Molecular surprise

Food lab

Test tubes – check; gas-tight syringes – check; glass beakers – check; pipette - check. You must be wondering if we are talking about a laboratory set up; but these are apparatuses in which food is served at the Molecule Air Bar, where science meets food.

Located in Sector 29, Gurgaon, this newly-opened eatery sprawls across the top two floors of a building (including the terrace) and serves gastronomic delights, with a molecular twist.

On entering, we were greeted with an elegant decor comprising wooden chairs and couches, iron installations and walls adorned with varied war-inspired artefacts like guns, wheels, pipes and masks. The glass windows, however, have molecular structures inscribed on them, which complements the benzene-shaped lamps suspended from the ceiling.

Since it was a pleasant morning, we wanted to soak in the winter sun on the terrace. But we were told that it was currently not operational. That definitely put a damper on our spirits, and we occupied a table with high wooden chairs. Within minutes, we were handed out their menu – which too is peppered with War trivia. Without much delay, we ordered for our drinks – regular beer and an Old Fashioned, which tasted good.

To begin with, Metrolife was served Cauliflower soup with pesto lavash cracker in small glass cups, which was brought in a military truck oozing out nitrous smoke. And thus began our gastronomic adventure. The soup was extremely creamy.

Next up were the Molecular Puchka shots which, served with tamarind and mint chutney (in syringes) along with water in five flavours – pineapple, cola, orange, mint and beetroot, took this street food delight to a whole new level.

Still relishing the pleasant aftertaste of the gol gappas, we were served Chicken Airbread which was filled with Quattro Formaggi sauce, and topped with Achari Chicken Tikka and green chilli caviar. The gooey sauce oozed out of the little puffed breads and the chicken tikka was the perfect accompaniment. The caviar, however, added little to the dish and we would not have missed its absence on the platter.

We were then served a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights, which included Veg Biryani Arancini - mini arancini balls stuffed with biryani served with dehydrated onions, raita sphere (literally) and salan crème; Tandoori vegetable dimsum platter; Mutton galouti tacos; Cheddar and slow roasted Chicken Tikka Kulcha with Makhni gravy; slow cooked Makhmali Chicken Tikka with mint foam and finally, the best of the lot – Cajun Crusted Fish served with masala coconut dust and lemon bubbles.

The fish was extremely tender and the lemon bubbles added the right amount of punch. This went best with their Hot Apple Cider cocktail, which was aromatic and had the right amount of sweetness.

For the main course, we were served Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani and Tandoori roti, which hit the spot with their flavours and balance of spices. But how could such a wonder food joyride end without anything sweet? So, on a sweet note, we opted for ‘Royal Ending’, which was a serving of Phirni Brule with Paan ice cream. What a delight it was, which forced us to lick off the spoon and click our tongue.

*Address: SCO 53, fourth floor, Sector 29, Gurgaon.
*Meal for two: Rs 1,200 plus taxes