The original deli and bar, Smoke House is as much about the visual experience as it is about those excellent smoked cocktails and nosh. Finding a unique identity and drawing inspiration from each location, the HKV outpost is our clear favourite with a magnificent view of the fort ruins from the outdoors and an equally sublime story on the walls indoors. Khan Market comes in a close second due to its quaint vibe, while the newest Saket outlet, which replaced a recycling-heavy Mocha, is a great option for mall pitstops. The bar areas here might be small, but they pull out some heavyweights, especially with the new menu. Usually packed with pre-gaming revellers or a more mature audience, go for their refreshingly uncomplicated Smoked Cosmopolitan or the newly introduced Dill or No Dill, which is tart and layered. We particularly love the fruit burst of the Kiwi, Cantaloupe Melon, Jasmine + Vodka as well as the unbeatable Bellini’s. And since it’s Riyaaz Amlani’s baby, no visit is complete without some nosh, of which the Paprika Puffs with Wasabi Salsa and Iced Chicken Liver Pate are great. Whether you’re nursing a drink, stopping by for a quick pick-me-up or plonking yourself in a seat for hours — SHD gets our vote for a fun evening!
Critic Review
Nightlife Review
Buzz: 3.5/5 | Décor: 3.5/5| Service: 3/5
-By Deepali Gupta
We all have some stories to tell after a particularly spirited evening, but the quaint setting of this all-day café tells the story for you. An engaging narrative that runs on the walls and throughout different elements including an old school dial phone and a menu mimicking the hand drawn look bring to life a character that would enjoy partaking in all the concoctions the bar specialises in. Riyaaz Amlani#39;s successful gourmet deli chain serves trademark smoked cocktails from the Smoke House family. When the weather is right, grab a table outdoors and soak in all the action as you move through the Smoked Melon Martini, Watermelon Caipiroska and pitchers of Sangria Rosso. If you prefer more complex flavours, the Californian Plum, Star Anise, Lily + Vodka tastes as good as it looks. And just in case you want something more robust, there#39;s a well-stocked full service bar and a competent wine list. Order some Paprika Puffs + Wasabi Salsa and The Deli Meat Plate, as the bluesy jazz mix works its magic to help you unwind and makes you sink lower into your chair.
Critic reviews are anonymous and all bills are paid by What#39;s Hot.
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