There is something about a slight nip in the air that induces our appetites a lot more than usual. It is definitely a time when one wants to feast. So when the cutesy Smoke House Deli unveiled their winter menu, I had to try. Being a big fan of Impresario restaurants, I expected a lot from SHD and thankfully, it didn’t disappoint.
The ground floor interiors of the restaurant are pretty in hints of pinks and floral print classic lampshades. The first floor is more communal and perfect for larger groups while the prettiest and the best decor, hands down is on the second floor. The lavish sofa, wooden flooring and classic wooden table compliment each other very well. It is easily one of the most Instagram-worthy restaurants of the city.
Soaking in the swish ambience, I couldn’t wait to try the food. We started with the classic French Onion Soup. The caramelised onion broth with gruyere crouton was like a warm hug on a chilly winter night. The winter menu doesn’t have options for starters so it was time for mains. We started off with the Shepherd’s Pie. The baked lamb pie comprising carrots, peas topped with mashed potatoes is everything to rave about. It got gently scooped out by our spoons and melted in our mouths so fast, we had to keep digging in.
Next was the Chicken Cordon Bleu. The fried chicken stuffed with chicken ham and gruyere cheese was a definitely standout and disappeared faster than other dishes. Another recommendation would be the Bouillabaise with provencal fish stew made with prawns, mussels, clams, rawas in a saffron- tomato base. Its contents are intense and inventively addictive. The last in our mains was Mushroom Stroganoff + Wild Rice Pilaf. The mushroom cooked in brown gravy, with pleasing stuffing of cream and gherkins was served with parsley wild rice. In spite of being a medley of simple flavours, it wowed my taste-buds and how!
The dessert options seemed equally promising as the mains. Our first dessert was the Strawberry + White Chocolate Mille Feuille. The puff pastry with layers of white chocolate cream and strawberries is an indulging treat for strawberry fans. To our delight, we were also served the gold ol’ Black Forest Torte. A shout-out to the chocolate cake layered with cream and cherries for its indulgent, generous nostalgia it triggered in us.
We ended the meal with the Philly Cheesecake which wasn’t a part of the winter menu but being the cheese-cake lovers we are, we had to try it. The soft, light consistency of the cake ensured a warm, comforting familiarity with each bite. A generous sliver of blueberry compote added a pleasant flavour to the party in our mouths.
The end of the winter menu tasting, had us rubbing our bellies with one of the most content smile ever. Apart from the food and décor, the service needs to be credited for shining through, despite a full house. The winter menu came across as fuss-free food, that’s taken skill and imagination to prepare. For culinary magic that shines through every bite, a winter feast here shouldn’t be missed!
Note: The critic was invited by the restaurant but all the opinions expressed herewith are her own
Address: Smoke House Deli
Clove At 33rd Road, B. R. Ambedkar Road,
Pali Hill, Bandra West
Phone: 022 65287800
Average Cost: ₹1,400 for two people (approx.)
