Secunderabad residents, here’s a reason for us to celebrate. There is a new café and restaurant in Sindhi Colony, Café Nook, and it has something for everyone — whether you’re looking for some me time with coffee and a book or a meal comprising burger and fries. Located in one of the corners of the bustling Sindhi Colony road (that’s how the name was derived), this 60-seater is a quaint café with bright lighting, comfortable cane chairs and colourful cushions. Once you step inside, the artfully done up interiors — exposed brick walls painted in white, aesthetic printed tables, bookshelves and tiny plants give away positive vibes.
Humming to The Jonas Brothers’ Sucker playing in the background, we settle down with a refreshing Iced Tea on a table adjacent to huge glass windows. As we glance through the menu, Sandeep Chugani, who co-owns the outlet with his brother Rahul Chugani, joins us. “We observed that this part of the city has only a few cafés that welcome people of all age groups. When we found this space for lease, we didn’t think twice before renting it. We want to offer a cosy place with continental cuisine and a few global favourites,” he says.
Hearty bites
We put down our iced tea, as we spot Peri Peri Popcorn Chicken arrived at the table. Served in a netted basket, the crispy fried chicken is topped with in-house masala that gives this starter a spicy flavour. To cool it down, we follow it up with Watermelon Bocconcini Cheese Salad —watermelon cut in circular shape with a ball of cheese and caramelised walnuts.
Café Nook also offers an elaborate list of short etas for both vegetarian and meat lovers with local specialities like Kheema Pav and global dishes like Bruschetta and Prawn Tempura.
As for the vegetarian appetiser, we opt for Stuffed Mushroom. Crispy and cheesy, this plate of mushrooms is a tad bit oily.
If you’re looking for a drink to pair your meal with, check out their range of milkshakes and coffee options.
Best of both worlds
Our first main course is the evergreen Mac ’n’ Cheese — expect nothing but a hearty bowl of American style macaroni with a few veggies and a slice of garlic bread. The Pesto Pasta is just as impressive with succulent chicken pieces.
But it is the Kulkul Mass Pizza that really works wonders for us. Italian thin crust pizza is layered with popular Sri Lankan chicken curry — giving us the best of both worlds. The spicy Peri Peri Chicken Steak, served with well-cooked mashed potato and their signature sauce, also makes for a filling and flavoursome main course.
The menu also comprises an array of sandwiches and salads. The dessert section is brief with the regular brownies and Tiramisu. The best part of this section is the Chocolate Mousse. The melt-in-the-mouth quality makes this a must try.
Price for two: Rs.800.
Pics: Vinay Madapu.