Overall Rating
|
8.5 / 10
|
On a hunt and dilemma in search for a place to dine in for Iftar, I decided to try something different with a twist. Unlike the normal routine Iftar meals, I was in search for something spicy with a quite atmosphere. Having my objective set, I decided to go on a stroll just before Iftar to search for a place of this sort. That's when I came across this quite shop next to GPO in Al Karama. As it was the evening hour and being in the calmer streets of Al Karama, parking was not an issue. The shop didn’t offer a special Iftar menu and for that reason the outlet was empty and quite.
The outlet was attractive with the whole simple and eye catchy arrangement and fit out. The colors were just pure white and light shade wood giving it a premium touch. Well as the color was white, any dirt or stain would easily stick out but the management ensured that the outlet was spot on. Feeling lucky to find a spot for Iftar this calm I quickly brushed through the menu. Every item in the menu was roughly priced at a range of AED8-25 which is super economical. Being a typical Maharashtrian street food joint, they served pure vegetarian snacks and meals. My mom tagged along with me as well and soon after the azan, we had the typical style breaking of the fast with dates and water. Soon we ordered for some cutting chai which was priced at AED 3. They were served in little cute cups and a single gulp would get them all through. The cutting chai was prepared with the right mix of ginger, cardamom and was not too milky as well. Due to my thirst I had to order for 2 of them . We also ordered Mango Lassi priced AED 12 and Mango Mastani priced AED 15. The mango lassi was a usual drink with rich flavors of sweetened mango flavored yogurt. The Mango Mastani, a signature Maharashtrian drink was a blend of thick full cream milk along with ice cream. Comparatively more thicker than lassi with similar flavors. |
For snack, we ordered a plate of Batata Bhajiya. This traditionally prepared crispy potato fritters was priced AED 8. The sliced potatoes were dipped in gram flour and spices batter and then deep fried. It was served with mint chutney.
For the main course, we ordered a plate of puri bhaji priced AED 12 and a plate of aloo paratha from the parathas section. Puri bhaji had the usual preparation of deep fried flat bread served with seasoned potato bhaji and green peas curry. The Aloo paratha, one of my favorite parathas (flat dough bread with mashed potatoes and spices) was priced AED 10. The yummy desi parathas was cut in triangular shape and served along with plain yogurt.
To sum up the meal, we tried the Solkadi. another chill and refreshing drink with tangy and spicy flavors. This was priced at AED 10. The drink was a blend from tangy kokum juice (Garcinia Indica), coconut milk and spicy green chilies and garlic.
It may sound a bit cliché, but it is a true hidden gem offering a wide range of signature Maharashtrian food in a homely atmosphere.
#HiddenGem
#HiddenGem