A fusion feast

In the mood for some scrumptious Mediterranean flavours and not sure where to go to? Think no further than ‘Aioli Smokehouse BBQ & Grill’, which brings a whiff of the Mediterranean to Bengaluru.

The place, which has a vibrant setup with a homely feel, has delectable appetisers, salads, main course and desserts to choose from.

Anoop Verma, the owner of the restaurant says that the place aims to provide a fusion of flavours with a Mediterranean tinge. “Our cooking style is what makes the preparations unique — we cook over charcoal fire and don’t use gas at all,” he says.

Anoop, who was in the Merchant Navy earlier, has experienced all kinds of dishes, thanks to his job.

“This created in me an interest to serve unique items to Bengalureans. When I got an idea of the way Mediterranean dishes can be blended and offered, I decided to go ahead,” he says.

“No one customises the food the way we do.  Be it the level of spices or others
modifications, we do it,” he says.

From the appetisers to the dessert, the staff will explain  the options according to the customer’s palate.

According to Anoop, the popular picks at the restaurant include two salads — the ‘Avocado salad with lime dressing’ and ‘Salad Nicoise’. The salads are available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions where chicken or fish can be added.

Regarding appetisers, he says, “This section has interesting dishes like the ‘Spiced chicken wings’  which has  a smoky fragrance and exotic hot spices and ‘Humus with home-baked pita bread’. There is also the Turkish delight called ‘Sheesh Taouk’, which is marinated with garlic and herbs.”

The main course has options like ‘Herb and garlic lamb loin chops’ and ‘Barbecued lamb with Zatar and wine sauce’. These are good choices for a sumptuous experience.

“When it comes to seafood, we have a signature dish called ‘Grilled prawns in rosemary and olive oil’. This is served in a terracotta bowl with lots of virgin oil, rosemary and herbs. One should have it with garlic bread or pita bread,” he elaborates.

The ‘Barbecued pomfret’ also tops the list of favourites  among the regulars . The menu also includes some Italian options for the pasta and pizza lovers.

To conclude an elaborate meal with a sweet something, the menu has humble options in desserts. “Our ‘Peach malba’ and the ‘Tropical pineapple with honey and chocolate sauce’ are worth a try,” says Anoop.

The restaurant sees a mixed crowd. “Our regular customers include young couples, corporate professionals and senior citizens,” he vouches.

For those who like to sip on something while enjoying their meal, the place has some interesting mocktails, cocktails and options in wine.

“When it comes to the beverages, our staff is  always ready to guide the
customers,” says Anoop.

The restaurant is located at no 409, 1st Floor, 5th Main, HRBR Layout, Kalyan Nagar.