2016: Hashtag Siliguri. 2024: Hashtag Calcutta. Popular Siliguri “high-energy bar” Hashtag is the newest F&B outlet to open in the city. Located on Chowringhee, the new hangout promises “good food, cocktails, vibe and service”. Owned by Ankit Tibrewal, Nitin Agarwal and Praveen Mundhra, Hashtag Calcutta is spread across 12,000sqft, with many private pockets and a gorgeous rooftop that offers a picturesque view of some of Calcutta’s landmarks. “The hunt to open Hashtag started in 2020 but we weren’t getting a place of our choice. When we saw this property and this view, we sealed the deal immediately. The concept of Hashtag is clear — we are primarily a pub, with a nightclub feel only post 11pm,” said Nitin.
The interiors are done keeping in mind the pub concept, using a lot of wood for a touch of warmth. The primary colours are green, burgundy, grey and brown, which are very European shades.
The menu is multicuisine, boasting of some classic dishes from across the globe, while the sip menu is almost endless with a dedicated 100-plus cocktail menu with a focus on gin and aperol-based cocktails. Straight drinks are also on the menu. “Here we are focusing on a vast age group, as this place is for anyone above 21. We have a great sound system, over 100 staff strength as we don’t want to compromise on service, great music where one would get to listen to old classics to Bollywood and commercial sets. We will have acoustic nights every day and plan to have other activities too. For us how you go back from here matters a lot. If you leave happy, you are definitely coming back,” said Nitin.
t2 dropped by to check out Hashtag and here’s what we loved....
Hashtag has natural light pouring in from all sides, even the centre of the ceiling during the day, but as evening comes, the pub feel of the place reaches its peak but post 11pm, the vibe shifts to that of a nightclub. “We have over 100 moving heads, sharpies beautifully programmed on the ceiling that will give a perfect nightclub feel,” said Nitin. The main floor also has a beautiful 50ft island bar and striking grandfather clock. “Whenever we get a property, the bar is the first thing we decide on and it has to be an island bar. Hashtag Siliguri too has a similar one,” said Ankit.
Once you enter, you will notice the Royal Deck first. This 30-seater elevated zone has plush leather Chesterfield couches, vintage iron railing, and a beautiful angels and Cupid sculpture on the wall. The same floor also has a King’s and Queen’s Deck next to the DJ’s console.
“The idea was simple — we wanted a British pub feel so we went with arches, warm tones and wood. Since the USP is the view, we ensured that people who would be inside would also get to enjoy the view even without going to the terrace. We wanted to make a place that everyone would enjoy,” said Vijay
(L-R) Ankit Tibrewal, Nitin Agarwal and Praveen Mundhra
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