Here’s what Sarjapur Social is all about 

While “quirky” and “kitschy” aesthetics might seem like a cliche in the restaurant business today, it was restaurateur Riyaaz Amlani’s Social Offline that pretty much started this trend. And with the new Social in Sarja-pur, they prove that they are still the masters in the gastropub and hipster bar scene. This 18,000 square feet venue is designed as a millionaire’s penthouse complete with sparkling chandeliers, an abandoned jacuzzi and a cosy fireplace. We headed to this IT suburb to try out the new menu and drinks on offer.

While popular options from their other outlets are available, some new additions mark the special “Penthouse” menu. Mixologist Jones Elish welcomed us with two of their new drinks. Orchid You Not is a classic gin and tonic but with a twist of an orchid flower that adds to the flavour. The Grass is Always Greener, our other drink, is a combination of Bourbon whiskey, lemongrass, honey and sugar. Both the drinks had a great balance of potency and taste. 

We started our meal with Prawn Hub. Regulars may remember this dish from their other outlets, but the one at Sarjapur has a whole new avatar. “While Prawn Hub at the other outlets was Thai-inspired, this is a Mangalorean-style dish,” says chef Saurabh Arora. Next on the table were Pocket Rockets — ratatouille and feta cheese pockets. The half-moon shaped pockets were piping hot and paired well with the pesto and salsa they were served with.

We also tried Let’s Taco Bout It. A DIY-style dish with taco shells, Mushroom 65, cheese, lettuce and other toppings served on a tray, this one is scrumptious, albeit a little messy. A classic on the menu is the Socially Grilled Chicken that you can’t go wrong with. Served with spicy onion slices, a creamy mash and a side of salad, this is a great low-carb option. But one of our favourite appetisers on the menu was the Patiala Egg. Essentially a Scotch egg, but with tandoori spices, this makes for the perfect nibble along with your cocktail. 

Some of the other options on the menu are Bon(c)-kers for Bruschetta, the Italian classic but with cream cheese and bocconcini and How’Zat For a Tikka?, King fish slices spiced with zaatar and served with a pineapple relish. 

To finish off this interesting meal, we tried Fly Me To The Moon. A milk cake paired with coconut ice cream, the fresh flavours are reminiscent of cakes from local bakeries. With its impressive decor and ambience, the regional-inspired dishes and innovative drinks, Sarjapur Social is certainly worth a visit, even if it involves a long drive.

Rs.1,500 for two. At Sarjapur Road 

anagha@newindianexpress.com
@anaghzzz