The Good Life Potpourri

Monsoon Special | 15 Days of Fryday Menu at Monkey Bar (till August 5, 2016)

2016-07-26T14:03:00.000+05:30

The monsoons are indeed here and I don't think there's a better way to either fight the rainy blues (if you are one of those) or celebrate this glorious season (if you love it like me) than with some garma-garam fried foods along with some chilled from the outside while warm from the inside rum induced cocktails.

Considering the expectation, Monkey Bar has a limited edition menu called '15 Days of Fryday' for the monsoons. Available till the 5th of August, the menu consists of some of the most fascinating fried foods I've tasted in a while. Some classics, while some with a twist, the baarish wala season deserves a menu like this.

An Apple A Day

The Passionate Monk

We started off by checking out 2 cocktails; namely, The Passionate Monk (Old Monk, passion fruit monin, sweet and sour mix, orange juice and bitters) and An Apple A Day (Old Monk, apple juice, kiwi crush, sweet and sour mix and soda).

Although I can't do rum anymore, I took my chances on these 2 because I know how successfully experimental Monkey Bar can be with their concoctions. Both our drinks were pleasantly potent and there's no reason to not love 'em.

Prawn Balchao Kachori

Chicken Chettinad Samosa

Full marks to being innovative with the Prawn Balchao Kachori topped with date tamarind chutney and mint sauce - one of my favourites of the evening. The Chicken Chettinad Samosa served with spicy coconut sauce is best enjoyed while they're still hot so make sure you don't waste any time in clicking pictures of your food. :P I thought the stuffing itself could have been a bit more spicy to complement the weather, but otherwise it's quite enjoyable.

Poutine (with bacon)

Cajun Spiced Chicken Chimichanga

One can't really go wrong with Poutine - potato fries topped with cheddar cheese, gravy and caramelized onions (you can add some bacon to it if that's your calling) which is a safe option for those who aren't big on experimenting. Next, we tried the Cajun Spiced Chicken Chimichanga. If you love Mexican food, then this could be your instant favourite. I personally didn't think much of it since I've never really fancied Mexican cuisine.

Crispy Chicken Pakodas

Spicy Cheese and Mushroom Empanadas

Stuffed Mushrooms

Another favourite of the evening, the Crispy Chicken Pakodas is served with an interesting onion slaw and is one of those binge worthy items on this menu. For the vegetarians (who also eat mushrooms) there's the Mexican version of savoury style karanjis (a Maharashtrian preparation) Spicy Cheese and Mushroom Empanadas (assorted cheese with caramelized onions in a white paprika dough) and Stuffed Mushrooms (bell pepper and feta stuffed mushrooms with spicy mayo) which were pretty addictive to say the least!

Deep Fried Chicken Dumplings

Deep Fried Prawn Dumplings

Last but not the least, we savoured a couple of bites of the Deep Fried Dumplings. You can either pick vegetables, chicken or prawns as a stuffing and I personally loved the Prawns' version the most. I say this despite the fact that I've always loved my dumplings steamed. The whole menu basically offers classic fried foods but in typically inventive Monkey Bar style!

Chocolate Pot De Creme with Salted Caramel

Unfortunately there's only one dessert on offer. They're freshly made Churros served with a Hot Mexican Chocolate Dip and it sounds like the perfect way to end this meal... If only I could have tasted it too. *sigh* Sadly I couldn't due to some unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, I was recommended to try out the Chocolate Pot De Creme with Salted Caramel (rich chocolate mousse topped with some salted caramel popcorn) from their regular menu. Boy! Was I glad... cuz this one's an absolute delight with every bite!

The weather indeed demands some comfort food and Monkey Bar's limited edition menu delivers exactly that, but with a fine dash of experimental fun.

The 15 Days of Fryday menu is available till August 5, 2016.

Telephone No : 022-26005215
Monkey Bar Mumbai: Summerville, Junction of 14th and 33rd, Linking Road, Bandra West, Mumbai

PS. The blogger was invited for a tasting.

Monsoon Getaway to Novotel Imagica, Khopoli

2016-07-23T12:13:00.000+05:30

Having blogged about food for the longest time, I sometimes like to break away from the monotony and feature properties that I’ve personally experienced. Being an ardent travel buff and someone who truly likes covering all things lifestyle, I recently got a chance to experience a lovely weekend getaway at Novotel Imagica in Khopoli – the comparatively new property right next to Adlabs Imagica – my most favourite amusement park which I covered here when it had newly opened.

The Property

The entrance

The lobby

This time, the main agenda was to check out everything that this resort has to offer. Hardly 2-2.5 hours away from the bustling city of Mumbai, Novotel Imagica is located in Khopoli. We reached just in time to check-in and then went to The Square – Novotel’s all day dining space for a hearty lunch.

The Square

What lunch looked like...

Desserts, of course.

After an indulgent buffet spread and a long interaction with Mr. Srinivas Srirangam - the General Manager of Novotel Imagica Khopoli, we went on a property tour – I guess it was the most perfect way to digest all that food we’d just eaten… haha!
We walked out into a beautiful open space with cabanas by the poolside, which by the way was quite a photogenic sight, we got a lovely glimpse of the mountains that surrounded us. Grey skies and a light drizzle gave us company and the weather was rather pleasant. The spacious place is ideal for patrons who want to host outdoor events. From poolside sangeets to cocktail parties, I could imagine a lot happening here, and why not? The vibes are perfect!

Poolside musing...

The serene pool

The property from behind - by the pool

Up next, we checked out the play area for the kids - an ideal spot if you're vacationing with children. Right next door was this basic but amazing gym that I knew I had to check out later. From treadmills to yoga mats to sets of dumbbells, you have the liberty to workout in whatever way that suits your needs. Yes, even though I was never really a “fitness enthusiast”, I am a proud one now because taking care of my health has indeed become a priority.

Proof that I actually did use the gym :P

What I observed about the property was that it neither exudes absolute luxury nor is it super casual, like a typical resort. Having struck an interesting balance, the place is extremely kid-friendly as well as sports a pretty cool bar and vibes that works perfectly well for young adults. It also offers a wonderful high tea spread within the lounge spaces of Tubby's Bistro. I guess one may wonder who Tubby is now that I mentioned it? Keep reading to find out... :)

The lounge between Tubby's Bistro and Nitro Bar

It’s been a long time, but I remember staying at the Disney’s All Stars’ Music Resort when I was in Disneyworld (Florida) and noticed how Novotel has taken similar inspiration and tried to include the same experience. A mascot like Tubby - the cute red elephant is indeed a cute way to match up. That's why the bistro in the lobby is called "Tubby’s Bistro". It includes a recreational area that has a foosball table (we played and we won!) along with many other games. The bar here is called Nitro Bar. For those who aren’t aware, Nitro is the craziest and the highest roller-coaster ride at Adlabs Imagica. Talk about getting ‘high’ at the bar that’s named after it! ;)

Tubby came to greet us!

High tea spread at Tubby's Bistro

A competitive game of foosball :D

We also noticed the gift shop that involves souvenirs and so for those who seek it, it’s there. The lower lobby also has 3 banquet spaces that are ideal for conferences, corporate meet-ups, weddings or any other form of celebrations. With a separate entrance for the same, one can easily plan a destination wedding to say the least. (PS. How cool would it be to have an amusement park themed wedding?)

Once we got done with the tour, it was time to head back to our rooms. One really never knows the joy of having a room all to yourself until one has been there, done that. 26 years of my life, and this was my time. Better late than never, I truly looked forward to it... Enjoy this "me-time" of solitude, in a super comfy hotel room… that welcomes you with open arms. Yes. 0:)

My cozy room

Bathroom selfie toh banta hai... :P

View from the room

The property has 3 wings with respect to hotel room views. Each wing has rooms facing Nitro (the rollercoaster), the AquaMagica side (aqua wing) or the classic greenery + mountain view. My room faced the lush greens as this trip was meant to be my ideal monsoon getaway. It was time to relax on that super comfy queen-size bed and just take in the silence around while I savoured every moment of this time with myself.

Snippets from SnoMagica

In the evening, we all assembled in the lobby to head to SnoMagica – The snow park next to Adlabs Imagica. Since it was the first time here for all of us, it was indeed an evening to look forward to. I knew what to expect since I’ve previously visited Snow Park in Dubai, but I was excited enough to chill – literally. Jackets, gumboots and gloves are available on hire and are mandatory. Once you enter, you'll know why… the temperatures are insanely low; -10 degrees if I am not mistaken.

SnoMagica has snow slides, ice sculptures you can pose with, snowfall that gets you feeling like you’re in a snowy hill station, a little café that serves hot chocolate, tea and coffee and a dance floor – well, not really a floor but like a really cool DJ console and space to dance to some of your favourite tunes. Sounds exciting, right? A couple of snow fights and a fun dance session, we indeed had a ball! Personally I love the cold and snow. While the others were ready to leave and go back to normal temperatures, I never really wanted to get out but had to... *sigh*

Martini workshop and Make your own concoction contest

Grilled delicacies we made a meal of!

Back to the hotel by around 7pm, it was time to freshen up and get ready for an evening of grills and martinis at Nitro Bar. A special monsoon-centric festival, the concept was all about savouring an array of grills with some potent martinis. Unfortunately I didn’t really drink as I was nursing a cold with antibiotics (Yes, I didn’t stop myself from having fun in the snow but I chose to skip the alcohol) so I managed to check out quite a few grilled vegetables and meats. But before that, the team led by Mr. Gaurav Magoo - Director of Food and Beverages Manager at Novotel had organized a really cool activity for us. We were made into teams of 2 and had to pick a chit. The chit involved the name of an alcohol base. Once that was allotted, we had the choice of picking our mixers and other elements that could make our customized drink as interesting as possible. Gregory – my partner in crime on this monsoon getaway and I stirred up a storm with some whiskey, apple juice, finely chopped apples and a dash of orange juice. A twist to the classic white wine sangria, ‘Whisksangria’ was surprisingly delightful and enjoyed by many! :)

The night was young and we had a really good time. But I knew I wanted to go back to my room to get a good night's sleep. And why not? Everybody loves a good hotel room, right? I was no different…

Novotel Imagica by night

After a quiet night of comfort and sleep, I managed to wake up super early (6am) without an alarm (I hadn’t set one cuz well, it was Sunday!) and instead of being lazy, I took this chance to go check out the gym. There’s really nothing better than an early morning workout. I had the gym all to myself and spent almost 1.5 hours sweating it out. They call it 'Inbalance' and now I know why. :)

A leisurely and refreshing shower later, I knew I had worked up a wonderful appetite for a hearty breakfast. Strips of delicious bacon, scrambled eggs, a cup of hot mocha and some pancakes late, we were in for a pleasant surprise when we heard fun dance music (Gangnam Style, FTW!) playing in the background and some of our favourite cartoon character dancing their way into The Square and going around – getting the children and their families to have fun, mingle and pose for pictures. We were then told about this lovely practice – they call it the Irolic Parade. It's a wonderful touch to brighten everyone’s morning and the perfect solution for the grumpy kids who aren't ready to face the day. :P

Queen size breakfast

We then decided to go and settle down by the poolside with our coffees. The Square gives one direct access to the cabanas and the weather was perfect. A light drizzle completed our leisure time.

Since the day was quite easy-going, we were given the choice of visiting either AquaMagica or Adlabs Imagica. I’m not big on water-parks so I knew it was gonna be Imagica for me. A couple of rides and rollercoasters later, Rutavi – my partner at Imagica and I were thoroughly drenched. If you think going on rollercoasters multiple times is insane, try doing the same while it’s pouring. OMG, it was crazy – you’re not only fighting your fear, but also fighting the rains! In the end, being the thrill-seeker I am, we went front row and it really couldn’t get better than THAT.

Nitro - the only picture I managed to click before it started pouring like crazy :P

A few hours later, we walked back to the hotel. It was just so convenient to say the least. A light lunch, some more leisure time in the room and we were ready to check-out and head back to our regular lives in the city. It’s never a good feeling to leave something so lovely and comfortable, but it’s only then that you learn to cherish the memories made and the good times shared! #lifelessons

Thank you Novotel Imagica, for the impeccable hospitality that culminated into a memorable stay and a monsoon getaway that proved to be a sure shot success. Will be back soon! :)

For more details log on to – http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-9832-novotel-imagica-khopoli/index.shtml

PS. The bloggers were invited to check out this property.

Presto Lunches at Botticino, Trident BKC

2016-06-27T13:38:00.000+05:30

The weekend was well spent and after a long time I decided to cover something for the blog. Don’t be mistaken, it’s not like I am losing interest in blogging… Gosh! I don’t think that day will ever come. But I’ve been going easy with the invites and posts because work (yes, for those who aren’t aware, I keep a full time writing job too) has been keeping me sincerely busy.

Now that I am back with another post, here goes :)

Botticino – the Italian restaurant at Trident BKC has recently launched a concept menu called, Presto! It means, quick and in a quick tempo. A set menu that has some of their most sought after preparations… All for a stunning price of Rs. 990 + taxes. Now mind you, this is you getting a chance to enjoy a 3 course meal at a 5 star restaurant. Sounds like a good deal, right?

PS. the bread basket was exceptionally lovely. I believe if a restaurant serves fresh and beautifully baked bread, you know they don't compromise on genuine quality.

The assorted bread basket

While I glanced through this well planned menu, Udhav the restaurant manager was kind enough to share some insights into the concept. Ideal for the innumerable corporate guests who seek a fuss-free and quick meal in between work hours, #PrestoLunches is apt in so many ways. Course 1 involves a choice of either a soup or salad. Course 2 offers quite a variety of main course options and Course 3 has eggless options for the vegetarians while the non vegetarian menu has sweet indulgences that involve eggs. A well thought out menu, I think this is a major plus point since the diner is bound to be comfortable with his/her choice of menu preference.

Antonio - Our lil' fishy

Hey hey! Look who's here to give us company at @TridentBKC's Botticino... Say hi to Antonio! 😊 #PrestoMenu pic.twitter.com/lFffFOMtO1
— The Potpourri Girl (@TaariniNB) June 19, 2016

Udhav then surprised us with the most adorable guest who joined us at our lunch table. Apparently the restaurant makes sure solo diners have company while dining at Botticino. A fish of the opposite sex is placed on the table and they all have the most adorable names! Such a simple yet amazing idea, isn’t it? I was genuinely impressed! :) Even though I wasn’t alone, Antonio – our fish turned out to be such great company!

Now moving on to the meal we had…

beetroot tartare with orange spheres, beetroot macarons and preserved lemon gel

We kick-started the afternoon with some freshly made sangrias that were perfectly potent to taste. Our meal began with the Beetroot Tartare with Orange Spheres, Beetroot Macarons (which was exceptionally lovely) and preserved Lemon Gel, served with fresh leafy greens, the salad was light and made for a pretty picture too! The vegetarians are sure to love it while I savoured it too... (after all, it was healthy!) ;)

country style pork soup

I requested for a small tasting portion of the chef recommended Country Style Pork Soup since the preparation description looked quite interesting on the menu (it has borlotti beans and rosemary). And boy was I glad, because it was simply soulful and perfect to complement a rainy afternoon. A hint of those beans in the soup along with the meat brought about a flavoursome combo that’s hard not to love!

parmesan and black pepper chicken with cream potato mash in a grape reduction

Then the Parmesan and Black Pepper Chicken with Cream Potato Mash in a Grape Reduction arrived and that’s when I realised everything I was about to eat this afternoon was definitely going to be a visual treat if not anything else. The art of presentation is when you can eat with your eyes too and yet look at it with a whole lot of admiration! The chicken wasn't overcooked while the grape reduction brought about a zesty finish to this preparation.

pepperoni pizza for the win!

So I usually end up ordering a pizza in an Italian restaurant because who doesn't want a slice of perfection, right? Having not eaten a good Pepperoni Pizza for the longest time, I decided to give the one on their menu a shot. They were gracious with the meaty topping, the crust was perfect - guess there was no reason to not love it!

poached red snapper with potato mash and exotic vegetables

Up next, our main course arrived. If you’re a fish fanatic, then the Poached Red Snapper is for you! Cooked in a glass jar with vegetables and orange butter nage, the preparation is served in the most fascinating manner around a bed of crushed baby potatoes (minced olives and basil added an amazing flavour to it). With a piquant sweet flavour, this dish not only tasted wonderful but also proved to be a healthy affair! :) Check out the way it was presented below...

Love the poached red snapper with orange butter nage, vegetables & crushed baby potatoes. #PrestoLunches @TridentBKC pic.twitter.com/zXESPGpCjS
— The Potpourri Girl (@TaariniNB) June 19, 2016

caramelized onion and goat cheese ravioli with pine nuts and basil cream

On the other hand, the vegetarians can make a hearty meal out of the Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Ravioli with Pine Nuts and Basil Cream, as every bite makes you fall in love with the amalgamation of varied flavours. The basil cream further adds to the rich aftertaste. If you're a vegetarian and a fan of goat cheese, then this is the dish for you!

orange, raspberry and guava chilli sorbets

Now that we were done gorging on these beautifully plated dishes, it was time to move on to sweeter things… literally. Having been to Botticino earlier, I remember the sorbets we’d got a taste of which did not disappoint. This time, I saw it on their presto menu and I knew I wanted to revisit that long but not totally lost memory. An assortment of guava chilli, raspberry and orange sorbets arrived and they made for not only a pretty sight, but also worked as healthy desserts + palate cleansers.

chocolate feuillant belgian chocolate mousse and rice crisp crunch

Udhav recommended us to try the Chocolate Feuillant Belgian Chocolate Mousse and Rice Crisp Crunch as it’s an Oberoi classic recipe. Glad I gave in because this beauty is what sinful chocolate dreams are made of… Bitter enough to keep you hooked, every bite was worth it! And oh, not like I need to mention it, but how photogenic is this stunner?

That's how perfect my Sunday afternoon looks at Botticino, @TridentBKC... 💕 #PrestoLunches pic.twitter.com/GIldz6YUxN
— The Potpourri Girl (@TaariniNB) June 19, 2016

We also met Chef Sushil – the “artiste” behind these photogenic preparations, who was nice enough to visit our table.

The whole idea of having a set menu to get you through a quick work lunch is what the Presto menu is all about! The pricing is apt and works in favour of those who seek a 5 star experience without burning a major hole in their wallets. Being a business hotel, the restaurant targets the working professionals of BKC and otherwise and I don't see why it isn't a fabulous concept! Drop by and let me know what you think? :)

No better way to end my meals. A good cup of strong coffee can do wonders! 😊 Thank you, @TridentBKC. #PrestoLunches pic.twitter.com/0TQbOSYGjf
— The Potpourri Girl (@TaariniNB) June 19, 2016

'Eat Series' by Mamagoto | Asian Flavours of Tah-Koh and Summer Cocktails

2016-05-25T15:44:00.000+05:30

It's always fun coming back to Mamagoto for their fun take on Asian food. This time, I checked out the tah koh menu (Asian treats in soft shell tacos) which is the first in their latest 'Eat Series' - where they intend to take Asian food to the next level. The kind that involves raging creativity and unusual pairing of ingredients to discover new flavours.

Lychee and Cranberry Whiskey Sour

Also, a couple of summer special cocktails have been introduced. I checked out the Lychee and Cranberry Whiskey Sour. If you know me well, you're aware of my fanciful love towards all things cranberry... The cocktail was a perfect blend of 3 of my favourite flavours. Sip on it and you taste the cranberry and subtle sourness of the whiskey... once it's down your throat, the lychee after-taste emerges in the most fascinating manner. One of the finest cocktails I've truly enjoyed in recent times. Maybe they should add it to their permanent menu? Hey team Mamagoto, hope you're taking notes.

Here's a round-up of the tah-kohs that emerged as absolute winners.
In order of ranking (which of course is personal)... Here goes!

Craby

1. Craby: Now I know how tedious it can be to enjoy crab meat when it's all hidden under that hard shell, but these batter-fried, soft shell crispy treats were absolutely fuss-free to enjoy. Also, the generous drizzle of mango sauce brought about the perfect zest to the preparation. A big yes for every crab lover in the city!

Porky

2. Porky: Beautifully glazed pork belly that lay on a bed of home-made plum sauce, thinly sliced green apple and topped with micro greens, Porky was everything that makes experimental eating worth the experience. The set of ingredients used brought about some lovely pleasant piquancy!

Prawny

3. Prawny: Panko-encrusted prawns that give your seafood-friendly taste buds an instant high; we quite enjoyed the multitude of flavours. The Japanese BBQ sauce, chilli mayo and mango sauce drizzled from the top only makes this better! The freshly sliced and fried banana chips on the side are an interesting add-on although I didn’t think it was quite necessary.

Ducky

4. Ducky: Crispy duck with plum sauce, cucumber and spring onion. The preparation was quite similar to Porky with the choice of meat being the biggest differentiating factor. If you prefer one meat over the other, don’t bother ordering both. After all, variety is indeed the spice of life, right? One of those rare times when I truly enjoyed duck meat without mixed feelings.

Smoky

5. Smoky: Crispy smoked chicken, green chilli mayo, goat cheese, salsa, micro greens with home-made Asian taco sauce. Now one can hardly go wrong with that, isn't it? What really got my attention was the way each element stood out with good reason. Multiple textures with every wholesome bite. Nicely done!

Tofuish

Unfortunately there aren't as many options for vegetarians but we quite liked Tofuish – where tofu is prepared in a Korean BBQ sauce, topped with green chillies, Mayo, taco sauce and cream cheese. Quite a combination, right? We thought so too.

Although we didn’t try Cheesy (panko-encrusted goat cheese, mango sauce, kimchi, mint and micro greens) I believe it sounds like it definitely has potential to make a vegetarian happy.

Mushroomy

Flat Veggie

I've never really been a fan of flatbreads as such, but the ones they serve as a part of this menu, I wasn’t quite expecting it to be honest. Mushroomy is great if you like mushrooms. It entails mixed mushrooms, blue cheese, truffle oil, finely chopped green chilli, kimchi and pickled cucumber. We also got a taste of the Flat Veggie – a mix of artichoke, sliced radish, mango sauce and micro greens. Now as unusual this seemed to read as well as taste, I don’t think it’ll appeal the conventional Indian taste buds. Sometimes experimenting to this extent may not always be a good idea. Although I have to say… that mango sauce is to die for! One of my favourite elements from this tasting evening!

Now I'm not sure why they have these crispy flatbreads on a menu that is meant to celebrate the coming together of Asian flavours inside soft shell tacos. Personally they weren't as impressive. Maybe the flatbread could have been softer? I guess the chef knows best but I wasn’t too kicked about anything I tasted.

Caramel Sponge Cake with Toffee Sauce

Now an evening never really comes to an end unless it's on a sweet note, right? This time, I tried their much talked about in-house speciality the Caramel Sponge Cake with Toffee Sauce. Served with classic vanilla ice cream, the excessive sweetness was well balanced. I believe the taste grew on me with every passing bite...

All in all, it was yet another lovely evening with good company and interesting food. I recommend the tah-kohs but wouldn’t really push for the flatbreads. But if you’re keen on trying something that seems alien to your thoughts as well as taste buds, go for it!

Find Mamagoto on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Kanpai | Mumbai's First Japanese Lounge Bar

2016-05-13T12:17:00.003+05:30

The week began on yet another fascinating note when I was invited for a bloggers' table at Kanpai – Mumbai’s first Japanese Lounge Bar.

Situated in at Bandra, in the same building as Shoppers Stop on Linking Road, the location couldn't be more apt. The city is bustling with new Japanese entrants and why not? The metropolitans are always up for experimentations with not just food, but also their palates.

Owned by the same team as Kofuku (Kanpai is right next door), I have to give it to them for conceptualizing a menu that had so many unique preparations, I almost swore by its authenticity.

Chef James Biaka brings together some of the finest ingredients to create stunning food that not only looks captivating, but the flavours do exactly that – They captivate your senses in the most splendid manner!

Chef James Biaka with all the bloggers

The evening began with some in-house concoctions that charmed their way into our hearts. The Yuzu Kosho cocktail spells freshness all over and somehow seems like the perfect way to kick this sweltering heat’s ass. On the other hand, the Ume Blossom cocktail was my favourite. The crushed plums added a beautiful texture and colour to the drink and the sweet and sour finish gives a unisex appeal to it.

Yuzu Kosho

Ume Blossom

Moving on to the appetizers we got our hands on… I don’t know where to begin and how to go about this because very rarely does a tasting experience end up being as positive as this one.

Yellowtail/Hamachi Carpaccio - Oh what a pleasant surprise this was! One that deserves a #TGLPrecommendation but only to those who want to go the extra mile and savour a raw preparation like this. Sleek yet simply flavourful, the beautifully sliced fish is topped with jalapeño and served with soya yuzu sauce.

Yellowtail/Hamachi Carpaccio

Spicy Tuna Roll - Having eaten this previously, I knew what I was in for. But then I guess every chef has a way of representing his skills and singularity when it comes to creativity. Chef James delivers the most perfect set of tuna rolls where the tuna’s flavour truly stood out. Served with some dynamite sauce, the piquancy in this preparation cannot be denied.

Spicy Tuna Roll

Grilled Belgian Pork Wrapped Asparagus - Up next, something unusual arrived at our table. What looked like good ol’ (classic) bacon, turned out to be some really sturdy grilled Belgian pork. The asparagus was not overdone and managed bring in the crunch factor along with the meaty juices of the pork. Served on skewers, this one got me wanting more.

Grilled Belgian Pork Wrapped Asparagus

Rock Shrimps - As much as I am not a fan of anything that’s deep fried, these shrimps made me want to change my mind in an instant. Marinated in a special sauce by Chef Biaka, the prawns tasted fresh and the preparation makes for the perfect “finger food” along with your drinks.

Rock Shrimps

Scallops In Dynamite Sauce - Having already gotten a taste of the dynamite sauce, the fresh approach to this preparation was the sheer use of fresh but perfectly golden brown scallops sliced into bite-size pieces. If you enjoy the original flavours of scallops, this one’s sure to be an explosive appetizer!

Scallops in Dynamite Sauce

Scallops and Prawn Dim Sums - Both the meats have their own distinctive flavours that don’t try too hard to impress yet come together so blissfully. That’s the beauty of seafood and no wonder I know so many (including myself) who absolutely cherish it! For a gourmand, these dim sums can make for the perfect comfort food.

Scallops and Prawn Dim Sums

Tuna Avocado Tartare - One of the most predominant dishes of the evening, kudos to not just the way it tasted but also the way it was presented. Served with rice wafers, the flavours are unconventional and not for the faint-hearted. Be open to the idea of new tastes and you might just sense my joy of savouring it! Hands down a #TGLPrecommendation.

Tuna Avocado Tartare

Crispy Prawns Cheung Fun - A fun fusion, this dish did its bit to make any prawn lover go gaga! Since blending cuisines (aka fusion food) is the new black in the world of gourmet delights, this one stood out with its Chinese and Japanese combination of flavours and style of preparation.

Crispy Prawns Cheung Fun

Just when you think I haven’t mentioned a single vegetarian option, I’d like to say that even though the menu isn't loaded with options, the few preparations we tried were actually quite lovely. If you’re looking for interesting rolls, I’d recommend the To Die Formaki Rolls (quirky name, eh?) and the Crispy California Rolls. Fans of edamame, the Chilli Garlic Edamame does not disappoint and it quite a treat to go with your drinks.

Chilli Garlic Edamame

The Rock Corn in Creamy Spicy Sauce was the vegetarian version of the rock shrimps and even though I didn't try it, I heard good reviews come my way. Then there are the safe options like Crystal Vegetable Dim Sums that come with faux caviar on the top and makes for quite a visual as well as delectably simple treat.

Ninja-style Bartenders

Say Kanpai!

All in all, the Kanpai experience has enough in store for the Mumbaikar who enjoys taking a dip (in this case, sip) into the unknown… The mystery behind every dish and concoction that comes to your table will keep you glued to the ambient yet fanciful environment.

Find Kanpai on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Call: 022 66955105 / 022 66955106
Address: 6th Floor, Suburbia Mall, Above Shopper's Stop, Linking Road, Bandra West, Mumbai

Dishkiyaoon - New in BKC

2016-05-08T19:14:00.000+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

Now that progressive Indian food is pretty much what's trending in the restaurant scenario, Dishkiyaoon is the latest to join the bandwagon. A quirky all day diner + bar, you'll find it at The Capital building in Bandra Kurla Complex. The moment I walked in, I was glad to see how spacious it is. Finding that in a city like Mumbai is a privilege, isn't it?

I love how they've incorporated the outdoors into the interiors of Dishkiyaoon by including plants in the most innovative way. Upside down lamp shades, a life-size vintage tub and a phone booth that I would have loved to take home with me.... This place has its own charm.

Let's talk about the food and drinks. The evening started off with a couple of interesting concoctions by the names of Kala Khatta Daiquiri - It's like re-living a childhood memory the grown up way - with a dash of alcohol! ;)

Up next, we tried MMM - surprisingly my favourite of the evening, it's a potent blend of Malibu, pineapple juice, sweet lime and rock salt. Although I'm sort of allergic to pineapples, this drink was fresh with an extremely palatable twist! In the end, who doesn't love some hand-crafted cocktails, right?

Kala Khatta Daiquiri

Now coming to the food... The menu looked quite intriguing as we noticed an extensive offering of fusion but progressive preparations. From the Wada Pav Salad (yes, this is real) to the Reddy Steady Prawns served with Tomato Rasam Salsa (my favourite appetizer of the evening), I was happy to see the effort put in to make ones dining experience as unique as it could get. I'm still not sure how I felt about the Wada Pav Salad though. Maybe because I'm conditioned to accept any typical salad as a healthy preparation, sans batter-fried potatoes. But then if you're a vegetarian and are looking for something crazy, this could be it.

Wada Pav Salad

Reddy Steady Prawns with Tomato Rasam Salsa

Tandoori Squid Salad

The Tandoori Squid Salad was undoubtedly a pleasant surprise, light on the stomach and I'd go back for more. On the other hand, the main course had a few hits and misses. To begin with, the Bottle Masala Chicken Roast served with Sweet Potato Mash arrived at our table. Not sure what I was missing, but it was basically just well marinated and honestly delicious tandoori chicken. The fancy name caught me off guard and I guess I was expecting something else. The sweet potato mash didn't do much for this dish either.

Bottle Masala Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potato Mash

I had high expectations from the Lamb Avial with Idiyappams but sadly it tasted more like green Thai curry than avial. Although I do like the idea of having green Thai curry with idiyappams (talk about feeling the fusion vibes!), this one simply didn't live up to its name. The lamb was soft and perfectly cooked in this dense coconut based gravy and if they really want, they should totally rename it if not fix it.

Lamb Avial with Idiyappams

The Old School Prawn Curry and Rice wasn't something I'd expect in a place like this and even though it was quite lovely with its rustic flavours and homely presentation, I'm not sure if it fits. Nevertheless, if you know what you're in for, I say go give it a try. It's served with fried fish and the rice is unpolished, brown and sticky... and knowing the kind of audiences that may visit, it's tough to say if they'd be open to the authenticity of this dish. PS. the shrimp pickle on the side won my heart!

Old School Prawn Curry and Rice

As usual, the evening had to end on a sweet note. But this time, the guys at Dishkiyaaon make sure a little spice comes into the picture too. The Blueberry and Jalapeño Cheesecake got me to accept cheesecake in a whole new (may I say mad?!) light! The hint of spice hits your palate and eventually your throat, only once you're half way through the cake. Not as subtle as you'd think, the tingling sensation may not be everyone's plate of dessert. Personally, I loved the twist!

We also tasted the Green Apple Pie (an eggless preparation) and weren't as impressed. Way too sweet and cumbersome to bite into, it's not something I'd go back for.

Blueberry and Jalapeño Cheesecake

Yet another experience has been documented only to make it easier for you guys to have a good time whenever you'll plan to visit. I usually don't like to jump to any strong conclusions with just one visit to a new restaurant. No harm in giving the benefit of doubt to the kitchen team since the menu is equally new, right? This was a pre-launch tasting some time in the middle of April, so I hope things are better now as it definitely has the potential to stand out for the right reasons.

PS. The blogger was invited to the pre-launch tasting at Dishkiyaoon. Views are personal.

Find Dishkiyaoon on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

For reservations call: 022 30151608

Address: Ground Floor, The Capital Building, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai.

TGLP Experience | Ruka, Juhu

2016-04-28T17:58:00.000+05:30

Hey Potpourriers!

[Due to some unforeseen circumstances, this post couldn't go live sooner. But since it was ready and up for publishing, I didn't want to edit the emotions set within this post. Sorry if it sounds outdated but here you go...]

Hope you've kick-started this brand new year on a fabulous note. Here's hoping 2016 is filled with absolute joy, positivity and of course, experiences that redefine the good life!

Big Brunch Sunday at Grand Hyatt, Mumbai

2016-03-18T11:48:00.002+05:30

February may have passed, but here's a love-filled experience I had at Grand Hyatt, Mumbai recently. Valentine's Day fell on a Sunday this year and not like I need one day to celebrate this feeling, but hey, it was definitely worth sharing it with your 2 first loves - my mother and of course, food! :)

Being a Santacruz girl, Grand Hyatt isn't very far for us. It was perfect because the thought of travelling somewhere far wasn't the agenda. I was invited to check out their Big Sunday Brunch spread at their Pan-Asian restaurant - Fifty Five East.

Go Fusion With Bombay Vintage

2016-03-09T16:16:00.000+05:30

Yet another post that's long overdue, I sincerely wish I didn't delay my posts, but when it comes to keeping a full time writing job along with the blogging (more writing), there comes a time when I want to just not type any more and chill for a bit... My laptop is perpetually in front of me... and sometimes you'd rather have people instead. You know what I mean?

Anyway, back with another post, this one's all about my dining experience at the recently opened Bombay Vintage - a fusion-centric restaurant in Colaba, South Bombay. An ode to the good ol' charming Bombay and vintage recipes with contemporary cuisine, Bombay Vintage is an all-day retro bar and diner. The décor boasts of classic old world charm while the food is an eclectic mix of some popular dishes with a unique twist.

Bombay Vintage

Rise & Shine at Cafe Mangii - All New Breakfast Menu

2016-02-13T13:09:00.000+05:30

I may have never mentioned this earlier anywhere on the blog, but breakfast is my favourite meal of the day... Not just any breakfast of course, but the one that entails some eggs (in any form, I'm not fussy like that), freshly baked breads and some meaty delights like sausages, cold cuts and how can I forget to mention... the best of them all - Bacon!

I've been rather selective of the invites I accept in recent times, but when I got this one to check out the all new breakfast menu - Rise and Shine at Café Mangii, I knew I wasn’t going to miss it for anything. It was a working day and I made it to Café Mangii by 8:00 am. Their breakfast timings are from 8 am to 12 noon… So turn it into a brunch if you have all the time in the world (like on a Sunday morning) and you’re bound to savour majority of the offerings on this menu.

Here’s a glimpse of everything we tried on this wonderful Thursday morning…

As much as a glass of fresh juice (they have quite a variety) would be a great way to kick-start this breakfast feast, I began mine with a pleasant cup of café mocha. The strength of the coffee was perfect.

Cafe Mocha for the sleepy soul

India's First Transgender Band | The 6 Pack Band with Sonu Nigam

2016-02-09T18:25:00.000+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

I've been meaning to blog about this, but managed to do a Facebook post that pretty much sums everything I feel towards this particular evening. Here goes...

I was recently invited to be a part of a ground-breaking media launch at YRF Studios. A press meet like no other... the invitation didn't reveal anything except that it was a going to be a-one of-a-kind collaboration between Sonu Nigam and Y Films. It was enough to get me thoroughly interested...

This wasn't just another trailer release or a music album launch... this was a start to something big and revolutionary!

Bao Wow Festival at The Fatty Bao | 1st - 14th February, 2016

2016-02-03T16:53:00.004+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

Been a while since I covered a limited edition food festival and I'm glad to say the year began with the Bao Wow Festival at the much sought after alfresco + fun Asian dining space – The Fatty Bao.
Whether you’re a fan of baos or not, the menu has an impressive variety to turn you into a fan. With 13 kinds of stuffed baos, I was happy to notice that the vegetarians have no reason to feel left out… (They have 5 unique vegetarian preparations)

Light House Cafe - Now in Worli

2016-02-01T15:08:00.001+05:30

A couple of weekends ago, I was invited to check the second outlet of Light House Cafe that's newly opened its doors to the people on the other side of the sea link in Worli. Located on the main road, they have the advantage of constant visibility and it sure does look pretty amazing from the outside. If you've been the 1st outlet in Khar, you'd know that this one is a lot bigger and more family-centric.

Outside Light House Cafe, Worli

6 Highlights at Le Méridien Resort & Spa - Mahabaleshwar

2016-01-19T12:31:00.002+05:30

Hey Potpourriers!

The draft to this post was lying here for a long time. I guess the crazy hectic end to the year with regards to work and deadlines did take a toll on my consistency. Apologies to those who've been looking forward to this post. But hey, it's finally here!

With more than 100 hotels and resorts worldwide and the strongest, most globally diverse portfolio in its history, the Paris-born Le Méridien brand connects the curious and creative-minded traveller to unexpected and engaging experiences within their destination.

Although our trip was sometime in November 2015, every little memory of all the experiences at Le Meridien Resort and Spa, Mahabaleshwar are as fresh as the flowers that bloomed in this luxurious forest resort... Located near the city centre on Satara Road, the journey to Pune International Airport is approximately 120 minutes by car.

Here are 5 reasons that are enough to get you tempted to check out this magnanimous property that lies in the heart of Mahabaleshwar - a quaint hill station.

Outside our villa :)

Hangover Brunch at Zoo Bar

2016-01-14T11:14:00.003+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

Although we're already in January, this post was meant to go up sooner. The month of December was usually eventful with lots of social gatherings (and I'm not even talking about weddings here). It was a joyous month to indulge in good times, amongst good people and with of course, good food. So when I was invited to check out the brunch scene on a relaxed Sunday afternoon at Zoo Bar, the latest entrant in the city but in an unusual location, I was more than happy to be a part of it. Vile Parle West lacks some great drinking places so I'm guessing Zoo Bar is here to fill that void. They definitely have potential, and why not? The drinks are great, the food too did not disappoint and the place itself exudes some really good vibes. The fact that it's an animal-friendly bar makes me extremely happy. We really need more of these in this city, don’t you think?

fun-filled afternoon with UNO and Cranberry Orange Mocktail

10 Things That Made My Staycation At St. Regis, Mumbai Unforgettable...

2015-12-21T11:25:00.001+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

This post was long pending but I was pretty sure I had to share the experience with you guys as and when I knew I could make time for it...
The month of October began on a luxurious note as I got the opportunity to experience an exclusive staycation at the newly opened St. Regis Mumbai. Previously the Palladium Hotel, the Starwood group took over the property and is now the tallest St. Regis in Asia. With 396 rooms, it redefines luxury living and hospitality.

St. Regis, Mumbai

Winter Special Menu At The Bombay Canteen + Burrp! Is Back In A New Avatar

2015-12-15T12:22:00.000+05:30

Hello Potpourriers,

With the weekend that was, I have so much to share. It all began when Saturday afternoon was expected to be delightful as I was invited to check out the Winter special menu that's been introduced at TheBombay Canteen along with some insight into the all new branding and user experience of Burrp!

If you haven't been to The Bombay Canteen yet, I suggest you waste no time and give it a shot! Known for the way they trend with their uniquely curated menu, I'm sure you wouldn't be disappointed and will definitely want to go back for more.

New logo

Here were 2 really good reasons to be at The Bombay Canteen on this wonderful Saturday afternoon.

So we all know and are aware of Burrp! - the original food search engine that was quite a rage at one point in time. Unfortunately, they crumbled and it wasn't pleasant. But now they're back - in an all new avatar.

A new logo along with a new website + app and some freshly added features (you can actually rate and review a particular dish and not necessarily the whole restaurant and more) bring about the much needed makeover it needed. Here are some snapshots.

A Day In The Life Of A Chef At Romano's - JW Marriott, Sahar

2015-12-03T13:15:00.001+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

Hope you guys are well. I'm back after a while and that too with a post that was long pending. It was a day well spent at JW Marriott Sahar as a couple of my favourite blogger friends were invited to be part of a one-of-a-kind experience. A day in the life of a chef was something that had always intrigued me, so when I was told I'd be living it; I knew I wasn't going to miss it for anything.

Chef with all the other chefs for the day :)

Catalan Food Festival by Chef Jordi at Trident BKC

2015-10-19T14:40:00.001+05:30

Hola Mumbai!

Hope you guys have had a lovely weekend. Back with another post, I'm here to share my experience at the Catalan Food Festival that's currently on at Trident, Bandra-Kurla Complex. Since the vegetarian phase is still on, my cousin, Varun joined me and the evening of course only got better (he's amazing company). :)

Also it was lovely to have Chef Ashish Bhasin, Shimareet Bhasin and Karan Karayi join us for this one-of-a-kind meal. Special thanks to Varun for helping me cover the non-vegetarian offerings at this fascinating food fiesta.

Catalan Food Festival - The entire buffet spread

5 Reasons Why You Should Not Miss TALVAR

2015-09-29T23:04:00.002+05:30

I've never really written a full fledged post on a movie watching experience, but there's always a first, right? So when I was invited for a special screening of Talvar, I already knew I wasn't going to miss it for anything. Having heard and read enough and more about the disturbingly real-life case, Talvar instantly became a priority on my movies-to-watch list.

TGLP Review | Holy Kitchens Of Kangan Food Festival at The Westin, Mumbai

2015-09-13T22:11:00.000+05:30

Hi everyone!

Hope you guys have had a pleasant weekend. Back with another post, this one is quite out of the ordinary for 2 reasons - 1 because it's an all vegetarian experience and 2 because it's not just regular vegetarian food - but the Sattvik kind. Having temporarily embraced vegetarianism for a little over a month now, I was more than happy to check out this divinity-driven fare despite being a hardcore non-vegetarian.

Kangan - the Indian fine dine restaurant at The Westin Mumbai Garden City, is currently hosting a food festival like no other. It's aptly named Holy Kitchens of Kangan because the menu encompasses food that exudes the authenticity of cities that are homes to the various iconic temples our country is blessed with. Although I couldn't make it for the media lunch meet, the team at Westin was kind enough to accommodate my presence the next evening for dinner. I personally love sitting by the window each time I decide to savour a meal at Kangan and this time, it was no different.

Mumbai Meri Jaan - By night

Singapore Food Festival with Chef Thanabalan at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu

2015-08-24T14:44:00.002+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

Hope all's well with you guys. Back with another post, I almost feel like I won't be doing justice to it since I've temporarily turned vegetarian for a while. Nevertheless, I knew I had to be a part of this special evening and I'm glad I was.

JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is currently hosting their very own Singapore Food Festival at Lotus Cafe. The fest is on till the end of this month - 31st August, 2015 (you guys don't have much time to check it out so make sure you do, SOON).

Singapore Marriott's Sous Chef Thanabalan Chandrasekaran has specially flown down to make this eclectic food journey truly authentic and of course, exceptionally delectable! With over 21 years of work experience in the food and beverage industry, Chef Thanabalan has been with Singapore Marriott since 2009 and has led his team successfully while catering for high profile banquets and events as well as having mastered the art of an a la carte experience.

Chef Thanabalan

Healthy Desserts by Chef Ruhee with Optimum Nutrition, India

2015-08-20T17:05:00.002+05:30

Hey everyone! :)

Hope all's well with you guys. I'm back with yet another post featuring "healthy desserts" that I got a chance to check out thanks to Chef Ruhee - the woman behind Cocoa Cottage and a masterchef who has pretty much cracked the ideal way to make desserts the healthy way with Optimum Nutrition (India). Yes! The thought of being able to have your cake and eating it too, without the fear of excessive calories is something everyone would like... right?

The event was held at Out Of The Blue, Bandra and the set up was quite basic but well-done. Chef Ruhee Bhimani and Suraj Datwani from Optimum Nutrition, India gave us some amazing insight into the world of Casein and Whey - two reliable sources that will bring about a healthy change in your food habits and lifestyle as a whole.
Although the desserts made with these, don't taste exactly like their original, sinful versions, I think it's a good enough reason to switch over to the healthy side only so that it actually proves to be beneficial in the long run.

Chef Ruhee Bhimani and Suraj Datwani

Dimsums & More At Hotel Marine Plaza

2015-08-11T12:44:00.000+05:30

It was a pleasant Saturday afternoon well spent at Hotel Marine Plaza as the birthday month kicked off on a hearty note. A couple of my favourite food bloggers were invited to be a part of a dimsum masterclass with Head Chef Huang Tesing and his Sous Chef and then a lovely, sit-down lunch at The Oriental Blossom, organized by Rutavi Mehta and the management at the hotel.

Monsoon High Tea at The Sassy Spoon

2015-07-22T13:12:00.000+05:30

Hello Potpourriers!

Hope you guys are doing well. It has been a hectic start to the month of July but honestly, I have no reason to complain because this is how I love my life. With so many blog posts in the pipeline, I do wonder how I manage to live this dual life – One that of a professional content writer and of course, that of a lifestyle blogger.

Writing truly makes me happy but there are days when I feel like going offline and savour the time I get to be with myself. Now that I’m done with wishful thinking, it’s time to continue this post with the original motive – Letting you guys know all about the Monsoon High Tea menu by The Sassy Spoon and my experience at the tasting along with a bunch of wonderful women including Owner/Chef Rachel Goenka. Owner/Chef Irfan Pabaney also joined in and enlightened us further about everything that made up this gorgeous spread!