On one of those Sundays when we felt like visiting a completely new place, we chanced upon Tippler on the Roof on Zomato and decided to make a trip to Indiranagar. I think mid-morning trips in Bangalore are also instances of time travel – not only do you cover distances much faster, you also start noticing old buildings and establishments that are usually blocked from view thanks to traffic. Meanwhile, from the address, (map) I figured that TotR had replaced Khaaja Chowk.
I remember Khaaja Chowk having an alfresco section, but there’s a retractable roof now. The layout itself has been completely changed. There’s a stage and some plush sofas next to it. Seating is mostly along the remaining three walls with a few tables in the central space. These are mostly functional seating with a touch of grunge. The walls are where Russia meets pop culture. Star Wars and Breaking Bad posters hang out with Stalin and Communist propaganda. Makes for an interesting mix!
The menu, which has Continental, North Indian and Russian food, is interesting too – both drinks and food. I began with the Rum Pum Pum, a signature cocktail with dark rum, apple juice, lime juice and apple syrup. Wasn’t bad, and they were generous with the alcohol, but D’s Tuck Me In, featuring brandy, beer, apple juice and cinnamon was easily the better drink. Superbly refreshing. The Honey Chilly Pork was the first starter to arrive – sweet and fiery, this was really good. The Chicken Kiev Minis mellowed things down a bit thanks to its subtle herb butter flavoured chicken stuffing. The Naked Chilly Beef was disappointing though – too salty for taste and not the best beef we’ve had.
Inspired by D’s choice, I asked for a Kentucky Mule next. As always, it was slightly below par, relative to D’s drink. But if you wait for the ice to melt a bit, the whiskey -beer -ginger ale -lime combo does grow on you. For mains, we first got ourselves a Chicken & Pork Pelmeni. Russian dumplings and what seemed like cousins of many things we’ve had before – wontons, manti, ravioli. We were almost stuffed, with just enough space for a Chicken Julienne. With mushrooms, potatoes, parmesan and chicken in a sour cream sauce, this was almost like a thinner (consistency) version of the lasagna. We loved it anyway.
The meal cost us a little over Rs.2600, and that isn’t bad for the location, we felt. The service was exemplary – friendly and always ready to help with the choice of dishes. I wouldn’t mind another visit – quite a few things to try.
Tippler on the Roof, 276, 3rd Floor, Above Girias, 100 feet Road, Indiranagar Ph: 49652123