BENGALURU: Gourmet menus, designated play space and undivided attention
The city’s thriving food and beverages (F&B) space has new diners nowadays -pets. And they are being welcomed with gourmet menus, designated play space and undivided attention. Apparently, it is turning out to be a win-win idea for both pet owners and the restaurateurs.
Toit Brewpub in Indiranagar simply wants to go the extra mile for its patrons by welcoming their pets as well. Operations executive Ashwin Nawani said, “We want our pub to cater to everyone. Pet ice-cream and bowls of water are diligently served.” Having said that, it ensures separate seating area for pets to prevent resistance from other diners. Making the restaurant pet-friendly helped Green Theory, an organic vegetarian restaurant on Residency Road, increase its footfall. It is even organising pet parties.
Events head Aman Uppal said, “The idea was to create a space for the entire family including the pets to dine together. We see at least 1-2 pets a day now. This increased footfall has given our sales a good jump since launch.”
Even those who do not own pets visit the eatery if only to spend time with the dogs, says Ankur Jain, owner of Therpup Dog café in Whitefield. On weekends, the café see about 25 dogs on a single day.
“It is like a dog park but we have not received any complaints from neighbours so far. The resident dogs and visitors’ pets play together. Security is kept tight to avoid any pet from running away,” he said.
Pet owners are rejoicing at this inclusive trend and hope more restaurants follow suit. College student Mahima Balaji often takes her pug to Toit. “My pug gets a new view compared to his regular surroundings. And, he always enjoys the pet-friendly ice-cream”.
Fine arts student Aswathi Thilak, who takes her golden retriever to Therpup Dog café twice a month, said, “It’s a delight to watch my pet play with the resident dogs.”
Experts sound a word of caution, though. Veterinarian Champak Nayak said, “Owners must ensure that their pets are vaccinated and also carry their pets’ regular food along. Sometimes, food served at cafes may not agree well with all.”
