As we walk into the newly-opened Cibo House, we are greeted with French-inspired lamp posts, a good measure of wall art that include windows opening to paintings of Europe, and contemporary English music. Located in Gachibowli, the Italian restaurant, with a bit of European dishes, opened its second branch that brings together 42 favourite dishes of the two-and-a-half year old first branch in HITEC City.
Oven fresh
“In Italian, Cibo means good food,” says Varun Jupally, one of the founders, as we settle in a corner of the 140-seater. Bright lights, comfortable couches and wooden tables – the décor seems to be inspired by vignettes of Europe. The menu displays a great balance in vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, a 60:40 ratio. Though Cibo House offers only buffet-styled dining, the menu is presented to the guests who can choose from a bunch of starters, main course and desserts which will be served at the table straight from the oven.
Burst of flavours
Before our starters arrive, our courteous waiter brings us a basket of assorted breads – Garlic Breadsticks, Lavash, Pita and French Baguettes accompanied by four sauces – honey mustard, herb butter, tatziki sauce and harrisa. We begin with Cheese Stuffed Mushroom (mushroom caps stuffed with cheese), which is a delicious start to our meal.
While the Cilantro Fish (fish marinated with cilantro, baby spinach, jalapeno and grilled with olive oil) is slightly heavy, the Aioli Babycorn (babycorn mildly fried and tossed in Aioli sauce), which is crispy and a little on the sweeter side, courtesy the sauce, has us asking for seconds. Among the other starters, you must try Milano Prawns and Broccoli Crostata. Meanwhile, Varun tells us that he travelled across Europe with his partner, Santosh Mitapelli, before they finalised their menu for the second branch. “We also have an R & D chef who does the research to understand the recipes and then, works with the Executive Chef to make it appealing to Hyderabadis,” the 33-year-old says.
Say, cheese!
No Italian meal is complete without pizza – we choose Thin Crust Chicken Margarita Pizza (flat bread topped with tomato sauce, cheese and chicken). With generous chicken toppings, the pizza is palate-
pleasing.
The main course menu is quite large, with lots of pasta dishes, pizza and other European delicacies including Malaga Chicken, Potato En Carozza and Herb Butter Rice. While we wait for our next dish, Veg Lasagna, we sip on a Lemon Iced Tea. Generously layered with veggies, sauce and cheese and topped with mozzarella, the lasagna is perfectly baked and makes for a satisfying meal.
With little room for dessert, we opt for the Kiwi Panacotta and Coconut Mousse, both of which are a hit.
Price for two: Rs.1,200 ++
Details: 33165189
Pics: Vinay Madapu