Thangabali
Considering that it takes inspiration from the four South Indian states, we expect a new alternative to the trusted Jai Hind restaurants, but Thangabali falls short of the expectations. Neighbour to the veteran Goa Portuguesa and Diva Maharashtra, seafood lovers are likely to prefer the older joints to this newer entrant because the basics are not on point. The sol kadhi is not tangy enough and far too spicy, the bombil fry just not crisp enough. The appam's very soft and fluffy in the centre; if you like the edges crisp you’re not going to find it here. Garlic is used lavishly in all of the dishes, but there are a few that stand out despite that. The creamy clams in a coconut, coriander sauce is mild and quite delicious, as is the spicier mushroom chettinad. But the street-food inspired Thattukada mutton curry is a downer, with the meat served chewy in a sauce floating with chunks of tomatoes and dry spices. What To Order Neer dosa, clams chilli coriander
What To Avoid Sol kadhi
Meal For Two Rs 800
At Shop 3/4/5, Ground Floor, Manmohan Bhavan, Takandas Kataria Marg, Mahim
Tel 24474499
Fish N Bait
The marine-inspired décor is reminiscent of the rather dubious BKC seafood restaurant Captain’s Table, which downed its shutters soon after it was launched. Luckily, the food and the service are both much better at Fish N Bait. What is likely to appeal to traditionalists is the multi-cuisine seafood menu at the restaurant set up by NT Poojari, who runs the Shiv Sagar chain and is a partner at Mahesh Lunch Home. Although the menu is all over the place, with food from the Mediterranean, South India, the Orient, what it does right is that it doesn’t mess around with the food it serves. Most dishes stay true to the region in terms of general flavour profile. The Mediterranean seafood salad is dressed in a light and basic salt, pepper, oil dressing. Perfectly cooked squid in a sweet and sour sauce hits the umame notes, typical of what Indians look for in a Chinese dry starter.
What To Order Squid in a sauce of your preference, try the handmade ice-cream for dessert
Look Out For The private dining room, which seats 20, could be a good option for group lunches
Meal For Two Rs 2,700 At Ground Floor, Jet airways Godrej BKC, BKC, Bandra (E)
Tel 24474499