Kolkata is known as a city of gastronomic pleasures. It was the only Indian city to feature in a recent list published by award-winning media platform Eater in 2023. Almost every month, new places, including restaurants, pubs and nightclubs are launched in the city. Among the newer entrants is Hashtag. When you step into the rooftop seating area at Hashtag, the view in front of you is breathtaking. You'll be able to see some of Kolkata's most iconic landmarks such as Howrah Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Victoria Memorial from here.
The two-storey pub with a rooftop offers a lively pub-like dining experience that transforms into a nightclub in the evenings. The interior decor is designed to recreate the classic British pub ambiance. However, Hashtag, located on Chowringee Road, is more than just a traditional pub. One of its most striking features is the stunning elevated glass ceiling that is 14ft x 35ft in size, providing natural light to the space. A dedicated area called "Hello Charlie" honours the timeless charm of British artist Charlie Chaplin, inviting patrons to relive their cherished memories. One of the walls is adorned with wall art depicting the extinction of angels and Cupid from Earth, adding a touch of kitsch. Elevated decks create distinct sections, while raw stone-finished brick walls, cast iron railings, and fiberglass wall art contribute to the Palladian vibe.
"We have created a complete entertainment package for our guests, starting with a relaxing atmosphere in natural daylight, followed by a pub-like experience on the terrace in the evening," says Praveen Mundra, partner. "Later on, we change the ambiance to a full-power music and lights nightclub experience. We aim to provide our guests with an all-in-one experience so they don't need to go anywhere else once they are with us."
This is the second outlet, with the first one established in Siliguri in 2016. Spanning over 12,000 square feet, Hashtag offers a vast variety of seating options. You will find numerous cosy nooks, each with a unique ambiance. Like the Royal Deck with plush leather Chesterfield couches, and vintage iron ralings. We opted for a rooftop swing seat that overlooks Victoria Memorial, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the white orb of the planetarium. Based on first impressions, Hashtag seems like one of those essential third spaces - community hubs that feed more than just our bellies. At night, it transforms into a nightclub with a high-energy pub experience.
The menu offers a variety of Indian and global flavours ranging from pasta to umami-drenched Japanese delicacies. Additionally, the cocktails are made using homemade organic herb reductions. Ankit Tibrewal, Partner, explained that they had taken special care in selecting the food and beverages. We had the tangy Lemongrass Ghotala Chicken with Thai peanut sauce which was an excellent starter. For vegetarians, the Palm Tomato Bocconcini Crostini with in-house sourdough toast, pesto, juicy ripe tomatoes, bocconcini, and balsamic drizzle is a must-try. Another highly recommended starter is the Khasta Rumali, which is a blend of rumali roti and masala papad, sprinkled with spices and topped with parmesan.
For the main course, we tried the delicious and light Turkish Pie with chicken mince and crumbled feta inside an oval, flaky pastry case. The Three Mushroom Risotto, enriched with parmesan, was rich and savoury. However, the highlight of the meal was the pan-seared bhetki fillet with asparagus orange sauce. The lightly grilled fish complemented the pure, verdant taste of asparagus perfectly.
We wrapped up the meal with their churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and chocolate sauce. We recommend you try the Testing Dessert with Chef Jakir. This comprises of a chocolate explosion ball, shaped like a flower, stuffed with mousse.
The rooftop is perfect for enjoying cocktails as the sun sets over the city. With over 100 cocktails on their menu, they specialise in gin and Aperol-based drinks. The main floor also has a 50ft island bar and a striking grandfather clock.
Hashtag operates from 12 noon till 1 am on weekdays. and extend the joy until 2am on weekends.
The place runs offers from time to time. They offer a special rate of Rs 3,000 for a couple (inclusive of cocktails and appetisers) and Rs 1,000 (without cocktails).
Address: 8th floor, 50, Chowringee Rd, Elgin, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071