Kolkata is an enchanting city to explore for those who have an appreciation for heritage, gastronomy and architecture. A walk around the city will fill you with awe. Keep your camera on standby to capture as many pictures as you can of the heritage splendor of Kolkata. If you are a major history buff then you should not miss the chance of staying at a gorgeous heritage hotel called The Astor Hotel in Shakespeare Sarani. Housed in this lovely old hotel is a charming lounge where you can grab a few drinks before wrapping your day of sightseeing. Locals come in for ambience alone. ‘Deck 88’ as the lounge is called, is a more recent addition to this heritage hotel but since it’s opening has created waves of interest amongst the tipplers.

As you push through the doors of Deck 88, muted music and a modern pleasing sight greets you. Settle down and look around you. You will like what you see. Then browse through their bar menu to pick your drink. They offer everything from beer to whisky to tequila. Opt for cooler if you do not feel like drinking. Give your palate a burst of delicious flavours by tackling their varied multi-cuisine menu. For first course they tempt you with a variety of appetizers. Try eating, Thai spiced crab cake, Turkish borek with creamy house dip, rock chilli shrimps, classic bruschetta, Konkani style fried calamari and Greek meatball. Those who are still hungry can choose between, the classic tuna melt sandwich, butter chicken cannelloni, Thai red curry, Italian spiced pepper prawn, murg chapli Mughlai pockets, fusilli creamy pesto and Caribbean cottage cheese steak.

Replace the savory taste on your tongue with a burst of sweetness. You can polish off desserts like, cheese cake, chilled lemon pie, orange caramel custard, chocolate mud pie served with ice cream and chocolate mousse. End the evening by asking for their house cocktail and then sit back to nurse your drink and take in the lovely atmosphere. Deck 88 is an outdoor lounge spread in the back courtyard of the hotel. They have enclosed the area with a wall made of bamboos to give you some sort of privacy. Cool misting fans, lush potted plants, sturdy wooden furniture, makes this tranquil space even more attractive. Décor is modern and edgy but complementary to the beauty of the hotel. Deck 88 is pocket-friendly as well.