Kenny’s at Nanakramguda, Loqa Cocktail emerge as after-work hotspots for Hyderabad offices

Hyderabad: In the daily grind of office life, friendships at work often go unnoticed. These are the people who see us at our most stressed, celebrate our small victories and occasionally join us in collective eyerolls at deadlines.

Finding the right spot to relax and bond after hours can make a big difference. We explored two such bars in Hyderabad that cater to office friends looking for a casual hangout or a well-curated drink-and-dine experience.

Kenny’s, Nanakramguda: Casual comfort for a quick wind-down

For many office goers, affordability and ease of access matter as much as the food and drinks themselves. Kenny’s at Nanakramguda fits this need. A simple layout, comfortable seating, a large screen for cricket matches and popular music set the stage for an informal hangout.

What to Try

• Starters: The Mirchi bajji is served with a zesty topping of onions, tomato, spices, and a squeeze of lemon, delivering a punch of heat. For vegetarians, the Lal mirchi paneer tikka shaslik is creamy and smoked for flavour. Non-vegetarians can try the Chicken lollipop tossed in a soy-based sauce with spring onions.

• Mains: The Double egg rice with manchurian is a comforting choice, and the Butter chicken with naan offers a familiar, filling option.

• Drinks: The Know More Secret, a blue pea flower and gin cocktail, is strong and visually appealing. Kenny’s also stocks a wide range of spirits at competitive prices.

The cost for two comes to around Rs 1,800, making it accessible for weekday outings.

Loqa Cocktail Room, Sattva Knowledge Park: Curated experiences for the experimental

For those willing to invest a little more time and budget into a detailed drinking and dining experience, Loqa Cocktail Room in Hitech City offers a more immersive option.

The 45-seater venue features moss-green interiors, dim lighting, and vintage screens showing visual illusions. Bartenders, or ‘hydration managers’ as Loqa calls them, monitor water intake along with drink orders to ensure a balanced experience.

Drinks and small plates

• Cocktails: Try Situationship, combining smoky whiskey with tropical pineapple notes, or What ra Matcha, a smooth blend of earthy matcha and cola. Other standout drinks include Hit Me Down (sake with sangria foam) and Road No. 999, a martini infused with marigold cordial.

• Food: Non-vegetarians can opt for Duck cutlets served with salsa verde or Fiery lamb bites, combining minced meat with vegetables. Vegetarian options like Dosa Aligotcrisps and Avakai cheese kulcha reinvent traditional favourites with creative presentations.

Mains and dessert

• The Kebab and biryani bowl combines tender lamb with fragrant rice and a green chilli raita, presented in a Chinese takeaway-style box for casual dining or takeaway.

• Dessert: The Boozy Choco Overload blends fudgy brownie, chocolate soil, fresh grapes, and a boozy sauce, offering a rich conclusion to the meal.

A meal and drinks for two here average Rs 3,000, reflecting the more curated experience. Nisha Reddy, a marketing professional, said, “Loqa is ideal when we want to linger, experiment with drinks, and enjoy something beyond standard bar fare.”

Choosing your spot

Quick, fuss-free unwind: Kenny’s is convenient, affordable, and perfect for regular weekday hangouts.

• Curated, experimental evenings: Loqa caters to those who enjoy trying signature cocktails, thoughtful plating, and a slightly upscale environment.

Office friendships thrive on shared experiences outside work, and picking the right environment can enhance these bonds. Whether it’s casual finger foods with a familiar drink or a multi-course tasting paired with creative cocktails, Hyderabad has options that fit the bill.