Food for Thought

Critic´s Review

• Food: 3.5 / 5
• Service: 3.5 / 5
• Decor: 3.5 / 5

-By Rashmi Uday Singh

Walk into the serene bosom of this high-ceilinged, brand new heritage bookstore of the Somaiyas, Kitab Khana. Charming and restrained elegance, meticulously selected books and a casual café too. How about a Bhel Puri Sandwich? It's delightfully tangy and sweet, crunchy and squishy. And would you believe that this weird-sounding grilled sandwich actually tastes very good? Other creative grilled sandwiches worth trying are Vada Pao Sandwich, Lebanese Harrisa Paneer and Hummus Sandwich. Try the warm Asian Salad Crunchy with Sesame. Go for the Mixed Greens made zingy with Peppered Apple Caramelized Walnuts. Warm oozy Chilli Cheese Toast and grainy Hummus with Crackers are also on our list of must-tries. However, the quesadillas are too doughy and the pasta (Alio Oglio and Pesto), though al dente, is a bit greasy. Bagel and Cream Cheese disappoint. There’s something reassuring to have a husband and wife team running a restaurant. While Kapil Sanghi charms at the front of the house, wife Chef Reshma Sanghi’s Apple Crumble is rendered in the most perfect of pastry tangos with silken Vanilla Ice Cream. Large airy Belgian waffles, and warm, moist Chocolate Truffle Cake are addictive, as is the Ginger Cake. The Pink Cup Cake disappoints, as does the cheesecake. The Carrot Cake needs more cream cheese icing. There is a homespun quality about the affordably priced, unpretentious food. It feels honest and earnest. The service is slow. The café is pure vegetarian. There is no alcohol or valet parking. It’s the desserts which take the cake. P.S. Dishes cost between Rs. 80 and Rs. 130. Open from 10am to 7.30pm.