tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4746079803438713402024-03-05T00:13:24.147-08:00In and around Chennai...Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-49277671392711974952009-01-12T21:12:00.000-08:002009-01-12T21:16:25.279-08:00Chennai SangamamIt is that time of the year that Chennai is basking in the glory of its traditional food and art performances. All along the week there will be artists performing in various places - the lists of which you can find <a href="http://www.chennaisangamam.com/Highlight.html">here</a>. And there will also be food stalls from variuos restaurants and also stalls selling traditional food items which you can indulge on.Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-14157279086166742372008-12-23T10:18:00.000-08:002008-12-23T10:21:25.990-08:00Taj Mount RoadBrand Taj is back to splurge its customers with yet another luxury hotel Taj Mount road at #2 Club House Road. This place has got around 6 options to wine and dine. Looks like a good bet to enjoy your new year :). If any of you drop by I would be glad to here your experiences. You can either mail me at shals88@gmail.com or drop by a comment :)Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-7802381281491993802008-12-11T06:00:00.000-08:002008-12-11T07:08:19.954-08:00Food Factor # 5<strong>Eat Out:</strong> Gallopin Gooseberry<br /><br /><strong>Cusine:</strong> American and Italian<br /><br /><strong>Ambience:</strong> The place is simple and neat with bright colored walls. It is never too crowded so its a perfectplace to drop by for a relaxed meal and a quick bite. It can seat around 50 - 60 people on an average. <br /><br />I would rate the ambience 3.5/5<br /><br />This place has an exotic varieties of food option ranging from the classic burger , mexican burger, chicken salami to lasagnes and sandwiches. I love their mozzarella cheese sticks - crispy outside and completley cheesy inside :) Heavenly!<br /><br />Me being a veggie my options are limited but neverthless I love their food. It's the kind of burgers I haven't had anywhere else in Chennai. You can also get your juice served from the neighbouring fruit shop.<br /><br />I would rate their food 4.5/5<br /><br />Meal for two would cost: Rs.300 - Rs.400 <br /><br /><strong>Address: </strong><br /><br />#11<br />Shop #2, 2nd Floor<br />Greams Road<br />Chennai-600006<br />Landmark: Near Thousand Lights Police Station<br />Phone: 044-28291077Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-66247101140452865602008-09-26T22:10:00.000-07:002008-09-27T08:01:57.617-07:00Food Factor # 4<strong>Eatery</strong> : French Loaf / Maple Leaf<br /><br /><strong>Cuisine</strong>: Desserts, Sandwiches, Pies<br /><br /><strong>Ambience</strong>: <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250579069306091810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRJNRBJAspUxGWKGiSeeHt0O9aVWA5fCYoVttK9D6nRFr1CE5YgHnxcbfFl209sb4gdKa9JnpQlcZaBnO83Jtk9HHjPRvXvSyvZZUYQUjzZSUXRhGQI8vRZMg1Pw8oG0YB3f_Luy__PkP/s320/DSC00339.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div>This place is one of my favourite in the city. Right from the place where it is conveniently located to the ambience its jus' a perfect place to hang around with your friends. I ve been to this place to over a dozen of times but still this place would be my first choice to enjoy an evening with friends or family.<br /><br />On the ground floor is French loaf and in the first floor is Maple Leaf ( a Chocolate Lounge). This place has also got an alfresco kinda dining apart form its cozy innteriors. On the whole I would rate it 8/10. As much as my friends like the place, my parents enjoy it as well.<br /><br /><strong>Food:</strong></div><br /><div>Turkish Brownie (Yumm! Yumm! My personal fav.)<br />Chocolate Classic (Yumm!)<br />Pineapple Mousse (Average)<br />Chocolate Mousse (Yum! Yum!)<br />Chocolate Eclair (Average)<br />Muffins (Yum! Yum!)<br />I love their sandwiches as well. When you wanna order for sandwiches they provide you with a sheet with variuos options and you can choose what goes into your sandwich right from the kind of bread, to cheese to the veggies and the sauces. Very filling and worth its price.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250579060243805138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh60x0pK2CspOnJGfbdXI67Pf-tB8pj-EqYj-Rd5t6C6TDv4fcCWnYh9-jwH1Gaqzy70Y115wWB5E_Axud72241k3UO6GLXyvF_xjcc5Pdff62PzHY83dwMOa6o3_3vEjVqWXtWt2iUjSx7/s320/DSC00336.JPG" border="0" /><br />I would rate the food an 8/10. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250579064351062418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeK1HlxKQQlPyRxFFQAtHzi9ViCTsDaa7o75GyLLrYl9jUyr-piaxNVAprczyEbBwLUr9I1xbbXUV3Qg8KYqzHj21EpblliqaEhl_iRV-SDI5sACHJ1MF9ZwVRbmxupmHPr1NZRf9037zd/s320/DSC00337.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250579066061367202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1k3hCQDKF6AjmXuxaGYZjBh_t1Hc4JaiDzqhRiaqskKV0WH6snQnDVtJApr0wov5Np-diVmCw-fT1FxmjQZeaA6eh8GFWbDtRVrHzABIUahoxzj_utvjEo8lmL6LarBfGNInakEyT3pFM/s320/DSC00338.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><strong>Service:</strong></div><br /><div>It's one of those rare places in Chennai where the service is good each time I visit there. You might jus' have to push them a lil bit to bring your bill at the end of your meal. I would rate the service 7.5/10<br /><br /><strong>Average cost for two</strong>: Rs.250 </div><div> </div><div><strong>Address:</strong> 9, Harrington Road, Near Lady Aandal School, Harrington, Chetpet HO, Chennai<br /><strong>Phone: </strong>044- 43561333, 43561666<br /><br />A must visit place if you love desserts ! </div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-31513583711644861152008-09-13T10:38:00.000-07:002008-09-14T21:43:34.659-07:00Food Factor # 3<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNWr6SgZF1WIVMtoEkH95YnQ4nMR64db9pmLBChld_qhzuSPYkUyqK1OtWVLqr5F79OfOk0x1bRmaAvZSWwkszAJ8iN_-xvUGi6Ax8UDYbqNSXxqm7bIBTplrZ44F3TccGFnVgEiNLgZe/s1600-h/wangs.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245567274399654946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNWr6SgZF1WIVMtoEkH95YnQ4nMR64db9pmLBChld_qhzuSPYkUyqK1OtWVLqr5F79OfOk0x1bRmaAvZSWwkszAJ8iN_-xvUGi6Ax8UDYbqNSXxqm7bIBTplrZ44F3TccGFnVgEiNLgZe/s320/wangs.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong>Eatery: </strong>Wangs Kitchen (Anna Nagar) </div><div></div><div><div><strong>Cuisine:</strong> Chinese</div><div></div><div>I was there today for dinner at Wang's Anna nagar outlet. The place was almost full by the time we reached there . </div><div></div><div></div><div><strong>Ambience:</strong></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245566334945197570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz2zWtHLFCMxOh7Fewa83kkbfZTOiMNy47bYpyAI1BH2XVD_GEHo8StbE5CB1796ck4qymPMNvAIlipbQK9XAsPFM9AsiS4mIrkwXi5Ub_yVu40QhNqcV540-d30ubQ81X8RzLFnubGcz6/s320/DSC00596.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>The ambience was perfect for dinner out with family/friends on a saturday evening. The theme of the restaurant gelled well with the cuisine it had to offer with chinese symbols , lucky charms tied in the corners. On settling down I started clicking few pics as usual to be put up here :) I woyld rate the ambience 7/10.</div><br /><div><strong>Food:</strong></div><div>We ordered for</div><br /><div>Wonton veg. Soup (Good)</div><div>Dragon Cauliflower (Yum!!)</div><div>Veg.Noodles (Average)</div><div>Schezwan fried rice (Good)</div><div>Veg.Manchurian balls (Average)</div><div>Fried Ice Cream (Yumm! Yum!!)</div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245566342692627474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8gxZqer5oKcqFTMtf_J6-wYwX2XyEhV8WEeHrFcE41GKvItWfYrE08nBksQrrrBN8ul93hmdtW9NQnTcWhFZ0K-a1b9ozY3WME-ntBRZdEzd5j7a9WSE950jzyQdeTziIXfzF6FElKTm/s320/DSC00598.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245566347110184850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhET9sAToDNIXEM4JKLARfAxBHcquF4Lrti6gvLdms3Ms6GwuG4jcszdloz1sjBm7ezInnJLH-iPlnHDt4sXfPhwSeQh8Q0X2CxvMfaTEdo_y7BruqhIYFTmZTTaGyb6o-yecsjC9cF9k6U/s320/DSC00599.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245566785659899378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4i1dku5K5WBIEwpFS2E6ESLJFp-W7Wv0EMfhTQiil04IYQG2PLvOS364TM650JH2E5yOxNIZbEW2bw8h5Em6CxuDz7NSGusYdsBVi2-zay0dmQ-BW5uLyQj2m5lh7tvsoGSLnitcUESU/s320/DSC00600.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245566787256689682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMH_OQCQW98LzFt2MHmOnoF05244SnsTU6feOzl16eHxnaKPIv0F7QH9b4G5i2tzrButoHi2eaLeKG8o2LCOSp-MBJjTthZp7hd0BoAJkFkC7aqu4nltyKZqlYiCEZteePrVVUCq2O3_x/s320/fried+ice+cream.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>On the whole it was an average experience , I 've always liked their starters (Dragon cauliflower) and my mum loved it too . And the fried Ice cream (my all time favourite) deserves a thumbs up too. In veg. dishese these 2 are a must try in this place. I would rate their food a 7/10. </div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Service:</strong></div><div>In the begining it all seemed perfect but as more people started coming the waiters were behind your back to see to it you left the place soon. They removed the table mat even before we could order for the desserts. I would rate the service 6.5/10. </div><div> </div><div><strong>Average cost for two: </strong>Rs. 250</div><div> </div><div></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Location:</strong> Click <a href="http://www.wangskitchen.co.in/contact.asp">here</a> to find their various locations in Chennai.</div><div></div></div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-78154421301696154532008-09-11T20:33:00.000-07:002008-09-12T04:38:14.881-07:00Ona Sadya @ Chennai<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMc9Y8RSDMHuLdoya-oi2u9lf68yA88A8Lpw1vFAi6v2oNupX0Rri79TGlup6JqgON_vJcKc_uVr7LZCyepaRr73CbFNsrOR7oiej-8ROFnfCr17IWzXimysalHu2Rwpx7ckW15H2nw1vF/s1600-h/sadya.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244983174655600626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMc9Y8RSDMHuLdoya-oi2u9lf68yA88A8Lpw1vFAi6v2oNupX0Rri79TGlup6JqgON_vJcKc_uVr7LZCyepaRr73CbFNsrOR7oiej-8ROFnfCr17IWzXimysalHu2Rwpx7ckW15H2nw1vF/s320/sadya.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div>I would like to wish all my Mallu friends world over a very happy onam :) (Ona Asamsakal). One of the most important part of Onam is feasting the traditional Onam Sadya with family and friends . But, to most of them living far away from home this would be a hard thing to miss. If your in Chennai consider yourself lucky as there are many hotels/restaurants serving the tarditional Onam Sadya not jus today but through the weekend as well :)</div><div></div><div>Here is a list of them:</div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Cholayil Sanjeevanam</strong> : - Onam Sadya (12th to 14th and 20th to 21st Sept'08)</div><br /><div>Contact no. : Nungambakam - 64508427 - 28</div><div>Adyar - 65718423 - 24</div><div>Mugappair - 26243249 - 51</div><br /><div>At <strong>Krishna Sweets</strong> you get hot hot Palada Pradhaman and Chakka Pradhaman only today from 8am to 1pm in their Anna nagar, t.nagar, Ashok nagar and Adyar branches.</div><br /><div>There is an Onam Sadya lunch/dinner buffet from (12th sept to 14th sept) at <strong>Hotel Marina</strong> <strong>Towers</strong>, Egmore, Chennai-600008 . Ph: 28585454</div><br /><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Kishkinta</strong> , the theme park near Tambaram is offering its customers a free Onam Sadya meal for lunch.</div><div>and a lot more places, will update them as and when I get to knwo.. Happy feasting :)</div><div></div></div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-77674215180364102662008-09-09T07:48:00.000-07:002008-09-09T07:49:26.558-07:00Chennai Forums - Yet another reason for Chennaites to celebrateThose of you who have been following my blog about would have known my love for the place. Thou' I ve been born and brought up here, if there is anything I here about Chennai, it excites me :) . One thing I am really excited about now is the new forum I came across for our very own Chennai,the <a href="http://chennaiforums.com/">Chennai Forums</a> . This is one place where you can find news about anything and everything that has been happening in the city.<br /><br /><br />Right from health tips, beauty, gadgets, education, movies, restaurant and what not.. You can find any topic under the sun. There is also a forum where you can discuss about the various happenings in the city . The best part is you get to share your views with namma Chennai makkal. You' don have to go in search of the news papaer when your busy online to check for ur TV Schedules , this site here has got everything that you would want to know.. Its more like a virtual Chennai times but here you also get to voice in your views.<br /><br /><p>But, the best part here is the map they offer, which is similar to that of google earth where you can zoom in to locate your home or jus' browse around to find any new destination. This thing is really cool and I'm sure I ll be using it each weekend to hunt for a new restaurant ;)</p><p>I jus' registered on to the forum. You can use this link <a href="http://www.chennaiforums.com/register.php?referrerid=32">http://www.chennaiforums.com/register.php?referrerid=32</a> to register as well. Chennaites, see you all at <A href="http://chennaiforums.com">Chennai Forums</a></p>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-89506968200891979432008-09-05T23:16:00.000-07:002008-09-06T00:46:27.989-07:00Food Factor # 2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-msN_ZOx_4rlrlpKxDmDDbevpqx-4C2s699x0hgNR9-DmakUwM5Q9w-6mOPmOz_23elGt0ZpfRuZbHrV_N7CvS8b0OkRjwDaIzeh3t-il2oWs0QtxykmUewdREcIAOfYNZhxBAw0b1eO/s1600-h/DSC00532.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242810882200975474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-msN_ZOx_4rlrlpKxDmDDbevpqx-4C2s699x0hgNR9-DmakUwM5Q9w-6mOPmOz_23elGt0ZpfRuZbHrV_N7CvS8b0OkRjwDaIzeh3t-il2oWs0QtxykmUewdREcIAOfYNZhxBAw0b1eO/s400/DSC00532.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><strong>Eatery</strong> : Bombay Blue<br /><br /><strong>Cuisine</strong>: Indian, Italian, Mexican, Mediteranean.<br /><br />There I was at the much hyped recently opened Bombay blues restaurant last weekend. Each time I passed through the college road, I always saw this place flooded with people so to play it safe we made a reservation the minute we planned to go there for lunch. Six of us (family and friends) went there for a lunch out last sunday.<br /><br /><strong>Ambience:<br /></strong><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242805364762909378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifymwQppZ1mO3rRaxFRlrraHdi4KrdkOI3BMZd1prRhbuRZeOEWMPfXD98BdpVWO28YmBVHGeOEgshI3-9cgslZ2-yh-cCOfQQ2_0aMd7Luu8i5rCC2CVtsSfEOaJPfeYJEDRLA2aoTkEk/s400/DSC00517.JPG" border="0" /><br />My first impression on the place was that it was vibrant and trendy with its colorful interiors (in the hues of blue, orange, yellow, red), flat screen TV and with the backgroud music it played. I would rate the ambience 7.5/10<br /><br /><strong>Food:</strong><br /><br />On having a look at the menu, I was astonished to see the variety of cuisine in offer all in one restaurant. Looks like Chennai is catching up on this trend. The items on offer ranged from sandwiches to Pav Bhaji to Nachos to sizzlers to pastas..<br /><br />Items we ordered:<br /><br />Italian Tomato Soup (Good)<br />Bombay blue falafel (Average)<br />Paneer Tikka (YUM!!)<br />French Fries (Good)<br />Punjabi Thali (Good)<br />Paneer and Vegetable Shaslik (Good)<br />Veggie Sizzler (Good)<br />Enchiladas (Yum!)<br />Sizzling Chocolate Brownie (Yum!)<br />Peach Melba (Yum!)<br />Ice cream Soda (Good)<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242805367640830274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8L657pG3nj79Lz1BX9TutZM5VUQ4AoqGd8h77OBOlvw0SJ_GfbcE8z-gJq-kzCeKrtmkPUo4pOHa9wne7O7FC8WV-T4W1tuF6XedEVHPVXUHgCemmWE95HOneU2m6OdZG97mJpN2TeEIE/s400/DSC00520.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242805374039722994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGGxv9Aax0TgDCqTb720vUeg0nyHDc5JCvYyzYDkzQSovOaiaajcM0s3U72yCdCGFYVu99oXwX9xCNkxYLWdyAu4qD_MFK-RcgcANW44JhqVBuLbVX8CgZ5-rTbK2DiiZgjX2UUXyhkSI/s400/DSC00521.JPG" border="0" /><br />There was so much variety that it actually took me quite a lot time as to decide on what I wanted to have .<br />I especially liked their Paneer Tikka , they were so so soft and tasted YUM!! Never have I tasted them so good. The Enchiladas were good too, we opted for the one filled with Rajmah . The Sizzlers were good but can be much better. We ended our meal on a sweet note with Ice cream soda, Peach Meba and Sizzling chocoloate brownie. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242806540740940530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2VU092-JK_82LNI1nYd8aaMwlBryHDgymVmqnYJZjLYkWIaoak6msPzAFGvftEj-QB-5YgokcSj7OxxGlzNczNHT1I-0sU-qlPUs5ZvHX2CdHuzlAvLp3Sh3OwwDM5PtNFQVCX2pOr5NN/s400/DSC00522.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242806547465230130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXx6uYYgxdPTnVHIlVxDs-XJLKZvw0kxLhT79cN1RDYbxEc_CaMswJIUb2rJ6W0YSIExPmmXQO5ycw410r0hlRVUZ2eQDh2Saumqq8VBDC1ptETeNSMOR5fX7TJzWXwP3pPjHk1DOxBRZs/s400/DSC00524.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242807428007096194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rx3muEAuhIJ_9q3jdoPJJBLY1Isv01LTqM72mIyzpsImkD56x5uvEoTc7vY-USxzZaJuFLzDduITCafeqCmGrRrgj9uA5CTM6s7QrOl1YP4pGiBvkbX26Nb2O4kVXnbXSs_e8lBrrf4r/s400/DSC00526.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242807437660210546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5ZbHNAWZSQWqsugpxaijCEn0Ifwj-WU8ON86I4zDxqUYZw_DxNLauZ8Z3L0R9_B2aX7vCEC2xyp9UJgo4W-J64qB45rjpmRux4XQy1WWBdXRPXi8tKX3R9UZKVnx1Gj2HOZ_vCFFvAYN/s400/DSC00527.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242807445506945746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_Fj624SqcLIwSfGoH-K_Mz2mO8S8Unq3obY2wvAnwnQfvj4gSFXCRL7MAjq7mVWOlRvyihlWfdK8UziB0daSaI290k6LJZNQCOA4t_BEPxz61A-V4km2GDLNj2KEAmZJ81ovYSVNBj_d/s400/DSC00529.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242810884441733522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDDs3cZKmaBwIhevF6j_WoMHMKgpOynTRJTuvN1nTdl9js-rP8uArEkQQcb-eF8Tf_xBeSZhx_JNqZAoNpOtVQr0AdOdXXt-IYbpMJUdE9l815BLjxHgW3QUk0mY4uFa4SOjiiyGJK440/s400/DSC00530.JPG" border="0" /><br />Loved their deserts, especially the way the chocolate was poured on to make it sizzling hot (literally!). I would rate the food 7/10.<br /><br /><strong>Pricing:<br /></strong><br />Overall liked the experience, thou'the pricing was a bit on the expensive side it looks like it is worth it all. A must visit for all those of you who love your food and would like to try out new cuisines.<br /><br /><strong>Average cost for two:</strong> Rs.800</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>Address:</strong> Bombay Blue, College Road, Chennai - 600006. </div><div><strong>Phone no</strong>: 43596633</div></div></div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-57401056968511555372008-08-30T12:23:00.000-07:002008-08-30T12:50:49.073-07:00The Marg Chennai MarathonChennai is geared up for one of the most popular event in Chennai's yearly calender "The <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWiO0X4SxGoT0psdfNejXLvJzydZt6-zOyh6Uc2_volWnIlz3GCkmFnJYvuoyJLX1kQ3YEGbRySUv_Uu0AQYymsCFmB0-4Qju3O_anJWjk1npEzrRmFA8gCtqrEZZ3rImggzPz-I9knNV/s1600-h/Marg+marathon.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240400079380378002" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 179px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 161px" height="145" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWiO0X4SxGoT0psdfNejXLvJzydZt6-zOyh6Uc2_volWnIlz3GCkmFnJYvuoyJLX1kQ3YEGbRySUv_Uu0AQYymsCFmB0-4Qju3O_anJWjk1npEzrRmFA8gCtqrEZZ3rImggzPz-I9knNV/s320/Marg+marathon.jpg" width="179" border="0" /></a>Chennai Marathon" to be held today(Aug 31 08) starting approx. 6hrs from now. The Marg Chennai Marathon is held in aid of Give Life Charity trust, so lets join hands for a noble cause and RUN !!<br /><br />Give Life is a social organisation that provides deserving poor children not jus' their basic needs but goes to the heights of grooming them with personality development classes and entrepreneurial assistance as well when required.<br /><br />This Marathon is considered to be the third most expensive in the world , first being the Boston Marathon. The Categories include 21km, 7km, 3km and 500 mts depending upon your age group and other factors. It looks to be one of the best organised large scale events in the city. You can check out <a href="http://www.margchennaimarathon.com/index.htm">their site</a> for more details about the parking arrangments made for its participants, award details and a lot more.<br /><br />I ve registered myself for the event and would love to run the marathon as well, but my mum has still not given me the green signal. If im not participating, the least I could do is be there in the Marina beach for an event coverage :)<br /><br />Have a great weekend!!Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-70958331837263911302008-08-29T11:15:00.000-07:002008-08-29T11:53:48.846-07:00Food Factor # 1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDTcE6aqV-OtX7JUPwaAJxArYmWXfCId1RTQMIXsvs9Tgna0wbmksB0I_seLOF_lMdpbcYwkUxCq4SO2Rtx86mQlFTyoL74Drx0p8zLhgk3pVu6vBQbGrxpdgbStMzrormhZAHogsDjb-G/s1600-h/Murugan+idly.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240013148769719346" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" height="101" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDTcE6aqV-OtX7JUPwaAJxArYmWXfCId1RTQMIXsvs9Tgna0wbmksB0I_seLOF_lMdpbcYwkUxCq4SO2Rtx86mQlFTyoL74Drx0p8zLhgk3pVu6vBQbGrxpdgbStMzrormhZAHogsDjb-G/s320/Murugan+idly.jpg" width="329" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong>Eatery:</strong> Murugan Idly shop<br /><br /><strong>Cuisine:</strong> South Indian (Vegetarian)<br /><br />As the name suggests, this place is famous especially for its Idlys (rice cake) with podi. This place was started almost couple of decades back in Madurai ( a town in Tamil Nadu, India). Due to its popularity it has opened outlets not jus' in Chennai but has gone global with outlets in Singapore as well.<br /><br /><strong>Food:</strong> This eatery is famous for the different chutneys it offers with the tiffin items. You can opt<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFsvJBx7CAkmPG8IrJf2zvwHSKwX3zL3K1RlEo_Whc7hYnyGIJOs5-WKu4YV_WnMv_TTFHfnFnFfm7ZC2mVp_LJBpB_vz96aNFu8P-bku71ECa3DsAiDOjZI5yb8pMGajtbBlXCEjVfDB5/s1600-h/MI.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240012904364324338" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 280px" height="294" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFsvJBx7CAkmPG8IrJf2zvwHSKwX3zL3K1RlEo_Whc7hYnyGIJOs5-WKu4YV_WnMv_TTFHfnFnFfm7ZC2mVp_LJBpB_vz96aNFu8P-bku71ECa3DsAiDOjZI5yb8pMGajtbBlXCEjVfDB5/s320/MI.jpg" width="297" border="0" /></a> to taste a variety of dosas ranging from plain dosa to culiflowers dosas. I have tried their Dosas, Idli, Sambar Vadai, Masal Vadai, Onion Uthapam, Full Meals. My personal favourite was their Sambar Vadai, Dosa and Idli in that order. Also heard that their filter coffee is aromatic and tastes jus' great. I would rate their food 8/10.<br /><br />The food is yummylicious and is authentic in its own South Indian way.<br /><br /><strong>Ambience:</strong> I have visited three of their eateries which are in T.Nagar , on an average I would rate it 6.5/10<br /><br /><strong>Location:</strong>(in Chennai)<br /><br />77-1/A,G.N. Chetty Road, T. Nagar<br />Telephone : 044-28155462<br />044-42025076.<br /><br />46/13 North Usman Road, T.Nagar<br />Telephone : 044-42084842<br />044-28155399<br /><br />108, 109, Triplicane High Road,<br />Hamedia Shopping Mall, Triplicane.<br />Telephone : 044 - 42156066<br /><br />E. 149/1 6th Avenue,<br />Besant Nagar,(Opp.Vilankanni Church)<br />Chennai - 600 090<br />Telephone : 044 - 42018181<br /><br />No.9 Ramanathan Street,Usman Road,<br />T.Nagar,Chennai - 17<br />Telephone :044 - 24345343<br /><br /><strong>Cost for 2 people:</strong>Rs. 200 on an average. </div><div></div><div>Check out their <a href="http://muruganidlishop.com/default.htm">website</a> for more details.</div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-63935635415273117512008-08-22T09:37:00.000-07:002008-08-24T10:59:43.952-07:00Happy Bday Chennai..Chennai celebrates its 369th birthday today *claps* *claps*... On this very day, August 22nd 1639,British administratore Francis Day is reported to have recieved the grant for privileges in Medraspatam, the then Chennai. It was official granted that day and the rest as they say is history.<br /><br />I for one person is born and brought up in Chennai and I'm totally in love with this place. Be it shopping in T.Nagar/Spencers/Citi Center , The Saravana Bhavans that i'm always faithful to thou' how many ever eateries come by, The Beach, ECR and ofcourse Anna nagar(which was once a quiet residential place is now buzzling with activities) and Kilpauk where I spent all my child hood. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237393136700127346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 386px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 228px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="228" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ik23mxdGsnn5_smfwkSL5UXCR-44y6G0gSsFMUWfavORw2jzLAb-60qT_wiLULlSAIDTeO5qQ-QKuPvpjoqs3nNovNBStmyIFmidcuLY5RD8k7U_7W3zBYN_dCz_HttwKS_O6PX1TPpl/s320/grid+collage.jpg" width="338" border="0" />In connection with the Madras/Chennai Day celebrations a lot of events and competitions have been planned including heritage walks and nature walks , quiz competitions and a lot more. For more details you can check out the Madras Day site <a href="http://www.kutcheribuzz.com/themadrasday/events.htm">here</a><br /><br />It is my love for Chennai that I started to blog about it. I know I'm not being all that regular. But, starting on Chennai's 369th bday I'm planning to write a weekly column called <em><strong>'The food Factor' </strong></em>on every Friday starting next week in which I will be sharing my experiences in the various eatries in and around the city.Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-59029697458877370682008-05-25T00:20:00.000-07:002008-05-25T00:39:36.304-07:00For the foodie in you after duskThere were numerous times when I have felt hungry late night say after midnight or so and all that i could find was some snacks at home.. How I wish I had those yummy Tandoori dishes or Noodles or burgers and what not all from the comfort of my home.. Ya, I'm one lazy goose. But, now my prayers have been answered. <br /><br /><em><strong>Twilight takeout</strong></em> is the newly opened take away restaurant in Chennai, whose timings are 7pm - 7am. Yup, its in namma Chennai. Aptly located at Nungambakam. They also home deliver to places within 3km radius. Yummy pocket friendly food is just a call away. You can place your orders by dialing 43081222 / 43081333.<br /><br />Haven't tried the place yet, but it looks like a wonderful place to check out. And a wonderful business idea as well. As Chennai is only in its early stages when it comes to Night life and the city has a lot more way to go.<br /><br />You can check out the <a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.in/sudarshan.s/TwilightTakeout">menu here.</a> <br /><br /><br />Addres: No.1 Park Side Street, Lake Area, Nungambakkam, Chennai - 34<br /><br />Phone: 43081222 / 43081333Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-6600845900666250992008-04-22T09:27:00.000-07:002008-04-22T09:36:18.319-07:00The Indian Premier leagueA lot has been happening in Chennai lately and so is it with me.. Sorry for the lame excuse, I will take all efforts i can to post regularly at this blog space..<br /><br />The much hyped Indian premier league has started and the storm is to hit Chennai on 23rd April.. To catch the action at M.A Chidambaram stadium at Chepauk grab your tickets right away if there is any remaining. The first match is between Chennai super kings and Mumbai Indians . The company behind Chennai super kings is India Cements and the brand ambassadors include actors Vijay and Nayanthara . <br /><br />Im sure the match is gonna be power packed as well as entertaining with a number of kollywood stars to be present at the stadium cheering for their team .. If your free unlike me :( be sure not to miss the action.. <br /><br />Watch this space for more updates !Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-90928798367059496662007-12-28T02:00:00.000-08:002007-12-28T02:18:28.286-08:00Oxford book storeWhen one wants to get any book, the first thing that will hit any Chennaites (including me) thought would be Landmark. But here is a book store with a difference when compared to other book stores in the city. If you want to enjoy a lazy sunday after noon with a book and tea in a cozy place (hold your breath...) in the heart of Chennai city .. yes, you read it right. There is one such place called Oxford book store situated at the Apeejay House in Haddows Road.<br /><br />The place is not very crowded usually , there are also a few couches and chairs all over the bookstore, where you can take time to browse through the books. Apart from books they also see stationary and gift items . They have some wonderful collection of books which under normal conditions we might not be able to spot in other book stores . The interiors of the store is trendy and cozy , but mind your steps as there are a couple of places where there is a staircase leading to the basement without an indication , if your too engrossed into seeing all the books around ,you might miss a step or two and land in the basement automatically (like I did) :D<br /><br />They also have a cafe area in the first floor called the Cha Bar , this place narrates the entire story of tea . If you want to find some wonderful books on travel, Hospitality, places and those kinda stuff . OBS is the place to be , well this is my personal opinion as I had experiences of spending hours together serching for books on Hospitality in many other book stores and could hardly find any pertaining to my interest. So, if you love books and have some time in hand head to Oxford book store for a relaxing and a refreshing experience.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.oxfordbookstore.com/oxfordonline/Services/about_oxford/stores/oxford_chennai.asp?sid=7LKVU64WUCLR9GUNF6ER0J4DMA500439">This is</a> there website .Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-20737073526560710632007-11-25T23:08:00.000-08:002007-11-25T23:37:57.357-08:00Pitstop - Restaurant reviewLast weekend I was out with my family to catch up Kannamoochi yenada movie at Mayajaal .. On the way back we stopped at Pitstop ( a family restaurant is what they call it , but its more like a hang out kinda place .. more like Marrybrown , Pizza corner and its likes) .. <br /><br />The variety of food they serve is good ranging from Pizzas, burgers , salads to noodles, coleslaw et all.. They also have a variety of ice creams and milk shakes to choose from . The restaurant has an F1 theme and the ambience is good for a restaurant in its category .. It's jus' that the AC did not work that well when I visited one sunday afternoon.. May be the temperature was too hot.. The service of the people has over shadowed the food .. The people are really warm thou' a little bit of improvisation can be done when it comes to the food.<br /><br />The place also has a party area to hold bday parties with a play area for kids and a conference area with provision for projection . Overall it was a good experience with the warmth of their service topping the other factors .. Pitstop was started a couple of months back , it is an unit of Parveen travels. This restaurant is situated in the famous ECR before the toll gate when your on your way to Mahabalipuram from the Chennai city .. If your on your way to ECR and wondering where to stop for a quick break/snack.. Pitstop is an ideal place.Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-554296673605373532007-10-10T02:28:00.000-07:002007-10-10T02:38:18.031-07:00A rush of Adrenaline...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ip8R1-JMY8MpPfLJ69q6cKEjzUpInyLUELQwD22bhAYYZKg-JuVkQfPdI-r_cmnfKrCoztJDV21rdHQaWR6TXr4D9WfGpuK2XvFv3ITUSS9cQLFtLYnvV1U6xgUyyrr7W75-wKrcVRFB/s1600-h/bungee+jumping.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5119639970915717346" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 233px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 204px" height="204" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ip8R1-JMY8MpPfLJ69q6cKEjzUpInyLUELQwD22bhAYYZKg-JuVkQfPdI-r_cmnfKrCoztJDV21rdHQaWR6TXr4D9WfGpuK2XvFv3ITUSS9cQLFtLYnvV1U6xgUyyrr7W75-wKrcVRFB/s320/bungee+jumping.jpg" width="267" border="0" /></a><br /><div>This adventure sports and the first thing that comes to my mind is Bungee jumping.. Though I have not tried it out till now, I surely will someday...<br /><br />Here is a piece of info I came across which would help adventure lovers like me ...<br /><br />I putting up a few links here from where you can find bungee jumping spots in Chennai and other cities in India as well..<br /><br /><a href="http://www.maps-india.com/adventure/bungeejumping.htm">www.maps-india.com/adventure/bungeejumping.htm</a><br /><a href="http://www.fettke.com/bungee">www.fettke.com/bungee</a><br /><a href="http://www.bungeezone.com/">http://www.bungeezone.com/</a><br /><a href="http://www.comeconnect.com/sports/adven_sports9.htm">www.comeconnect.com/sports/adven_sports9.htm</a><br /><a href="http://www.bestonhealth.com/travel/india/adventure/adven_travel.asp?id=45">www.bestonhealth.com/travel/india/adventure/adven_travel.asp?id=45</a></div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-45159553148619964212007-10-05T02:17:00.000-07:002007-10-05T02:40:53.200-07:00Dining with a differenceThe Woodlands Drive-in in Cathedral road is one such place where dining is a whole new experience. This place has got a lot of greenery (thou' not properly maintained) that too in the centre of the city. I was here last weekend,on the way back from our second round of Diwali shopping. <br /><br />This restaurant turns out to be a very nice place for snacking in the evenings especially when your with a group of friends or family members . There are more than one options on how you can dine here<br />It can be either<br /><br />1.In your car<br />2.Under the banyan trees<br />3.Inside the restaurant<br /><br />We opted to do it under the banyan tree and it turned out to be a whole new experience from the usual waiting for seats in one of those regular crowded restaurants.I enjoyed every bit of it ... The food here tastes real yummy .<br />The cost works out to be very very economical compared to other places in the city.. Its a pure vegetarian restaurant ..<br /><br />Thou' the place is not very clean,its not all that bad either.. The food is served in the car park area for those not dining inside the restaurant.. This is one place in Chennai where you come across all kinds of people.. I got to see a few Mercedes Benz also .. This is a lot surprising to me is cause this is not a very classy place,but truly a very beutiful place to have your meal with the flora and fauna around.. Ya, you get to see a few crows , dogs here and there.. typical of Chennai rite? :)Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-85454997178857320792007-09-26T04:36:00.000-07:002007-09-29T05:26:37.892-07:00Fab India<div><div>I was recently at the Fab India store in Anna nagar which sells clothing for women, men and kids and they also sell Organic food stuff apart from home furnishings... It's one of a kind store in Chennai and its a never like before feeling when your there... These people out there love their cotton and understand India..<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115600401758188818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 365px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="365" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9988JtDNStexanXOJy0m-YRS8DEVxDI135vnUSk3Ia6I-LAgYYeFgiBS3E-n2PTfkpkYwaiG6oGjBVmAlvJwDRoTbd0uE7cBdgrx8rSF7S7-in1q3LOksZMyc-IJDV5wqBJ2vYjn2NspS/s400/FabIndia+-+Anna+nagar.jpg" width="277" border="0" /><br />All the clothing comes in cotton and silk , when you think of ethnic indian clothing with comfort think Fab India .. There sure is something for everyone .. This store was initially started to support the wevers in rural parts of India earn their living and now its come into the list of one of the Fashion stores in the country .. Oops, no ..its a world wide brand.. They have stores all across the globe..<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115600749650539810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3kxoNN81kk-gEctixvTB9sr_Zkhp1zUpE21AxA7CCafdG1YOqd3uA2ck-yICb3aogWUKqr1jEuk3K7GxgNcTF-ZZB1ourUtlBVh_DPyH9wHPnJZNUhWt8pKjWJIj_SUvtU_axfsBPV4oa/s400/14380-fabindia.jpg" border="0" /><br />I was there with my mom and grand mom last weekend to pick a few sarees for them and I ended up with a kurta for me along with few organic food stuffs as well.. Their black cherry jam is jus' irresistable..<br /><br />All their stuffs are very affordable quality products.. They last long as well... This is not my first visit here, had been there already its the quality of their clothes and food stuff which took me back there..<br /><br />This is their website : <a href="http://www.fabindia.com/">http://www.fabindia.com/</a><br /><br />With their love for the country , fabrics and people they have gone a step further and their strategies and the way they have evolved to what they are now have took them into the case studies of Harvard .. Do i need to say more..<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115600964398904626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHK1vrjVR0zmzSJ7zbe97kBBLNcgR9BquVo27UKeKEvWe1RKuFnb0Kpucwxhsm7_T8zcGxjQQ9OV6UmXfg24RUsvoAPLVSRqEwdhQVA2SQmu2Q4g0ayHQAa9AeQBAxPQGrf7orTCEbzpf/s400/fabindia.jpg" border="0" /><br />P.S: Their website doesnot have many collections compared to their stores.. If, your in any of the cities across the world where their stores are located ..Do take a visit .. Have fun shopping !</div></div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-71108456721166510482007-08-30T02:13:00.000-07:002007-08-30T02:21:45.101-07:00Organic foodOrganically grown food has gained popularity for quite sometime for all good reasons .. From the health point of view its so much more safer and healthier consuming organic food . But, its kinda more expensive than the normal ones sold in most of the super markets these days ... In this post I will be listing out few shops that sell organic food stuffs in Chennai<br /><br />Ahumkaara , +91 44 2661 1818. Five seed mix, buckwheat, fresh aloe vera and whet grass<br /><br />Arogyam, Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems, +91 4114 230625, 04114-570855 B45<br />Alagesan Nagar, Opposite Govt. Hospital, Chengalpet - 603001. Organically grown indigenous rice varieties<br /><br />Enfield Agrobase, +91 44 2442 0605. Mangoes, dried bananas, cashew and coconut<br /><br />Future Foods,+91 44 2440 4937. Soya, dals and coffee powder<br /><br />Naturally Auroville, +91 44 3833 0517. Kombucha (a beverage made by fermenting tea and sugar using the yeast kombucha), Spaghetti, ragi, spirulina and bread<br /><br />Organic Harvest, 91 94444 04577, Gallery Sri Parvati, 28/160, Eldams Road, Alwarpet. Organic vegetables available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between 8.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon; groceries are available throughout the week<br /><br />Organic milk, +91 44 2499 1203 Murali, New 177, Old 77 Luz Church Road<br /><br />Simply mmmm, AnnaNagar (near Blue Star). Organic vegetables available every Saturday and Wednesday, after 2 p.m.<br /><br />Sunday Shandy, +91 44 2499 1203. Weekly fair of organic vegetables, milk and other farm produce, direct from the farm. Every Sunday 9AM to 12PM<br /><br />The Eco Nut, +91 44 2491 9592. Sesame butter and homemade jams<br /><br />Me and my mom were talking about starting to buy organic food , so this left me writing this post .. Haven't been to any of these shops yet. Will post a detailed review about the place and their products after visiting a few of them ..<br /><br />Have a healthy life !Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-57981235001284390532007-08-18T04:01:00.000-07:002007-08-18T04:24:07.904-07:00Madras DayChannai/Madras (the former name of the city) celebrates its birthday on the 22nd August , as this is the day the city was found .<br /><br />With regard to this , the Madras week celebration is being held from August 19th-26th . A lot of activities including heritage walks, public talks, exhibition, tours for children, Madras Quiz, Photography contest and a list of other activities are arranged as a part of the celebration . More details about this can be seen <a href="http://www.kutcheribuzz.com/themadrasday/events.htm">here </a>.<br /><br />The Madras day celebration was initiated in the year 2004 by three people the city's famed historian, S. Muthiah, journalist Sashi Nair and publisher Vincent D' Souza.Today, they have been joined by three others - senior journalist and editor Sushila Ravindranath, entrepreneur and writer-historian V. Sriram and journalist and web site entrepreneur, Revathi R.<br /><br />The Madras week jus' few days away ,I wish all madrasas and madrasis a very happy madras day .. Get to know your city well and have a Blast!!Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-75695936796797392792007-08-07T05:42:00.000-07:002007-08-07T08:24:32.417-07:00sine qua non place in a tourist's listMarina, which is one of the longest beaches, is a major attraction for tourists from all over the world. The Bay of Bengal extends for a long distance along the east coast of Tamil Nadu , it is called by different names at different parts of the city as well as the state.<br />Along the shores of Marina adorn the statues of eminent personalities who made a mark in the Tamil as well as Indian culture<br />In Chennai Marina beach and Elliot’s beach in Beasant nagar are the most popular ones where the city crowd usually throngs..<br /><br />One of the famous aspect in case of these beaches is the street food .. The most popular ones are sundal ( bolied pulses with a little garnishing and topped with slices of mango ) , Raw mango sliced and topped with salt and chilli powder , Roasted as well as boiled corn , Bajji (vegetables dipped in flour and deep fried) and a variety of savouries like Muruku , thatai ..<br />Apart from this there are also a variety of north Indian Chaat available, the most popular ones being Bhel puri (puffed rice, carrot, onion, potato, namkeen mixed with tangy sauce garnished with coriander leaves) Pani puri , Pav Bhaji .. But, these food are not prepared under very hygienic conditions. So, if your not used to eating street food its better you avoid them. But you can also find some branded ice cream kiosks which are quite reliable like Kwality walls, Arun ice creams, Amul etc..<br /><br />Apart from the food stalls there are many stalls selling fish and other sea food in the morning from the early morning catch. In the evenings and especially during weekends you can find a lot of small shops selling toys , shells, kites and few other artistic work and these stuff are usually not very expensive.<br /><br />In the early morning you can usually find a lot of physical activity taking place with people taking their day’s walk, exercising and practising other martial arts.<br /><br />The games which are usually played are beach volley ball, cricket(along the lanes adjoining the beach) , Frisbee , kite flying.<br /><br />Horse riding is another popular attraction in the Marina beach , where you will be taken along the beach for a ride with the horse keeper accompanying you.<br /><br />These beaches are open to the public without any entry fee and the people are usually expected to leave the beaches by around 10 pm for safety reasons..<br /><br />Adjacent to Besant nagar beach is the Planet Yum food court which serves various cuisines , it also has a play area for children .<br /><br />Beasant nagar beach is more like a youth hang out , nevertheless its also a place where families spend a breezy evening along the sea shore .<br /><br />In case you wanna enjoy the beach in a more relaxed and quite environment you can head to the East Coast Road (ECR), a stretch along the Bay of Bengal which is around one hour drive from the city .. This scenic stretch has many resorts with private beaches which are usually not very crowded .. In most of the resorts the beach is accessible to anybody.. But certain resorts provide access to the beach only if you reside in the resort ..The beaches which are accessible through resorts are clean unlike Marina and Elliot’s beach . Certain resorts also have an option for a catamaran ride in the sea..<br /><br />The most popular resorts are Fishermen’s cove (Taj Group) , GRT Temple Bay, MGM Beach Resort etc..Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-14985757066076446462007-07-14T07:23:00.000-07:002007-07-14T07:26:55.436-07:00When to visit Chennai and the mercury levels...Chennai , the capital of TamilNadu is the fourth largest metro in the country(India) .<br />This place is less polluted compared to its counter parts. It has one of the longest coastlines. <br /><br />The temperature in Chennai is always hot , hotter or hottest.. Though it does rain at times..<br />During summer the temperature is usually around 35 c to 42 c in the day time and drops to around 25 c in the night..<br />During winter the temperature is around 28c to 32c in the day time and drops to around 20c in the night..<br /><br />The best time to visit chennai is between October to March .Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-474607980343871340.post-26372522964484741452007-07-05T11:18:00.000-07:002007-07-05T11:56:10.012-07:00About this blog<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcKGAfN9a7e98WMI57bm1jEFgzSMd1FFndOPvaPjQS-EMrNcJEu8g4dFg0GozBR1ploalcjLYXiuwzbMXbeFUmM22BkmJhwMtR6LrHRp4pnqhvp2D-gnCgpxVoU1UFurHO0wfHAf_bdHh/s1600-h/mountroad01.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083788437110599362" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcKGAfN9a7e98WMI57bm1jEFgzSMd1FFndOPvaPjQS-EMrNcJEu8g4dFg0GozBR1ploalcjLYXiuwzbMXbeFUmM22BkmJhwMtR6LrHRp4pnqhvp2D-gnCgpxVoU1UFurHO0wfHAf_bdHh/s200/mountroad01.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaCupoyjqGlK6OFWzLCVqEaFnPzW2VfVViLrSO9dx9aqGCdkEDlhGpB3oaas5YODQ9PQWOHi0DtuxEEiWW8WQyX-5AjqSKIl8-k57AhNgryXhsz1c7f_6RP3w8ejEWV4aVx-VHCDs1F5Hb/s1600-h/mountroad01.jpg"></a><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Im an amateur blogger and have recently ventured into blogging (like say a month ago) </span></div><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;">In this blog space I will be blogging about Chennai, its culture , life style , food, people </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">,shopping et all .</span></div><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;">And a lot more stuff happening in and around the place...</span></div><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;">I'm born and brought up in Chennai , so I take this blog to my advantage and vent out the feeling and liking I have towards this mordern city which still holds on to its old time values and culture ... More like an old wine in a new bottle ..</span></div><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Looking forward to make this space an encyclopedia of Chennai :)</span></div><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;">I also blog at shals88.blogspot.com</span></div><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><strong></strong></span></div></div>Shalini Gowrisankarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10505545194544593572noreply@blogger.com2