Fantasy fiction reigned supreme this week, between Game Of Thrones, and Avengers: Endgame, along with the usual frenzy trying to avoid spoilers all over social media. Running alongside was the CSK mania, with our boys in yellow, making it to the playoffs. A few members of the team were spotted around town at various promotional dos, one of who was Murali Vijay, guest of honour at a special event where Surgical Avenue donated a hundred multispecialty beds to VHS and launched a blood donation drive.
The rest of the week involved shopping and eating, in equal measure, and in some cases side by side. I went all out at the Ministry of Home Chefs’ second edition at The English Tea Room, with too many irresistible treats on display. From kombucha to spiced jams and nut butters, I left with armloads of stuff and actually needed someone to help me carry it all to my car. My next stop was at Al Souk in Nungambakkam for a fab launch party with some delicious Mediterranean fare. Later, I headed over to Café De Paris for Sunil Menon’s birthday celebrations over high tea. No surprises that the model brigade turned up in full force, Sunil having been a mentor to so many of us over the years. Quite a few hilarious stories were traded, in between all the photo taking.
Many of the same faces were seen at Aldo at Express Avenue for a ‘shopping party’ launching their latest collection. Lots of pretty faces, an equally exciting collection and great discounts made for a fun evening. Red Wine was replaced by iced Coffee, for a more chilled out summer vibe, with sneakers featuring high on the ‘it’ list.
The week ended with the relaunch of Lounge Bar, Rhapsody at Courtyard by Marriott. A familiar space to most of the Chennai ‘peeps’, Rhapsody saw the usual mixed crowd of diplomats, corporate big wigs and P3 regulars. Instead of a fixed format, guests were allowed to explore the space and enjoy the elaborate spread. Cocktails were also being made to order, with a few fun twists on the classics.