And it’s not just food. The music scene is thriving – head to The Humming Tree, a two-storey independent live house and hip terrace bar, or the jazz-championing BFlat Bar, for evidence. And local art and fashion have followed suit.

"There have been a lot of creative individuals who have given a thrust to the city. All this has happened because people want to make a difference and contribute in their own way," says Jason Cherian, the co-founder and designer for boutique fashion label Small Shop.

Namu Kini is one of those individuals. More than a decade ago, Kini returned to Bengaluru from the US and founded the gallery Kynkyny Contemporary Indian Art. She has just embarked on a new venture, an organic cafe called HappyHealthyMe. "Many people of my generation had to go abroad to explore the opportunities. But the millennials don’t feel the need to leave. They have immense confidence and they have a fulfilling life in their work, entertainment and social life, all here," she says. "Right now, Bangalore is a fantastic place to be, whatever your passion. It’s an exciting time to be here."

Stay

Ritz-Carlton Bangalore

Opened in 2013, the first Ritz-Carlton in India has become a destination in itself. Located in the heart of central Bengaluru, it boasts 277 rooms and suites, all inflected with contemporary South Indian design touches. Get a taste of fine Bangalorean-Chinese food (it’s a thing) at The Lantern, the hotel’s flagship restaurant. The sky bar, Bang, hosts some of the city’s biggest parties, with panoramic views over the city centre. And the spa is open 24 hours.

Shop

UB City

Formerly the home of United Breweries, this complex underwent a massive transformation and re-opened in 2008 as the city’s most lavish shopping centre. You can find global luxury brands including Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, Cavali and Bottega Veneta, as well as the best of Indian high fashion at Kinaya.

Cinnamon

Housed in a colonial bungalow, this multibrand boutique carries upscale fashion and homewares from across India. You can find pieces from Jason Cherian’s Small Shop here.

Eat and Drink

Toit

The influential sprawling craft brewpub that started the Indirinagar food explosion. It does brewery tours and also hosts regular live music.

The Permit Room

Located on one of Bengaluru’s most prominent intersections, opposite Garuda Mall, this new four-storey restopub focuses on South Indian cuisine with a modern twist.

Tours

Bluefoot

Bluefoot conducts customised private tours catering to whatever your interest, from culture to food, temples to slums. It collaborates with corporate clients, too, and part of its proceeds goes back to helping local communities.