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Feed on the fever

The hospitality industry is cashing in on the football frenzy that has engulfed the city, writes M. RAGHURAM

PHOTO: AP

CHEERS TO THE CUP Football fans of the city are making it a ritual to cheer their fav teams.

When the queen of country music, Emmylou Harris, speaks of her man spending too much time with his beer-drinking buddies watching football; of all the fun he has while she waits with dinner that is rapidly going cold; and the cigarette smoke and the camaraderie, she might well be speaking of Mangalore instead of the blue bayou.

All the hangouts are stuffed to the brim with beer-swigging janta, keenly following their heroes' next move even as countless Emmylous wait at home.

The watering holes of Mangalore, like those all over the world, have captured the spirit of the football fever. While there have been no official announcements that business hours can be extended beyond 11.30 p.m., there is no doubt that behind closed doors one can hear the roar of football enthusiasts if one listens closely enough. Each goal is followed by the sound bottles being opened, the clink of glasses and loud cheers.

Many of the bars and restaurants that found television an impediment to business have now realised that at least for the next month till the World Cup is over, the idiot box could bring them more business.

The mood is upbeat in the city, especially for those who can guzzle a pitcher or two and grab bites that would put Dagwood to shame. The Taj Manjuran calls its show FIFA at Port Cafe and has whipped up football fever in Mangaloreans. Ryan Cornelio from the banquet section of the hotel is all praise about the response from the city.

Ashok Kapoor, General Manager, Moti Mahal says: "Since the World Cup started, there has been tremendous response from football enthusiasts. Some of our guests are from Germany and they liked the ambience we created. The restaurant, Mangala, has been spruced up for the event. A large screen and re-arrangement of the seating with different kinds of chairs for the guests to lounge about in has made all the difference."

Both Manjuran and Moti Mahal have their special offers for the football season. Ryan says: "There is unlimited beer, snacks and a buffet. During the breaks there are events that participants can win prizes for." Moti Mahal offers a pint free for every two ordered and there is an elaborate spread as well with Italian, German and continental dishes for the occasion.

With food friends and football on the menu, there is nothing more anyone could wish for!

HAPPENINGS

When: 6.30 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. (Manjuran);

6 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. (Moti Mahal)

Call: 5660420 (Taj Manjuran) 2441411 (Moti Mahal) for reservations

Wallet factor: Rs. 350-400 plus taxes

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