Backyard is an anti café in Adyar where you pay for your time instead of the coffee. Whether you want to practice for an upcoming play, jam with some mates, play board games or just unwind in a creative setting, Backyard ought to be your ideal go-to spot. It is set up in the quaint backyard of an independent house in Adyar, hence the name.
Started by Nithya and Akshaya, two young architecture grads and friends, the idea came to them while working on their thesis. Akshaya worked on co-ideation while Nithya worked on storytelling through spaces and since their ideas were in sync, they put them together to start something of their own. The idea behind Backyard is to bring people together by creating a space that enhances the little joys in life that are otherwise overlooked. All while gorging on food made by home chefs and bakers!.
Backyard has two levels and is spread over 900 sq ft. The ground floor is an open space with many interactive walls, like the Express Wall where budding artists can display their work, be it art, poetry, or design. for a maximum duration of one month and it’s absolutely free of cost! They also have a Brainstorm Wall that has butter tracing paper flowing out of the wall onto tables where people sketch or write down their thoughts and a Converse Wall that features questions where people are free to pen their answers. Backyard has also installed their own line of conceptualised stationery and home accessories- from yearly planners to themed-journals, they have quite an eclectic collection. It's called the Backyard Concept Store. You can also find books whose names are covered, so it's almost like you are on a blind date with them!
The top floor is generally used for workshops, events, jam sessions, and rehearsals. Backyard also has a menu that is pocket-friendly and diverse. It changes every day as they encourage home bakers and chefs to showcase their culinary skills. The dishes on the menu range from burgers to biryani, desserts and juices. If you’re a budding home chef or baker, feel free to bring over some of your creations.
