GLUTTONY @ MASALA BAR, MUMBAI

On an insanely hectic day in an unforgiving traffic situation, I made my way into this chic lounge plonked near the Carter Road promenade. I was looking forward to catching up with fellow foodies from Food Bloggers Association, India (FBAI). Indeed what awaited me in terms of a wonderful FBAI Soiree hit me as soon I made my way to the place through candle-lit staircases.

My first impression of the place was it’s a perfect hangout to catch up with friends over some delicious food or simply spend a relaxing evening soaking into some good music as the bartender stirs up a quirky cocktail for you.

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As I settled in, time seemed to gallop away in the atmosphere of revelry the place had managed to conjure up. The serving staff were at their feet ensuring guests receive their refills of invigorating beverages and nibbles from a specially curated menu of hors d'oeuvres.

So, here is look at my experience with the grub for the evening:

HORS D’OEUVRES – VEGETARIAN

• MAHABALESHWAR CHILI POPPERS

Didn’t quite get a chance to understand why somebody would call Bhavnagri Mirch stuffed with goat cheese & Gruyère Mahabaleshwari Chili Poppers. But, this starter did manage to wow my palate. The chili came stuffed with oodles of cheese spiked with a lemony flavour. The crumb coating given to the chili was perfectly crisp and the melted cheese resulting from the deep frying of the chili was the highlight of the dish.

• TOFU & PANEER KHURCHAN

This was a delicious appetizer where shredded paneer or cottage cheese along with bean curd or tofu tossed in a sweet & spicy sauce was placed on a base of flaky khaari or puff pastry. A garnish of sour cream imparted a lovely tart flavour elevating the overall taste of the dish.

• BAKED POTATOES

This preparation entailed baked potato slices topped with a beetroot and apple relish that had sweet and spicy flavour. A layer of melted mint cheese completed this nibble that came placed on a smear of sweet fennel infused yoghurt. All elements of this starter worked well together making it delectable.

• VEG. MAKI

This was the first time I was sampling a maki sans the customary slice of fish in it. The construct of the dish involved a mushy core of avocado, beetroot, cream cheese followed by a crunchy asparagus tempura and the final layer of tart sushi rice. The flavours did not disappoint the taste buds.

HORS D’OEUVRES – NON-VEGETARIAN

• HAULED LAMB BARRA KHURCHAN

This appetizer comprised of shredded lamb mixed with capsicum slivers and cooked in a spicy, onion-based sauce. Like its vegetarian counterpart the base was again the khaari pastry and garnish was sour cream. The dish was pleasant on the palate.

• SALMON, TUNA & TEMPURA PRAWN MAKI

This was a delicious sushi with the right amount of rice to fish ratio. Also, a surprise addition of crispy tempura prawn made the maki very appealing.

• CURRY LEAVES INFUSED PEPPER PRAWNS

My taste buds were left underwhelmed with this dish that appeared to be a fusion between an Indian and Asian preparation. The prawns came with a thick glaze of a sweet, peppery sauce that had overpowered everything right from the flavour of the prawns to that of the curry leaves.

• CHICKEN TIKKA BASILICO

This was your quintessential malai tikka albeit enriched with cheese (four different types as we were told) and crushed garlic.

MOCKTAIL
Since I was going to be at the wheel, I settled for the MASALA PUNCH mocktail as my thirst-quencher for the evening. This was a very unusual yet exceptional concoction of masala chai or tea, apple & orange juices and a dash of kaffir lime.

The vibe of the place, the hospitality of the jovial staff and the food of course ensured I had an enjoyable time. Also, ‘The Big Bang Night’ celebration every Tuesday provides patrons with exciting BOGO (Buy One Get One free) offer on cocktails and select drinks.
So, do try out this place and let me know of your experience.
Till then, HAPPY EATING…

(PS: The dishes were served as part of special bloggers’ meet so actual portion sizes and preparation may vary. However, my review is subjective and unprejudiced.)