Mar 11, 2014 03:09 PM
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I am a self-confessed foodie and Bangalore is a food-lover’s paradise, considering the multiple cuisines that are available, especially in Indiranagar. But somehow, I never really got to trying Bengali food before, because of the general perception that Bengali food has nothing to offer to vegetarians. However, I decided to risk it and went to Esplanade, located off CMH Road in Indiranagar.
The entrance is pretty unimpressive and leads you to a staircase which takes you to the restaurant on the 1st floor. But once you enter, its pretty cool with pictures of old-time Kolkata decorated all over and even a wall-painting depicting life in Kolkata. The décor is quaint and welcoming with some multi-coloured lamps hanging above each table which looks quite nice.
The menu came and my worst apprehensions were put to rest as there was sufficient variety for vegetarians as well. I began with a starter of a cutlet of raw-banana (I forget the name, unfortunately) served with mustard chutney. This was pretty impressive. The portion served 4 pieces and costed about Rs. 175.
It was then, time for main course and I decided to opt for a chef’s special of brinjals in mango and mustard gravy(I again forgot the name!). I was a little confused whether to opt for loochi(kind of a bread and Bengali equivalent of roti) or steamed rice. The waiters suggested something which I didn't quite comprehend and so I finally opted for steamed rice, which was a safe option. The brinjals were really good, and were totally different from whatever I had tasted earlier. It was a combination of tangy, sweet and spicy and it indeed excited the taste buds. Even though curd was not in the menu, I asked the waiters and they got it for me in a jiffy. I actually wanted some mocktail or fresh fruit juice to drink, but there were hardly any options and I had to make do with good old sweet lime soda.
Though I was tempted to eat more, I was quite full with this much and have to say, very contented as well. The bill for the meal for 2, came up to Rs. 570 which was quite decent in Bangalore standards. Considering I've never been to Bengal, I’m not sure if this is what authentic Bengali cuisine is. But nevertheless, it was worth the visit.
