New in Hyderabad: Military-inspired Barracks Anteroom, scenic rooftop restaurant Firewater Neo

Hyderabad: Hyderabad’s culinary landscape continues to expand with exciting new openings, each offering a distinct blend of ambience, cuisine and experience. From a military-themed eatery to a fine-dining vegetarian spot and a scenic rooftop restaurant, these latest additions bring something new to the city’s food scene.

Barracks Anteroom: A tribute to military heritage

Located in Vayupuri Colony, Sainikpuri, Barracks Anteroom takes inspiration from army barracks, paying homage to the military presence in the area. The space is designed with vintage art, rustic patterns, and industrial elements, creating a nostalgic yet contemporary feel. Large glass windows allow natural light to flow in, adding to the inviting atmosphere.

The menu offers a mix of comfort food and creative dishes. A standout drink is the Bubble Trouble, a guava-based beverage with black salt, mango powder, and lime, evoking childhood memories of street-side guava with chilli powder. Among the appetisers, the Chicken Pistachio Roll is a signature dish, featuring grilled chicken marinated in a blend of spices and topped with pistachios for added texture. Seafood lovers can opt for the Royyala Vepudu, a prawn dish with a mildly smoky aftertaste.

For those leaning towards continental fare, the Grilled Fish in Lemon Butter Sauce is a popular choice, though the sauce could have been more flavourful. To round off the meal, the Melon Medley provides a refreshing touch with fresh muskmelon and mint.

Masaledaar Desi Rasoi: A vegetarian feast with heritage charm

Bringing a slice of North Indian culture to Himayatnagar, Masaledaar Desi Rasoi offers a vegetarian menu rooted in traditional flavours. The restaurant’s decor reflects the grandeur of a Rajasthani haveli, featuring intricate wood carvings, handcrafted mirrors and antique-style lighting.

The meal begins with the Crispy Lotus Stem, glazed in a honey-chilli sauce, followed by the Banarasi Kebabs, a vegetarian spin on classic kebabs made with beetroot and cheese. A winter-special dish, Makki Ki Roti with Sarson Ka Saag, delivers rich, comforting flavours.

Among the highlights is the Palak Cheese Kofta, a dish where spinach and cheese-stuffed koftas are served in a thick, creamy gravy, best paired with a Cheese Garlic Naan. The Angara Paneer, a smoky paneer preparation, arrives in an antique-style dish, enhancing the experience. Another recommended option is the Jehangir Paneer with Chur Chur Naan, offering bold spices and a hearty texture.

For those looking for a fusion touch, the Paneer Schezwan Fried Rice brings an Indo-Chinese element to the menu.

Firewater Neo Bar & Kitchen: Skyline views and fusion cuisine

Located in the Financial District, Firewater Neo Bar & Kitchen combines nature-inspired interiors with a versatile menu that blends Indian and international flavours. The restaurant’s design incorporates earthy tones, wooden accents, and lush greenery, while glass partitions provide a panoramic view of the city and nearby lake.

The menu features a mix of comforting and bold flavours. The Spiced Pumpkin Soup offers a warm start, followed by the Miryala Kodi Rasam with Chitti Vada, a regional favourite. The Tandoori Chicken Salad, with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a yoghurt-based dressing, balances smoky and fresh flavours.

Among the appetisers, the Thai Chilli Lotus Stem stands out for its crisp texture and savoury-spicy coating. The Paneer Steak Sizzler, served with sautéed vegetables, herbed rice and noodles, is a hearty vegetarian option. The Firewater Special Biryani, featuring a mix of chicken, mutton, and prawns, is a must-try for those who enjoy Hyderabadi-style biryani.

Dessert options include the Adbad Gulab Jamun Falooda, which layers classic Indian sweets with falooda elements and the Dark Chocolate Mousse, a rich treat for chocolate lovers. With its varied menu and scenic ambience, Firewater Neo Bar & Kitchen offers an ideal setting for casual dining, family gatherings, and social events.