Quirkiness mingles with taste

Experimental

For all those who are fond of a combination of loud ambiance, quirky décor and great food, Monkey Bar is no stranger to them. The Indian avatar of the gastropub, which was introduced in India in 2012 in Bangalore, got its first outlet in the capital 2013 in Vasant Kunj.

Its second outlet here was launched last year at Connaught Place, which is said to be the heart of the city. Situated right opposite the famous Hanuman Mandir, the restaurant on the first floor, maintains a dark environ. And because it’s ‘Monkey Bar’, you can find sketches and paintings of the species on the walls. Those walls can make it easy for you to choose from the drinks and food they offer, as the most popular ones are written over them in bold letters.

Coming to the menu, which is nonconformist and quirky, Monkey Bar brings together many of their signature dishes, while also offering some interesting twists to regional Indian dishes. And of course, on offer is a variety of cocktails.

Monkey regulars will immediately recognise the Loaded Nachos, Butterfly Chicken, Goan Chorizo Pao, Pao Bhaaji Cheesy Grits and Bombay Vada Pav. But for their delight, the restaurant recently added few more items.

Imraan Siddiqui, manager at Monkey Bar, Connaught Place, says, “People like to try something new and interesting. Therefore, we incorporate new dishes in the menu, at regular intervals. And out of them, whichever gains more thumbs up, becomes permanent in our menu.”

Metrolife explored the new flavours added to the platter, starting with Mochor Chop and Baingan Pakora Phulka Tacos. Made with plaintain, banana blossom, carrot and bean chops, and served with sour cream and chutney, the starter is a spicy affair - crispy outside and soft inside. Whereas the unusual pairing of the second dish, served with nimboo achaar, garlic and coriander chutney was subtle in taste and a delight to our eyes.

Meanwhile, we got to know that even the bar menu has something new to offer. The bar tender suggested us to try exotic cocktail offerings like 24 Carat and GT Karnal, among others.

We tried the 24 Carat made with mango puree, passion food juice, lime juice and sugar with Jim Beam wine. The drink, that came in a nutella jar, had a golden appearance keeping upto its name. Taste wise, a sweet and refreshing one; no doubt.

We then tried the famous Rajnikanth Rice for the main course, and found it to be a great fusion of taramind, coconut, curry leaf which was served with fried lady fingers, and crispy lotus roots and spiced vegetables. Happily, we gave it a nod of approval.

To finish our flavourful journey, we turned the menu page to look for the desserts. From an array of delicious items, we opted for their signature offering, the Old Monk (EY) Chocolate Cake. Assorted with caramel and praline, it’s worth a try!

With its warm service, it’s a place to hang out, grab a drink, indulge in a hearty meal, or just monkey around.

FAQs:
Meal for two without alcohol excluding taxes: Rs 1,200 plus taxes
Meal for two with alcohol excluding taxes: Rs 1,800 plus taxes
Open: 12 noon to 12 midnight