It might seem a world apart from the center of the city, but Powai -- in the north-east of Mumbai -- is one of the buzziest emerging neighborhoods and a favorite spot for weekend business conferences.

From tiny home kitchens to brand-new hotels, here’s what you need to check out on your next trip to Hiranandani Gardens, Powai's thriving township. Read the full story on CNNGO.com.

EAT

Aromas Café: Early bird breakfast

While the Khar branch of this Australian café chain is battling to launch, Aromas Café in Powai is doing brisk business.

It opens at 8 a.m. -- a rare opening hour for anything in Mumbai -- and the sandwiches and salads are fresh.

It's got great coffee and a relaxed vibe, but shore up your patience in advance as service can be extremely slow.

Aromas Café is good for a midday meeting.

Aromas Café, G6, Ventura, Central Avenue, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai; +91 (0)22 6522 0313

Maddu’s Mess and Gary’s Menu: Quick, late bites

Hidden in a warren of chawls and almost impossible to locate is Maddu’s Mess, a tiny home kitchen that doles out delish South Indian fare between 5 and 9 a.m. daily.

Here you’ll find South Indian filter coffee, idlis and an egg dosa often described as legendary.

Also popular amongst students is Gary’s Menu, which serves up quick, cheap Indian and Chinese dishes.

Pay special attention to biryanis, which come with chicken, prawns, eggs or veggies.

They deliver too, and are open late.

Maddu’s Mess, opposite IIT Market Gate, in the lane next to the chicken store, Powai; +91 (0)22 2578 9912

Gary’s Menu, Shop One, Daffodil Building, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai; +91 (0)22 2570 1786

DRINK

Elbo Room: A sip of Bandra

After fueling drinking nights of many Bandraiites, Elbo Room is all set to open its second branch in Powai.

According to partner Ravi Sharma, the new digs will have the same English-pub vibe with a wooden bar, wooden benches and brass accents. And they will serve a range of alcohol that includes five different types of Long Island Ice Teas and Seven Sin cocktails.

Look out for a darts board, as well as happy hours and a brunch menu (11 a.m. onwards) serving smoothies, milkshakes and juices.

The Elbo Room, 135 Galleria, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai

Chili’s: Tex-Mex margaritas

The first Mumbai outpost of the American Tex-Mex chain, the drinks at Chili’s are better than the food.

We suggest you take full advantage of the margarita bar, which produces mean Presidente Margaritas (Sauza Conmemorativo tequila, Patrón Citrónge orange liqueur and Presidente brandy) and a top-shelf version for high-rollers (Sauza Gold tequila, Patrón Citrónge orange liqueur and GranGala).

They come in blackberry, strawberry and mango flavors as well.

13, Ventura Building, Hiranandani Business Park, Central Avenue Road, Powai; +91 (0)22 6741 9001

STAY

The Beatle

With only 28 rooms, two restaurants (Asian and a 24-hour coffee shop) and one bar, The Beatle is a clean and cozy option, offering guests a 24-hour gym, business center, free Internet access and a spa, but alas no swimming pool.

Be sure to swing by the cute CU Copper Wine Library, the hotel’s bar, for a good selection of vino and appetizers.

The Beatle, JMJ House, Orchard Avenue, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai; +91 (0)22 4089 5000, 6115 1000

Meluha The Fern

This new(ish) 141-room Hiranandani hotel is swanky and environmentally friendly, made using biodegradable materials only (no wood or plastic) and is located on Powai lake.

Operational since February 2011, it is still finding its feet, with a confused reception staff and only one functioning restaurant -- the multi-cuisine Tiara.

Coming up however is a new eatery called Magnolia that will serve grills and a spa and gym offering guests daily yoga classes. Stay tuned.

Meluha The Fern, Central Avenue, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai; +91 (0)22 2575 5555, 4261 1111

Read the full story on CNNGO.com.