The Pantry ( photo credit: Joy Manavath)
Kala Ghoda and Nariman Point are two of South Bombay’s most iconic neighbourhoods. Kala Ghoda is known for it’s quaint by-lanes that attract artists and hipsters. Nariman Point on the other hand is packed with corporate offices and some of the oldest commercial complexes. Both these neighbourhoods can now boast of brand new restaurants, The Pantry at Kala Ghoda and Di Napoli at Nariman Point.
The Pantry
Located in Kala Ghoda, the facade of this new cafe looks like it’s something out of a French painting. It’s definitely one of the most picturesque restaurants there is the city. This all day bakery “celebrates fresh, local produce and simple rustic flavours.”
After successfully running two of Mumbai’s most popular restaurants, of Woodside Inn (Coloba) and Woodside All Day Bar and Eatery (Oshiwara) the management, Neighbourhood Hospitality brings Mumbai yet another interesting dining space. Their first two ventures are watering holes, which are known from their great selection of international beer, beer tastings and diner-style cuisine. The Pantry, in stark contrast is bright, white and opens at 8:30 in the morning to serve freshly baked breads and pastries to early birds. The colour palette is very French-vintage; white and pastels, which make create an elegant easy-on-the-eyes setting.
Coffee and a Sandwich at The Pantry
The dining area is quite small, and can seat a little over thirty people. It’s definitely cozy, but isn’t the kind of place that allows too much privacy. It’s designed as more of a community experience, where one can nurse a warm cup of coffee, while getting to know fellow diners and making conversation. They serve sweet and savory bakes, sandwiches, salads and a few mains. Your meal can be accompanied by their freshly brewed coffees, fruit smoothies and healthy juices. A meal at The Pantry will cost you about Rs.500 per head.
Location: Ground Floor, Yeshwant Chambers, Military Square lane, Kala Ghoda
Contact: 9820640695
Campiana pizza at DI Napoli
Di Napoli
The word Di Napoli translates to ‘of Naples’, and they bring a little bit of Italy to Mumbai. This restaurant specializes in Neapolitan pizzas; that have a distinctive soft, foldable crust. They also serve pastas, desserts, salads and much more.
We in Mumbai have definitely have a fair share of Italian restaurants that claim to serve authentic Italian Pizzas. So what makes Di Napoli different? Their pizza chefs, or ‘pizzaiolos’ have come straight from the motherland. The recipes have been created by expert pizzaiolo and celebrity chef Guilio Adrian, who has hand-picked and trained all the kitchen staff at the restaurant.
Diavola pizza at Di Napoli
The pizzas here are pretty rustic looking. The dough looks definitely hand-crafted, with uneven edges and roughly thrown on toppings. However, some of the toppings they offer are inspired by local flavours; the menu features Indian favourites like Butter Chicken and Paneer Tikka. Of course they have more traditional Italian recipes like Diavola (pepperoni & mozzerella) and Margherita Prosciutto. Vegetarians have plenty of options as well.
Not that you don’t already have innumerable pizza parlours to choose from, but Di Napoli might be worth a visit. For a change if nothing else.
Location: Dalamal Towers, Behind Mittal Towers, Nariman Point
Contact: 022 4347 3200
Blogger: Salonee Gadgil
Writer who takes pictures or photographer who writes, depending on the mood. Staunch hedonist with a firm belief that the world would be a better place if everyone made time for a siesta and wore flip-flops. Passionately preoccupied with food. Capoeirista. Lover of cats. Neat freak.
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