Sweet creations A Christmas sweets hamper Traditionally known for their signature plum cakes, this landmark bakery also stocks kulkuls, marzipan and coconut-based sweets and cakes for all your Christmas cravings.AT Vienna Bakery, Vakola Pipeline, Santacruz East. CALL 9820601681 Bandra’s favourite Plum cake from Candies This trusted haunt has on sale everything from marzipan glazed plum cakes to date and walnut cakes and other sweet delicacies.AT Candies, Pali Hill, next to Learners Academy School, Bandra West.CALL 8591149713 Everything and more The 50-plus-year-old store is a favourite among residents of not just Mulund but also the neighbouring eastern suburbs of Thane, Bhandup, Vikhroli and even, Chembur and Navi Mumbai. Pick from traditional sweets like neuries to baath and rose cookies made by home chefs from this suburb, and all the way from Goa. Their humongous variety of plum cakes, including eggless versions, is worth a dekko.AT Vaibhav, MG Road, Mulund West. CALL 9594081810 Christmas fare This iconic bakery has a wide range of Christmas bakes, from plum cakes and date and walnut cakes in eggless and egg variations.AT City Bakery, Dr Annie Besant Road, Worli. CALL 8879159569 Creamy indulgences From decadent milk cream and marzipan to Christmas-special chocolates and coconut-based sweets, A1 Bakery’s list of Christmas goodies is sure to relieve you from last minute panic.AT A1 Bakery, Villa Sushma, Hill Road, Ranwar, Bandra West.CALL 7304526211 Also check out Gaylord, ChurchgateCALL 8657280340 American Express Bakery, Byculla and BandraCALL 9136769260 Celejor, ColabaCALL 2222872733 Theobroma, multiple outletsCALL 8182881881
23 December,2024 08:42 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamCompiled by Shriram Iyengar, Divyasha Panda and Kanisha Softa WESTERN SUBURBS Gourmet delightsFROM classics like zuppa di pollo to their artisanal cheese boards, add a twist to your festive palate with this outing.TILL January 5; 12 pm to 12 am AT Blabber All Day, Borivli East; also at Juhu and Thane.CALL 8875409409 (Borivli) Comfort centralThe smoked duck salad or the confit duck agnolotti are a must try at this Goregaon haunt. For those with a sweet tooth, the X-mas plum cake comes infused with chocolate rum sauce to keep the festivities going. TILL January 5; 12 pm to 12 amAT Baliboo, Oberoi Garden City, Goregaon East.CALL 7678040044 Dim-sum on the snow Turn the heat up a notch this Christmas with Merry Chowdown, a flair of dim-sum plates spiced up with Goan flair with a variety of drinks, including eggnog made from 12-year-old whiskey. FROM December 20 to December 31; 12 noon to 1 am AT O Pedro, Jet Airways-Godrej Building, BKC.CALL 7506525554 Christmas on the grillKick off the festivities with a live experience this season. Try the live grill station, with a turkey carving section to add to your grand experience. ON December 24, 7 pm to 11 pm; December 25, 12.30 pm to 4 pm; AT MoMo Café, Courtyard by Marriott, Andheri East.CALL 02261360761COST Rs 2,700 onwards (non-alcoholic); Rs 3,500 onwards (alcohol-inclusive) CENTRAL MUMBAI Oriental flavoursIf you are in the mood for an Asian menu, try a range of these delicacies from the karafuru salad to the dan dan la mian or a spicy seafood dumpling (below), before you wrap up the perfect lunch with a sakura sour. ON December 25 and January 1; 12 pm to 4 pm AT Koko, C Wing, Kamala Mills Compound, Lower Parel. CALL 7715963030 COST Rs 2,400 onwards (per person) A touch of spiceAdd some fire to your winter celebrations with a spiced-up menu from this old favourite. If the chilli smoked fried rice, ring of fire shrimp or the mapo dofu are not enough to warm your palate, their spiced holiday brew should do the trick. TILL January 10; 11 am to 12 pm AT PF Chang’s, Unit 4, One Lodha Place, Lower Parel; also at 14th Road, Khar. CALL 8655833293 (Lower Parel) Let the merriment flowIndulge yourself in the diverse selection of Christmas cocktails like the Mexican eggnog, the Hot as Bardot or the traditional hot chocolate to go with your tasty bites. A piece of advice — leave your diet plans behind. FROM December 17; 7 pm to 1 amAT Slink & Bardot, Thadani House, Worli Village.CALL 9326965643 Middle-Eastern delightsA chic rooftop ambiance adorned with festive lights, and a range of delightful mocktails, add to the experience of this Middle-Eastern repast in Dadar. TILL December 31; 12 noon to 1 amAT Ilili, rooftop, Guestline Hotel, opposite Swaminarayan Temple, Dadar East.CALL 8355845875 Also Read: Meet Mumbai’s OG Christmas bakers EASTERN SUBURBS Double happinessDitch the usual spreads for two special menus to dig into this Christmas. ON December 24 and December 25; 12.30 pm to 4 pm (brunch), 7 pm to 11 pm (dinner) AT Lake View Cafe, The Westin, Saki Vihar Road, Powai Lake.Call 8657415264 (for reservations) Christmas by the lakeIndulge in a Middle-Eastern fare this Christmas with succulent moorish kababs, warm shorb aush and zesty Tunisian shakshuka served with fresh salads like tabbouleh and festive cocktails for a flavorful brunch. ON December 25; 12 pm to 4 pmAT Bayroute, Hiranandani Business Park, Powai; also at BKC, Juhu, Cuffe Parade and Lower Parel.CALL 8657448949COST Rs 2,000 onwards Celebrate with a causeMake your meals count for a cause this season of joy as this Chembur café’s winter menu brings together charity for children battling cancer and delicious delights. From the holiday turkey sandwich to pistachio and parmesan crusted red snapper with apple cinnamon crumble and hot buttered rum, it is the perfect way to be good. TILL December 25; 10 am to 7 pm AT Le Café, Jewel of Chembur, Chembur.CALL 022267099977 OUTSIDE MUMBAI A leisurely ChristmasStuffed quail, apple strudel and panzanella salad are some of the traditional delights that accompany a vast serving of cocktails like the tiramisu martini and berry blush to get your festivities going. ON December 20 onwards AT Saltt Restaurant and Bar, Oleander Farms, Karjat. CALL 8097599430 Feast in AlibaugHead over to the ‘Baug for a taste of a first-time pop-up featuring a prized selection of Asian curries and baked delights to pair with festive treats to make this a fun holiday outing. FROM December 20 to January 5 AT Mhatrephata, five mins from Mandwa Jetty, Alibaug. CALL 9136569692 (to reserve table or take away) Merry in Lonavla Escape the crowds and get an a la carte lunch accompanied by a live band on the big day. From the delicious cookie sundae to a large Christmas cake, binge to your heart’s content. ON December 25; 11 am to 12 am AT Anglo Indian Café, Della Enclave Road, Lonavla. CALL 8766055364 (for reservations) SOUTH MUMBAI Go old-schoolThe roasted turkey breast with berry sauce and giblet gravy or the Christmas crispy duck breast with orange marmalade and sherry sauce at this classic Bombay haunt is a reminder of slowing down and enjoying the season. ON December 25; 9.30 am to 11.30 pm AT Gaylord, Mayfair Building, Churchgate.CALL 8657280340 Decadent bites This one is for the dessert lovers. Nothing says Christmas like a dessert station packed with gingerbread cookies, mince pies, eggnog cheesecake handcrafted by seasoned pastry chefs. ON December 24 and December 25 AT The Bayview, Hotel Marine Plaza, Marine Drive, Churchgate.CALL 7045945121 Stout celebrationsIf you want a taste of the dark side this season, head over to Colaba for a sample of the dark chocolate vanilla stout. Complement the drink with the pièce de resistance of an eight-hour-slow-cooked lamb bourguignon shepherd’s pie. TILL December 5, 2025; 12 pm to 2 am AT Woodside Inn, Wodehouse Road, opposite Regal Cinema, Colaba; Bandra and Andheri.CALL 9321728192 (Colaba) Go full roastHearty, wholesome and homely, this stuffed roast chicken and potatoes are the meat and gravy of any Yuletide celebrations in South Mumbai. There is a three-day wait, so order early before the rush begins. TILL December 31; 10.30 am onwardsAT Gables, Glamour Building, Colaba.CALL 9224269773COST Rs 1,200 (small roast chicken); Rs 1,500 (large chicken) Homely fare Order in from these home chef specials . Feisty Goan fareThis Christmas, indulge in a fiery spread with classic Goan fare. Dig into green sorpotel (below), roasts with feni-infused chilis and a gorgeous Gochujang smoked ham by home chef Aaron D’souza. TILL December 20 CALL 9167164009 (across Mumbai) LOG ON TO @thegoanpoie COST Rs 1,200 onwards . Going globalFrom savoury German meatloaf (below) to Polish cabbage rolls and indulgent Portuguese lemon marmalade cake, this menu has treats from all over the world for a wholesome Christmas spread, by chefs Amit Mehra and Semanti Sinha Ray. TILL December 20 CALL 8104689703 (deliveries across Thane, Navi Mumbai and Mumbai) COST Rs 1,350 onwards . Dessert delightsFrom marzipans, neuris to plum cakes and nankaties, sample the sweetness of traditional East Indian desserts from this home kitchen. Order soon, as they run out fast. CALL 9870061994LOG ON TO @thecake_genie
17 December,2024 11:53 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram Iyengar | Divyasha PandaIn the last few months, we’ve witnessed several Asian cloud kitchen launches in the city that are far superior to the standard, soggy, MSG-laden takeaways that we sampled during the lockdown. In our fast-moving lives, these cloud kitchens offer convenience, variety, affordability, and quality right when we crave it, in the comfort of our homes. Last week, we previewed Double Dragon, a Bandra-based Asian cloud kitchen by the Auriga hospitality (of Bonobo fame) by Anup Gandhi, Nevil Timbadia, and Sahil Timbadia. The brand name we are told is inspired by the Chinese Year of the Dragon (this year) and it offers Asian flavours with vegan, vegetarian, non-vegetarian and gluten-free options — a culinary factor that Bandraites are familiar with. Smashed baby potatoes Their crisp menu includes sando sandwiches, stir-fries, grilled skewers, and noodle and rice-based bowls. Currently, their delivery radius is limited to Bandra, Khar, Juhu, and Mahim. What piqued our interest is that these dishes use fresh in-house ingredients — from sauces to freshly-baked Shokupan bread and homemade egg noodles, a key differentiator. We tried their chicken katsu sando (Rs 399), which came in a cute shocking pink sandwich cardboard box. It had crispy katsu, kewpie, and radish pickle in soft shokupan bread and was packed with flavour. It maintained its texture despite the 30-minute-long commute. There were pumpkin crisps and a dip on the side, just like they serve at restaurants. Vegetarian pan-seared dim sums with Tibetan dip. PICS COURTESY/NASRIN MODAK SIDDIQI For appetisers, we ordered smashed baby potatoes with smoked chilli paste (Rs 254), vegetarian pan-seared dim sums with Tibetan dip (Rs 299), and salt-and-pepper prawns with garlic crumble and broccoli (Rs 450). All of these were a burst of flavour, especially the jumbo prawns that weren’t chewy. One might wonder what desi flavours like chorizo chilli cheese toast, rawa fry bombil, and eggplant are doing on an Asian-leaning menu but if you think of it — India is also in Asia. In hindsight, we should have ordered those too for a dekko. Salt-and-pepper prawns with garlic crumble and broccoli For the one-meal bowls, we tried the wok-fried drunken noodles (Rs 450) and Japanese garlic fried rice (Rs 354). The Koshihikari rice used in fried rice gave it an authentic taste, and we chose the tofu option to try a vegan alternative. Tossed in black pepper sauce, it complimented the sautéed veggies and radish pickles. From the noodles, we opted for the chicken, and added the optional chilli egg noodles. These are made in-house, so the texture wasn’t soggy — a consistent fear we have with noodle-based dishes in takeaways. And it blended well with the Thai basil sauce. Chicken katsu sando with pumpkin crisps We were hoping the menu would include desserts but there weren’t any on the list, nor drinks to wash down our meal. At almost all restaurant-style rates, the food is still value for money because you get the same flavours and save yourself the trauma of having to navigate the city’s endless traffic and dug-up roads. Worth the shot, right? Double Dragon TIME 12 pm to 12 pmTO ORDER Swiggy and ZomatoLOG ON TO @doubledragon_mumbai
16 December,2024 08:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Nasrin Modak SiddiqiBandra’s boss lady Desiree Attari began her baking journey from home in 1991, moving to a bakery storefront at Bandra Reclamation in 1997. For Attari, a staple rum plum cake is essential in every household. “I developed the recipe myself, and believe what sets our cakes apart is the signature sugarcraft; the cake tastes homemade but has a professional finish,” she explains. Beyond traditional plum cakes, she creates Christmas-themed cakes. Desiree Attari “We serve plum, cream cakes in festive and regular themes to cater to all palates,” she shares. Fruits, nuts and peels are soaked in rum three months prior. Preferring orders via the phone, Attari advises against couriering cakes with sugarcraft. “We stick to manual methods, and prepare everything in-house, from scratch including marzipan, fondant,” she says. Known for marzipan fruit baskets and chocolates, her bakes are favourites, and available till February. “A customer once said, ‘Place a piece of this cake in my mouth before I’m buried.’ That kind of love keeps me going,” she smiles. Last Date Until stocks lastAT Desiree, 19 Santhal, ONGC Colony, beside Candies, Nityanand Nagar, Reclamation, Bandra West. Call 9820086932 Cost Revealed upon request Mummy and me Vashi-based mother-daughter duo of Martha and Belinda Lewis are known for their festive treats that include jujubes, marzipan, kulkuls and more. Baking together for over 25 years, their signature rum fruit cake remains a favourite. Fruits, nuts, and peels have been soaking in pure rum since October, and the batter is baked a few hours before delivery to ensure freshness and moisture. “Christmas is about coming together. As a child, I helped my mum peel and mix, and now, with support from friends and family, we keep the tradition alive,” shares Belinda. Marzipan Their household also cherishes a wine tradition. “My father made grape wine at the start of every year, and as kids, we eagerly waited for a taste during festivities,” she reCalls. For 91-year-old Martha, Christmas remains a grand affair. “We would participate in church competitions and cook in large quantities for the church feast,” she reminisces. Belinda Lewis and Martha Lewis Last Date December 12 Call 7666659690 Cost R1,000 onwards (delivery across Mumbai via courier) Early Christmas At Naomi Pais’s home in Vakola, Christmas arrives early, with the aroma of rich fruit cakes wafting through her kitchen nearly 15 days before the festivities. Pais, who began her sweet-making journey 15 years ago, has been conducting workshops for the past decade. “I specialise in customised Christmas-themed rich fruit cakes, topped with marzipan and fondant decorations,” the sugar craft connoisseur explains. Christmas-patterned mini fruit cakes topped with marzipan and fondant She adds rum post-baking to give the cakes a boozy essence without overpowering the flavours. Sticking to her East Indian roots, Pais continues to use copper vessels that are re-tinned annually and wooden spoons alongside a stand mixer for larger batches. Her festive offerings also include guava cheese, jujubes, fudge, and date rolls. “As kids, we’d lick the batter bowl clean. Now, I bake at such a large scale, the memories are mostly the burns!” she laughs. Naomi Pais Last Date December 15Call 9967652731 Cost Rs 1,700 onwards A slice of tradition For Goretti Ann Rosario, continuing her family’s legacy and keeping traditions alive has always felt natural, “My family has been baking Christmas cakes for about 50 years now. My grandmother ran a small neighbourhood bakery catering mainly to friends and family. Soon, my mother took over and included East Indian sweets to the menu,” she reCalls. Rosario, now 58, took over the rolling pin and has been working from her Prabhadevi home kitchen since 1999.The seasonal cake of the Rosario family has been the Christmas rum fruit cake which is a 70-year-old family recipe. Rum-soaked fruit cake “The candied mixed peel, cashew nuts, plums, dry fruits and nuts are soaked in pure rum for a minimum of 15 days, allowing the flavours to mature and deepen, before the cake is baked and then topped with an optional layer of rich marzipan,” she explains. Each cake is baked to order, with ingredients sourced and prepared based on the delivery date. Although Rosario has seen the transition from mud pots to box ovens, and now, a cooking range oven, she still uses hand-mixing for the final knead and treasures the traditional wooden stick with a ball at the end. Christmas treats plate She reCalls her childhood Christmases, “I remember celebrating Christmas in our cottage with the whole family where carollers would drop by.” Despite setting a clear last order date, she is flooded with Calls and messages until Christmas Day. “It’s amusing and sad when people order at the last minute — some even reach out during midnight mass! But it’s heartwarming that they return year after year,” she smiles. Last Date December 10 Call 9820501655 Cost R900 onwards (delivery across Mumbai via courier) A family affair The Mascarenhas family in Orlem, Malad, has turned their love for Christmas baking into a family affair, transforming Lloyd Mascarenhas’ passion into a thriving home-baking business eight years ago. Among their bestsellers is a date and walnut cake, a treasured family recipe. “It’s a bar cake packed and garnished with tutti-frutti, chopped dates and walnuts. The honey and maple syrup glaze adds sweetness, while warm spices like nutmeg, cinnamon complement the flavours,” he shares. Slices of date and walnut cake Mascarenhas also whips up Goan treats like bebinca and date rolls, recipes he’s learnt from friends. He is a traditionalist, “I know the taste of my customers, and they love this menu, so I stick to it, without following trends. Finding cakes with the same taste is rare. I still remember my grandmother giving us R2 for pastries from the local bakery, which was better than most today.” R Mascarenhas Last Date December 14Call 7021453356 Cost Rs 500 onwards (delivery across Mumbai via courier) Goan goodness Since 1987, Josephine Fernandes has brought treasured Goan recipes to Dadar, with her signature baath taking centre stage. Made with coconut and rava, her baath is renowned for its soft, moist texture. “We use only the white flesh of coconuts that is usually sourced from our family trees in Arambol, Goa,” reveals Josephine’s daughter-in-law, Genevieve. Passed down from Josephine’s mother, the family recipe remains a cherished tradition. A batch of Goan sannas The batter is prepared a day in advance, resting overnight before being freshly baked just hours before delivery. “Our Goan sannas are the best in the area, made with fresh toddy from Manori,” Genevieve adds. Alongside Goan classics, Josephine also bakes a special chocolate cake adorned with Christmas-themed meringue decorations. “At 70, she never says no to an order unless absolutely necessary. She’s happiest when her regulars get their favourite sweets,” Genevieve says with pride. Josephine Fernandes Last Date December 15Call 9930964533 Cost R1,100 (pick-up only) Sweet slice of history St Anthony’s Bakery has seen pre-Independence times, but its customers have rarely seen an empty carousel during the festive season. Located in the heart of Thane, the bakery is now managed by four brothers: Ajit, Nilesh, Pravin, and Dilip D’Souza. Renowned for its rich plum and Dundee cakes, orders for these festive favourites begin on December 15. Rich plum cake “The fruit peels and nuts are soaked in pure rum for one and a half months. Our plum cake is packed with fruits, offering a rich bitter-sweet flavour,” explains Dilip D’Souza. Developed by their mother 45 years ago, the recipe has been updated by the brothers for the ideal balance of rum-soaked fruits. A plate of kulkuls Their Dundee cake, made with dry fruits, semolina, and pure Amul butter, is another crowd-pleaser. The bakery also provides savoury Christmas specials like stuffed turkey and sorpotel. “We’ve introduced more seasonal sweets, snacks, and gifting hampers to meet modern demands,” Dilip shares. Dilip D’Souza Last Date Until stocks last AT St Anthony’s Bakery, Shop no 1, Anthony Annex, Kolbad, Uthalsar, Thane West.Call 9167045526Cost Rs 230 onwards (delivery across Mumbai via courier) Also Check out Banana date and walnut cake >> Old favourite: Run by the third generation of the Ramakrishnan family, this bakery is a gem. Their egg and eggless plum cakes, alongside the banana date and walnut cake, are beloved favourites.Last Date December 18At Vienna Bakery, 125, Vakola Pipe Lane, behind Saint Anthony Road, Siddharath Nagar, Santacruz East. Call 8369459055Cost Rs 1,100 (pick-up only) A loaf of Battenberg cake >> We loave it: Based in Mulund, Fay Almeida is known for her Battenberg cake, a pink-and-white ribbon cake with a marzipan-covered checkerboard loaf, as well as her fruit cake which is topped with marzipan and fondant. Last Date December 16 at Indulge Custom Bakes, Udyog Premises, MM Malaviya Marg, opposite Park Royale, Nahur, Mulund West. Call 8422993535Cost Rs 125 onwards
13 December,2024 07:22 PM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaSky-high feasts Enjoy the festive dinner overlooking the city’s skyline and feast on a variety of veg and non-veg featuring roasted turkey with all the classic trimmings and indulgent showstoppers like pork belly, mac and cheese. To sweeten the deal one can take their pick from apple, pumpkin, or gooey chocolate chip cookie pie. Time 7 pm to 1 am; November 28 to December 1AT Bastian- At the Top, Kohinoor Square, Dadar West; Bastian Kamal Building, B 1, New Linking Road, Bandra West.Call 250333555 Cost Rs 1,800 onwards Indulge in a festive feast Choose from a hearty set menu or an à la carte menu. The festive menu includes comforting holiday staples such as a traditional roasted turkey, and pumpkin pie. For those craving variety, the menu also features fan favourites such as porcini risotto and gambas spiced prawns. Time 12 pm to 4 pm; 6.30 pm to 12 amAT The Clearing Calicut Road, Ballard Estate.Call 9137517707Cost Rs 16,000 (half a turkey for six people); Rs 26,000 (full turkey) Roast, ravioli and more Savour a two-day dinner feast that fits all cravings. Dive into Americano flair like autumn harvest pizza, lobster and prawn ravioli and three types of pies. The turchetta, which is turkey treated like porchetta includes braised dark meat served with garlic mashed potatoes, cranberry relish and turkey gravy. Time 7 am to 1 am; November 28-29AT Americano 121/123 Radha Bhavan, Nagindas Master Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort.Call 9321104682 Cost Revealed on request Savour the season in style The highlight of this buffet buffer is the carving station that includes roasted sage butter turkey with cornbread stuffing, beans almondine, roasted parsnips, and cranberry sauce, alongside honey-glazed pork belly. End on a sweet note with festive desserts like pumpkin pie with whipped cream, pear verrines, pumpkin spice cake, cranberry apple crisp and seasonal delights. Time 7 pm onwardsAT JW Cafe, Inside Marriott Mumbai Sahar; Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Area, Vile Parle East.Call 7710009250Cost Rs 2,900 plus taxes (adults); Rs 1,450 (kids) Sweeten the season This quaint bakery is kicking off a celebration that blends Thanksgiving and Christmas cheer, with their signature pumpkin and pecan pies. Time 7.30 am to 11 pm AT Mavs Bakery, Shop 2, Firdous Apartments, Waroda Road, Reclamation, Bandra West.Call 9819873959. Cost Rs 1,200 Remember Ross’ sandwich? Not in the mood for a full Thanksgiving feast like Chandler Bing from the hit sitcom Friends? Dive into a sandwich inspired by Ross Geller’s Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. The sandwich is completed with the iconic ‘moist maker’ in the middle. Enjoy our take on it (above) in your own home. Meat lover’s sandwich Ingredients For the sandwich>> 3 slices of bread>> 1 chicken breast>> 2 eggs (fried)>> 2 slices of ham>> 3 to 4 crispy bacon strips >> 1 tablespoon maple syrup>> 6 to 8 Arugula leaves (optional) For the gravy>> 2 tablespoon butter>> 2 tablespoon refined flour>> 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped)>> 1.5 cup chicken stock/broth>> A pinch of salt>> Ground black pepper For the spicy mayonnaise>> 150 gm mayonnaise>> 3 tablespoon spicy hot sauce>> 1.5 tablespoon tomato ketchup Method Marinate the chicken with oil, salt, black pepper, and thyme. In a pan over medium heat, melt butter and sear the chicken breast on both sides until cooked through. Slice or shred the chicken breast and set aside. In a saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour and cook until golden. Whisk in the chicken pan drippings, in the saucepan and then add the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until it slightly thickens. Add thyme, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, adding more stock if the gravy thickens too much. Let it cool. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, spicy hot sauce, and ketchup. Spread mayo on one side of each slice of bread. Dip one slice of bread into the chicken broth gravy. Build the sandwich by placing cheese on the spicy mayo-spread slice, followed by sliced chicken, egg, and a gravy-soaked slice of bread to act as the moist maker from the iconic Friends’ sandwich. Layer on the ham, crispy bacon strips mixed with maple syrup, arugula leaves, and the mayo-spread slice of bread. Grill the sandwich, cut it in half, and serve with a side of potato wedges or French fries. Recipe courtesy: Karan Kanodia, Smoke House Deli Thanksgiving leftover sandwich Ingredients: 10gm jam 5gm Peanut butter 25gm Amul salted butter 175gm boiled chicken or pork 3 slices fresh bread 15gm spring onion 1 potato (for mashed potatoes) 5gm salt 15gm black pepper 1 egg 5gm brown sugar 1 onion 15gm any cheese 5gm crushed mustard Method Heat butter in a pan. Stir-fry the boiled chicken or pork with salt, black pepper, crushed mustard, and brown sugar until cooked and browned and set it aside. On one side of each slice of bread, spread a layer of jam. On the other side of the bread, mix peanut butter and salted butter, and spread it evenly. In the same pan you used to cook the meat, stir-fry sliced onions until browned and set them aside. Add a bit of water and flour to the pan with the meat drippings to make a smooth gravy. Stir until it thickens and set it aside. In a separate pan, break the egg and scramble it to a loose consistency. Once done, remove and keep aside. Boil the potato and mash it with butter, salt, and pepper to a consistency of your liking. On one slice of bread, layer the cooked chicken or pork. Add a layer of mashed potatoes and browned onions on top. Soak another slice of bread in the prepared gravy and place it on top of the meat and potatoes. Add the scrambled egg, grated cheese, and finely chopped spring onions over the gravy-soaked bread. Heat a pan with a bit of butter and toast the sandwich until it turns golden brown and crispy on both sides. Cut the sandwich into halves or quarters and serve immediately. Recipe courtesy: Chef James Watson, Divine Mercy English Tea House Café
04 December,2024 02:28 PM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaThe popular American chain Jamba is making its long-awaited Indian debut in Bandra this weekend, and it’s entering the scene with plenty of promise. Founded in 1990 in California, it carved a niche for itself with its health-forward ethos, energy-packed smoothies and bowls, making it a go-to spot for fitness enthusiasts and smoothie lovers alike. Boasting over 850 locations across the USA and in Australia, South Korea, and Thailand, Bandra, famous for its parade of indie ‘bougie’ brands, Jamba has its work cut out. While finishing touches were underway on the day we visited, the outlet sports a clean look, with a 25-seater al fresco space. It is devised as a space to swing by for a smoothie on the go, or linger over a bowl with friends. There are a couple of food options sourced from a third party, including mini pizzas and croissants. A server pours a glass of our favourite, the spicy tropical mango smoothie The menu offers a range of classic and inventive options, some of which you can order with ‘boosts’ or ‘shots’ of other ingredients, like multi vitamin powder and whey protein. We tried them, starting with the apple and kale smoothie (Rs 289). While undeniably fresh, its raw notes might be too ‘green’ for some — and very icy by Mumbai standards. The blueberry strawberry blast-off (Rs 329) was more universal in taste — a fruity, sweet crowd-pleaser if they could balance the ice and flavours. The matcha pineapple surprise (Rs 329) stole the spotlight during the tasting session. This smoothie offers a unique and intriguing balance between matcha’s earthy bitterness and pineapple’s tropical sweetness. The contrasting flavours blend seamlessly, creating a refreshing yet nuanced drink that feels indulgent and healthy; ideal for a light post-workout pick-me-up or as a mid-day refreshment. Unfortunately, the acai primo bowl (Rs 429) was a bit of a let-down. While the base had the creamy tanginess you’d expect from an acai blend, the toppings struggled to find harmony. The granola lacked balance — some bites were overwhelmingly crunchy while others felt sparse — and the drizzle of honey tipped the flavour scale too far into the sweet zone, masking the overall flavours of the dish. What should have been a refreshing, nutrient-packed bowl felt overly indulgent, with the acai’s natural tartness getting lost under the sticky sweetness. The acai primo bowl comes with a drizzle of honey. Pics/Nimesh Dave For us the showstopper was the small test portion of the spicy tropical mango smoothie (Rs 329, full glass) that was served to us before we left. With its vibrant mango and banana base and a surprising kick of jalapeño, it was bold, refreshing, and precisely the innovation Jamba needs to make a mark here. The health platform has entered a crowded and discerning market where local brands deliver fresh juices and smoothies at competitive prices. The consistency and slightly more refined menu set it apart, on paper and based on our tasting session. However, that also means expectations will be high. Ingredient quality, flavour innovation, and the ability to adapt to Indian preferences will be key. JambaOPENS December 6At Delux Mahal Building, junction of 16th and 33rd Road, Bandra West. TIME 11 am to 9 pm LOG ON TO @jamba.india
29 November,2024 09:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Nasrin Modak SiddiqiSlice of perfection Indulge in this luscious cheesecake with a buttery base and creamy filling topped with thinly sliced strawberries and a chocolate covered strawberry.Log on to: loveandcheesecake.comCost: Rs 1,350 onwards Savour the sweetness This Time: less treat brings together farm-fresh strawberries layered with smooth ice cream, drizzled with sweet syrup, and topped with a generous helping of whipped cream for a juicy strawberry surprise.Time: 11.30 am to 11.30 pm AT Mahabaleshwar Juice Centre, Olivia Prime, Uthalsar, Thane West. Call: 9082175829Cost: Rs 150 onwards Berry blissful This tiramisu features delicate sponge ladyfingers soaked in lemon juice and elderflower liqueur, layered with strawberry mascarpone and topped with strawberries. Log on to: @newyorksouffle Call: 9819819250Cost: Rs 800 Toasty affair Try this innovative twist with the strawberry avocado toast. It features multigrain bread topped with avocado mash, a strawberry and kale salsa, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.Time: 11 am to 11 pm AT Farmers Cafe, Shop No 1, Celeste Building, Kinchin Society, 14th Road, Khar West.Log on to: @farmerscafemumbaiCall: 7506015930Cost: Rs 590 Fresh twist This salad blends fresh greens with tadgola, strawberries and a tangy strawberry tomato vinaigrette. Time: 11 am to 11 pmAT Project Hum, 16 Gasper Enclave, St John the Baptist Road, Bandra West. Log on to: @project.humCall: 9337883053Cost: Rs 534 Italian delight This maritozzi features soft, pillow-ey buns stuffed with freshly-made whipped cream and sliced strawberries, all topped off with a delicate dusting of sugar.Time: 11 am to 12.30 am AT Mahabi Cafe Patisserie Gelato, Shop no. 9, Unique Vistas, near Neelkanth Greens, Thane West.Log on to: @mahabipatisserieCall: 8850839511Cost: Rs 350 Scoop, savour and smile Soak in this treat that starts with a layer of strawberry and Gondhoraj lemon sorbet, followed by a smooth vanilla ice cream base. A generous topping of the in-house strawberry compote adds a burst of sweetness. Log on to: @induicecreamCost: Rs 420 The old-school way Savour the nostalgia with this iconic dessert. Smooth sweet cream is mixed and topped with sliced juicy strawberries for a Time: less midnight treat. Time: 5 am to 1 amAT Haji Ali Juice Centre, Lala Lajpatrai Marg, Tardeo.Call: 23512553Cost: Rs 330 Double the fun Enjoy the best of both worlds with these indulgent chocolate-covered strawberries, dipped in Belgian chocolate and topped with cookie crunch, sprinkles, or gold dust. Available for delivery in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.Log on to: fruitilicious.inCost: Rs 400 onwards Guilt-free goodness Binge on a vegan, gluten and refined sugar-free delight featuring fluffy vanilla sponge layered with whipped cream, and juicy strawberries for an indulgent yet guilt-free treat.Log on to: @skinnybakes_mumbaiCall: 9810522537Cost: Rs 1,800 onwards Handy hacks >> Soak your strawberries in water and vinegar for two minutes to keep them fresh>> Blend strawberries with lemon juice. Freeze, and use the cubes to make vitamin C and antioxidant-infused water.>> Blend strawberries with olive oil, cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper for a tangy vinaigrette.- Arunita Ghoshal, chef Strawberry salsa with sweet nachos Ingredients For the salsa:>> 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped>> 1 cup spiced strawberry compote (see recipe below)>> 1 tsp lemon juice>> Powdered sugar, to taste>> 2 tbsp mint leaves, finely chopped>> Pinch of salt For the sweet nachos:>> 3-4 ready tortillas>> 1 tbsp melted butter>> 2 tbsp cinnamon sugar For strawberry compote:>> 200g fresh strawberries, chopped>> 100g sugar>> 1 tbsp lemon juice>> 1 tsp balsamic vinegar>> 1 tsp cinnamon powder or fresh rosemary (optional)>> A pinch of red chilli flakes or chopped basil leaves (optional) MethodIn a bowl, mix the chopped strawberries with lemon juice, a pinch of salt, powdered sugar, and mint leaves. Let the mixture chill in the refrigerator while preparing the rest of the dish. In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens. Add balsamic vinegar and cinnamon powder (or rosemary) for depth of flavour. For a spicier kick, include red chilli flakes or basil leaves. Let the compote cool, then mix it into the chilled strawberry salsa. Cut the tortillas into triangles resembling nachos. Brush them with melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 120°C until crisp and golden. Allow to cool. Place the sweet nachos on a serving plate. Serve with the chilled strawberry salsa as a dip, or drizzle the salsa over the nachos for a burst of flavour. Recipe courtesy: Mahek Mandlik Strawberry and almond tea cake Ingredients:· 250g strawberries· 1 cup maida · ½ cup almond flour· 1 teaspoon baking powder · 3/4 cup castor sugar· ½ cup unsalted butter· 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract· 1 egg· 30 ml warm milk · ¼ teaspoon salt· 50 gm chopped almonds For the compote · 400 g strawberries · 50 g maple syrup · 1 tbsp lemon juice· Half tap vanilla extract MethodPrepare the strawberries by washing and setting them aside. Slice them in half for later decoration. Grease a 7-inch round cake pan with butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking. Combine the strawberries, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the strawberries are soft and juicy. Remove from the heat. The compote will thicken as it cools.In a bowl, beat together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Sift the maida, salt, and baking powder into a separate bowl. Add the almond flour and set aside. Add the egg to the butter mixture and whisk well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the warm milk. Mix until the batter is smooth and well-combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and the cooled compote Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan. Arrange the halved strawberries on top in a circular pattern. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for about 45 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. Once cooled, serve and enjoy with tea or coffee.
23 November,2024 02:20 PM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaJudge a man by his actions, a friend by his loyalty and an Indian wedding by its feast. When mother-daughter duo Natasha and Veera Almeida invite us to a wedding in Vasai’s Giriz Village this weekend, it comes with a delicious twist — it’s all the food, without the actual wedding. Igoreyaa, the duo’s new experiential food venture will make Jao Shiker, a 1947-established bungalow in the village, their home for a day this weekend to give us a taste of their culture. Chichavni with rice “Cooking for an East Indian wedding used to be a community event before catering services took over. Women of the community would congregate and share their skills and knowledge to churn out large quantities of delicious fugiyas, sorpotel, and chichavni. The actual process would be short, but it would be purposefully drawn out to make time for bonding,” shares Natasha. The new venture brings back this tradition and allows participants to get a close look at this practice. Natasha Almeida and Veera Almeida The Almeidas have hit two nails on the head by reopening the doors to Jao Shiker after decades. “The home, like many other bungalows here, yearns for a dweller. Their original inhabitants have unfortunately or fortunately found home in better developed cities offering better employment opportunities. These bungalows stand out from the Portuguese-inspired residences you might spot elsewhere in Mumbai, owing to their local influences in design, marked by intricately carved teakwood work,” she reveals. Ten per cent of the proceeds from the event, to that end, will go towards the maintenance of these structures. Sundried papris on a net While the host will share a brief history of East Indian wedding traditions — how the lugra gave way to wedding gowns, for instance — the focus is on igoreyaa, the dishes. Chichavni, a warm hug in the form of a tamarind stew, promises to be a favourite. “It’s not extravagant or complex. The recipe calls for tamarind, spring onions, and spoonfuls of bottle masala. There are few things a hot bowl of chichavni can’t fix,” she laughs. Ask her for a personal favourite, and the 27-year-old picks her mother’s humble pork indyal with bhokache wade. Bhokache wade We bid farewell to the hosts, after all they have one big fat East Indian wedding to plan, and then a Christmas feast right after, in December. Honestly, we’re fatigued merely thinking about it. The Almeidas aren’t — their goal is to revive at least eight such bungalows in Vasai to put the village on the map. “Planning and financing these monthly revival efforts is a mammoth task with rewards that come slowly. But if this is what it takes to keep our heritage alive, we must do it,” she signs off. Participants join a traditional dance at last month’s session; (right) a woman prepares grated coconut for a dish ahead of the event ON November 23; 11 amAT Jao Shiker, Lahan Giriz village, Vasai West.LOG ON TO @igoreyaa on Instagram ENTRY Revealed on enquiry
21 November,2024 08:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleWalking from Churchgate to Kala Ghoda can get most of us to break into a sweat. However, when we enter Across, a Himalayan modernist kitchen, it feels as if we’re breathing the cool, crisp air of the hills. It is the illusion created by the high-blast AC temperature. We settle into the 40-seater space, done up in light wood, squeaky white walls adorned with paintings by artists from the region. Apple cremeschnitte; (right) Prawn mustang jimbu As we sip on Estate Manager’s evening tea (R950), a smoky tea with bourbon and nibble on slice of Kanchan cheese from Kalimpong, chefs Viraf Patel and his wife Prakriti tell us about their journey of discovering Himalayan cuisine; this was initiated by the latter’s Nepalese heritage, when they first met 18 years ago. Across, we learn, was named because the idea was to serve borderless cuisine from the Himalayas. They call it necessity-based research of a cuisine that covers Nepal, Bhutan and the Tibetan Plateau, along with hints of Himachal and Arunachal Pradesh. “The need emerged from wanting to eat that food,” says Viraf, who runs Firebred Hospitality, a consultancy company. He previously helmed kitchens at Cafe Zoe, Indigo, Salt Water Grill, Salt Water Café and The Tasting Room Mumbai. Pork trotters and ham; (right) Timur potato “While there is a certain generalised representation of the cuisine, we were looking at regions across the Himalayas, which were not necessarily represented yet in a readily available format. Several flavours and ingredients are shared across the region,” Prakriti tells us. Timur is a type of pepper sourced from Sikkim and Nepal, jimbu, a foraged cross between garlic chive and spring onion, is from Nepal, while white beans are sourced from Sollukku, at the base of the Everest. We had our first sting from a nettle bush in Ireland, and the first taste of it in a chutney form in Assam. At Across, nettle, considered as a poor man’s cooking ingredient, is paired with corn grits in a nettle and corn soup (Rs 500). Throughout the menu — including this velvety porridge — simple ingredients have been used tactfully with a fine dine representation that is almost a homage to the source. The soup is warm and hearty; the smooth monotony textured with fried corn and wild chives. Viraf and Prakriti Patel Timur potato (Rs 550) are double fried potato wedges, crumbly crisp and indulgent. Flavoured with chilli and timur peppercorn dust, it’s a serious ‘No one can eat just one’ situation. Prakriti informs us that when bread is baked at higher altitudes, there is always the fear if it will proof. Along with yeast, baking soda is added, to be sure. The bread served through courses here has been christened Insecurity bread. We first try the dense and puffy bread with solu white bean hummus (R650) made from beans sourced from Solukhumbu district, Nepal. They are sweeter, and unearth a refreshing taste. We slather it on the bread with confit mushrooms. A view of the interiors. Pics/Shadab Khan Next, we dunk it into a prawn and mustang jimbu (Rs 750), a watery stew with chilli, chives and jimbu. While use of chillis is consistent, it craftily lights a delicate, welcome burn. From Nepal, we traverse to Bhutan with a stew, ema datsi (Rs 750), and red rice. This one raises the spice bar with hot chilli peppers but cajoles the palate with fresh Ladakhi churpi cheese. The stew is allowed to cook with the cheese and earns a glutinous silkiness. Hardcore meat lovers will relish pork trotters and ham (R1,150). Cooked in a deep red broth of chillies and coriander seeds, the broth has a collagenous silkiness worthy of its slow-cooked wait. Lākhāmaari, a Nepali sweet prepared from flour, sugar and ghee, with patience and difficulty is folded into shapes. On the dessert menu, it replaces puff pastry base for apple cremeschnitte, slathered with caramel and layers of cream. Viraf’s mastery over contemporary European cuisine adds finesse to dishes without deviating from the soul and spirit that is intrinsic to this vast region’s food-scape; a win-win for chef and customer alike. AcrossAt 5, Hari Chambers, 58/64 Shahid Bhagat Singh Marg, Fort. Time 6 pm onwards (Wednesday to Sunday)Call 7506128945
19 November,2024 09:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Phorum PandyaWhen we heard some early positive buzz about a new hangout spot-cum-watering hole called Factory Bar in Malad’s chilled out Orlem community, we decided to check it out. The smartly-themed resto-bar, owned by self-confessed corporate-slave-turned-entrepreneur and Orlemite, Anna Albuquerque, opened less than a fortnight ago (Halloween, October 31). And the elaborate drinks and food menu is accentuated by the sweet sound of karaoke which is a favourite with the guests almost all of whom are from the neighbourhood with everyone seeming to know everyone else in here, when we dropped by on Saturday night. Chicken steak in peri peri sauce We began with a couple of mocktails, virgin mojito (Rs 249) and tropical punch (Rs 249) for our non-drinking companions, and cocktails, electric blue (Rs 499) and whiskey sour (Rs 449) — all four drinks had us thirsting for more. The mojito and tropical punch were simple yet effective while the electric blue with its generous servings of gin, hit home well. The best of the lot though was the whiskey sour, where the bourbon comfortably sunk in under the fresh lemon juice capped off with frothy egg white just done right. A must try. Mushroom crostini The starters were chosen by our veggie pals, who looked extremely content as they tucked into the crispy and creamy mushroom crostini (Rs 349) and the gooey spiced up peri peri cheesy fries (Rs 299). The next 30 minutes were spent swaying to some all-time classics happily crooned by patrons who had to simply scan the QR code on their table to sing along. Sweet Caroline was our pick for the night. Electric blue. Pics/Ashwin Ferro We also bumped into former India hockey player and Olympian Gavin Ferreira, who lives down the lane, and was quietly celebrating his wife Aloma’s birthday before Anna and her staff sneaked in a cake much to the couple’s surprise. Every guest in the house was fed a generous piece too once again proving that this is one small, tight community, alright. Tropical fruit punch Continuing our foodgasm, for mains, we tried the grilled prawns in butter garlic sauce (Rs 569) and chicken steak in peri peri sauce (Rs 449). The prawns as well as the chicken breast pieces were fresh and cooked to a tee with their respective creamy and spicy sauces aptly complementing the core dish. The overall bill, at Rs 3,000, was more than satisfactory, considering it fed four adults. Of course, the foot-tapping music and community fervour were priceless accompaniments. The graffiti art captures the theme of the resto-bar Factory BarAt Link & Marve Road junction, opposite Mith chowky metro station, Malad West. Time 5 pm to 1.30 am (all days)Call 7631443144
13 November,2024 10:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Ashwin FerroGelato game changer This gelateria is redefining ice cream with Italian-style gelato sundaes, featuring rich gelato layered over toppings like Oreos, nuts, Biscoff cookies, and more. With nearly 15 gelato varieties, their flavours range from classic brownie fudge, to indulgent coffee biscoff.AT Scoop Gelateria, Shop No 5, Muralimal Kishandas Compound Society, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Valmik Nagar, Bhandup West. Time 10.30 am to 12.30 am LOG ON TO @scoopgelateriaCALL 9769769499COST Rs 120 onwards Go big or go home At this ice cream heaven, you’ll find super sundaes made with double and triple ice cream scoops with assorted toppings such as dry fruits, jellies, sprinkles, whipped cream and a good old wafer biscuit. Apart from sundaes, they also serve fruit cream, live fog and rolled ice creams and freak shakes. Their offerings range from caramel swirl sundae to a fresh ghotala sundae. AT 51 Rainbow Ice Cream, multiple outlets (Jogeshwari West, Versova and Mira Road) LOG ON TO @51rainbowicecream_mumbai COST Rs 160 onwards Classic scoop From the popular Naturals group that has crafted ice creams to Mumbaikars since 1984, this experiential store serves freshly churned ice creams and sundaes with fan favourites like sitaphal sundae, tadgola sundae and more. AT Naturals Now, Plot 49, NS Road Number 13, Chand Society, JVPD Scheme, Juhu. Time 12 pm to 1 am LOG ON TO @nowbynaturals CALL 7678064351 COST Rs 210 onwards Spanish love affair The quaint chocolateria, known for its Spanish churros, offers a delightful twist on the traditional sundae with their signature churro sundae — a base of creamy ice cream topped with warm, chunky churro bites, whipped cream, custard, and a rich chocolate dip. They also feature sundaes like cookies, marshmallows, chocolate bananas, and more.AT Chocolateria San Churro, Simple Apartments, 16th Road, Pali Hill, Bandra West. Time 11 am to 1 am (weekdays); 10 am to 1 am (weekends) LOG ON TO @ sanchurro_bandra CALL 26400044 COST Rs 450 onwards Gadbad goodness An homage to the classic childhood favourite and the original Indian sundae, this dessert is anything but a “gadbad.” It’s a delightful mix of three scoops of ice cream and jello, layered with fresh fruit and chopped nuts for added texture — all beautifully arranged in a tall glass.AT Shiv Sagar, Shop no 272, Business Square, Gokhale Road, near Railway Station, Naupada, Thane West. TIME 7 am to 12 am LOG ON TO @shivsagarrestaurants CALL 9930101208 COST Rs 290 Single or double? This ice cream haven offers nearly 20 flavours in single, double, or on-the-go sundaes. Kids can choose from flavours like jelly in my belly and strawberry princess. From nutty Nutella to berry-licious blue, this ice cream parlour has you covered for every craving. AT Ice cream works, Multiple outlets (Bandra, Dadar, Kurla) TIME 11 am onwardsLOG ON TO @icecreamworksofficial COST Rs 109 onwards Hacks for a happy sundae . Start with a sturdy, indulgent base to support your sundae layers. Try freshly baked brownies for fudgy decadence, a buttery croissant for lightness, or a slice of dense cake for softness. For a fruity twist, add caramelised bananas or roasted berries which can lend a light and juicy dimension to the dessert. . Choose a good-quality gelato or ice cream which is smooth, rich, and velvety without being heavy. It should have that clean, pure flavour that compliments the other ingredients but still shines on its own. Pick a classic or unique flavour like a chocolate, vanilla or a refreshing sorbet. . Have fun with the toppings and use them to add texture, colour and flavour to the sundae. Try roasted nuts for crunch, chewy mochi for a twist, or a sprinkle of cocoa for sophistication. A drizzle of warm sauces like a silky chocolate ganache or a rich caramel can mingle with the cold gelato and add a comforting sweetness. Add honeycomb, fresh fruits, or cookie crumbles to keep each bite unique . Balance and layering is key to an unforgettable sundae. Aim for a mix of crunchy, creamy, hot, and cold elements to keep each bite exciting. Layers ingredients that complement each other. Chef Rashi Gupta, founder, Bread Bar and Gelato Bar
11 November,2024 08:47 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaADVERTISEMENT
