Sat Nov 23 09:53:09 UTC 2024: ## New Speakeasy-Style Bar Opens in Chennai’s T Nagar

**CHENNAI, INDIA (November 23, 2024)** – A new restobar, The Neighborhood Bar, has opened its doors in T Nagar, Chennai, offering a unique blend of speakeasy ambiance and neighborhood hangout. Located in the basement of the Mango Hill Central hotel, the bar features a hidden entrance resembling a red British telephone booth.

The interior boasts plush seating, chandeliers, and a warmly lit bar, creating an intriguing atmosphere. The menu showcases inventive cocktails, including the fruity Besant Breeze and the creamy Flaming Coffee, alongside classics like LIITs and margaritas. A signature drink, the T Nagar Tingle Tequila (a blend of ABC juice and tequila), is described as a mildly sweet but interesting flavor combination. The bar’s modestly priced alcohol menu is expected to be a significant advantage in Chennai’s competitive market.

The food menu, however, presents a more mixed bag. While some dishes like the karuveppilai prawn fry receive praise, the fusion dishes – a naan with pizza toppings (Naanza) and idiyappam with Thai green curry – receive mixed reviews. The Naanza is criticized for its chewy cheese and dense naan bread.

The Neighborhood Bar also plans to host weekly live performances and offers daily secret discounts based on guests’ clothing colors.

“We wanted to create a bit of intrigue,” says Balaji Kathirvel, corporate head of Food and Beverage at Mango Hill. “We want this to be a neighbourhood hangout spot, with themed events and planned occasions as well.”

Despite some mixed reviews on the food, the bar’s atmosphere, pricing, and creative cocktails suggest significant potential. A meal for two with alcohol costs approximately ₹1,700.

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