We had spotted the place during our visit to Sly Granny, and liked the look of it, so at the very next opportunity – which happened to be our anniversary – we decided to drop in. (map) It was also the first day of my new job, so it turned out to be a double celebration. At 7 PM on a Monday we had the place all to ourselves, at least for a while. In fact, I think we disturbed their prep meeting! We really liked what they have done with the decor – it’s bright and has classic Dhaba signs and messages, some of the seating is inspired by classic vehicle interiors, the music is absolute Bollywood, and even the loo continues the Dhaba messaging. The thing though, is that it is all done classily – Dhaba fine dining all the way.
The dishes and drinks have nomenclature that continues the Dhaba theme. I decided to begin with Gulaabo and D chose a Paan Mojito. My drink was an LIT with kaala khatta. The latter was very dominant and made the drink a tad sweeter than what I’d consider great, but it wasn’t bad at all. Loved the presentation! D’s drink, as always, just phenomenal! I thought it absolutely lived up to the “out of the world” description it had. The smoothness of a mojito with a refreshing paan twist. The Galouti had to be tried and the minced lamb upheld the melt-in-the mouth legacy of the dish. Subtle flavours, complemented by the chutney. The Brain Masala on the menu is a gravy dish, but they were nice enough to make us a dry version. Splendid stuff, with a superb spicy masala.
For mains, we decided to go with a Chitta Butter Chicken, Dhabe di Roti, Missi Tandoori Paratha and later, an Amritsari Kulcha. This version of Butter Chicken has a fair complexion courtesy a hung curd based gravy. Creamy and delicious, though we felt that the chicken itself could have been a little more cooked. I’d have liked to try the Badam Halwa, but we were stuffed. However, we were persuaded to try a meetha paan, which was great!
The wallet was lighter by a little over Rs.3300, but it was a much more satisfying experience than the outlet upstairs! The service is friendly, though sometimes a little too eager for feedback. The ambiance somehow manages that excellent balance of being lively yet cosy enough. We really liked the place, and will definitely visit again.
Dhaba by Claridges, 618, 2nd Floor, 12th Main, Indiranagar Ph: 48536713