There are cafés in Bangalore… and then there’s ARAKU Cafe Indiranagar.
The one that makes you feel like you’ve walked straight into a modern art gallery that happens to smell like heaven (aka freshly brewed coffee).
When I first walked into ARAKU Cafe on 12th Main, Indiranagar, I had that classic Bangalore moment: “Wait, is this still a café or did I accidentally stroll into a Scandinavian design studio that serves liquid gold?”
Spoiler: it’s both. 😉
At ARAKU Café, every sip tells a story — one that begins in the hills of Andhra and ends in the heart of Indiranagar.
Welcome to India’s first café from the globally renowned ARAKU Coffee, a brand that started in the lush hills of the Eastern Ghats, made its international debut in Paris (yes, Paris), and finally came home to Bangalore.
Because let’s be honest, where else? 🙂
Quick Information: ARAKU Cafe Indiranagar
Because sometimes, you don’t have time to read my coffee-fueled ramblings. You just want the where, what, and how-caffeinated details. 🙂
| Detail | Information |
| Name | ARAKU Café |
| Location | 968, 12th Main Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Doopanahalli, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008 |
| Contact | 79939 89888 |
| Timings | 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Breakfast orders till 11 AM) |
| Cuisine | Global-inspired, Coffee-led Café (Japanese, Mediterranean & Korean influences) |
| Average Cost | ₹2,000 for two |
| Wi-Fi | Available (Paid, includes 3 beverages + snack) |
| Alcohol | Nope, it’s all about the caffeine! |
| @arakucoffee | |
| Website | arakucoffee.in |
My First Sip: When I Met My Brew Soulmate
(Source: Araku Facebook)
You know that moment when you walk into a café and immediately question your entire coffee history?
That was me at ARAKU Cafe Indiranagar.
The space is that stunning. All-white interiors, golden accents, sunlight pouring in like it’s been specially filtered for Instagram, and that subtle aroma of roasted beans that could probably cure heartbreak.
As I stood there, mildly awestruck (and possibly blocking the doorway for someone else, sorry whoever you were), I realized this wasn’t just another “pretty café in Indiranagar.”
It was a whole vibe. The kind of place that makes you believe coffee has chakras.
The minimalist design gives it a sort of Zen-meets-Zara aesthetic. Cool, calm, and effortlessly chic.
Every little thing here is thought through: from bamboo chandeliers by Sandeep Sangaru to clay pottery by Curators of Clay, even the metal shelves are recycled.
It’s sustainability, but make it fashion.
And then, the coffee. Oh boy.
My first order. The Café La’Orange, a cold brew with a citrus twist, made me rethink what I thought I knew about “flavored coffee.”
It was crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced, like the coffee equivalent of a really good breakup text. Bold but with closure.
As I sipped away, watching people chat at the Modbar (which, by the way, looks like something out of a sci-fi movie for coffee nerds), I realized this wasn’t a café you just drop by for caffeine.
This was an experience.
A slow, sensory, beautifully curated experience where every sip is a story, and every corner begs for an Instagram post captioned, “Current mood: percolating.”
Coffee with a Conscience: The Story Behind ARAKU
(Source: Araku Facebook)
Now, here’s where ARAKU Coffee really earns its stripes (and my respect).
This isn’t just “good coffee.” This is coffee with a cause, a conscience, and a deep sense of community.
The journey begins in the breathtaking Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh, a region that was once known more for its poverty and deforestation than for coffee.
Enter the Naandi Foundation, which stepped in to help Adivasi farmers transform their land, their livelihoods, and eventually, the global coffee scene.
Through their groundbreaking #Arakunomics model, which, by the way, won The Rockefeller Foundation’s Food System Vision Prize, ARAKU built a system where profits go directly to farmers.
No middlemen, no exploitation, no corporate gloss. Just pure, fair-trade goodness.
Imagine this: over 1,00,000 tribal farmers now own their own coffee estates, growing 100% organic, single-origin Arabica beans on rich, biodiverse soil.
Every bean is nurtured with regenerative agriculture practices. Meaning they enrich the soil instead of depleting it.
So yes, while your latte looks great on Instagram, it’s also quietly saving the planet.
And let’s not forget.
ARAKU isn’t some homegrown underdog anymore.
These folks launched first in Paris (talk about reverse colonialism!) and became the world’s first terroir-mapped coffee to score above 90 points by independent cuppers from the Specialty Coffee Association.
Basically, they didn’t just put Indian coffee on the map, they made it a global benchmark.
But what really hits home is this: every time you order that steaming cup of ARAKU coffee, you’re supporting a cycle that uplifts communities, revives forests, and keeps traditions alive.
It’s coffee that feels good to drink. Ethically, emotionally, and ecologically.
So yes, when I say this brew has soul, I mean it.
Somewhere between those rolling green hills of Araku Valley and the sleek white interiors of Indiranagar, a beautiful story is being told.
One cup at a time. 🙂
The Experience: Brew, Bites & Beyond
(Source: Araku Facebook)
Now, let’s talk about the real reason we’re all here – the experience.
Because walking into ARAKU Cafe Indiranagar isn’t just walking into a coffee shop.
It’s like walking into a carefully crafted universe where design, flavor, and good vibes all decided to move in together.
The first thing that hits you (after the warm, roasted coffee aroma that could probably be bottled as a perfume) is how every inch of this place screams intentional.
The café sprawls across two floors, each with its own personality, like siblings who share the same genes but dress very differently.
Downstairs, you’ve got the Modbar, the centerpiece, gleaming in all its minimalistic glory.
If Willy Wonka made coffee instead of chocolate, this would be his setup.
The baristas here don’t just brew, they perform.
Every pour, every swirl, every press is almost meditative.
I found myself zoning out just watching them. The kind of slow, satisfying choreography that makes you want to applaud at the end.
And here’s a little secret: if you’re a fellow coffee nerd (welcome to the club), strike up a chat with them.
They’ll happily geek out about the origin of beans, roast profiles, and how even the altitude of the farm changes the flavor.
I learned more about coffee in ten minutes here than I did in a year of pretending to be productive in Starbucks.
The upstairs area, on the other hand, is where the café opens up — airy, sunlit, and dotted with earthy textures and greens.
It’s perfect for lazy brunches, long catch-ups, or, let’s be honest, pretending to work on your laptop while people-watching.
Every table feels like a little corner of calm amidst Indiranagar’s chaos.
And then, the food. Oh, the food.
Don’t come expecting a token sandwich-and-cookie menu.
The ARAKU kitchen is where creativity meets comfort.
I tried the Croissant Sandwich (flaky, buttery perfection) and the ARAKU Bowl, which somehow manages to be healthy and delicious, a rare Bangalore miracle.
The desserts deserve their own TED Talk.
The Chocolate Ganache Tart is smooth enough to make you forgive your ex.
The Coffee Caramel Tart? That’s what happens when sugar and caffeine fall in love.
Of course, no visit is complete without sampling their signature brews.
From pour-overs to cold brews, each cup carries a distinct personality: fruity, floral, nutty, bold, like coffee having its own Tinder bios.
My personal favorite?
The French Press ARAKU Signature. Smooth, deep, and ridiculously satisfying.
And here’s something I loved. The staff doesn’t rush you.
There’s no passive-aggressive hovering or bill-dumping.
You’re encouraged to sit back, sip slowly, and let time stretch out a little.
In a city that’s constantly honking and hustling, that feels… luxurious.
By the time I was done (and very caffeinated), I realized that ARAKU isn’t just serving coffee and food. It’s serving perspective.
It’s a place that gently reminds you to slow down, be present, and savor the little things, like the swirl of crema on your espresso or the afternoon light spilling through the window.
In short: ARAKU Cafe Indiranagar isn’t just a stop on your café-hopping list. It’s a ritual.
What I Ordered: Love at First Sip (and Bite)
(Source: Araku Facebook)
My first order was the Café La’Orange, a cold brew with a citrus twist that felt like a holiday in a glass.
To go with it, I picked a cookie that sounded too intriguing to resist. One made with sun-dried tomatoes. Yes, tomatoes in a cookie.
I had doubts, but turns out it worked like a dream.
The menu here is timed, meaning breakfast ends at 11 AM and transitions into all-day dining.
I made a mental note to come back for the Charred Eggplant Dolma, but the Pomelo Salad also caught my eye.
Light, fresh, and perfect for Bangalore’s not-so-predictable weather.
For food, expect a menu inspired by Japan, Korea, and the Mediterranean, with creative takes on classics.
Think Tamagoyaki Toastie, Kimchi Smørrebrød, and German Spätzle reimagined with local ingredients.
Chef Rahul Sharma (ex-Masque, Mumbai) and coffee consultant Sherri Johns clearly had a field day designing this lineup.
It’s bold, international, and beautifully tied to India’s roots. Just like the coffee itself.
ARAKU Academy: Where Coffee Geeks Graduate
(Source: Araku Facebook)
One of the coolest parts about this café is that it’s not just a place to sip, it’s a place to learn.
The ARAKU World Specialty Coffee Academy trains aspiring baristas and coffee enthusiasts under the globally recognized Specialty Coffee Association standards.
So if you’ve ever wanted to sound fancy saying “cupping notes” instead of “this smells nice,” you might just find your tribe here.
💡 Pro Tip
You can totally work out of ARAKU Cafe Indiranagar. It’s calm, inspiring, and yes, there’s Wi-Fi. But it’s not free. You’ll pay for it… in coffee (the best kind of currency). The package includes three beverages and a chef’s choice snack. Not bad for a productive day surrounded by good vibes and better coffee.
Contact Details
(Source: Araku Facebook)
If you’re already craving that signature ARAKU brew (and honestly, who could blame you?), here’s everything you need to plan your visit. No Google Maps tantrums required.
Address:
ARAKU Café, 968, 12th Main Road, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar, Bangalore – 560008
Timings:
Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Contact:
+91 – 79939 89888
Website:
www.arakucoffee.in
Follow ARAKU Coffee on Social Media:
FAQs About ARAKU Cafe Indiranagar
Where exactly is ARAKU Café located?
ARAKU Café is located in the heart of Indiranagar, one of Bangalore’s trendiest neighborhoods — you’ll find it at 968, 12th Main Road. If you’ve reached a spot that smells like good decisions and freshly brewed coffee, you’re there.
What’s the vibe like?
Think minimalist chic meets earthy calm. The interiors are all about white walls, natural textures, and sunlight that makes everything look like a coffee commercial. It’s equally great for solo work sessions, coffee dates, or pretending to write your novel while secretly scrolling Instagram.
Is the coffee really that good, or is it just hype?
Buddy, it’s not hype — it’s heritage. ARAKU’s coffee comes straight from the Araku Valley, grown by Adivasi farmers who’ve turned organic, regenerative farming into an art form. Every cup here has personality — from floral and fruity to dark and intense. It’s coffee that makes you feel things.
Do they serve food, or is it just coffee?
Oh, they serve food — and it’s not your average café grub. Expect croissant sandwiches, grain bowls, smoothies, and tarts that look too good to eat (but you’ll eat them anyway). The menu is designed to pair beautifully with their brews, so you can sip, bite, and repeat your way into bliss.
Is it a good place to work from?
Absolutely — as long as you can resist the temptation to just people-watch all day. There’s good Wi-Fi, great coffee, and even better playlists. It’s not your typical noisy café — it’s got that calm, focused hum that makes productivity feel aesthetic.
How much does a visit usually cost?
Expect to spend around ₹600–₹900 per person, depending on how indulgent you’re feeling. Totally worth it for the quality, ambiance, and the bragging rights of saying, “Oh, I was just working from ARAKU.”
What’s special about ARAKU Coffee?
Everything. It’s India’s first terroir-mapped coffee, grown organically in Andhra Pradesh, and roasted to perfection. Plus, it’s part of a fair-trade movement that supports over 1,00,000 tribal farmers. So every sip you take contributes to a sustainable, ethical ecosystem. That’s coffee karma right there.
Can I buy ARAKU Coffee beans or products here?
Yes! There’s a beautiful retail section where you can buy their beans, blends, brewing gear, and even coffee accessories that’ll make your kitchen look like a Parisian café. Pro tip: grab a pack of their Signature Blend — it’s divine.
When’s the best time to visit?
Weekday mornings are ideal if you want a quiet experience (and the best seats by the window). Weekends get a bit lively — expect a mix of laptop warriors, brunch groups, and folks on “creative sabbaticals.”
Do I need a reservation?
Not really, but if you’re planning to come on a Sunday brunch hour, it’s a good idea to call ahead. Otherwise, just walk in with confidence — and an appetite.
Is there parking available?
It’s Indiranagar — so yes, but it’s a bit of an urban treasure hunt. Street parking is your best bet. Or better yet, call a cab and save yourself the parallel parking drama.
Can non-coffee drinkers enjoy ARAKU?
Of course! They’ve got cold-pressed juices, teas, smoothies, and even non-caffeine mocktails. So if you’re here with that one friend who “doesn’t do coffee,” don’t worry — they’ll still find their happy drink.
My Final Thoughts: Where Coffee Meets Consciousness
I’ve been to plenty of cafés in Bangalore, but ARAKU Café is on a different wavelength.
It’s not just a place to grab a coffee. It’s a whole ecosystem brewed with purpose, design, and soul.
From the farmers in Araku Valley to the roasters, baristas, and designers in Indiranagar, every detail feels intentional.
And as someone who loves a good cup with a good story, I walked out with a caffeine buzz and a little more respect for what goes into every sip.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Probably for that Eggplant Dolma I skipped.
So if you’re a coffee lover in Bangalore, make your way to ARAKU Café.
Come for the coffee, stay for the calm, and maybe, just maybe, find a new favorite spot on 12th Main.
Your Turn
Been to ARAKU Café yet? Drop your favorite brew or dish in the comments. Or better yet, let’s start a Bangalore coffee crawl. Who’s in?
Found the article informative? Was it helpful?
Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you. 🙂
Follow me for more insider guides, lesser-known facts, and unforgettable experiences across Bangalore and beyond.
Until next time,
Exploring Bangalore, one story at a time — right here on tariqsp.com.
Need Help in Bangalore?
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent property in Bangalore, need assistance with property documentation or liaison work, or just need help getting something, rather, ANYTHING done in the city, I’m here to help.
And if you’d like to get featured or want an article written about you, your business, or your brand, feel free to reach out.
Just drop me a line at hello@tariqsp.com or ping me on WhatsApp (bottom right of the screen).
I’m always happy to connect! 🙂
Tarriq Salaam
