CITI PRESENTS GOURMET FLAVOURS

Suffering from a terrible jet lag, the only thing that could uplift my spirit was some delicious food. So, on a Saturday evening I made my way to Salt Water Café, which was one of the select upscale eateries in Mumbai where Citibank was holding a 10-day Gourmet Flavours celebration for its loyal patrons.

As part of this Gourmet Flavours fest, Citibank cardholders could avail a set three-course meals from specially curated menus at an exciting price of INR 1150 + taxes per person until 28th August, 2016. Additional benefits of reservation and Uber rides to these restaurants were also extended to Citibank cardholders.

So, here is a look at my gluttony at Salt Water Café, Bandra with the special Gourmet Flavours menu:

APPETIZER COURSE
Mushroom + Barley Soup
This was the best mushroom soup I have consumed till date. Porcini, shiitake and button mushrooms were used to arrive at this nutty blend that was adorned with pearl barley. The amount of cream used did not overpower the freshness and earthy flavor of the mushrooms. The seasoning was appropriate while the garnish of sliced mushrooms imparted an appetizing appearance to the dish.

Salt Water Caesar Chicken
This was your quintessential Caesar salad with generous portion of chicken cubes to match the quantities of Romaine lettuce and croutons. The dressing was apt in terms of both richness and acidity.

MAIN COURSE
Seared Basa + Smoked Potatoes + Citrus Butter
The dish had a fabulous presentation where two fillets of the fish were placed on bed of hay-smoked potatoes mixed with orange butter. The basa was pan seared with a coating of flour, salt and mushroom dust that gave it a scrumptious, crispy crust. The citrus butter was prepared using an orange juice reduction and then blending in butter with it. The citrus butter had lovely tart and sweet flavors that contrasted well with the smoky flavor of the potatoes.

Steamed Khefsa Chicken + Quinoa Fried Rice
Khefsa was a mild Arabian spice mix used to flavor chicken chunks in this dish. The chicken was served interspersed in a mixture of rice and quinoa flavored with soya sauce and chilli peppers. A garnish of cucumber slices, tomato wedges, crispy golden brown onions and chives completed the dish.

DESSERT COURSE
Lime Tart
I did not take a liking for this dessert as I found the flavor of lime very overpowering. The quenelle of cream provided too was tart instead of sweet. The pastry base of the tart was the only part of the dish I devoured without a whimper.

Warm Cheesecake
This was the Philadelphia-style baked cheesecake that was a pleasure to indulge in. The quantity and texture of the biscuit crumble base was just apt and the smear of berry coulis went on to uplift the flavors of the cheese layer.

While the food was a bliss to our palate, the impeccable service rendered by Pankaj and the hospitality of the manager Ashish made our hearts happy. Also, it was a privilege to listen to Chef Rajan explain the intricacies of arriving at some of the dishes mentioned above.

I had a memorable experience and will definitely return soon for yet another delicious meal at Salt Water Café, Bandra.
Till then, HAPPY EATING...