![]()
Navratras are almost over and you know what that means – it’s time to leave your fasting ways behind, because there’s a bevy of newbies just ready to launch a full scale attack on your palate. From brands expanding their outpost to fresh names – here’s our recommendations to keep you hale and hearty.
EDITOR’S PICK
Drifter’s Inn, DLF Phase 5, Gurgaon
One of our favourite food trucks dishing out exceptionally good dim sum, noodle boxes and Korean BBQ Wings has now set up camp at a more permanent address. Retaining all the popular hits from their truckin’ days with additions more conducive to dine-in meals, Drifter’s first standalone outlet has a young and vibrant feel with spunky graffiti and soothing green hues. It’s refreshing to see young entrepreneurs making a name on the scene purely on their own merit, so we couldn’t be more excited about this one. Watch this space for more deets next week, and remember you heard it here first!
Price: Rs 1,000 fo two
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm
NOW OPEN
Wai Wai City, Hauz Khas Village
From a truck championing the best of Southeast Asia to another that brings an iconic brand to what’s touted as the city’s first noodle bar – this is a good month to slurp through. Maggi lovers make way for Wai Wai fans with this flagship venue of what’s set to become a big chain. A collaboration between Kula Naida (of delivery experts Asian Haus), FB consultant Sid Mathur and the noodle company Wai Wai – this unassuming eatery stands smack in the middle of the village and is giving us a reason to brave those traffic snarls. You’ll get to choose from different type of noodles, sauces, vegetables and a variety of add-ons to make a perfectly comforting meal including the likes of a Wai Wai bhel.
Price: Rs 500 for two
Timings: 11 am to 10 pm
Al Jawahar, Kotla Mubarakpur
For all those who secretly wished they were able to head to the Walled City for post-work meaty sojourns, this is the happy news worth doing a little jig over. Karim’s good old neighbour has boldly stepped out and opened an outlet in the commercial area of Kotla, right next to Def Col. Walk in for the same traditional flavours in spiffier settings. Think shaami kebabs, mutton korma and khamiri rotis – yum! The full menu will be available soon, but until then, do drop in for a meal before everyone finds out about this gem.
Price: Rs 500 for two
Timings: 11 am to 10 pm
Tea Tradition, Sector 18, Noida
If Mocha changed the way coffee shops were perceived in the city way back in 2003, then how could tea cafés be far behind? After the underrated Passion helped popularise tea culture in the city, Chaayos and Chai Point have taken over to become household names. This new café in Sector 18 market is proof of how far the phenomenon has come. The tiny café offers a surprisingly wide range of chai and non-chai drinks alongside delicious vegetarian fare and quick snacks. They have also kicked off a limited run delivery menu, and we loved the fragrant Vanilla Tea (Rs 90) and Jasmine Tea (Rs 90), while the Classic Assam (Rs 80) needed some tweaks. If you prefer something cold, don’t miss their refreshing and delicately flavoured Green Tea Green Apple Cooler (Rs 120). They even have a Samosa Chaat (Rs 40), some wholesome sandwiches and a range of pizzas for days you decide to have a not-so-high tea party.
Price: Rs 400 for two
Timings: 11 am to 10 pm
OPENING SOON
Imperfecto, Gardens Galleria, Noida
The much loved rooftop party spot from HKV will soon open its doors with a sprawling terrace space and a beach theme with a cool ship seating being built in the alfresco courtyard of Garden Galleria. We can’t for it to take the nightlife in Noida a few notches higher!
Theobroma, Sector 18, Noida
We were just recovering from the sugar rush courtesy The Big Chill Cakery opening in DLF Mall Of India, when we heard news of Mumbai’s brownie boutique Theobroma also coming to the neighbourhood. Apparently, the iconic brand is opening two spaces starting with the Noida mall before heading to Cyber Hub.