permits to visit. Also, I don’t think in such remote locations in India I’d find a working Internet, let alone 4G network that I was getting here, for free! 😉

Sunset at Lung Cu, northernmost point of Vietnam

One of the most unique experiences while traveling, a homestay is the best way to get acquainted with the local way of living and taste local food. I woke up next morning to the sound of a rooster crowing and as I walked around I  realized most locals in the village had already done a few rounds of collecting corn back & forth from the fields and were taking a break drinking beer! Soon breakfast was served where everyone sat around a huge communal table and ate bowls of rice, stir-fried chicken & giblets with leafy vegetables, boiled eggs, chicken with broth and a few leftovers from last night’s dinner re-cooked with green herbs. For me, it was a heavy meal for breakfast, but for everyone else who had spent their morning since sunrise working at the cornfields, it was a sumptuous meal. Here I was gulping down each bite with a sip of water while everyone cheered juggling shots of corn wine!

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Cafe Cuc Bac

At Lolo village in Lung Cu

Mostly wild and uninhabited forested green Karst Mountains, peppered with colorful quaint ethnic villages and terraced paddy & cornfields, riding through Dong Van Geopark on the highway is a unique experience especially on a motorbike, and the detours on the route are as rewarding. Usually, Lung Cu is on a day trip itinerary on the way to Dong Van town but I’d recommend staying for a night to get an immersive experience of the place. There is also a café (Cuc Bac) near the homestay where you can enjoy local drinks and chat with locals after a stroll in the village or climbing the stairs up to Lung Cu flag tower.

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Motorbiking through North Vietnam

Ha Giang loop in Dong Van Karst Geopark

It’s advisable to carry a rain jacket/ coat or a poncho as it can rain anytime and even at 1400m it does get cold so carry a warm upper for evenings/ nights. The roads are not in perfect condition but there are no heavy vehicles like trucks on the route which makes for easy riding on the winding mountain slopes as you enjoy the panoramic views.  Read more on our travels motorbiking in Vietnam.

*NEW* Motorcycle Diaries: Lung Cu, the north pole of Vietnam Riding to the northernmost point of #Vietnam #biking #adventuretravel Set amidst fields of rice & corn, the iconic red Vietnamese flag dominates the stunning karst landscape at Lung Cu peak that marks Vietnam’s northern boundary with the Yunnan province of China.

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Antique Rustic Vintage Table by baydeals featuring furniture ❤ liked on Polyvore

Accent table / Furniture / Furniture / INDIAN Antique Coffeetable Brass Cladded Chai Table Vintage Haveli... / Antique Coffee Table Brass Arabic Calligraphy Chai Tables Rustic India... / Antique Coffee Table Brass Horse Carved Chai Tables Green Rustic... / Menu home decor, 2,885 INR

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8 restaurants in Delhi with “Insta-worthy” food

Pictures may or may not speak a thousand words, but a food shot on Instagram (when done right) is worth a thousand likes. Perfectly plated with a burst of colour and textures that make you want to get your hands on that dish would not be an exaggeration. Today, it is more common to take a picture of your meal and upload it on social media than just dig into it when it arrives at your table. Some frown upon it and some say, why not? Why not, indeed? A beautiful plate of food is a thing of art you want to show off to everyone you know. If you can't share the food, you can at least share its picture!

Let's look at some of the most beautiful food you can find in Delhi NCR - the kind you'd want to snap a picture of as well as dive into.

Perch Wine & Coffee Bar, Khan Market

Perch-ed on the first floor of Khan Market is this beautiful cafe and bar with food that looks like it's been served from off a glossy magazine. Just look at the picture above and let it speak to you. They have an impressive wine and coffee menu too. And the food menu includes dishes like confit chicken leg with fondant potatoes and orange caper emulsion, oven roasted Belgian pork belly and mushroom and morel risotto with truffle oil. If that doesn't reel you in, desserts like double chocolate mousse, almond and plum tart and mocha parfait with confit orange and coffee crumble certainly will. Sounds like a perfect Saturday night dinner, doesn't it? They're open from 11:30 AM to 1 AM everyday. Don't forget to take pictures!

Rose Cafe, Saket

There are dishes that are photogenic and then there are restaurants themselves that you can't help take a picture of because of how pretty they look. On rare occasions, you can have both. Such is Rose Cafe. The cafe is beautifully decorated with pastel colours and rustic furniture that go really well together. Not to forget, their food which includes Italian and continental dishes like goat's cheese, roasted garlic and sun-dried tomato pizza, fish florentine and mozzarella and baked tomato penne. They also have a vegan menu which looks equally delicious. For breakfast they have waffles and pancakes with loads of topping options. Take lots of pictures and eat your heart out. They are open from 12 noon to 9 PM.

Elma's Bakery, Hauz Khas Village

You've probably already been to Elma's for a slice of red velvet cake among other things. But it doesn't get old, does it? Elma's makes some of the finest cakes in town and if you're in Hauz Khas Village this weekend you should pop around for a slice of heaven. From red velvet to cheesecake, they've got all the delicious baked goodies covered. If that's not up your alley then try their breakfast of pancakes with toppings or the full English breakfast. A tea party with friends or an evening alone with some cake to indulge in, either way, you're taking a picture of it and it's going to be good. Elma's is open between 10 AM and 1 AM everyday.

Civil House, Khan Market

To enjoy Delhi's greenery and ample sunshine, Civil House is perfect. There's an old world charm about this place with their while walls and warm interiors. They primarily serve European food and some great pizza like artichoke, asparagus and grilled potato, Thai basil chicken, mozzarella and cherry tomatoes and the classic, margherita. Their mains worth many pictures include pork tournedos, red wine braised lamb shank, gratinated polenta with mushrooms and three mushroom risotto. The desserts need a special mention. Hazelnut and ganache torte and dark chocolate fontant with ice cream, to be precise. They're open from 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM everyday.

Sanadige, Chanakyapuri

For more drama than finesse in food photos, go to Sanadige. Absolutely drool-worthy plate of incredible seafood awaits you. Giant crab, lobster, fried fish and other seafood gems make for a fantastic meal here. If you want to get a taste of authentic Mangalorean food, Sanadige is the closest you can get. They serve some real good prawns sukka, crab ghee roast, pomfret masala fry, squid chilli fry, lobster butter pepper garlic and best of all a seafood platter with the ocean's best on a plate. There are more seafood dishes with clams, mackerel, lady fish and others. Have all of this with Mangalore 'breads' like moode, neer dosa, appam and more. They're open from 12 noon to 3:30 PM and 7:30 PM to 11:30 PM everyday.

Farzi Cafe, DLF Cyber City

Farzi Cafe has been around for a few years and has done well enough to spread its branches in other cities. Their cuisine is modern Indian which makes it all the more appealing. Indian food with a modern twist does sound delicious. They serve some seriously gorgeous dishes like dal chawal aranchini, bacon kachori, keema kulcha and Parle-G cheesecake. They take classic Indian dishes, even comfort food from home, and turn them into spectacular pieces of art on a plate. What's not to love about mishti doi shots? From butter chicken bun to Bailey's lollipop, you get the idea of what you're about to be served. They're open from 12 noon to 1 AM everyday.

Prankster, Sector 29 (Gurgaon)

This new pub in Gurgaon has gotten everybody raving about it already. Their cool menu with lots of fun dishes has been drawing lots of patrons. Dishes like sundried tomato, olive and onion bhajiya, Bombay tawa pulao croquettes, bhatti ka murg, lamb chole tangine, murgh palang todh, chicken haleem weds mutton biryani, coconut payasam with baked saffron sheera, pranked rose kheer and textures of jalebi sound like something you should try. They not only have interesting names, but also taste great. They also have some fun cocktails like purani Dilli collins, baba ji ki booti (don't ask us!), masala chai sour and pan pasand mojito. They're open from 12:30 PM to 1 AM on all days.

The Fatty Bao, R K Puram

Everybody knows and loves The Fatty Bao. Be it their drinks or their food, it's a hit. Asian food has never looked and tasted better at The Fatty Bao. From baos to gyozas, ramen to curries, they've got all of them right. How can you turn away from a plate of deliciously beautiful food now? Their popular bao includes the roast duck, spicy tofu and the curried pulled pork shen jian bao. For a bit of indulgence try their pan seared scallops with fujiko butter or the hamachi carpaccio. Their ramen is not just comfort in a bowl but also super delicious and a total stunner. We didn't forget the desserts. They've got an interesting one called the egg which is an eggless take on a soft-boiled egg in its shell and it's actually panna cotta with passionfruit/mango yolk. They're open from 12 noon to 3 PM and 7 PM to 12:30 AM.