In the bustling cityscape of Bengaluru, renowned for its thriving brewery and bar culture, a new culinary gem has emerged. Nestled in the heart of the city on St. Mark’s Road, Bastian Garden City has found its home within a 60-plus-year-old bungalow behind St. Mark’s Hotel. Spanning an impressive 22,000 square feet across two levels, the establishment boasts around 350 covers, offering an expansive dining experience unlike any other.
Upon entering Bastian Garden City, guests are greeted by an enchanting bohemian ambiance, reminiscent of its Mumbai counterpart. Renowned interior designer Minal Chopra, responsible for the aesthetic allure of other Bastian locations, has once again curated an atmosphere of chic sophistication. The venue’s high rooftop imparts a cavernous feel, adorned with Polynesia-inspired patterns that evoke a chic tiki vibe. Although plans for a waterfall in the alfresco area were put on hold due to the city’s water scarcity, the verdant canopy of green enveloping the outdoor space adds to its allure.
The layout of Bastian Garden City is thoughtfully designed to cater to varying preferences. While the alfresco area offers a serene garden setting ideal for leisurely dining on breezy days, the mezzanine level provides a cozy retreat with a panoramic view of the bustling restaurant below. Here, guests can enjoy a degree of privacy while still immersing themselves in the vibrant ambiance.
For aficionados of Bastian’s culinary offerings, the Bengaluru outpost promises a familiar yet enticing experience. The menu, curated by Chef Amol Phute, features an array of signature dishes alongside innovative creations that showcase the versatility of meat. Dishes like the Peruvian tenderloin tiradito, adorned with chipotle ponzu, pico de gallo relish, and avocado paste, offer a tantalizing fusion of flavors. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts can indulge in classics like the crab roll, bursting with chipotle, basil, and coriander atop a bed of housemade ponzu and truffle oil.
Vegetarian options abound as well, with highlights such as the warm broccoli salad, featuring roasted broccoli dressed in mint oil and garlic chips atop a bed of homemade labneh. To round off the meal on a sweet note, guests can indulge in desserts like the mango sticky rice or the vibrant Victoria Pull Me Up cake, generously topped with dried marshmallows and vanilla whipped cream.
In addition to its delectable cuisine, Bastian Garden City boasts an impressive selection of beverages, including an extensive wine menu meticulously curated to highlight options by their nose, body, acidity, and mouthfeel. With 28 cocktails on offer, spanning both signature creations and timeless classics, guests are invited to embark on a journey of mixology excellence. From mezcal-infused concoctions to refreshing zero-proof cocktails, there is something to delight every palate.
The arrival of Bastian Garden City has sparked anticipation and excitement within Bengaluru’s culinary circles. With its reputation as a favored haunt among the glitterati in Mumbai, the restaurant aims to captivate the discerning palates of the Garden City. As locals eagerly await their first taste of Bastian’s culinary offerings, the stage is set for a gastronomic journey unlike any other. Will Bastian Garden City charm Bengaluru as it has Mumbai? Only time will tell.
