Tag: Restaurant Review

Junglee Billee Launches Sunday Brunch and Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Not Miss It..!!

Junglee Billee has been one of our most favorite places since its inception, we have always loved the food there and with Chef Pawan being a close friend, we can never really get enough of this place. We love the fact that they keep doing really interesting stuff at Junglee Billee, from Ladies Nights, to Special Movie Screenings, From Sundowners to Fusion Cooking Sessions, they are always up to something. And yet again, Junglee Billee comes up with the launch of their special Sunday Brunch and this is something we could not miss at all.

Specially curated by Chef Pawan, the brunch menu at Junglee Billee boasts of a delicious 6-course spread that includes Soup, Salads, Main Course, Live Pasta Station, Grill Section and Desserts.

 

[easy-image-collage id=2991]

The vibrant ambience and great food at Junglee Billee always lifts up the mood and hence calls for a visit any time of the week, but here are top 5 reasons why you should not miss the Sunday Brunch at Junglee Billee:

One


If you love seafood, you cannot afford to miss it, there is a wide variety of fish, prawns and other seafood dishes to choose from, all of them that look so tempting and are equally delectable. Fish Roulade, Shrimp Cocktail, Fish Terrine, Seafood Salad, were some of the highlights.

img_8839

img_8840

img_8843

Two


The Cold Cut Platter and Cheese Platter will surely make your mouth water. Pepperonis, Ham, Bacon, Salami, and          Sausages with different varieties of cheese are completely drool worthy.

img_8841

Three


The Mumbaiya Food that Junglee Billee is famous for is hard to ignore. You just can’t have enough of it. The Keema Pao,  The Kurmure Bhel and everything else on the menu are all worth your attention. I vouch for the authenticity of this Mumbai cuisine. Having lived in Mumbai for so many years, I haven’t found any place in Delhi been able to replicate the same essence, but Junglee Billee and Chef Pawan’s efforts have truly changed the scene. The live music playing some Bollywood numbers will definitely take you to the lanes of Mumbai and you will enjoy it as much as I did.

vitamin-kurmure-bhel

Four


The grill section at the terrace is perfect for the on setting winters. The aroma of meats and veggies on barbeque is surely a turn on. Chicken Breasts, Herb Sole, Cottage Cheese, Sausages, all spiced and grilled to perfection. Enjoy this scrumptious meal with a huge selection of cocktails and mocktails. Pan Martini and Sangria are my personal favourites.

img_5859

img_8852

img_4603-768x1024

Five


Have a sweet tooth..? Don’t worry you can satiate your cravings at this Sunday Brunch. Mava Cheese Cake, Crème Brulee, Baked Yogurt, Chocolate Cake, Raspberry Brownie Mousse, you name it and you have it. This section is pure sin and totally worth the indulgence.

img_8836

img_8837

img_8900

What: Sunday Brunch


Where: Junglee Billee, M Block Market, GK I


When: Every Sunday, 12PM- 4PM


Price: INR 900+ Taxes for Food, INR 1399+ Taxes for Food+IMFL, INR 1699+ Taxes for Food + Imported Liquor


 

Junglee Billee Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Factory by Sutra, a perfect amalgmation of great food, great ambience and good music..!

I have eaten alone a lot of times when I am traveling and enjoyed my own company, but being in my own city, this kind of an occasion is very rare. Recently I experienced enjoying some good food, great live music and perfect ambience, all by myself, and this was a place which now tops my list of favorites, it was Factory by Sutra at Sector 29, Gurgaon.

img_7959

I chose the balcony area to be seated, with cool breeze and some amazing sufi songs playing in the background, this appeared to be the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed evening. My foodie experience began with tasting from the Chandni Chowk Section of the menu. Delhi 6, which were golgappas stuffed with bhel, topped with aaloo tikki and chutney and some Kurkuri Bhindi Nachos, which was crispy fried masala bhindi served with some mint yogurt. Chef Abhinav, who is the man behind all tasteful food that Factory has to offer, suggested both the dishes and I loved them. The Golgappas were nice and tangy and the fried bhindi was just too good. The way bhindi was fried and the spices along with chopped onions and tomatoes, took my experience to the next level, it gave me an instant idea of what I am gonna serve my guests next when they turn up at my house. This is a must try, from a boring vegetable to an interesting snack, its totally worth it.

img_7902

img_7909

img_7911

Leaving myself in safe hands of Chef Abhinav, I relied on him for my next set of appetizers. This time chef suggested Crispy Calamari and Lemon Garlic Fish from the Little Munchies Section. Personally I am not very fond of Calamari, but this was good, perfectly fried and spiced, but the show stealer was the Lemon Garlic Fish. It was truly amazing; I polished off a full fillet in minutes. The taste of garlic, the freshness of lemon grass and the tender fish, made it completely drool worthy. The best thing I loved about it was that the lemon grass didn’t over power the taste; normally lemon grass is put in such a way that after two bites, you start feeling as if you are eating an aroma candle, but this one was just perfect. I highly recommend trying this one out, you will love it. I enjoyed my set of starters with a refreshing Mojito.

img_7901

img_7921

img_7922

As I prepared myself to explore the culinary delights from the main course, a live sufi performance also began in the lounge area. The night looked much more vibrant now.

img_7945  img_7960

For main course, chef delighted me with Butter Chicken Khichri, Lahori Mutton Curry and Khamiri Roti. I thoroughly enjoyed this lovely dinner plate of mine, as the band played one of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s creation. The butter chicken khichri was something I have never tried and is hugely recommended. The Lahori Mutton Curry was simple but flavorsome; I relished it with the khamiri rotis, chutney and onions.

img_7934

img_7936

img_7937

img_7938

img_7939

img_7940

img_7944

The best thing about Factory and Chef Abhinav’s preparations is that, they are simple and very very flavorsome. The menu isn’t very elaborate, but has all the basics and best dishes from across the cuisines. Factory not only offers great food, but is a brewery, co-working space and boasts of different genres of live music most days of the week. This place is definitely worth a visit.

[easy-image-collage id=2957]

For dessert I had a choco lava cake and it was delicious.

img_7964

img_7966

I am looking forward to visit Factory again, and this time with my family. I got a couple of things packed back for my family, the non-veg platter was simply amazing, it has chicken tikka, seekh kebab and fish. I also brought back Chilly Chicken Pita Bao, and I loved it. It was spicy and juicy; it’s a perfect snack to just grab on the go.

img_7971

img_7978

Drop in to Factory and I am sure you will love it as much as I did. Also follow their page on Facebook for latest updates on their events.

Factory By Sutra Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Rabbit Invades North India with First Playboy Cafe at Gurgaon!

Bringing in the essence of playboy bunny embellishments and its vibe in your everyday bar and café is how Playboy Café has been thought through. After successfully launching Playboy Club, Hyderabad and Playboy Beer Garden in Pune, PB  has now expanded its wings to North India with its first outlet in Gurgaon Sector 53. Quirky interiors with walls adorning Playboy posters, a world class bar, with a huge seating area spread across 3 floors, Playboy Café is nothing short of being a feather in Gurgaon’s Food & Night Life Cap.

img_7737

img_7740

img_7744

img_7747

img_7753

img_7849

I recently visited the place for a specially curated event for food bloggers organized by Foodmaniacs (Vickhram Vicky).

I loved the ambience and vibes of the place right from the time when I set my foot in. I was welcomed by one of the most fascinating drinks, Playboy Vodka Chai, which is Tea mixed with Vodka, fresh Mint, Cranberry Juice, Orange Juice and Honey. I loved both the presentation and taste of this drink. It should definitely be tried.

img_7735

In starters we had Nachos Topped with Garbanzo and Blue Cheese Yogurt Kababs, to begin with. The Nachos were nice and loaded with beans, feta and pomegranate seeds. I personally didn’t like the Blue Cheese Yogurt Kababs much, as one I found them to be on the sweeter side.

img_7757

img_7788

img_7796

Up next were Fritto Misto and Cajun Fish Tikka. Fritto Misto was a sea food platter consisting of Squid, Prawns and Fish dusted in Chef’s special flour served with sweet chilli sauce and garlic aioli. I loved this platter, the fish, the prawns and the squid were fried to perfection, were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The Cajun tikka too was perfectly spiced and roasted; I simply adored this dish and highly recommend it.

img_7778

img_7784

For drinks I tried the Playboy LIIT, mother of all liits, it had 11 spirits juiced up, and the presentation was killer. It came in a big red telephone booth and looked awesome.

img_7767

img_7771

Next we tried Green Eggs Benedict, a signature Playboy preparation, and Pudina Lamb. Poached eggs on a steamed bun with cheese and creamy green colour is what comprised of this signature dish. The taste was mild, as one cut through the half boiled eggs and the yolk oozes out with cheese and softens the bun, it becomes one mouth melting experience. Though the dish was good, but I was not able to place it well as an appetizer, for me it will be heavenly if served for breakfast, but nevertheless, one should try, its different.

img_7791

img_7801

The Pudina Lamb tasted good and was nicely spiced, but the lam could have been tenderer, it was slightly stretchy. I am sure the chef will take my feedback in a constructive way and there wont be an issue next time around.

We also tried Keema Ghotala, Southern Style Mushrooms, Cheese & Green Peas Maggi, Chicken Sumai, Thai Rice & Chicken Dumpling and American Poutine. Keema Ghotala is Playboy’s version of Keema Pao and is a must try. Southern Style Mushrooms were good too, crispy and tasteful. You can give Cheese and Green Peas Maggi a skip, because somethings are better without experiments, American Poutine was a little put off, as the fries had dollops of wine sauce which was too sweet and it killed the taste of fries. Order fries without the sauce and you will be better off. Chicken Sumai and Thai Rice & Chicken Dumplings were definitely the show stealers, they not only looked good, but tasted yumm too, do try them out and thank me later!

img_7808

img_7810 img_7814

img_7817

img_7826

img_7844

Though I was already full with the starters, but yet excited to try the main course. So together as a group of foodies, we ordered Grilled Fish, Chicken Duo and Spaghetti Bolognese. The grilled fish on a bed on rice was totally a scrumptious indulgence. The chicken duo was worth ordering too, you should definitely try it. Spaghetti was the only weak link, it wasn’t bad, but could have been a little better.

img_7875

img_7879

img_7886

Now coming to desserts, we tried the Tiramisu, which was simply mind blowing, creamy coffee taste, and a sinful indulgence that’s totally worth every bite. Then there was a Red Velvet Jar, which too was amazing.We also tried Chocolate Decadence and all I can say is that it’s a must try for all chocolate lovers. You will fall in love with it, at least I did, so much that I got so engrossed in relishing it that I even missed out on taking its picture, but the indulgence was a bliss. Never mind the pic. Do remember me when you try it, and come back and thank me for sharing it with you all J

img_7852

img_7853

img_7883

All in all this Rabbit is worth catching, so please head straight to Playboy and just sit back, relax and enjoy great food and drinks. They have a fully loaded bar which is meant to be explored, and the bar tenders there come up with some breathtaking tricks that you will have fun watching.. so enjoy!

img_7863

I had great fun with my foodie friends and I am sure you will love it too.

14484671_10154286635741281_2358421124311034676_n
Image Courtesy- Playboy Cafe
14485095_10154286660166281_749914611708756991_n
Image Courtesy- Playboy Cafe
14523263_10154286633726281_7566622641298632032_n
Image Courtesy- Playboy Cafe

Playboy Cafe Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Oktoberfest @ Q-Bar, VITS Mumbai

Known worldwide as a beer festival, Oktoberfest is a phenomenon to be experienced! And it’s time to Celebrate the spirit of the German festival at an enticing destination, Q Bar – VITS Luxury Hotel, Mumbai. With international beer brands and German delicacy, VITS Mumbai has continued the legacy of serving its guests and patrons the fantastic beer fest.

And this time I had the opportunity of experience spirit of the carnival right at Q-Bar with free flowing beer and special German staples that kept the spirits high. Serving a perfect opportunity for beer aficionados to catch-up, the fest offers an array of German Brews and appetizers in pints, towers and beer buckets. I can bet that this is a cracker deal for guests can relish VITS’s carefully chosen menu to pair with preferred drinks, Music, sumptuous food and tones of fun.

img_20160930_230348342

Starting with the 1st beer cocktail – Expresso Black Velvet Beer, the smooth coffee flavored cocktail was just too quenching. The taste just lingered for longer while. And the Captain’s Keg was just another invention which was an innovative cocktail but promises to leave one energized like no one’s business.

img_20160930_211824175  img_20160930_210722046img_20160930_210855774

German delicacy like Butcher’s Platter, Chicken Rolls & Wiener Schinetzel were one among the few yummy recipes dished out by VITS.

 

Espresso Black Velvet Beer – Espresso Black Velvet Cocktail is seriously the best of both worlds, beer and espresso, and I plan on enjoying many glasses of this lovely elixir here at VITS. One may think this an unlikely combination but it’s actually quite good and some people prefer it over other cocktails

img_20160930_211824175

Captain’s Keg – Ahoy Matey! A typical Pirate Cocktail that it is but has earned many fans across the European coast. The Captain’s Keg, made with white rum, guava nectar, and grapefruit juice, then topped with light beer and garnished with a lime wheel.  “This is your captain speaking, and I recommend you to have it!” This is what you would too say post having this nectarous cocktail.

img_20160930_220521667

Butcher’s Platter: Scrumptious sausages of meat with a mix of taste and flavor captured the best of German produce. This “slaughter platter”, with its sausages of pork & chicken, is traditionally made and served with German Potato Salad. Well-grilled & soft sausages were simply lip-smacking.

img_20160930_213643025

Chicken Rolls:  Continental in nature, these chicken rolls are quite wholesome. Infused with minced chicken and spinach, they are so soft that every bite can be celestial.

img_20160930_214600693img_20160930_214651898

Wiener Schinetzel:  This easy German recipe is one of the favorites. Marinated in wine, these crispy Crum fried chicken breast with lemon pepper sauce are served with lyonnaise potatoes. And this recipes is complemented with Soukrout which adds to the taste. It’s  must have.

img_20160930_214908371

The decor theme featured German elements like German flag, themed branding on window panes, hanging large size cut image frames of German Culture.

img_20160930_230042112img_20160930_210821845img_20160930_213210802

[easy-image-collage id=2748]

img_20160930_230308317

Live the experience of Oktoberfest with authentic German appetizers, Live DJ along with your favourite Beer and International Beer  at Q-Bar VITS Luxury Hotel, Mumbai.

Wir sehen uns dort!  See you there

VITS, Mumbai- Seafood Festival

VITS Seafood Festival


There is a seafood dish for any occasion and all tastes, and this time I savored  a vibrant collection of fish and seafood recipes that I almost smelling the sea air. Perennially popular, seafood can be used in dishes for cold winter nights, light summer lunches and everything in between.

Seafood cuisine is one of those dishes not everyone feels easy to try. But there’s nothing to be scared of–the hub I suggest is on a roll. The Seafood Festival at VITS Luxury Hotel, Mumbai is just too indulging. Just take a deep breath and give it a try — I am certain that you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

The menu here serves an array of fantabulously cooked seafood recipes that’ll leave one salivating for more. While the menu listed Tuna, Salmon, Shrimps and a lot more, I chose to try the Sriracha Shrimp Basket Fry & Marinara Calamari Basket Fry.


Sriracha Shrimp Basket Fry:


The crisply fried Sriracha Shrimp were way too flavorsome. Complemented with Hot sauce, Tartar, Fried Onion Rings and French Fries, this delicacy was a simply tantalizing.

imageedit_6_3760947741    imageedit_8_7597411941

The crunchy outer surface and the soft finely cooked shrimp in Sriracha sauce just melts in the mouth! Sriracha come together in this spicy and flavorful dish. Gluten free AND totally delicious!

Marinara Calamari Basket Fry:


The next up was Marinara Calamari Fry. Rings of calamari are first marinated and when an order comes in, these rings, are coated in flour, fried and served with their house-made marinara sauce. The calamari were crispy and tender.

imageedit_10_4919297676

imageedit_13_5124415438

These were just two of the other mouth-watering recipes.. But I bet guests can gorge on the delectable spread of delicacies including dishes such as Barbeque Tuna Basket Fry where thin slices of well marinated Tuna a fried with barbeque sauce, Tahini Salmon Fish Basket fry complemented with Tahini Dip, Kurkure Basa Fish Basket Fry and the iconic Koliwada Bombay Duck Basket Fry among others.


Q-Bar - The Quarter Club Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Delectable Foodie Experience at Warehouse Cafe, Sector 29, Gurgaon

I recently visited Warehouse Café in Sector 29, Gurgaon, with some foodie friends. Though the place has been there for sometime now, I really didn’t get a chance to explore it. But now when I finally did, I am a little disappointed that why didn’t I do earlier and also glad that I finally did. The ambience of the place is very warm and chilled out. One can just hang in there with family or friends and enjoy great food.

img_7509

img_7546

img_7547

img_7548

img_7549

img_7550

img_7552

My foodie experience began with Corn Cheese Rolls and Water Melon Cooler, and I must say that the beginning was very exciting. The corn cheese rolls were delectable and I loved the crispiness outside and mouth-melting corn and cheese on the inside. The watermelon cooler was refreshing.

img_7510

img_7511

 

Up next was Chipotle Paneer Tikka, a paneer tikka with a twist. The use of chipotle spices suited well with the paneer, and I loved the small dollop of salsa on the top of tikka, it made it taste a bit tangy but interesting.

img_7523

Next we tried the Mumbai Pao and Keema Pao. Somehow the basic vada pao never gels well with me; I still feel that its best-found in streets of Mumbai, but the keema pao was very good. The keema was done to perfection, full of taste and flavours. This is definitely a must try on the menu.

img_7531

img_7542

Next was Murg Malai Tikka, a creamy and mildly spiced chicken preparation that is always my personal favourite. This too should find a place on your plate and you wont regret it one moment.

img_7538

Lamb Kibbe was the next dish that I savored and loved instantly. It was a slightly denser version of a regular shammi kebab but something all meat lovers will appreciate.

img_7560

The clear winner from all starters for me was Dahi Ke Kabab, because they tasted exceptionally well and I have never liked them in the past and that made all the more reason for me to relish these ones. Initially I was even apprehensive to taste, but one bite into it and I was mind blown. This is one dish I am going back for very soon.

img_7543

img_7545

There was another dish, which was a new addition to the menu; it was Buttermilk and Tonic Water Infused Crumbed Chicken. A beautiful fried chicken dish, I am sure it will find its place with a lot of people.

img_7565

By the time, we finished the starters I was too full and main course didn’t really bother me. My friends ordered a selected few dishes and their aroma forced me to try them as well. I started by tasting some Chicken Noodles with Chicken in Black Bean Sauce because I simply can’t resist myself from eating Chinese Food; the aroma just takes over me completely. I also tried Rara Mutton, Paneer Lababdar and Dal Makhani( ok, I now I said my tummy was full, but I also said that I could not resist the aromas, so I tried all of this from my son’s plate). The mutton was tender, juicy and scrumptious, dal was rich and flavorsome, and also as per my son, who is an expert in Dal Makhani, this one certainly got a generous 4.5/5 star rating. I personally loved the paneer lababdar, it was just too good. Rick thick gravy, this is a delight for vegetarians and I am sure all non-vegetarians will love it equally, just like I did.

img_7577

img_7583

img_7584

img_7592

img_7575

For drinks I further tried two flavours of Banta, Jaljeera Nimbu Pani and Narangi Anar and both were great.

img_7555

img_7566

To bring a fantastic afternoon to end, brownie with ice cream was served and it really made my day. Fudgy and gooey brownie with hot chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream can never fail as a dessert.

img_7593

img_7595

I loved my overall experience at Warehouse Café and I really look forward to going there again with my entire family.


 

Warehouse Cafe Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Tandoori Knockouts- A Mind-Blowing Take Away in Gurgaon!

Tandoori Knockouts, an amazing take away tucked in the Super Mart, DLF Phase 4, Gurgaon is bliss for anyone who loves Tandoori Preparations. I recently along with some foodie friends tried a few of their dishes and the experience turned out to be a really good one.


The dishes I tried were:


Chicken Tandoori Momos: These have become a rage now, but very few places are able to deliver the authentic tandoori taste, I am glad TKs did it quite well. The flavours were perfect and I can gorge on them anytime of the day.

img_7621

img_7626

Chicken Afgani Momos: They seem little subtle especially if you try them after the tandoori momos, because of the spice quotient. But those who prefer mild taste and wanna go for a melt in the mouth experience, definitely should try these Afgani momos. img_7631

Veg Tandoori Momos: They were as perfectly done as their non-veg counter part. The spices and the flavours were awesome. Those who are vegetarians can enjoy authentic tandoori taste without any compromises. In spite of being a har core non-vegetarian, I loved them.

img_7618

Veg Afgani Momos: Yummy and delectable, a perfect delight for those who love mild tastes and are vegetarian.

img_7639

Chicken Tikka: Nicely roasted with tandoori spices, this one was surely a winner. I just loved them. Soft and tender chicken, done to perfection, this is a must try from the menu.

img_7625

Soya Malai Chaap: I am very fond of soya chaps, but I have to say that as compared to other dishes, this didn’t sit too well with me. I found it to be a little dry, there could have been a little more masala to it and I am sure Tandoori Knockouts will take my suggestion in a positive manner.

img_7635

Paneer Tikka: I very rarely find the paneer tikka made well, because normally the masala is not coated too well, which after a couple of bites, make the paneer tikka taste bland, but at TKs, the masala was very well coated and made the entire paneer tikka carry the taste. Also the veggies along with it were well coated and tasted equally good.

img_7636

Paneer Malai Tikka: This one really melted in my mouth, I loved the flavours and texture of this one. It was very soft, mild and yet flavourful. This one was one delectable experience and must be tried.

img_7641

Also the other thing that I loved about Tandoori Knockouts was their quantity and sizes of each item. I mean whether the momos or the tikkas, the sizes were huge and quantity enough to fill one person completely. The pricing is also very very reasonable and I am sure this will make Tandoori Knockouts your favourite for those evening snacks, quick dinners and just like that foodie experiences. Do try them out.


Tandoori KnockOuts Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Fly higher with the Frappuccino

Long standing queues, security checks, terminal transfers and noisy flight passengers can be way too annoying. The peaceful wee hour of a starry night too can appear like busy afternoon. After an exhaustive business trip, the busy Mumbai Domestic Airport Terminal has hosted few cafes and resto-bars to let you de-stress. One such place to lounge is Starbucks!

img_20160831_230512390

This month they had new Frappobrities (Celebrities+Frappuccino)on their block. As a part of their Summer campaign, they launched a  new flavor who was worth its salt because it had sworn to cast a spell of amazement on its fans and flyers with its debut. And this one little being unconventional from its siblings did play its role fantastically.

img_20160831_230403643_hdr

img_20160831_231313207-2

img_20160831_231401042-2

img_20160831_231420122-2

Categorised as the ice-cooled summer cooler, it is thirst quencher & hunger buster. It can be sipped and devoured at the same time. It is infatuating with its scrumptiously wholesomeness. The calorie conscious gurus whose knowledge weighs higher and waist measures wider can once indulge in this act of  debauchery as this gut-busting potion is worth a try.

img_20160831_224903830

Secretly crafted in the special kitchens of Starbucks, the Strawberry Cheesecake Frappuccino is an innovation which is worthy torch bearer of the brand’s legacy of dishing out delectable heart-throbs. The Frappuccino is bigheartedly swirled with luscious strawberry puree and is topped off with cheesecake-inspired whipped cream. The appearance of enticing swirls of strawberry sauce, sprinkled cookie crumbles is a sight an ardent foodie would ogle at. The scrumptiously creamy flavor of a cheesecake arrives from a premium cream cheese sauce that is flawlessly blended with Starbucks signature traditional whipped cream only to let your taste buds take-off on a mesmerizing flight of ecstasy.

img_20160831_223227629

img_20160831_224833605_hdr

I am sure this may salivate the beholder to know more. But as a loyal patron of Starbucks it’s a recommendation that the latest Strawberry Cheesecake Frappuccino  is a must try.

So, go forth and board the flight with Strawberry Cheesecake Frappuccino that’s poised to take way higher than the Boeing or Airbus you are flying in.

Slurp it & devour it..

Starbucks Coffee Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Nawabi Andaaz at Pride Plaza Hotel, Aerocity

Nawabi Delicacies to relish, with some thumri in the background, comfortable ambience and company of great foodie friends is what comprised my day at Pride Plaza Hotel recently. Hosted by Pride Plaza and my dear friend Vickrham from Foodmaniacs, this was surely a day to remember.
14231775_10154215799136281_50354283370270047_o

Amouse Bouche, which had watermelon and some cream on top of a refreshing drink, was not just great to look and good to taste, but also was done in a personalized way making it way too special. My name was written with chocolate and it made one of the warmest welcomes I have received.

img_6479

This was followed by yet another welcome drink and also champagne was opened marking the beginning of a great culinary experience.

img_6483

14238336_10209702435508125_6236658772890829587_n

For starters we were served a Vegetarian Kebab Platter first. The kebab platter included Rajma Ke Galouti, Kele Ke Gular Kebab, Makai Moti Ki Seekh, Mawa Mawe Ke Kebab and Hara Dalcha Kabab. I Loved the succulent Rajma Ke Galouti, they almost tasted like the non-vegetarian galouti kebabs and very very flavorsome. The second best were the Mawa Kebabs, really soft and mouth melting with mild flavors. The Kele Ke Gular Kebab and Hara Dalcha Kebab were good too, I didn’t like the Makai Moti Ki Seekh as much, but all in all it was a wonderful platter considering the fact I am a hardcore non-vegetarian.

img_6486

The next up was Non Veg Kebab Platter, this included Galouti Kebab, Nukhti Kebab, Murg Ke Parchey, Murg Shami Kebab and Mahi Gilafi Seekh. Out of this platter I loved Nukhti Kebab and Murg Ke Parchey the most. The Nukhti Kebabs were pieces of mutton roasted to perfection and spiced with a thick masala. I could really be satisfied with one complete dish of nukhti kebabs with some roomali roti, aah bliss! I am craving for them as I write. The Murg Ke Parchey was also just amazing. Surprisingly the Rajma Ke Galouti tasted better than the original galouti, though I don’t mean that they were bad. They were good, but still the vegetarian version was softer and more tasteful. Murg Shami didn’t go too well with me; they weren’t as soft and tasty as I expected them to be. Mahi Gilafi Seekh was just about OK.

img_6492

img_6495

img_6497

Coming to main course, it was an elaborate spread and comprised of some beautifully selected and curated dishes by Chef Sartaj Quereshi along with Exceutive Chef Shailendra Singh especially for this Nawabi Andaaz Food Festival. There was Moong Ghosht, Keema Kaleji, Murg Bemisal, Murg Koh-E-Awadh, Paneer Lavanglata, Bagiche Ki Sabziyan, Guncha-E-Keema Mutter, Moong Mughlai, Kofti Dum Biryani and Narangi Pulao. The entire spread was as awesome as their names and once again the surprise part was the vegetarian dishes being so great. Normally in Lucknawi Cuisines or Hyderabadi Cuisines we don’t expect the vegetarian to be so good, but commendable job but Chef Sartaj, that his vegetarian rocked as much as his non veg dishes. I will try and get the Chef to share one of his recipes for all my readers out there, soon.

img_6499

img_6506

img_6508

img_6513

img_6515

img_6530

The star dish was however the Moong Gosht. The moong dal itself never tasted so rich and creamy to me, we always associate creaminess and richness to Dal Makhani, but what a wonderful way to present this dal in this rich avatar and tender pieces of spiced mutton added another layer to the whole experience. This dish is definitely a must try and one should not miss it at any cost. Keema Kaleji and Murg Bemisal too were outstanding. A special mention for Bagiche Ki Sabziyan and Paneer Lavanglata, these are not to be missed as well, whether you are a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, you will simply love them.

img_6526

Coming to the dessert, I can really challenge that you would have never eaten such a lethal combination of some many desserts in one go. This mother of a dessert had Kesari Gulab Ki Phirni, topped by Palak Ka Halwa, yet again topped by Gulukand aur Cheney Ki Jugalbandi (a sort of rasmalai), topped by Ilaichi Gulab Jamun and Dhudhi Ka Halwa. Just one word to describe it- Mindblowing! Somehow mine looked also very cute and resembled a small Ganesha.

img_6576

img_6532

I had a tremendous foodie experience and I really urge my readers to give it a shot, this place is definitely worth a visit. We also took a complete round of the property and its amazing, I am so wanting to visit their other restaurants and also may be a comfortable stay in one of their rooms.I thank Foodmaniacs and Pride Plaza Hotel for inviting me for this culinary delight, look forward to visit them again sometime soon. Fond memories with friends and great foodie experience is what I got after visiting this place!

14224679_10155198179527166_2668341018487015756_n

Cafe Pride Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Lebanese Delights at Zerruco Kitchen & Bar

Zerruco at The Ashok Hotel,Chanajyapuri held a Lebanese food festival from the 7th sep to 14th sep and I have to say that by far it was the best Lebanese food I have eaten ever.

The impression that I carried about Lebanese food, and assumed the regular dishes to be served were all met with a surprise. There was nothing regular about the place. The dishes were 100% authentic and the menu featured the typical Lebanese dishes and not the regulars like Shwarmas and Harissa Chicken that we normally relate Lebanese food to. In fact their menu doesn’t comprise of these things at all. So don’t be shocked that walking in at this Lebanese joint and not getting a Shwarma.

The ambience of the place is another highlight, it has a very spacious sitting place with a well stocked bar. The decor is simple and attractive. They have an equally spacious sitting in the open also and it makes a perfect place for a relaxed chilled out time with family and friends.

img_6630

img_6631

img_6632

img_6633

img_6634

The head chef is a young man by the name of Harsh Pathania and is very knowledgeable and competent.

img_6694

We left ourselves in the hands of expert and he starter us with two salads, Syrian Salad with Lemon, Mint and Garlic and Tabbouleh Salad. Both the salads were amazing, but I personally found the Tabbouleh Salad better, not because the other was any less in taste, but because this one was little unusual. Both the salads were very satisfying overall.

img_6635

img_6638

img_6641

img_6642

For drinks, my dad who was accompanying me settled for a cocktail called Gentleman, which was a whisky based cocktail with Lemon Grass, Angostura and Maple Syrup, and I had Ronella, a mocktail with Apple, Orange, Cranberry and Fresh Fruit. Both the drinks were great.

img_6647

img_6648

The chef recommended the Signature Mezze Platter next, a chef’s special.

And was it special?  You bet it was really really special.

The platter consisted of six different dips and an assortment of delicious kebabs which had chicken seekhs,mutton seekh,chicken tikka,fish tikka and prawns all beautifully done in a tandoor.

The high point of the platter was that each of the above kebabs was distinct in their flavours.

Each of the marinade was specially done for each item.

This was really one mouthwatering stuff, Kudos to the chef.

And to be honest if you have one platter between two you don’t really need anything else.

A very very satisfying platter.All the kebabs were juicy and succulent and each held its own intrinsic flavour.

img_6651

Then we were treated to their Halloumi Pizza which was quite interesting in presentation but didn’t quite sit well with me. The design of the pizza didn’t let the filling to be spread across equally and it was only in the center of the pizza, so with most bites I could only taste the bread and not the filling. And also may be the lingering taste of kebabs was still there.

img_6658

img_6662

Hummus Bill Dajaj was served next, which was basically homemade hummus topped with sautéed chicken and pine nuts. I loved the presentation of this dish as much as the taste. The hummus was perfect and tasted quite well with the chicken, pine nuts added the extra crunch to the whole dish.

img_6664

Thereafter we were served the main course consisting of Chicken Ablama a Lebanese curry chicken, which was again really very good. You rarely find gravies in the Lebanese cuisine but this was an exception and a really good one at that.

The other dish served was Dajajb Falora, a vegetarian curry which again was amazingly good. These both dishes were served with Vermicelli Rice and I have to say that this was one hell of a meal. So filling and so tasteful.

img_6667

img_6668

img_6670

img_6672

Last but in no way the least their desserts, they were simply awesome.

Baklava a sweet patty filled with nuts was out of this world as we’re the Malabia and Ummali.

img_6689

Malabia is a dessert in which boiled milk is flavored with rose water and cardamom, thickened and then baked in a water bath. It was delicious. Ummali is also a milk based dessert where in a puff pastry is dipped in thick milk.

img_6686

img_6688

All in all a tremendous gastronomic experience.

Visit once and I am quite sure you will go back for more and specially when they are now coming up with Mashrabiya Nights where in you can relish the Lebanese Delicacies with Sizzling Belly, Tanura & Durbuka Dance under one roof.

Do not forget they have a well stocked bar and some interesting cocktails. I am thankful to Sourabh Chandna, the owner of the place for inviting me for this scrumptious meal.

Now its time for you to explore, so get up and going to Zerruco.


Zerruco - The Ashok Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Theme: Overlay by Kaira Copyright @ikreatepassions 2024
Goa, India