Not that we needed an excuse to go to Koramangala, Bangalore traffic notwithstanding, but a microbrewery does provide the extra inspiration. We visited XOOX in September, when it was still relatively new. Located right next to the HDFC bank building in 5th block, it promises a traffic nightmare soon when the crowds increase. It is crazy how Koramangala continues to accommodate so many eating/drinking joints! On entering XOOX, one gets the feel of an elegant 60s bar (no, I am not that old, I am basing it on pop culture references) with its high roof and plush sofas, but a right turn takes you to the alfresco area that has a modern, lounge feel. And that’s where we chose to sit. We had made a reservation, and that will most definitely help if you plan to go after 7. And yes, there is a dress code – no Salmon Khan style upper body wear, boys!
After we settled ourselves comfortably, we decided to begin with an Apple Cider and a Japanese Dry Blond Ale. The first had the right fruit and sweet notes and is one of the better ones we have tasted. The latter was dry as promised but smooth enough with the rice and malt flavours giving it a balanced feel.
The Dehydrated Dosa with Tomato & Coconut chutney had to be tried. The crisp dosa with the occasional red (chili) bits actually worked. It helped that the chutney was fantastic. One half of our companion couple arrived and promptly ordered a Citrus IPA and a Chicken Nashville. The beer was bitter but somehow managed a zing as well, the citrus and sweet flavours were underplayed. The chicken on first sight looked like a posh cousin of KFC, but thankfully didn’t ape the taste – the spicy citrus sauce was an excellent difference maker.
Since my first beer was ale and hearty, I continued the good start with a Smoked Amber Ale. This was a very good take on Rauchbier. The smokiness was evident and the icing was that the beechwood gave it a very bacon smell!
One of our standard procedures for places that are open all day is to arrive as early as 5-5.30 and stay for a couple of hours. Dusk falling is a pretty picture in most places and this one was no exception. Meanwhile, Thai Fish Cakes and Cantonese Chicken were next. The first was lemongrass flavoured red snapper cakes that had great texture and were complemented very well by the spicy dip. The chicken was well cooked, with a chili sauce, and was more standard fare than awesome.
D ordered a Belgian Wit for herself and I decided to get a Stuffed Pork Burger with a charcoal bun. The beer was pale, wheat and had a nice zing. The burger was star studded – chorizo, pork mince, jalapeno, mustard mayonaise and Philly cheese – the flavours were very good though I wish it had been less mushier. We also ordered a Georgian Garlic Cheese bread whose chilly garlic dressing gave some unsuspecting folks a spice kick!
I liked that they took desserts seriously! We agreed on a Buttermilk Panacotta and a Japanese Lemon Drop. Some shade was thrown at me for rejecting the Red Velvet Parfait. But it had beet as one of the ingredients and my standard response to that is to quote Michael Jackson! The Panacotta was fantastic and had a raspberry and rose decoction which only added to the subtle buttermilk flavour. The lemon drop had citrus flavoured (Yuzu, apparently) jelly and some croutons that provided some excellent contrasting texture, though breaking them without pieces flying off is an art!
The service was friendly and quite prompt once they overcame an initial tardiness. The bill came to a little under Rs.4650 and that is quite fair given the location and quality of food. The crowd was a little mixed, or maybe I haven’t been to Koramangala enough recently. That signaled a “there’s something off about the place” feeling. It was also not as full as I would have expected on a Saturday night, or maybe 8 is too early to judge. But for now, drop in for some very interesting craft beer and food options.
XOOX Brewmill, 8, Koramangala Industrial Layout, Near HDFC Bank, 5th Block Ph: 49653219 (map)
