The Nosh Pit food blog broke the news that Meeru Dhalwala, one of the culinary forces behind the lauded Vij’s in Vancouver, BC, will soon put an end to Seattle’s long run of less than stellar Indian food. Shanik is slated to debut in late 2012 in South Lake Union. Culture Fiend turned the mic on KEXP Midday Show host Cheryl Waters and asked her to name a local act she’s keeping an eye on. Her response: “Absolute Monarchs is incredible.” Tripster reported that, starting in November, budget carrier Allegiant Air will jet to Hawaii—too bad the flights leave from Bellingham and Eugene. And Sauced tipped a hat to Jamie Boudreau of Capitol Hill bar Canon, who was up for Bartender of the Year at the Spirited Awards put on by Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans. We’ll raise a glass on July 28, when the winners are announced.