Where food dreams come true

Gastronomic delight

Bright neon signs, gargoyle torches and a huge façade helped us spot HotMess — a one-of-its-kind aphrodisiac bar  — even from a considerable distance. Inside, it welcomes you with loud music, quirky interiors, bright coloured furniture, and creative frames and posters depicting the theme of the space. We were smitten.

Metrolife opted to sit in front of a screen telecasting an IPL match to enjoy some sporting action while enjoying the food. After a read through their interesting menu, we began our gastronomic journey with One for the Road — a smooth concoction of bourbon, orange liqueur, fresh pineapple and cinnamon; and Dam Dam Do Dam Dam Do, another bourbon whiskey-based drink with angostura bitters and orange.

As our server walked in with the drinks, we were impressed by their splendid presentation. While Dam Dam... came in a hip flask, along with strips of pineapple; the second drink, which also came with its share of theatrics, was presented in a glass cloche with a cloud of smoke. And their appearance was definitely not deceptive as both drinks tasted lovely and set our mood for the evening.

For starters, we were served Italian Cheez from their Chur Chur Pizza section. The pizza base was flaky and crunchy similar to that of a patty, and the topping — chicken in white sauce with jalapenos served with a tomato relish — was delectable. Next up was Grilled Broccoli and Toasted Pine Nuts which was a serving of broccoli florets marinated in cream and toasted pine nuts. The starter was a beautiful blend of diverse flavours — with each standing out.

We were still relishing the two dishes when bowls of two salads — Salt and Pepper Pad Thai and Smoked Chicken Quinoa were brought in. While the former was a warm salad with a topping comprising chicken, broccoli, bell peppers and lemongrass leaves; the latter was cold and had chicken, bell peppers, kidney beans, jalapenos, olives lettuce, onions tossed together. With such strong and distinct tastes, it is difficult to say which tasted better, but owing to our love for Asian cuisine, we liked the Pad Thai salad a wee bit more.

Inquisitive, we asked what the “aphrodisiac” dishes on their menu included and were told that some items had ingredients like hot chilli, asparagus, avocado, banana, chocolate, vanilla, pomegranate, red wine, and watermelon that “boost energy, sharpen memory, and even fight flab”.

Keen on trying such offerings, we opted for Aphrodisiac and New York Sour from their ‘Aphrodisiac Cocktails’ section. While the first drink was a mix of fresh ginger, vanilla infused vodka, green apple, apple juice and sauvignon blanc; the second was a potion of scotch, lime juice, aromatic bitters, red wine and egg white. “Wow!” best describes both the drinks, which were a smooth blend of such refreshing and diverse flavours.

Now with our appetite boosted, we were ready for a second round of starters which comprised Mutton Galaoti Pav with fermented chilli paste, Blended herb batter Sole, Nacho Pencho, and Samosadilla with Aam Panna Chutney. We enjoyed each preparation, but the pav, and the crisp fish with tartar sauce stood out. So did the tangy mango chutney.

Finally with our stomachs happy, we decided to call it a day when the manager suggested we try Bourbon Smoked Honey Chicken, Celery Garlic Prawn, and their mocktail sheesha, which served as a drink as well as a hookah. Very interesting concept, indeed.

With little space in our bellies, we reluctantly agreed, but were ecstatic with our decision once the dishes were served. The chicken, served with Jack Daniels smoke, was the best thing we tasted in a long time. Tender and juicy, it was a riot of flavours. The prawns, too, were a tender delight.

Then, after such a wonderful evening, how could we not have dessert? So we ordered the Red Velvet and Cream Cheese Brownie which was a fitting finale to our meal.

FAQs:
Address: M-11, ground floor, M Block, middle circle, Connaught Place.
Meal for two: Rs 1,000 plus taxes.
Timings: 12 pm to 12.30 am.
For reservations: 8743041313, 8743071313