bpb freebie: All bpb readers get 15% off at new handbag store Lulu Australia (see recommendations below). Use the code “bpbLULU” at the store to avail your discount.

bpb contest: We’re giving away 5 couple vouchers worth Rs 1,500 each at The Pier, Colaba. To know more check our Twitter feed (@bpbmumbai) at 11.30 am today, May 17.

bEACH

What: Lulu Australia, Moonstone Apartments, Linking Road, Santacruz (W), bags start at Rs 2,000.

Why: There are new totes on the turf as Lulu Australia opens at Linking Road, bringing with it bags of all shapes and shine. bpb recommends the waterproof beach and pool bags – mostly because they made us plan our next vacation – featuring vintage prints, watercolour portraits, candy stripes and pink hibiscus flowers. Also available: wristlets, accessory pouches and bowling bags.

When: You want to follow new handles. Opens today, May 17.

pROFILE

What: IDfy.com, an online trust establishment platform for employees and employers, free and premium services available.

Why: A night of partying on the town can take quite a toll on your liver and Facebook feed. The picture of you dancing on the bar? Oops. And that close up of you with a cigarette. Burn! A dodgy digital presence can work against you in a professional setting, especially if you have nothing to back you up or verify the claims on your resume. IDfy.com, a trust platform started by friends Ashok Hariharan, Hatim Baheranwala, and Vineet Jawa offers to set up a suitable online profile and resume that can be verified by your peers, business partners and reviewed by potential employers, investors and even a landlord. ISB and Namma Bengaluru are some of the organisations that use IDfy’s services.

When: You need a new (pro)file cabinet.

***This advertorial is sponsored by Amrapali***

What: Amrapali’s new jewellery e-store, visit http://www.tribebyamrapali.com, start at Rs 2,000.

Why: Have a conversation with one of Amrapali’s jewellery pieces, and you’ll think they’re name dropping. But keep the conversation going and you’ll find that these trinkets have truly travelled all over, from the Cannes and Grammy to the Oscar and IIFA Awards. This Jaipur-based jewellery brand has launched its new e-store that features earrings which have been to Angelina Jolie’s bedroom and brooches that have been designed by Manish Arora. And you thought you were bright! The cool thing though, is that the e-store features pricey jewellery, but also collections modeled after gazelles and Bihar tribes that won’t break the bank. See recommendations here.

When: You want to be a gazelle caught in the spotlight.

***This advertorial is sponsored by Amrapali***

bALL

What: Kick - futsal (indoor football) arena, Supreme Business Park, behind Lake Castle, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai, call 32276565, Rs 2,000 for an hour long session.

Why: A garage doubles up as a basketball court, a parking lot turns into a football field and a strip of street is also a cricket pitch. The lack of space in the city has always been an issue for sport enthusiasts, which is why you’ll like Kick. This fun futsal arena in Powai – supposedly Mumbai’s first – isn’t in your friend’s garage and features a FIFA-rated astroturf field that can be booked for practice sessions by the hour and also organises coaching facilities and tournaments.

When: You want to Foster the People with Pumped Up Kicks.

***

What: The Antarctic Youth Ambassador Program 2014, view the website here, apply here.

Why: Jump aboard the polar express with this program that selects applicants from around the globe to be leaders of climate change. If you are picked you get to go into the wild to explore the Antarctic Peninsula with experts; learn about its ecosystem; break the ice with people from all over the world; and create a project that you will implement for one year following the expedition.

When: Participants will be announced on July 1, 2013, so apply ASAP.

***

What: Newly launched Challah bread at The Baker’s Dozen, 9 Jayant Apartment, Appasaheb Marathe Marg, Prabhadevi, call 08655331313.

Why: This Jewish bread, braided and sweet, rises to the occasion of World Baking Day at The Baker’s Dozen tomorrow. Pick up a loaf of this moveable yeast or get free samples with other purchases.

When: Buy now and keep walking. Challah challah, pudhe challah.

bENEDICT

What: bpb & Jamjar Diner’s Breakfast and Bloody Mary class at JamJar Diner, 7 A and B, Aram Nagar 2, JP Road, Versova, call 26358880, Rs 1,400, to book a seat email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , limited spots available.

Why: Because why wouldn’t you want to spend Saturday in a blue house by the sea where book shelves slope and a juke box sings for you while you learn how to mix and drink alcoholic Bloody Marys and virgin apple-beat-bell-pepper juice. After this, in a hands-on session (two people to a work station) you’ll learn to whip up eggs Kejriwal, plus classic as well as ricotta-citrus pancakes from scratch.

 

When: Get egged on Saturday May 25, 9.30 am to 11 am.

pITCH

What: Manchester United Pitch Gift, buy it at http://www.excitinglives.com, Rs 1,950.

Why: If you’re still grieving Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, this should cheer you up: bpb gifts you a Manchester United mini field that claims to have authentic grass and seeds from the Old Trafford pitch!  Have a field day with the stadium box, seeds, soil and instructions on to grow your mini pitch that comes with a certificate of authenticity from Manchester United.

When: You want to get more than (greeting) carded.

 

 

***

What: Record Store Day celebrations at Nova Audion, 3, Fairlands Building, LJ Road, Mahim, call 24318586.

Why: Tune in to Nova Audion’s Record Store Day celebration this Saturday where you can  stock up on vinyls from artists like Coldplay and AC/DC, buy entry level turn tables, cleaning kits and inner sleeves. Plus, go on record with other vinyl enthusiasts.

When: On May 11 from 11 am to 7 pm.

 

***

What: UEA International Non-Fiction Writing Course, ICCR, Kolkota, mail  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or send sample to School of Literature, Drama & Creative Writing, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom, Rs 25,000 per person for 8 days, accommodation not included.

 

Why: The University of East Anglia—which has one of the top writing programmes in the world—has just announced its second international creative writing workshop in non-fiction led by Amit Chaudhuri and Patrick French. To participate, you need to send in a 2,000 word sample with your CV and reference.  This is a good course for people interested in “biography, essay, travel writing, popular history writing, psychogeography and the urban experience.” Plus you get to meet and hang out with talented aspiring writers from around the world, and receive a certificate of completion at the end. Shake(speare) and bake!

 

When: Last date for applications is 7 June, 2013. Course starts on July 16.

 

bRRR

What: Dairy Don, opposite Mithibai College, Vile Parle (W), sandwich ice creams are priced between 50 to 80.

Why: Now we love the paan ice-cream at Pali Bhavan, but if you’d like a cheaper version, we scoped out this one at the month-old Dairy Don: a cold betel nut leaf with crunchy tutti fruity and a malai ice cream centre. We suggest you skip the synthetic-y ice cream sandwiches and try the thandai and blueberry flavours instead.

When: You want summer to paan out in a certain way.

bpb Freebie: Take 10% off on all India Circus (www.indiacircus.com) products except furniture and gift vouchers. Use the code BPBR10 at checkout to avail the offer. Valid until May 10.

bLAZE

What: Gypsy Kitchen – a food and heritage conservation project, to suggest home cooks message them on their Facebook page here.

Why: Your mum/aunt/grandmom have recipes that could give any cooking show a raan for their money? Get them in touch with the Gypsy Kitchen, a brand new initiative that is looking to conserve the tradition of Indian home cooking through a fun dining format. Launched by Riyaaz Amlani, chef Gresham Fernandes (of Salt Water Café, Smoke House Deli) and Ayaz Basrai of The Busride Design Studio, this project will collaborate with home cooks to bring yum food to you in a pop up format at surprise locations in Mumbai. How very aunty-establishment!

When: Nomad's Land begins on May 24, but suggest cooks/apply now through the Facebook page.

***

What: Last Forest Citronella Bees Wax Balm Insect Repellent, Rs 75, available online here, ships across the country.

Why: While our ankles played feast in the latest production of Mosquitoes on the Roof, we spotted a tub of lemon balm being passed around the open air party guests. Nicely scented and quite effective, this is Last Forest’s organic beeswax balm—for those with qualms about Odomos’ toxic content. Formerly retailing from The Altitude Store in Delhi, which no longer stocks it, we went on an Internet man-hunt until we tracked down the company, a small organic brand based in the Nilgiris. With citronella to keep away the pests and a tub of balm which will fit in your purse, we like that it’s not sticky and washes away easily. Also worth checking out are their other balms, notably the coconut (for cracked heels) and the lavender (for the yummy smell.)

When: You hear a buzzing in your ears.

***

pACK

What: Bridge games at Cheval, next to Liv, 145, VB Gandhi Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort, to reserve a seat email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 919820543352, Rs 750 (includes high tea).

Why: Cheval turns into a house of cards on May 9 as it hosts a session of Whist (a variation of Bridge) and serves tea and hors d’oeuvres. It would have probably worked better on a weekend, but for freelancers and entrepreneurs (and malingerers) who can take some time off, this could be a fun afternoon. If you don’t know how to play but are interested, there will also be a quick tutorial at the beginning so go early. Hearts!

When: Get carded on May 9 from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm.

***

What: Sherlock Holmes Society of India is looking for submissions for their first e- magazine, deadline is May 15, 2013.

Why: Holmes’ hommies, listen up: The Sherlock Holmes Society of India takes your love and interest in Doyle's famous character rather seriously. The Society (active on this page and group since 2001) is looking for submissions- stories, essays, art, photographs, poetry - related to the Sherlock Holmes for the inaugural issue of their e-magazine. This e-issue will be shared with all their members including affiliated groups around the world, like the Sherlock Holmes Society of London.

When: It's time to share Watson your mind.

bEAT

What: Yummy recipes on the newly launched http://gaiahomechef.com, free.

Why: After starting a restaurant in Goa; a sushi delivery service in Mumbai; and catering parties for Farhan and Zoya Akhtar, Avantika and Imran Khan, the Swiss Consul General and more, Le Cordon Bleu chef Shilarna Vaze and husband Christophe Perrin of Gaia Home Chef have finally decided to share those recipes with you on their newly launched website. Here you will find travel and food - what they do best - and delicious recipes (keep reading for more) that combine Shilarna's love for Maharashtrian food and flair for French cooking. See below her first recipe - chutney red snapper in banana leaves - that she recently cooked for friends in the Andamans.

When: Your kitchen needs a pair of high flames.

bpb Bulletin Board: Last chance to buy bpb's 15% off restaurant #CoupCard on www.coupcard.in. Buy today and stand to win one of five Rs 2,000 gift vouchers from Play Clan. For queries call 09867885533. 

bpb Freebie: Take 10% off on all India Circus (www.indiacircus.com) products except furniture and gift vouchers. Use the code BPBR10 at checkout to avail the offer. Valid until May 3.

 

bIENVENUE

What: Mamagoto, Gazebo House, ground floor, 133 Hill Road, Bandra (W), call 26552600; and T-34, 3^rd Floor, R-City Mall, Ghatkopar (W), call 66401860, approximately Rs 1,500 for a meal for two.

Why: Asian restaurant Mamagoto in Delhi is (n)oodles of fun with its cut-out TVs in walls, mad pop art and curry bowls. Lucky for you, it’s opening in Mumbai next week – Bandra and Ghatkopar – so go try their delicious rock shrimp tempura, Gomai Salad and Chiang Mai Train Station Noodles. They won’t get their liquor licence until mid-May, so the Wasabi Mary will have to wait. Full review out soon! Psst: If you have a #CoupCard you can get access to your 15% off at both Mamagoto branches. Bonus!

When: Opens on May 2.

What: Shivan & Narresh’s new online store, visit at http://buy.shivanandnarresh.com, Rs 7,000 for a bikini.

 

Why: Ice lollies, water sprinklers and mint drinks in tall glasses may have to compete with Shivan and Narresh’s newly launched online store that instantly cools. You can now buy their beach and resort wear on the web, where candy stripesmerge with swimming pool blues to create maillots, two piece bikinis, bandeaus and more. There are also super pretty but pricey hand painted linen dresses.

When: Now that summer has begun. May Day, May Day!

***

This advertorial has been sponsored by Debenhams

What:

Free Bra Fit at Debenhams, shops no 27, 28 and 29, upper ground floor, Phoenix Market City, Kurla, call 61801492, view the Facebook page here, free! 

Why: Two girls walk into a bra. They don't quite fit in. 

If you're grinning at the bar-bra typo, the experts over at Debenhams' lingerie department don't share your amusement. Wearing a bra that's not right for you - on average 70% of women do - is blasphemous, they think, which is why they're offering you help. And it's free! So stop giggling like a school girl and listen up: the multi-brand British department store is hosting a two day (May 2 and 3) Bra Fit session from noon to 9 pm at their Phoenix Market City store. Walk in, get a free bra sizing based on your body type, a consult on finding the one, what bra makes you look super sexy and the one you should absolutely not wear under that tube dress. And while you're there, you may as well shop (bpb loves the 50's style polka dotted set and the super useful reveal and hold tape) not only because you love shopping, but because Debenhams has a whole bunch of discounts and giveaways on their lingerie purchases. Bra-tender, I'll have another round now! 

When: Your cup runneth over. On May 2 and 3 from noon to 9 pm.

This advertorial has been sponsored by Debenhams

pACK & LEAVE

What: Pluck, Cook & Eat monthly excursion organised by Saha Astitva’s organic farmland in Ganeshpuri, two hours from Mumbai. To book an event for a group, or to enquire about their next public one, email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with details regarding preferred dates and number of people. The group size is limited to 20 people, visit www.thankindia.org/events, Rs 2,000 per head.

 

Why: To know Insia Lacewalla is to know many different ways to be excited about food. A khaana curator at festivals, this Bandra girl, quite delicious herself, and bpb’s new food friend recently stumbled into Saha Astitva’s organic movement – a farmland that gives you a farm-to-table cooking experience, hands-on class in organic farming and a lesson on how to go green in the big brown city. She returned with a bunch of photos, fresh loot and lots of trivia (did you know that toor dal grows on trees?). To read about Insia’s full experience and see photos, visit her blog here.

 

When: You want to increase your weed-ership.

***

 

What: Second edition of Music in the Great Outdoors with Sky Rabbit organised by The Blueberry Trails at Kihim, Rs 3,300 - Rs 3,900 per person for travel, stay and meals, call Sudeepta on 9820925721, email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

 

Why: Book now and here’s what next weekend will look like: Anti-Coke Ganpati on a hill top overlooking the beach. What are we smoking? Nothing yet. Music in the Great Outdoors series kicks of its second edition with indie-electronic foursome Sky Rabbit at the LetsCampOut campsite (www.letscampout.com/) located on a Kihim beach front hillock. Under the stars, around a bonfire with DIY barbeque food, you can listen to an acoustic set by Sky Rabbit featuring tracks like Anti-Coke Ganpati and Hilltop. Campers will also get a chance to go on a fishing ride in Kashid.

 

When: You want a night out with your grill-friends. On May 4 and 5

 

bOW

What: Gift Bazaar, new bespoke personalised gifting service by Devika Shroff Nihalani, call 9820676960, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , place orders 3 to 5 weeks in advance, start at Rs 1,500.

 

Why: We have known Devika since she worked in the marketing department of a reputed film studio, and she’s always had a penchant for pretty handmade things. Now, instead of helping friends get a dress stitched or a teacup initialed, she has started her own service that can ideate, produce and present a unique, handmade gift, completely personalised for an individual or occasion. It’s a wrap! Her solutions range from signed copies of a favourite book with bespoke wrapping, Ram Balram movie posters made in traditional poster art, organic canvas bags, tea cup cupcakes and personalised spatulas.

 

When: You need a power point present.

bpb Freebie: Subscribers get a super freebie at  Serafina (Lower Parel)! For more deals and a free city guide in your inbox  every day, enter your email in the subscription box.

bUMP

What: Loca Loca, new Cuban bar at Vora Building, opposite Mumbadevi School, 3rd Road, Khar (W), from 7 pm to 1 am, call 9833243071.

Why: Cheesy posters of Che Guevara and cigars – thankfully you won’t find these at new Cuban nightspot Loca Loca. Launched in place of WTF! Khar by the owners of The Big Nasty, this bar invokes Cuba through design accents, pretty visuals and textures rather than clichés. Bar snacks featuring barbeque and grill treats, wraps and mini sandwiches can be chased with fresh fruit pineapple and mango daiquiris here. Exotic cocktails or not, it’s still meant to be a value-for-money bar that you can visit after work, says owner Kishore DF.  Full review out soon!

When: High Fidel-ity opens on Sunday, April 21.

***

What: Adlabs Imagica amusement park at Khopoli, visit www.adlabsimagica.com, call 42130405, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Rs 1,200 for a regular one-day ticket for adults on weekdays and Rs 1,500 on weekends with unlimited access to all attractions.

Why: Pitched as “India’s Disneyland”, Adlabs head honcho Manmohan Shetty’s new theme park claims to house India’s biggest rollercoaster, a free fall from 132 feet at 73 km/hr (Dare Drop) and a dome theatre. But a friend who visited the park on opening evening, says the main attractions are the movie and folklore-themed rides such as the Mr. India Ride, I for India, Alibaba Aur Chaalis Chor, Bandits of Robin Hood and Lochness Explorers that have non-tacky, augmented reality-style effects. Split into different continents, Jambo Africa, Arabia, Viva Europa, Asiana and Americana, the park houses 16 rides, plenty of other attractions and themed restaurants serving cuisines from around the world.

When: You want a different kind of coaster for your drink.

*** This advertorial has been sponsored by Thehomelabel.com***

What: Dinner in Paris collection by The Home Label, available online at www.thehomelabel.com, Rs 1,500 for a set of 6 red wine glasses.

Why: Love looks different, better, under the glow of a Parisian street light. Hardships are more delicate when seen through the patterns of a French lace doily.  Life will probably behave itself, if hit on the head with a baguette. Make la vie rosier with online lifestyle store The Home Label’s new range of dining room and kitchen products inspired by interior designer and thehomelabel.com Creative Director Sussanne Roshan’s trips to Paris. See Baguette Tray, wooden candle holder, wine glasses and decanters that are tres jolie and won’t break the bank. Sussanne  Roshan tells us how Parisian street lights turned into candle holders here.

When: You want to turn the other chic.

*** This advertorial has been sponsored by Thehomelabel.com***

pACK

What: Briefcase bag pack from Nappa Dori, available at their Delhi stores but they ship to Mumbai, to order call 09873550062 or visit http://www.nappadori.com, Rs 10,500.

Why: Death of a Salesman would have been far more romantic with this pretty biscuit coloured mini tin trunk-like briefcase featuring leather detailing. Half belonging to a doctor and half to a salesman, the cool thing about this Nappa Dori trunk is that it turns into a bag pack, is small enough for daily, non-travel use, and comes with a key. It’s available in a range of colours including glossy yellow, forest green and sky blue, but we much prefer the muted cream and black.

When: You want to be part of the Carry On series.

***

What: The Breakfast Club Carter Road at Corniche, Carter Road, Bandra (W), view the Facebook group here, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 9167114918.

Why: Judging from the adorable launch video and former Olive chef Amit Chaudhary at the helm, The Breakfast Club Carter Road seems like a good project to egg on. Slated to launch next weekend, the club promises English breakfast by the sea, a corner for artists, newspapers and scrabble. (Double) word!

When: Starts April 27 and 28, 11 am to 4 pm, for 8 weekends.

bHARATNATYAM

What: Mudra Dance Week at NCPA, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, view the schedule here.

Why: People in Bombay don’t dance anymore, is something a friend says to us almost every weekend. If you’re that friend, slot some time for Mudra Dance Week that begins on Wednesday. Here, “everything is broken up into dances” - photography exhibits, films screenings, poetry readings and discussions are centered around dance. Also, five dancers have been invited to interpret classic Indian poetry. Twist!

When: Step-by-step guide from April 24-28.

 

bAUBLE

 

What: Mrs. G & Son homemade dips, call 9769349917, delivery between Bandra to Cuffe Parade for an extra  charge, pick up are from their Peddar Road residence, Rs 200 to Rs 225 for 250 gms, place orders a day in advance.

Why: With a name that sounds like it should be on a jewellery store sign board at Waterfield Road,  Mrs G & Son really hangs over a Peddar Road apartment, where adorable mother-son home chefs Nita and Darshan Gokani whip  up yum yoghurt-based dips. On the menu currently are four varieties: diet-special dill and lime dip called Dill khush, Insatiable Italian, sour cream and onion, and chunky jalapeno and cheese. The last two were our favourites, but they all make for a super party platter. You can also order lavash and spinach sticks as accompaniments. But the real jewel in Mrs G & Son's crown will be the mango-flavoured dessert dip, coming up later this month.

When: You want to be a good heist-ess.

 

***

 

What: Jewellery designer Suhani Pittie's new online store, visit www.suhanipittie.com, Rs 3,200 for gold plated bird hoop earrings.

 

Why: Bauble heads, stay still for a second as one of our favourite Indian  jewellery designers Suhani Pittie's  new online store opens on the screen in front of you. Go past the peacock plumes and open doors to find gold and silver plated jewellery that seems to be preoccupied with the sky. There's birds that sit in gold hoops and a starry night sky that unravels  across a cuff. Different from the multi-strand antique coin necklace that we own, but in mint condition none the less.

When: You want to make a Pittie stop.

 

 

pAGES

 

What: Discussion with mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik on the Indian way of doing business at Godrej & Boyce, 4^th floor Auditorium, Plant 13 Annexe, Vikhroli East. RSVP by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , free.

Why: Today, Devdutt Pattanaik mixes business with mythology. Author and Future Group’s Chief Belief Officer, Pattanaik will discuss Indian business and its connection to  Indian mythology  just in time for the launch of his new book,  Business Sutra. We loved his novel The Pregnant King, and so we'll go to listen to him speak about more inclusive ways of doing business, with fundamentals and references rooted in Hindu, Buddhist and Jain mythology.  Ditch Western workplace practices, and start building your relationship with Goddess Lakshmi – wealth needs to be attracted, not chased, he says.

When: You want a dose of Val(miki) Street.

 

***

 

 

What: The Eternal Library helps you set up and run libraries and reading spaces of any size, visitwww.theeternallibrary.com, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , starts at Rs 50,000 (approx), includes service fee and 150 books.

Why: For the most part, neighbourhood libraries are extinct. Dodos on your kindles, help bring them back. This week, bpb found The Eternal Library, an organisation that can set up a library in your neighbourhood, office, gymkhana, housing society and even your home if you like.  Run by book editors Ahalya Naidu and Meethil Momaya, they offer a bunch of services ranging from stocking your books with Indian and international publishers to suggesting new authors and titles. They also “replenish” your library with books every few months depending on the contract you sign, suggest ways to cover and maintain your books and offer shelving ideas. Currently, the TEL team is busy setting up a wildlife theme  library for a  guest lodge in Rajasthan.

When: Now for big cat(alaog) spotting!

 

Speaking of dying arts, see how you can use CD jacket designers to paint your shoes, walls and house party posters.

 

bORSALINO

 

What: Auroville cheese tasting at Marie Antoinette, ground floor, White Rose Building, Shirley Rajan Road, next to Rizvi College, off Carter Road, Bandra (W), call 9819435957, Rs 200 for the cheese tasting, Rs 182 for 140 gms of camembert.

 

Why: If they don't have bread, let them eat Camembert. Bandra patisserie Marie Antoinette has just started stocking artisan cheese from the French family-run Mango Hill resort in Auroville, and are holding a cheese tasting event this Saturday, in order to introduce you to the hunks. Made from Auroville milk and French ferments, you'll find on these shelves  camembert, blue cheese, borsalino, cheddar, colby and cumin gouda. And, expect prices that are about 30% cheaper than gourmet stores in the city. Hover mouse here.

 

When: Saturday, April 13 from 5.30 pm to 8.30 pm.

bpb freebie: Use the code BPCOUP and get 15% off at Happy Socks, valid until April 16. Exclusively for bpb subscribers.  To order call + 91 9176651557 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for catalogue.

bIG BUM

What: Weekly pop-up bakery run out of a Nano by Sweetish House Mafia, follow @SweetishHMafia on Twitter or view the Facebook page to get updates on day (usually Wednesday or Saturday), time, location and menu, Rs 60 to Rs 70 per piece.

Why: What happens when a 28-year-old Wharton graduate and investment banker takes a sabbatical? She turns herself into a baker, and a white Tata Nano into a bakery. This “secret purveyor of all things sweet” parks her "bakery" at a convenient public location (different one every week, follow her on Twitter for updates), out of which she sells freshly baked goodies of the day. Last week she did her first run at Horniman Circle with a batch of Nutella Cookies and plans to do a second round tomorrow evening, April 6 at Carter Road. In the future, Sweetish House Mafia will peddle treats like S’more cookies, Dulce De Leche and champagne cupcakes, apple pie pockets, choco-chip pound cake and caramel brownies. GleeDM!

When: You want to order a butter Nan-o.

***

What: Chocolate star anise biscotti on order by Pixie Mojo Patisserie, call Stephanie Lobo on 9819317305 for home delivery, Rs 550 for 25 pieces, Rs 100 to Rs 200 delivery charge depending on location.

Why: We’ve found your slightly chipped Victorian coffee cup a suitable friend – sugar-dusted star anise biscotti. Now we’re not saying it’s a setup or anything, but would it be so bad if a romance brewed over coffee? Order this yum box of 25 from Pixie Mojo, who delivers across the city, and also recommends you try her newly introduced whoopie pie. Set a third place at the table.

When: You want a crumbler account.

pLAY

What: Bandstand Revival restarts, view the Facebook page for schedule, at Dadar Bandstand, Hanging Gardens and Horniman Circle, free entry.

Why: We were there when the Bandstand Revival first started up, with a picnic blanket at Hanging Gardens that sighed beneath us and a thermos of sangria, chocolate cupcakes and cheese straws and even a rosy-cheeked baby to complete the picture. The 2013 schedule is now out, and the first act is tomorrow. Visit Dadar Bandstand for Sufi rock and lambada, and expect acts like Agnee, Dharavi Rocks, Empty Café, The Live Cycle, Imli Imchen and more on the following Saturdays. BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby).

When: Every Saturday from April 6 to May 24, from 5.30 pm to 8 pm.

bEGONIA

What: Pretty clothes from Shift’s Summer 2013 collection by Nimish Shah, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , meet the designer and place orders today at Le Mill, Breach Candy from 5 pm to 8 pm, starts at Rs 4,500.

Why: You know how you’ve always wanted a cute boy to bring you flowers? Enter Nimish Shah, one of our favourite designers who’s put together a bunch of pretty florals for his Summer 2013 line. See Shift’s skirts and blouses with China blue flowers and a pop of orange beads, hand printed jackets, and melt over the sorbet pink cotton frock with organdie trims.

When: You want to strike a posie!

***

What: The Ink Pot bespoke publishing consultants, call Pooja Shah on 9821512612 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , visit www.theinkpot.in .

Why: So, your manuscript hasn’t grown a spine yet? Get in touch with the book doctors over at Ink Pot publishing, who can hand-hold you through the publishing process and rope in the most fitting designers, copy-editors, content writers, photographers, illustrators and publishers to put together a completely customised book. Run by a former employee at India Book House, this bespoke publishing company also does some fun literary-themed accessories sold online out of The Old Curiosity Shop.

When: You don’t want to feel a draft anymore.

bpb freebie: Use the code "bpbspicyelephant" and get 30% off on Ladakh Odyssesy 2013 with Spicy Elephant.Valid until March 29, 2013. Exclusively through bpb!

bOOKMARK

What: Parvati Villa, shop no 5 & 6, Cusrow Baug, Colaba Causeway, visit www.parvativilla.com.

Sneak Peek:  This week, we’re super excited to take you to Parvati Villa, a 1,000 square feet lifestyle store that’s slated to open in Colaba next week. Divided into foyer, hall and vanity room, the space is designed to look like the home of Parvati, a modern-day “devi and diva”, a character that owner Ileshaa Khatau has dreamed up right down to the brand of perfume she’d use. Here you’ll find everything from jewellery to furniture, but Parvati recommends you look out for these: Rose Garden, a floral neckpiece by Valliyan; the 'Rupaiya' wallet by Khamsa; the Bonita beach tote by Cirare; and Sebastian, an antique wooden tiger from the Konkan belt. Go, prey for us!

When: Devi Our Family! Opens next week.

***

What: BarTrender Pro, order at Benetta Bartender, Jazbar Concepts, New Link Road, Andheri (W),  call 41550060, Rs 3.5 lakhs and upwards.

Why: We Instagrammed your last house party and we have to say, you’re looking sort of idiotic. There that’s you in the blue, not a Uni student and still chugging straight from the bottle. How about you put that Absolut down and invest in a grown-up (read expensive) bar instead. Previously available only at hotels, BarTender Pro is now selling their hybrid bars to individuals as well. These are stocked with professional cocktail mixer, a wine cooler from France (no free bottles though, we checked), a dual temperature zone and dry storage bar. Cheers!

When: You need a sip replacement.

pASSION

What: Chocolate praline cake on order by Sheena, call 9820302126 to order, Rs 600 for 1 kg.

Why: Are uber fancy desserts cluttering your plate and date, mind and behind? Feel the constant pressure to order a blood orange-chocolate something with sorbet of some sort or a mandarin tart or a plate of lemon earl grey squares? How about we go back to the basics, back to a round glistening chocolate cake, just good old rich chocolate cake, which you cut through, half-expecting a room full of people to sing for you.  Birthday or not, get it from Sheena, a Bandra baker who’s created quite the cult following for her signature chocolate cakes that come with a yum coat of praline.

When: Now. All rise for cake.

***

What: Project Voice by Sara Kay and Phil Kaye, spoken word poetry, visit http://www.project-voice.net.

Why: "When they make fun of your accent, I'll take you swimming because we all sound the same underwater." We wish you were with us at Blue Frog last evening as performance poets Sara Kay and Phil Kaye’s spoken words about spiders and sweaters, love letters and elbows, were just sigh of making everyone fall in love. The US-based poets have performed solo or together at some of the best venues and events including Lincoln Center, Tribeca Film Festival, the United Nations and a 2011 TED conference. They’re done performing in Mumbai, but watch their videos and read their books just to marvel at how acrobatic words can be. If you begin to love them like this Scouter does (YouTube introdu ced to me by a super someone last year), maybe even email them. From their audience dedication last night, we know they read fan mail.

When: You really want to meter.

Equally poetic: Learn to build guitars at the edge of a Goa forest.

bUY

What: Anatomy print note books at Filter, Kala Ghoda, 43 VB Gandhi Marg, Kala Ghoda, behind Rhythm House, Fort, start at Rs  250.

Why: Because who can write pretty things without femoral arteries and iliac veins? We love the batch of old anatomy textbook cover diaries at Filter, featuring sketches of hearts, thighs, groins and other body parts to remind you that writing is indeed a science .

When: You need an organ donor. 

bpb freebie: Use the code BPB TIPS to get 15% off at new nail spa Tips n Toes, valid until April 7. Exclusively for bpb subsribers!

bpb Contest: We're giving away 5 couple passes to the yummy Taste of Mumbai festival at Marine Drive from March 22-24! Check our Twitter feed (@bpbmumbai) at 11.30 am today (Friday, March 14) to know more. Contest closes at 6 pm.

bELGIAN

What: Charlene and the Chocolate Factory, call 9833258908 to order, pick up from Nectar Building, Shirley Rajan Road, off Carter Road, Bandra (W), starts at Rs 20 per truffle and Rs 50 for a praline Easter egg.

Why: Put your neck on the (pra)line to try this home chocolatier’s fancy truffles and you won’t be  disappointed. Charlene made us a box of yum tiramisu chocolate, hazelnut truffles and hazelnut praline, along with soft centered Easter eggs made especially for the holidays. The generous Bandra girl also started The Bake Collective a few months ago, an organization that uses bake sales to aid good causes. She’s a gud girl, that Charlene!

When: Now, Go-diva!

***

What: Restaurant Week reservations to begin, book a table online on http://restaurantweekindia.com, Rs 1,000 for lunch and Rs 1,200 for dinner.

Why: Restaurant Week is back with pricey restaurants offering three-course prix fixe meals for less. Our picks from the list include Ellipsis, Olive Bar & Kitchen, Yauatcha, Hakkasan, San Qi and Dakshin Coastal. We’re not sure what some places like Ocean, Sahara Star are doing on the list– isn’t that the seafood restaurant which had women dressed like mermaids splash around in a tank while you ate their finned cousins? – but there are enough palatable ideas on the list so go make a reservation before seats fill up.

When: Bookings begin on March 22 for Citibank cardholders and on March 24 for others.

Note: Also see our reviews this week for Singkong and Between Breads.

pROGRESS

What: Theek Kar Do gadget butlers, visit www.theekkardo.com , call 8080853853,  cost depends on the gadget and parts.

Why: When co-founder Hardik Shah’s gadgets decided to die on him– first his laptop took its last breath, then the washing machine and television - he found that the drama of endless company calls and service centre rounds were hard to manage with a day job. That’s when he founded Theek Kar Do, a service that picks up and gets post-warranty gadgets repaired, giving you cost quotes with both original and second hand parts. Products currently range from laptops to ACs and electrical fittings, and the service operates across a large section of Mumbai. This is Man vs. Machine!

When: You want to abolish the Factory Act.

bEAUTIFUL

What: Vintage lace bed and table spreads at Sanctum, Vasant House, 19^th Road, Khar (W), Rs 1,400 to Rs 6,000.

Why: Just arrived at homestore Sanctum, these delicate spider web-like lace bedspreads are all you need to catch tonight’s prey. We’re told that they are handmade by rural women from Andhra Pradesh who were taught the art by English missionaries, and Sanctum is trying to get you to preserve this dying handicraft. Chantilly lace tasting, anyone?

When: You need a change of lace.

***

What: Focus Festival Mumbai, visit http://focusfestivalmumbai.com for full schedule, free.

Why: Our lens follows you around the first Focus photography festival in the city as you visit Galerie Max Mueller to marvel at early Bombay photos, browse the open photography library at Cheval, stop in at Blue Frog to buy a set of yummy cards and envelopes as part of the Bombay Bylines show, listen to Sooni Taraporevala talk to Mira Nair about Parsis and end our stalking trip at Kala Ghoda store Filter, where we’ll catch you peering at B Grade Cinema pictures. And you call us sleazy!

When: You want to visit the grand Canon.

bpb freebie: Use the code BPB TIPS to get 15% off at new nail spa Tips n Toes, valid until April 7. Exclusively for bpb subsribers!

bUNS

What: Between Breads, 16^th Road, in the same lane as Hawaiian Shack, Bandra (W), call 26045577, Rs 250 for a sandwich.

Why: Sent on a reconnaissance mission to the far yeast (yes, this Cuffe Parade-based employee is a bit of a snob but we’re working on him), this writer made a trip to Bandra to check out the almost-opened Between Breads.  Started by 25 year-old Paresh Chhabria and Reuben Borah, a media professional and ex Kingfisher employee (new ways to earn their bread?), this new eatery sells burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, sides and smoothies. During a tasting we tried a delicious Philly chicken sandwich and a thick mango smoothie. You can either choose to eat at this tiny space for 12 with a giant padded burger on the walls and a bacon strip jutting out to form your table, or order for delivery if you live in the area. The chef seems to know his mince, so we’re waiting to try the 10 ounce beef burger. Oh and there’s also a sandwich called The Morning After. All walks of shame lead here. See you then! Review out soon.

When: Burger off on Monday, March 11.

PS: Also see our The Barking Deer and The Pier reviews if you’re dining out this weekend.

***

What: Espresso bar party catering, retro coffee machines and beans by Beans Unlimited, visit www.beansunlimited.com or call 24712610, Rs 1,400 for a 25 pod box of Cafes Richard Columbian coffee.

Why: It’s Friday and you’re still being a grouch potato. It’s probably because the coffee in your office sucks. Here’s a little something for your HR department – Beans Unlimited, a coffee solution company that sells everything from retro-looking coffee machines to pods from Illy, Cafes Richard and Lavazza, and even sets up an Espresso bar at your dinner party. Keeping A-list clients like Blue Frog, Indigo and Sula Wines hopped up on caffeine, we think they might be a good way to get on the bean’s list.

When: You want a new brew crew.

pALETTE

What: City neighbourhood tours for Mumbai Design Week by India Design Forum, free entry.

Why: To go with our days of the week underwear recommendation, here’s a neighbourhood to explore daily this week, as part of the India Design Forum. This cool calendar lets you tour Mumbai locales – Colaba, Fort, Bandra/Juhu, Lower Parel/Mahalaxmi, Vikhroli -  through interesting design talks, walks, workshops and shopping experiences, all for free. Our picks: discover “humorous light installations” at Obataimu’s private studio, the link between design and dining at Le Mill and permaculture in a box at The Flyover Farm. See full schedule here.

When: Get design drafted from March 8 – 13.

bROOCH

What: Amrapali shop in a shop at Good Earth, Raghuvanshi Mills, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, call 24951954.

Why: A dainty silver hair barrette from Amrapali was among the first ten recommendations that brown paper bag made when we launched back in 2009. And so to polish nostalgia we’ll return to the jewellery label’s pretty pop up shop at Good Earth that in addition to selling new gold and silver collections, will also showcase their collaboration with designer Manish Arora. Shrine on!

When: Starts on March 12.

***

What: Cushions and quilts inspired by travel by Safomasi, available online, prices start at Rs 1,500 for a small cushion.

Why: You know the phrase ‘good enough to eat’? Artist Sarah Fotheringham, currently a designer at W+K spent several years travelling around the country drawing pictures of Indian sweets. With the help of her boyfriend and business partner Maninder, she began to print these on cotton to turn them into fun, colourful cushions— floor and small—as well as quilts. Sarah’s illustrations inspired by travel - view her impressive portfolio here - include some very pretty camels from the Pushkar fair. Also keep an eye out for rugs they plan to do soon, with pictures from Japan. Fun fact: the name Safomasi comes from their names—Sarah Fotheringham and Maninder Singh. Duo over?

When: Now, because all good journeys should end in bed.