BENGALURU is teeming with breweries and last weekend, we were invited to the launch of yet another one in Koramangala. But XOOX Brewmill is not just another run-of-the-mill gastropub, pardon the pun. The venue won us over with its blend of global and Indian dishes, unique cocktails and spacious interiors. Our dinner started with a few of their signature cocktails, as their brewery is not operational yet. The XOOX G&T is unique due to the inclusion of Campari and a red wine reduction with grape. If you want more gin options, try the C&C (Coffee & Conversation) made with black coffee, and rose water orange bitters.
What delighted us about their food menu was that it’s focussed on small to medium eats, all designed to be had with the drinks. The short and compact menu ranges from nibbles, and cold and hot plates, to mains and desserts. The first dish we tried was the Sriracha Sambal Olives. Served with chives cream, the flavour of the olives paired well with the spicy sauce. We also had the Tibetan Chicken, which had subtle flavours of Indian herbs.
All the hot plates we tried impressed us with their pairing of modern and regional ingredients, such as the Cheesy Golgappa Pakoras where the traditional golgappas are stuffed with cheese and served with an imli chutney. The Chimichurri Prawns were served in a Bunny Chow-style bread bowl, while the Sabudana Vadas had a filling of sundried tomatoes and were served with the freshest coconut chutney.
The unanimous choice for the favourite dish of the evening was the Truffled Three Cheese Red Rice Khichdi. Made with assorted vegetables and cheddar, grano padana and mascarpone, the creamy texture pairs well with the earthy and garlicky truffle flavours. For something Asian, try the Yi Mein Noodles which is served with a crispy noodle basket and stir-fried veggies. We also tried the Sweet & Sour Vegetable Tofu Satay, and while the satay was on point, we weren’t impressed with the tomato sauce which was the base of the dish.
Selecting one option from their dessert menu was impossible so we chose three! The Buttermilk Panacotta won us over with its sour notes. Admittedly, we are not fans of red velvet cake, but the Red Velvet Parfait made with beet and cheese rich pâté with Amaretto was a clear winner. We also recommend the Japanese Lemon Drop — yuzu infused Japanese jelly served with Kuromitsu sauce and matcha croutons.
XOOX scores high on great service, a cutting edge menu and great ambience and location.
Rs, 2,000 for two. At Koramangala
anagha@newindianexpress.com
@anaghzzz