Tommy’s, a new cat-themed bar in Bengaluru, taps into an old school nostalgia with a pocket friendly menu

In a world of craft cocktails and experimental concoctions, it is a welcome change to see daiquiris for ₹250 on a menu. I am at Tommy’s, a new bar on Old Airport Road. This cat-themed bar is all about taking it back to the basics. A jukebox playing ‘80s hits, old school bar snacks and a lively buzz.

The 120-seater is located in a spot that has had local bars since 1966. It used to house the HAL Bar, then Krupa’s and Sai Krupa. Now it boasts a cooler look with Tommy’s.

The jukebox at Tommy’s
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Special arrangement

We reach early evening as the crowd is just coming in. There are cat motifs everywhere. The logo is a cat wearing sunglasses, posters of Tom from Tom and Jerry, Sylvester the cat, Pink Panther and Garfield cover the walls. Even the cocktails have cat foam logos. The only thing that takes your attention from the cats, is the jukebox in the middle of the space.

The jukebox has a booklet with popular songs from the ‘80s… Michael Jackson, ABBA, Madonna. You take your pick, place a token in the slot and the CD falls into place. As of now these tokens are free, but they plan to charge a nominal fee for them soon.

Batanga cocktail
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Special arrangement

What is on the menu

The menu is short and sweet. A few signature cocktails, beers and spirits, and bar nibbles and mains. I have a Batanga, while my friend tries the Pornstar Martini. The Batanga is the Mexican cousin of a Cuba Libre, made with Tequila, cola and lime. At Tommy’s it comes in a bottle of Thums Up. The drink is refreshing, and we go for another round of it. The martini is made with vodka, passionfruit, and vanilla, and comes with a shot of sparkling wine on the side. The drink is sweet and well mixed; we do not care much for the bubbly. It also has a risqué image of a cat on the foam. We try their Margarita too. Made simply with Tequila, citrus and sugar, it is delicious.

A selection from the menu
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Special arrangement

Food is bar bites, and Indian main course. The stoner veg pakodas, made with baby corn, onion and chillies, are addictive and disappear from the table fast. The cheesy mushroom rolls are just that; stuffed with mushroom and very cheesy. The chicken tikka is a must-try. With a balanced masala, it is the perfect side for the drinks. The tawa garlic prawns is the winner. The seafood is fresh, and the sauce is buttery and flavourful. Skip the popcorn, as it is stale.

We leave tipsy and happy, as the jukebox is playing Thriller.

₹1,400 for two. At Old Airport Road. Open 6 PM onwards. For more details, call 7795798808