Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in Bengaluru: 6 unusual, must-visit places

From classic to offbeat – take in this city’s unique sights and sounds. Within this IT hub’s urbanscape lies a creative matrix flecked with cottage industries, diverse eateries and imaginative finds.

1. PsybabaResembling a Goa flea market, this place can satiate your hipster needs. Pouches, tees, cushion covers and other curios occupy every inch of the sheltered nook. Try their intoxicating (and totally organic) perfumes. Where: 29/1, Magrath Road, Next to Garuda Mall, Bengaluru 25Tel: (0) 9886527782

2. Adams & CompanyThis two storey kitchen store is a paradise for professional chefs and of course, those who “rule the roast” at home. From barbeque grills and pasta machines to bakeware – all are available under one roof. Where: 9, Richards Square, Shivajinagar, Bengaluru 51Tel: (0) 9902577576

3. Asian Woman The Villa SpaYoga sessions at their open air bamboo courtyard are highly recommended. If meditation is not your scene, take a stroll around the lush green premises instead and let a chorus of happy birds serenade you….Where: Sarjapur Rwoad, Koramangala, Bengaluru 34Tel: (080) 32510725

4. Fireflies AshramA “secular ashram”, the place is as peaceful as an eco-resort and often hosts community meetings that aim to resolve environmental issues. Visit Art Village for the granite sculptures and paintings made by resident artists. Where: Dinnepalya, Kaggalipura, Bengaluru 82 Tel: (080) 28432725

5. Subbamma StoresYour craving for South Indian fried and pickled goodies ends here. Set up in 1948 by a widow who would go door to door hawking her wares, it is now renowned for its chakalis, tokkus and potent powders. Where: 92, HB Samaja Road, Gandhi Bazaar, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru 04Tel: (080) 26677493

6. Shankara CafeIt’s easy to miss this eatery on the way to the namesake auditorium, but this is where the real drama happens. While you chomp on hot bhajiyas, eavesdrop on intellectuals engaging in deep dialogue. Where: 36/2, 8th Cross Road, JP Nagar, Bengaluru 78Tel: (080) 26493982

For more secret addresses in your hometown, get our Diwali booklet that comes free with our October –November 2015 issue…