Soda Bottle Opener Wala Launch in Hyderabad

Soda Bottle Opener Wala opens at Jubilee Hills in Hyderabad

A tribute to the dying legacy of the Bombay Irani Cafes

"With Soda Bottle Opener Wala, we give you a concept that is unique to India; the dying legacy of the wonderful chaotic, crowded, bustling, colorful, quirky, cluttered, eccentric and so real world of an Irani cafe. Our way of reviving the love for the edu and the disappearing race behind the cafes". - AD and Sabina Singh
Hyderabad May 2015: SodaBottleOpenerWala is your quintessential Bombay Irani Cafe with all its idiosyncrasies in place. After Bengaluru, SodaBottleOpenerWala opens its doors at Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, to pay tribute to the dying legacy of a Bombay Irani cafe bringing with it typical Parsi cuisine, some Irani specialties and Bombay street food, a well-stocked bar - in a fun, quirky and contemporary avatar.

The Irani's have had such a tremendous influence on the Bombay seascape and among their many contributions, the most resilient has been the Irani cafe. The Irani Cafe culture has been an important and integral part of Bombay history. These cafes are pretty much an India specific phenomenon which acquired cult status in the city of Bombay. They’ve been instrumental in the evolution of our chai drinking culture and have changed our lives in more ways than one. The Irani Cafe culture came to India with the Persians back in the early 1900s and today Bombay boasts of the largest number of Irani cafes serving traditional Irani Chai along with a slew of other specialties. Gradually, due to the foray of fast food concepts that flooded the country, the tradition of such cafes died down. Only 25 such cafes are now still in existence.
Irani Cafes were famous for their inexpensive food, eccentric owners and distinctive menus incorporating dishes like the stick chai (extremely sweet), bun maska (crusty bread with butter), kheema pao (mince curry with bread) and typical Parsi cutlets, patties, rolls, fruitcakes, and confectionery. Today, however, Irani Cafes serve a wide range of cuisine.

Says AD Singh from The Olive Group, "SodaBottleOpenerWala is a concept restaurant with a bar. For my wife Sabina and me, Mumbai is an integral part of the journey of our lives. The Bombay Irani cafe is a rich part of the Mumbai tapestry and, sadly, a dying legacy. We delved deep within its unique world to bring alive the nuances - both for cuisine and its atmosphere. The familiarity of an Irani cafe is key to the experience. Architect Clement and Sabina brought that canvass to life."

He further adds, ‘I am delighted to announce that the fourth SodaBottleOpenerWala finds a home in Hyderabad with my partners Shaaz Mehmood and Shiraz Mirza at Jubilee Hills, which is the heart of this city. I'm very happy to bring on board partners who share my vision and endeavor to help resuscitate the dying legacy of the Bombay Irani cafe".

Says Shaaz Mehmood, "It is exciting to bring to Hyderabad an experience I fondly remember growing up with during the course of my travels to Bombay. That and the vibrant, eccentric and chaotic world of an Irani cafe is a much needed affordable casual dine-out and bar experience in Hyderabad.'

Adds Shiraz Mirza, "I am delighted that the fourth SodaBottleOpenerWala finds a home in Hyderabad in the vibrant neighbourhood of Jubilee Hills which is the beating heart of this city. As such it is a perfect spot for this concept We hope Hyderabad will grow to love it as much as we do."

THE LOOK OF SODABOTTLEOPENERWALA
The design is old world, colonial and humorous. As you walk into the restaurant, immediately feel the unmistakable slice of Bombay at its Parsi best In the open courtyard at the entrance the old world Bombay Irani cafe look has a nostalgic charm. Barni glass jars filled with nankatais and typical bakery items are sold by the piece at the cash counter and bric-a-brac complete the quirky look.

Black and White checkered tiles on the floor, Irani chairs and chai glasses, red checkered and crochet table cloths, colored glass lamps and dome lights from chor bazaar, cuckoo clocks, brass tea kettles and dabbas, tin boxes, locks, old paraphernalia and much more are a delight to discover and enjoy as you settle down to take your pick from the menu. Every item seen on the walls and the menu is typical of Bombay and of what you may find in a Parsi home and kitchen.

A jumble of Parsi portraits, with framed images of life in Irani cafes and the bustling Bombay street life on the walls, all tell the story of a Bombay Irani cafe.

Keeping most original elements of a typical Irani cafe in place, architect Clement and fashion and interior designer Sabina Singh, added a few contemporary touches. Their take on Parsi-style Freddie Mercury meets Monty Python on the large mirrors, juxtaposes with a play of graphics all around that bring out the Parsi spirit and idiosyncrasies.

No Laughing Loudly. No Singing. No Childish Tantrums. No Talking to Cashier. No Asking for Recipes. No Feet on Chair. No Flirting. No Flatulence. No Pata Hai Main Kaun Hoon. The eccentricity and mirth evokes spontaneous laughter over the signature large blackboard touting the 'Rules of the Establishment' and is a constant feature in all the SodaBottleOpenerWala properties.

Says Sabina Singh, "We have also introduced a juke box in the bar area so people can have a great selection of retro music to choose from."

THE MENU AT SODABOTTLEOPENERWALA: They say Iranis don't feast with their eyes but with their nose!

Nostalgia warms your heart as you navigate through the menu, bringing a smile to your face as you choose from an All Day Menu - bringing forth a comprehensive selection.

Soda Bottle Opene rWala serves a mix of classic Parsi dishes and Bombay street food. The menu has evolved after a lot of research on Parsi flavours and food gems that sparkle on the streets of Mumbai. Our specialities include Dhansak (classic Parsi dish of mutton with lentils and served with caramelized rice and kachumber), Paatra Ni Macchi (chutney steamed pomfret), our version of the Berry Pulao (veg, chicken and mutton), Prawn Patio (a tangy prawn preparation, sweet, sour and mildly spicy) and other old time favourites like Sali Mutton and Chicken, Goan Fish Curry, Chicken Baida Roti inspired from the hugely successful one at Bade Miya, Bohri Keema Pav and the Bhendi Bazaar Sheekh Paratha (a wonderful combination of a juicy sheekh and crispy fried paratha that originated in the gulli behind the 'Bartan Market’).
The vegetarian section has a multitude of delightful options. There are cutlets and there's the Aloo Aunty's Vegetable Cutlet which is really quite special, Breach Candy Awesome Okra (inspired from the the famous okra dish made at Breach Candy Club), Tardeo A/c Market Mamaji's Grilled Sandwich and the Bombay Raasta Sandwich (our take on these two very popular street food items), Bharuchi Paneer Akuri (Scrambled cottage cheese made in the way how they do in Bharuch in Gujarat; with dry fruits) and Brinjal Patio (a wonderful sweet 'n sour brinjal dish- if you don't like brinjal, there's a good chance you'll like this) to name a few.

The Irani Bakery Menu serves everything freshly baked in the morning and sold by the piece. The selection includes delights like Ginger Biscuit, Berry and Badam Nan Khatai, Shrewsbury Biscuit, Mawa Cake, Lagan nu Custard, Toblerone Mousse, 5 Star Brownie and Apple Pie with Custard.

A selection of drinks from the Irani chai bar leave you spoilt for choice. Irani Special chai, Pheteli Coffee (coffee and sugar beaten to a delightful frothy consistency) onto tempting coolers of Mrs. SodaBottleOpenerWala's Special Cold Coffee (there ain't too many who make cold coffee like this one), Sekanje bin (a Persian-inspired drink made from dried plums, mint and jaggery), Raspberry Soda (our version of this wonderful Parsi concept, which we make in-house with frozen raspberry) , Irani Falooda (A super tasty combination of ice cream, saffron, strawberry flavour and milk) and Parsi Choy (Straight from inside a Parsi home, tea flavoured with lemongrass and mint).

The bar at Soda Bottle Opener Wala with a range of delicious cocktails will be operational from July 2015

THE KITCHEN TEAM AT SODABOTTLEOPENERWALA

Mohit Balachandran (Head Masalchi) Not a Parsi by birth, but Mohit knows enough about their customs and food to warrant a Navjote. He has a superb understanding of Parsi flavours and an extensive knowledge of Indian street food that's second to none. His responsibility at SodaBottleOpenerWala is to ensure that the flavours remain true to their Parsi and Bambayyia roots at all the SodaBottleOpenerWala restaurants across the country. His strength is also in sourcing ingredients that make an impact on the final taste of the dishes. Like the use of vinegar from EF instead of EH Kolah, getting the right quality Sali and other ingredients from Bombay and sourcing classic Parsi homemade ingredients like Bhakra, Doodhi nu Murrabba, Lagan nu Achar and other typical items from Parsi homemakers and to introduce these to the menu.
Anahita N. Dhondy (Chef) A proper bawi who looks the part, Anahita learnt cooking from her mom, whose a superb Parsi cook and caterer in Delhi. She has grown up with good food and has access to some delicious family recipes-some of which date to more than 200 years old. Her energy levels are infectious and her commitment to work is always 100%. You'll always find her in the kitchen, making sure each dish goes out perfectly to every customer.

Says Anahita laughingly, "We Parsis are a hard lot to get I’ve been confused most of the time as I’m still pretty young, but they are complex characters, with highly developed senses, from humor to food! Parsi cuisine is simple as its complex. I could go on and on, but simply it comes down to "say a small thank you every day' and ChaloJumwaChaloJi! -(come let's have a meal). It has become the most important and popular chant at any Parsi celebration-we look forward to serving you".
ABOUT SODABOTTLEOPENERWALA: SodaBottleOpenerWala is part of the Olive Group of restaurants, co¬owned by AD Singh, which first opened its doors in November 2013 at the popular food lover's destination at CyberHub, Gurgaon. It was followed by Khan Market in October 2014 and recently opened its doors at Lavelle Road, Bangalore in April 2015. Each outlet is complete with a bar and an outdoor space/balcony.

FACT SHEET: SODA BOTTLE OPENER WALA

Address: SodaBottleOpenerWala
Niharika Jubilee One, Unit 4, Ground Floor, Plot No. 1355 H & 1355 I, Road No. 1, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - 500033.
Timings: 12 pm to 11:30pm
Sunday to Saturday 12:00 noon to 11:30pm
Contact no: 040 68888681
Cuisine: Parsi & Bombay Street food Average Meal for two: Rs.1000 ++
Average Meal for two including drinks: Rs.1500 ++
Credit cards: Accepted
Instagram: SodaBottleOpenerWala
Facebook Page: SodaBottleOpenerWala Hyderabad
Other SodaBottleOpenerWala outlets in India:
Delhi: 73, Khan Market, New Delhi -110003
Gurgaon: CyberHub, Shop No 3, DLF Cyber City, Phase II, Next to Building no 8, Gurgaon, Haiyana -122002 Bangalore: Plot No. - 25/4 Lavelle Road, Bangalore: 560001

AD SINGH

MANAGING DIRECTOR OLIVE BAR AND KITCHEN PVT LTD

AD Singh is one of India’s best-known icons in the fields of leisure and restaurants. Over the last twenty years, he has been at the forefront of the food and lifestyle revolution sweeping the country. His restaurants and other ventures have been trendsetters, resulting in a sound reputation, credibility and goodwill. He is credited with the introduction of international cuisines and restaurant concepts that, until them, India had never seen.

Born in Delhi in 1960, AD soon moved to Bombay for his academic pursuits: He schooled at Cathedral and John Connon, followed by Jai Hind and St Xavier’s College. A scholarship to study Electrical Engineering at Lafayette College, took him to the United States.

AD ventured into the restaurant business in 1990 with Just Desserts, a jazz cafe that served only coffee and desserts. Filling a huge void in the casual dining space, the restaurant was an immediate hit and was even described by India Today as the ‘phenomenon of the nineties’.

In 1993, AD worked with Jazz musicians and used Jazz as a property to market and develop the Guest Line Hotel and the Ripon Club. This period also saw a series of seaside jazz events that are remembered even today.

With Jazz as the central theme, 1995 saw AD conceptualize and create the very successful Jazz by the Bay for the, Narang Group. In 1996 he opened Copa Cabaana the hugely popular Latin American bar in Bombay. This was the-first time Tapas was introduced to Bombay.

In 1998, he opened Soul Kadi and Soul Fry, which serve home-style coastal cuisine food in an international cafe setting. The latter opened to rave reviews in South Bombay recently.

The Bowling Company, opened in 1999, set the standards for leisure in this country. In a sense, AD changed the perception of Central MumbsTi to an up¬market entertainment destination, and along with Alyque Padamsee, has been instrumental in the growth and success of this part of the City. In 2000, The Bowling Company underwent a successful private placement.

In the same year, AD Singh launched The Olive Bar and Kitchen, which was immediately voted as one of Bombay’s top five and India’s top 20 restaurants by the Outlook magazine survey. This was followed by the opening of Suzie Wong; Bombay’s first floating bar - off Marine Drive.

In his first foray out of Mumbai in 2003, AD opened the Olive Bar and Kitchen in New Delhi, which was selected among the ‘best new restaurants in the world’. (Conde Nast Traveler Annual Hotlist 2004).

In 2005, the brand further grew with the launch of Olive Beach in Bangalore. Now in its 10th year, Bangalore’s trendsetting restaurant and bar in an elegant old villa transforms itself to bring forth a stunning new experience with an incredible new alfresco lounge bar and a spacious yet intimate dining space.

In 2008, Olive expanded in to South Mumbai with the opening of Olive Mahalaxmi at the Amateurs Riders Club. This locale is a Mediterranean hsven in the midst of Mumbai’s swankiest stables, taking SoBo to a new high'. This most recent addition whisks its patrons away from the hustle bustle of the big city and transports them to a charming world of horses, fine wines and the above all, the most delectable Mediterranean cuisine.

Over the years, under the leadership of AD, Olive has blossomed into much more than a restaurant, becoming a way of life, a melting pot where Jife imitates art, and often, the other way around.

Having opened its doors several times to the art, fashion and literary fraternity in the past, AD's vision for the Olive brand is committed to creating and hosting events that serve as platforms to showcase different forms - always celebrated | amid fun, laughter, cocktails and conversation. This has contributed to Olive becoming one of the most popular and best-loved restaurant brands in the country, winning numerous awards and accolades across Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore.

Over the years, AD Singh has sought to constantly steer the Olive brand further in his quest for bringing forth a warm, cosy dining experience of high standards for its patrons.

Since 1990 he has encouraged the growth of the ‘stand alone’ restaurant business in India, giving it direction, confidence, leadership and definition.

In 2012, the first Olive Bistro was launched at Pune - exclusively for Poona Glub members and their guests. The brand then grew nationally moving to Hyderabad in mid 2013 and finally to Gurgaon at the end of 2013. The Olive Bistro embodies the spirit of Olive in a more affordable and casual avatar.

Other ventures by AD Singh under the Olive umbrella include guppy by ai that opened in New Delhi in August 2013 in a lovely new space as a contemporary Japanese bar and kitchen of a playful wonderland, guppy by ai has now arrived in Mumbai with a fresh, new approach of a pop-up at Olive Mahalaxmi.

In December 2013, he launched SodaBottleOpenerWala at Cyber Hub in Gurgaon. It is an ode to the dying legacy of a Bombay Irani cafe and has gained much critical acclaim since its launch. October 2014 saw the opening of SodaBottleOpenerWala at Khan Market Neyv Delhi and in April 2015 the brand went national with openings in Bangalore and Hyderabad.

2013 also saw growth, expansion and investments in new concepts through strategic associations and partnerships by AD. These include The Local in South Mumbai - an easy, comfortable, neighborhood bar that offers delectable food, drinks, music and the happy go lucky, hedonistic lifestyle that Mumbai is best known for.

Partnered associations include Le Bistro Du Parc - a fusion between the ubiquitous French Bistro and gastronomy, which adds a modern twist to traditional French dishes - served in a casual environment, Monkey Bar, India’s first gastropub with a presence both in Bangalore and Delhi and The Fatty Bao, an Asian gastro-bar that is a love child of two fabulous ideas - new Asian-style dining and a cool rooftop bar.

AD entered this industry at a very nascent stage. Owing to his limitations of formal training and financial backing he relied on creativity and ideas to build restaurant brands. He then backed these with hard work, warmth and innovation and that has been the trademarks of his success over the years.

Shaaz Mehmood Partner, Olive Bistro, Hyderabad

Shaaz Mehmood is a Partner atOlive Bistro, Hyderabad (a venture of Olive Bar & Kitchen Pvt. Ltd.)

Having completed his education from the prestigious Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet, Shaaz went on to obtain a degree in Law from Osmania University. He started his career in 2006 and is currently the Executive Director of The Wadi Stone Marketing Co. Pvt. Ltd. He is also the Promoter and Director of Wadi Cement Company Pvt. Ltd.

Shaaz isthejoint Secretary of the Jagirdars College andthe Hyderabad Public School Old Students Association (the Alumni Body of the prestigious 90-vear old educational institution in Hyderabad). He was the youngest member ever to be elected to the Committee in the history of the Association. He has also contributed actively towards the development of underprivileged people through the Shoelace Foundation - a need-based charitable society, of which he is the Founder and President.
Shaaz is a big foodie and loves to hone his culinary skills. It is this very passion for food that has driven him to partner the launch of Olive Bistro in Hyderabad in association with Olive Kitchen & Bar.

Shaaz is an outdoor person and enjoys trying out various adventure sports,whenever he has the time.

Ali Shiraz Mirza Partner, Olive Bistro, Hyderabad

Ali Shiraz Mirza is a Partner atOlive Bistro, Hyderabad(a venture of Olive Bar & Kitchen Pvt. Ltd).

Shirazdid his schooling from Hyderabad Public School and pursued law from Osmania University. With a keen interest in Civil Litigation, hehas beenenrolled with the Bar Council of Andhra Pradesh since 2011. He has also been a Partner at Wheels Auto since 2009. This is a successful, 3rdgeneration automobile workspace and car trading organization. Shiraz brings a determined focus on revenue, relationship and repute through his leadership, adaptability and communication skills.He is equipped with great analytical, planning and execution skills.

He has a keen interest in the hospitality industry,especially bartending. It is this passion for the food and beverage business, which has driven him to partner the launch of Olive Bistro in Hyderabad.

Shiraz is a sports enthusiast and actively follows football. He has represented his school and college at the district,stateand at the All Indian Public Schools tournaments.
He has an affable personality and a great sense of humour. Whenever free, he loves listening to music and watching a game of football or cricket.