A treat for the taste buds

If you’ve attended college anywhere in Bangalore, ‘Popsies’ will definitely be a name that will make you sit up and smile. The Koramangala restaurant is located in the lane adjacent to Empire Hotel and offers delicious and soft momos that, as the name suggests, can be popped into the mouth and simply make your day.

It takes a while for the eyes to get used to the darkness of the place. But for a youngster, the Goan shack-like experience is a must if you’re missing the beach or just want some hot, cheap and tasty Chinese food.

“Our fast selling items are the Schezwan momos, soups, thukpas and manchow. There is no fixed time for us to do well or see a drop in business because it depends completely on college timings, especially that of those nearby,” says Sarabjeet Singh, the chef-cum-manager of the place.

In the vegetarian menu, one has the option of choosing steamed, fried, garlic, ginger, Szechwan or sesame and chilli-flake momos, each costing Rs 80 to 90. Non-vegetarians have the same options but in chicken, with each plate costing Rs 100.

Three kinds of sauces are offered with the momos — chilli, chilli bean and tomato, each flavouring the dishes subtly and differently. While the quality of the food is constant, it’s the ambiance and the psychedelic music that makes the place a hit with the college goers. “I like the fact that we cater to the youngsters and so, I haven’t raised the price of any item beyond Rs 120. I don’t want to appeal to a higher league,” explains Singh. “When families come here, they have their eyebrows raised. The kids don’t fuss. They come, order their usuals and leave.”

‘Popsies’ has been around for a decade and recently collaborated with Café Grind, also located in the area. While the basic menu is the same, it now offers coffees and Indianised Italian food. “We are still targeting the college bracket and what is working best for the café are the comics to read and the free wi-fi we provide,” laughs Singh.