Themes are ‘in’!

Ushering in the fun-savvy Hyderabadis to a whole new world of entertainment, theme-based shops and bistros are fast becoming the in-thing...

A cluster of theme-based outlets are sprouting across the twin cities, providing breather to the ‘bored’ populace. Hitherto confined to movies, hotels, parks, ice-cream parlors and bakeries, the entertainment industry of late has its arms wide opened, ushering the public in a whole new world of futuristic interactive elements like gaming zones, music cafes, coffee shops, restros, multiplexes, etc… all aimed at creating a niche for themselves and move away from the ‘routine’ options!

The popular ones being Hard Rock Café, Zapak Gameplex, Xtreme Sports Bar, SVM Mall, The Chocolate Room, Little Italy, Aroma’s of China and La Café, to name a few.

When the world is sitting pretty on the edge of technology, nothing could be a better ‘entertaining’ alternative to gaming.Offering an impression for a lifetime, the SVM Mall (SVM@36) at Jubilee Hills and Zapak Gameplex (retail outlets at Sainikpuri and Marredpally) are found to be the favorite destinations for gamers in the city. “The two are the right places for the gaming freaks to congregate. Also perfect for national and international tournaments, these spaces are convenient to drop in and loot mazaa. This and lot more, without costing us a bomb,” wonders KV Aditya, a gaming enthusiast.

A live sports event while getting high on chilled beer is definitely heart stopping. How about engrossing with sports action while grooving to some foot-tapping music? Step in to Xtreme Sports Bar or Hall of Fame sports grill, which promise to unveil the ‘gaming freak’ in you. “Games and sports here are blended with stand up comedy shows and DJ nites that transport the visitors to a different world,” informs Ramya, the spokesperson of Xtreme Sports Bar.

An eat-out in the weekend is incomplete without a visit to Mainland China and Bowl O China, Little Italy at Kharkhana and Care Europa at Tar Bund (Italian food), Kairali at Gachibowli and Utupura at Banjara Hills (Kerala), Alfresco Outdoor Cuisine at Banjara Hills (Mangolian), Deori at Gachinowli (Mediterranean) and 4 Seasons at Tolichowki (Lebanese food).

“Right from décor and dressing to cutlery and background music, our restro reflects China in its very soul… winning us the Best Chinese Restaurant award this year at the Times Food Festival. More than the food, customers drop in here to feel the exclusive environs we dish out and get acquainted with the Chinese culture,” says Mayank Prasad, City Head, Aromas of China at City Center.

Probably, a reason why many of the hotels often organize events and rather open restros like the SYN at Taj Deccan (known for Sushis and cocktails), replicating a theme to draw in folks!

Coffee table meetings

A lot can happen over coffee. Hence, teens and the great majority are seen teeming at CCD, Barista, La Café, Café Rico, Fcafe & Lounge, Fruitway Coffe Shop, Café Europa and et al… drafting their future plans, discussing ventures or hanging around with buddies.  “I prefer meeting my clientele only at coffee shops since they dish out privacy apart from the best of coffees to sip on,” coins Radha Rani, a young entrepreneur.

The add-on to the list of these outlets is The Chocolate Room at Madhapur, Somajiguda, Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills and Srinagar Colony, which has many a sweet tooth go crazy for the assorted chocolate delicacies. “The very mention of the name of the store tickles my taste buds. The chocolate theme is obvious in the furnishings and interiors. I just love being here,” quips Dominic Savio Joseph, a chocolate aficionado.

Well, people prefer to loosen up after a day’s hard work. And every individual has his/her own way of unwinding the self. “However, since the Gen-Y these days are looking for variety to spice up their already droning lives, there is always scope for ‘something new’ to grab their attention. Hence, the businessmen are hunting for ‘themes’ to make a quick buck,” reasons Aditya Madala, an information specialist. Certainly, themes are here to stay!!!