This hot Mumbai afternoon had us looking for a cool place with a cool list of drinks on offer. I needed a refreshing mocktail to rejuvenate myself. So, that had us heading to Knotty Yard – Powai.
Early afternoon made it easy to find a parking space infront of the restaurant building. The restaurant itself is on the first floor.
The moment you enter, you can’t help but notice the bar at the opposite end and the massive TV tuned to the sports channel telecasting IPL. The restaurant is size ‘L’. Good seating arrangement. There are three massive U-shaped sofas for the big groups, opposite to that are the regular sofa and chair arrangements and in the middle are the high barstools with tables. The place has a good vibe. By the time we were leaving it had started to fill up and the chitter-chatter and laughter had made the place come alive. I can only imagine how noisy and fun-filled the popular Bollywood Nights with DJ Azim must be.
So far so good. We took a corner table. Our server was Chand and he was wonderful. He had a smile on his face the entire time, popped up at our table regularly to serve our food and check if we needed anything else, got an extra portion of raita when we ordered biryani (it was the thoughtfulness of the gesture that was so sweet) and then got us complimentary dessert. His attentiveness and the desire for us to have a good experience was endearing. By the time we left our belly was full of good food and heart full of a good experience.
Ok, now to the main part, the food.
We ordered, on Chand’s recommendation, Tandoori Techa Chicken. It was yummy, juicy and tender. Though I am not a fan of white or yellow marination, this Techa chicken turned out to be great.
Then there was Chicken Tikka Biryani. Aromatic and the way I like it, not too wet and not too dry.
The fries were good. Hot and salted and crispy.
I had a virgin Painkiller (for some that in itself might me painful, lol). On that hot day it was refreshing. But not to worry, they have a well-stocked bar and an extensive bar menu.
And last but not the least was the dessert, Caramel Custard. It was a tad bit dense but the taste was good.
Knotty Yard, is definitely a must visit. And I am sure in the evenings it is a hip and happening place for good food and drinks.
And if you are in Bandra, you can check out Monkey Bar for an eclectic mix of Indian, Chinese, Continental cuisine and fast food or The Bagel Shop for some bagel sandwiches and continental fare.
