Third Effingut Brewerkz Outlet in Kharadi

Popular brewpub Effingut Brewerkz has opened its third outlet in Kharadi. It shows promise of ‘acche din’ for all its fans and those interested.

The city always worked well on good chow and very good atmosphere. It seems that Kharadi is the new place to be with the eateries and interesting outlets. Effingut Brewerkz, a recent and not so recent brewpub to wow Pune, seems to be attracting the crowd well. After Koregaon Park and Baner, it has now opened up its third brewpub in Kharadi at the very happening World Trade Centre. Friday the 4^th of August was when it all happened and this wonderful space of freshly brewed beer attracted a lot of fans who want more this place. Now I have to confess – this is the first time I have visited any Effingut outlet.

But it was worth the wait. The freshly brewed beers were quite welcoming especially with friends around. I tried the Apple Cider beer and I would have sold my soul for its fresh taste. The starters like Crispy Vegetables, Jalapeno Cheese Poppers, Paneer Tikka, BBQ Chicken served its purpose well. Food was served later. There was nothing to complain as far as the food and drinks were concerned. Considering the popularity of the place, I did feel that a slightly larger place would have served the purpose especially if live event would be happening. The place is not small but would have worked with a little more than what it is.

Location-wise, it might seem far but since the crowd here is more IT and also other working crowd, chances of those interesting coming in might be more. But you can still easily come here with a big group and have a great time.

Keeping up with a tradition to serve the best, the launch saw stand-up comedy kings Atul Khatri, Sapan Verma and Angad Singh Ranyal of EIC charm their way into everyone’s hearts with a good dose of humour. They tickled everyone’s funnybones along with humorous picking on the audience. It was a certainly a win-win situation for those who attended this launch. The brewpub has a big task ahead of maintaining this tempo.

With making a stamp on the Punekars with quality freshly brewed beers, Effingut Brewerkz now is planning to go slightly big with next destination Mumbai and more pan India plans in future. One has clear hopes and bets placed on this winning horse.

Pune Events Listings

Here are the latest events happening in Pune. Choose the favourite for a great time…

MULTI-CULTURAL LUXURIOUS SPA RITUAL THIS SEASON 

@ JW MARRIOTT PUNE

JW Marriott Pune’s signature Quan Spa announces the launch of their monsoon-special indulgence package. It brings a mix of therapies with handpicked multi-cultural experiences to vitalize your mind and body called ‘The Indoceane Spa Ritual’. This luxurious four step relaxation journey at one of the biggest Quan spa in the country is sure to soothe your senses and transport you to a state of serenity. This carefully designed ritual of 150-minutes begins on a Mediterranean note with a sweet-savory body scrub. The second step is that of an Oriental body wrap, inspired from the land of China. Next, a traditional Indian oil massage from the land of Ayurveda helps you de-stress and relaxes every cell in your body. It ends with a rich & sensual milk bathing session, sure to transport you to back to ancient Egyptian ritual. Come experience this multi-cultural pampering journey at Quan Spa.

WHERE: Quan Spa, JW Marriott Pune, Senapati Bapat Road

DURATION: 2 Hrs 30 minutes

PRICING: Rs. 8,000 (Tax as applicable; Discount is not valid in conjunction with any other offer.)

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: Quan Spa +91 6683 2380/2376)

ENJOY COCKTAIL BLENDS FROM CAMPARI 

@ JW MARRIOTT PUNE

JW Marriott Pune invites you to the Negroni Week 2017 - an international week-long charity initiative. The Negroni week brings people together to celebrate the iconic Campari-based bittersweet classic cocktail; whilst raising money for some great charitable causes. The bittersweet classic cocktail phenomenon is a trend that transcended from its birthplace in Italy to the rest of the world, resulting in the international critical acclaim of the Negroni – the ultimate Campari-based, Italian, bittersweet classic cocktail. Join us to celebrate the iconic Campari-based bittersweet classic cocktail at the Negroni week. 

WHERE: Lobby Bar, Mi-A-Mi, Alto Vino and Paasha; JW Marriott Hotel Pune, Senapati Bapat Road 

WHEN: Till June 11, 2017

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: +91 98232 32373

FUN WITH CLAY 

@ ART2DAY GALLERY

Art2Day has organised unique terracotta workshop titled “FUN WITH CLAY” for anybody & everybody who wants to explore clay handling basic techniques. There’s nothing quite fulfilling than creating something with your own hands. Workshop will be taken by Dilip Thakar, a professional, who has been working in this medium for last 10 years. Participants will be trained on using hand building techniques like Slab Method, Pinch Method and Coil Method.​ Limited admission per batch.

WHERE: Art2Day Gallery, 805, The Reverie,  Above Skoda Showroom, Bhandarkar Road

WHEN: From June 10, 2017 Onwards; Two Weekends (Saturday - Sunday)

TIMING: 11 AM – 1 PM (2 Hours Per Day) 

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: 9822041899 (10 AM – 6 PM)

STREET FOOD FESTIVAL 

@ FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON PUNE

Step in for a heady mix of good times & good food as The Eatery recreates the ever delicious street food experience right here in its exquisite environs for you. Guess what? All lip smacking street foods right in the lap of Luxury. One can splurge on a Street food diet at the Eatery while enjoying an assortment of Pani Puri, Kathi Roll, Assorted Pakora and lots more. Satiate your Street food cravings. 

WHERE: The Eatery, Four Points by Sheraton Pune, Nagar Road

WHEN: June 10 – 17, 2017

TIMING: 7.30 PM Onwards

PRICING: Rs. 1050 + Taxes

SOUTH INDIAN CUISINE 

@ MOMO CAFÉ, COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT PUNE CHAKAN

South Indian food has always been popular in India for its various offerings. The chefs at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan will take you to the culinary zone of South as they prepare scrumptious dishes that you would not want to miss. It’s time to treat your taste buds with delicacies from the South Indian palette as Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan invites you for an exhilarating South Indian Food Festival – “Taste of South”. Through this festival, treat yourself to a plethora of authentic South Indian delicacies. Choose from an extensive menu featuring signature delicacies such as Malabar Paratha with Korma (Kerala style), Chepala Pulusu (Andhra Style Fish Curry), Mutton Chops Masala, Nandu Chettinadu (Chettinadu Crab), Vazhaipoovada (Banana Flower Fritters), Semiya Payasam (Vermicelli Kheer) spread across the buffet. So get ready for a ride through the exciting and varied cuisines of South India.

Where: MoMo Café, Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan

When: June 9 – 16, 2017

Timing: 12.30– 3.30 PM (Lunch); 7 – 10.45 PM (Dinner)

Pricing: Rs. 1000 + Taxes

NU-EDGE PERFORM LIVE 

@ WYNKK

Live, in the presence of all the action is how Rock is supposed to be heard and to give you that Nu-Edge is coming to Wynkk the Lounge & Bar this Saturday! The band consists of Lead Vocalist/Guitars Robie Wood , Lead Guitarist Swaroop Bhatra  & Drummer Kunal Rohit. All the members belong to different parts of India and came together for their common love & passion for music. The band is known for their outstanding performances of rock, reggae and Sufi. From the ballads of the 60’s, 70s Pop, Rock and Roll to some Classics Rock, from R.D Burman to A.R Rahman and Soulful Sufi they will be playing it all.  

amazing rocking experience, Pune’s Alternative Rock band

WHERE: WYNKK The Lounge, Symphony C, Ashok Nagar, Range Hills Road, Shivajinagar

WHEN: June 10, 2017

TIMING: 8 PM Onwards 

PRICING: Free Entry

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: 7030855224

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS FEAT. RAUSHAN VERMA 

@ KRUSTYS, KHARADI

Krustys Bistro & Bar brings “Friday Night Lights” only for Punekars in Kharadi. This Friday, we have Raushan Verma to keep you high on the music on “Friday Night Lights” evening. Raushan Verma is a versatile singer, songwriter and guitarist who’s performance ranges from Indian contemporary to Rock ‘n roll, classic rock, opera, and pop. His genre versatility and energy on stage will have you spell bound. In 2012 he recorded his first album “Centre of Origin”, which was released in March 2014. His influence have been R&B, Pop, Soul, Retro, Classic rock. So end your week on a happy note with chilled cocktail, fantastic European food, great company and awesome live music for the soul.

WHERE: Krustys Bistro & Bar, Kharadi

WHEN: June 9, 2017

TIMING: 9 PM Onwards

THE NEW SUPER HEALTHY FOODS MENU 

@ TGI FRIDAYS™

TGI Fridays, a global casual dining leader, has announced its new Super Foods menu. From May to July diners can enjoy a whole new menu packed with health and nutrition which is flavorful too. Super Foods like beans, broccoli, blueberries, salmon, spinach, tomatoes, walnuts and yogurt are powerful natural ingredients that are loaded with excellent nutritional benefits. The new Super Foods menu features appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts that are filled with nutritional multi-taskers to keep guests feeling healthy and fantastic. With the new Super Foods menu, coming to Fridays becomes delicious and Healthy too. As we all know, super heroes can never linger long in one place, so hurry in soon to try these limited time Super Foods. 

WHEN: May to July 2017,

WHERE: TGI Fridays is located at: 3rd Floor Seasons Mall, Magarpatta City, Hadapsar

TIMING: 12 Noon to 12 Midnight

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: 020-67237985/88 or visit www.tgifindia.com

INTERNATIONAL PHOTO CONTEST 

@ THE ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DE PUNE

The Alliance Française de Pune presents the annual “FASHION AND DRESS CODES” Photo Contest to show the extent and the wealth of heritage, of contemporary creativity, and of innovations all over the world. The theme is “La Mode et les Codes Vestimentaires” – “Fashion and Dress Codes”. Participation is free & open to all non-professional & semi-professional photographers aged 18 and above. The “Grand Prize Winner” will be invited to spend one week in Paris by the Fondation Alliance Française. Some photos submitted by the “Grand Prize Winner” and the “Finalists” will be exhibited in a group exhibition at a Parisian art space chosen by the Fondation Alliance Française and/or at the gallery of the Fondation. All participants from Pune will win gifts from the Alliance Française de Pune for their participation.

REGISTRATIONS OPEN: Until June 11, 2017

RULES & REGULATIONS: visit http://pune.afindia.org/events/fashion-and-dress-codes-photo-contest/  

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: email marketing.afpune@afindia.org or Call +91 020 25668001/2/3

For listings, email all details to sapnasarfarejournalist@gmail.com

Krustys – Now also in Kharadi

Krustys, a popular European bistro & bar has now opened another outlet in Kharadi. Sapna Sarfare reveals more about this new outlet.

The interiors of Krustys in Kharadi

Krustys has become popular European bistro & bar for Punekars for the last few years. Still in Kothrud, it has now opened on another outlet in Kharadi and has the look and feel of a fine dining in a bistro style atmosphere. This could be considering the crowd coming to Kharadi is now more up-market with big salaries & readiness to try. Of course, regular crowd too hang out here. When I entered Krustys at Kharadi for a blogger’s table, I found it had a generally relaxed setting with well-spaced tables.

Smoked 3 Pepper Cheese & Balsamic Onion Tortellini
with Cherry Tomatoes & Sage Beurre Noisette

Since it’s just launched, alcohol licenses are in process but will come in no time. Meanwhile, I sipped on the cool & delicately flavoured Pomegranate Iced Tea with hints of the fruit to set the mood.

Shepherd’s Pie

I love being cheesy (pun intended). I dug into the Chicken, Bacon & Cheddar Croquettes with Honey Mustard Dip which I call a pretty neat starter. The well fried Croquettes’ stuffing of chicken, bacon and cheddar created a mouthful of cheesy surprise. Being an okay fan of salads, I found the Watermelon Black Grape & Feta Salad (Candied Walnuts, Arugula, Romaine, Green Mango shavings and Passion Fruit Vinaigrette) to be pretty decent affair. Salads are something I rarely pick.

And then I discovered the Smoked 3 Pepper Cheese & Balsamic Onion Tortellini with Cherry Tomatoes & Sage Beurre Noisette. Buttery without being too buttery, the subtle dish lets you taste all ingredients without any crushing the other. The Philadelphia Cream Cheese & Buttered Onion Chicken Breast with Red Wine & Shallot Jus (Herb Mash Potatoes, Sautéed Vegetables) was a delight though I personally was more for the Tortellini dish and Croquettes. The cream cheese and buttered onion stuffed chicken was pretty low-key and went well in the jus, potatoes and veggies. The crowning glory of the main course was the Shepherd’s Pie which co-owner Rohhan Joshi said was something of a family recipe. Well-cooked mashed potato crust with mildly spicy meat gravy below… just drive the worst mood away.

Madagascar Vanilla Panna Cotta
with 3 Berry & Blood Orange Coulis 

Krustys is known also for its equally delicious desserts. Though decent, the Madagascar Vanilla Panna Cotta with 3 Berry & Blood Orange Coulis just did not add up for my tastebuds. But I fell in love with the Centre-filled Apricot & Coconut Mousse Dacquoise. Rightly sweet, this dessert cake had apricot centre and coconut combination which made the mousse just heavenly. You have to eat it to believe it.

Krustys from outside

Overall, Krustys in its rather lush (yet comfy) premise has the right attitude towards food and offers a twist without losing the taste. It’s classy yet massy. Check in here if you happen to be in Kharadi.

ADDRESS: Ground Floor, City Hub - Tower 3, World Trade Center, Kharadi, Pune

FOR BOOKING & MORE, CONTACT: 020 30162209

TIMING:  12.30 – 11 PM

MEAL FOR TWO: Rs 1, 400 approx. with service charges extra

Pune Events Listings

Here are the latest events happening in Pune. Choose the favourite for a great time…

BEAT THE WEEKDAY BLUES @ INCOSIA’S EXPRESS LUNCH MENU

Weekdays got you down? Lift your spirits with INCOSIA’s delicious & elaborate Four Course Express Lunch Menu. Enjoy a wide array of choices that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face at just Rs.299! If all this is not enough, you can always add a pint of domestic beer to that meal for just Rs.99. 

WHAT: INCOSIA Express Lunch Menu

WHERE: INCOSIA, Bavdhan

WHEN: Monday-Friday 

TIMING: 12 NOON – 3 PM

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: +91 8806916619

ENJOY NEW MENU @ LEVEL 12 DOUBLETREE BY HILTON PUNE-CHINCHWAD 

The Roof- top Resto Lounge Level 12 is now open for all the food lovers in the city. The stunning panoramic view is a favorite among those who also enjoy scrumptious North Indian & Frontier cuisine. The new menu promises to rustle up delicious food that is different from the earlier menu. The restaurant also conducts theme nights every second & fourth Friday of the month.

WHERE: Level 12, DoubleTree By Hilton Pune - Chinchwad

WHEN: Daily

TIMING: 7 PM Onward

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: 020 67313333

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS @ LITTLE NEXT DOOR KALYANI NAGAR

The Little Next Door Kalyani Nagar is celebrating their 2^nd birthday in Pune and are all geared up for celebration. Join them for their party as they roll free shots every hour. Get bar menu with store prices and enjoy some delicious Mediterranean fare with Indian twist.

WHERE: The Little Next Door, Kalyani Nagar

WHEN: November 18, 2016

TIMING: 5pm Onward

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE WITH JOINT VENTURE @ BOTTLEROCK PASHAN

Joint Venture, formed by Keith Castelino in 2013, is a grunge rock band, based in Pune, India. His music is an expression of his life, the stories he has lived and the memories he created. Staying true to the meaning of his songs, his purpose, his dreams and what drives him, is what Joint Venture is.

WHERE: Bottlerock – Restaurant and Bar, Plot No 106, Vardayani Society, Sus Road, Pashan

WHEN: November 18, 2016

TIMING: 7 PM Onwards

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: 020 69701177 / +91 9168413139

MUSIC SESSIONS WITH DJ YUNG MADDY & VDJ CAS @ SIN ENVY PRIDE

Music Sessions is a concept synonymous for club nights, curating the best music from around the world lasting an entire season. Its major focus is to promote various genres of music ranging from House, Techno, Electro, Electronica and Pop-Rock to Classic Fusion. In the first session, the music being curated is HIP-HOP featuring DJ Yung Maddy & VDJ Cas at Sin Envy Pride. 

WHERE: Sin Envy Pride, Kapila Matrix, Koregaon Park Annex, Mundhwa

WHEN: Friday, 18th November 2016

TIMING:  9 pm onwards

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:  +91 7350502727 / 7588255098 

JAZZ WORKSHOP BY KAMAKSHI SAXENA @ THE DANCE FLOOR PUNE

Jazz, a popular & well-known form of dance includes strength, flexibility and conditioning and progressions including turns, kicks and leaps. The jazz workshop will conclude with a fun & energetic choreography. Dance artist Kamakshi Saxena has trained at the Alvin Ailey School, New York and The DanceWorx, New Delhi and has performed extensively in India and abroad. PHOTO CREDIT: www.vimbly.com 

technique

WHERE: The Dance Floor Pune Camp

WHEN: For Adults – November 18, 2016; For Kids – November 20, 2016

TIMING: Adults – 8.30 – 10.30 PM; Kids – 5 – 7 PM

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: 9822536789, 8983508551

AZU – THE NEWEST ROOFTOP AL FRESCO RESTAURANT 

@ THE FERN RESIDENCY MIDC

The Fern Residency MIDC Pune at Bhosari recently opened their rooftop al fresco dining restaurant, AZU – Food Drink Music which has an amazing panoramic skyline of the city. Equipped with a well-stocked bar, live music & casual dining, the 100 seater contemporary open air global cuisine restaurant has food & drinks carefully handpicked for young clientele. Largely a la carte menu, you get subtle morsels of tasty appetizers neatly portioned, apart from dishes compiled after careful research. The small plates’ concept for each course will let you experience a number of dishes. The Entrees will be pre-plated or one-pot meals. Purdah Biryani will be a prominent addition here.  

WHERE: The Fern Residency MIDC Pune, BGP 10/14 & 10/15, BG BLOCK MIDC, Bhosari

TIMING: 7 – 11 PM

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: Rajib Das – +91 20 30793079

CONCERT OF SITARIST SAMEEP KULKARNI & VOCALIST SANIYA PATANKAR

Head for the 758^th solo & Jugalbandi concert of real brother & sister duo Sameep Kulkarni & Saniya Patankar. Sameep is a renowned Sitar player whilst Saniya is also a known vocalist. 

WHERE: Shri Krishna Dhyan Mandir, Bhakti Marg, Off Law College Road

WHEN: 26 November, 2016

TIMING: 6 – 8 PM

PRICING: Entry Free for All

For listings, email all details to sapnasarfarejournalist@gmail.com

Pune Events Listings

Here are the latest events happening in Pune. Choose your favourite for a great time…

UPSOUTH EXPRESS – THE NEW SOUTH INDIAN QSR DESTINATION @ CAMP

Rejoice as the popular chain of South Indian cuisine, UpSouth, launched its fourth outlet at Camp called UpSouth Express. 

This no-frills, stand & eat outlet offers authentic & delicious vegetarian South Indian food at lightning speed service. Perfect for those in a hurry! 

WHERE: UpSouth Express, Sachapir Street, Opp. Karachi Sweet Mart, Camp

​​EXHIBITION OF MINIATURE WORKING MODELS OF TRAINS

Railway enthusiast Suhas Dixit is back with his 50th exhibition of working miniature models of

various trains that operates in India including the famous Deccan Queen. It will display the miniature model of Japanese Bullet Train and a documentary film on Indian Railways. The objective behind organizing this exhibition is to create awareness & generate interest about railways and their working in children.

WHERE: Dikshit Paramdham, 281, Narayan Peth, Kelkar Road

WHEN: November 4-8, 2016

TIMING: 5 – 9 PM (Duration of Each Show: 15 Minutes)

PRICING: Rs. 30 Per Head

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: Suhas Dixit @ 099233 67387

THE GRAND HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY @ HYATT REGENCY PUNE

Gear up for a super spooky Saturday night at Hyatt Regency Pune. Don your wildest outfits & head to Single Malt & Co. for a ghoulishly good time as Hyatt Regency Pune presents The Grand Halloween Costume Party. 

See thrilling performances, exciting offers, delicious food and foot-tapping music! What are you waiting for? Be the scariest best this Saturday and have a great time scaring others and getting scared too.

WHERE: Single Malt & Co., Hyatt Regency Pune, Nagar Road

WHEN: November 5, 2016

TIMING: 8.30 PM Onwards

CONTACT: 7875440414

AWARD-WINNING PIANIST JULIAN CLEF MAKES DEBUT @ MAZDA HALL

Kerala boy Julian Clef – a gold medal at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester – will make his debut at Mazda Hall. He has been selected by celebrated pianist Sir András Schiff to perform in his series in iconic venues such as  92nd Street Y in New York, Palais des Beaux-Arts Brussels, Tonhalle Zürich and across Germany in Frankfurt, Berlin and Düsseldorf.

WHERE: Mazda Hall, Dastur Primary School, Opp. Ladies Club, Camp

WHEN: November 4, 2016

TIMING: 7 PM

PRICING: Entry Free

SEAFOOD FESTIVAL @ JAI MAHARASHTRA

Enjoy “Authentic Maharashtrian Seafood” with Jai Maharashtra – Wadyawarla Jevan Seafood Festival with dishes like Surmai Tawa, Bombil Fry, Crab Tawa, Squid Butter Garlic, Fish Platter, Kombadi Wade, Malwani curry, Mumbai Masala, etc. Relish with fresh chapattis or warm bhakris and nice cold Solkadi.

 WHERE: Jai Maharashtra Wadyavarla Jevan, Undri, Kadnagar, Near Bishop School

WHEN: Ongoing

TIMING: 12.30-3.30 PM & 7-11.30 PM

CONTACT: 8698412020 / 8806920909

DJ SMITZ @ TEDDY BOY

Paint the town red with DJ Smitz who will guide the social atmosphere to the next level with her versatility and unique sound. Don’t miss her play at the newly launched Teddy Boy this Saturday.

WHERE: Teddy Boy, Baner

WHEN: November 5, 2016

TIMING: 8 PM Onwards

 FOR LISTINGS, EMAIL ALL DETAILS TO SAPNASARFAREJOURNALIST@GMAIL.COM

Truffle Food Festival at Bene

 Truffle lovers can visit Bene, the newly launched Italian restaurant at Le Meridien Pune where the truffle festival is on till October 15. Be delighted with Italian food with a touch of truffle.  

Tagliatelle with Prawns and Truffle

How many of us are really aware of truffles? Not many! That is where the Italian restaurant Bene belonging to Le Meridien Pune (soon to be Sheraton Grand) comes in the picture. They are holding the Truffle Festival where truffle expert Silvia Landucci has come to remove any truffle confusion. Her family-owned company Boscovivo has been dealing with truffles for quite some time. The newly launched restaurant is also holding a food festival where Chef Roberto Boggio will create Italian truffle dishes as an ingredient till October 15 in the evening from 7.30-11.30 PM.

Zuppa Di Patate E Porri

Silvia reveals that there are around 5 different & major kinds of truffles to be found in Italy. Considered to be god’s gift, the valuable truffles were gifted as a mark of peace. “Prices keep fluctuating daily and can start from as much as 6000 Euros.” While the black truffle has a long season and has a huge harvest, it is the white truffle which is quite famous. Most restaurants depend on Carpaccio or thin slices due to the expensive rates.

Silvia adds, “Truffle is an acquired taste. It is quite a different product in terms of growth. You cannot grow in polluted land. Although some truffles can be grown in the mountainous areas of Italy, it can be mostly found in the other areas.” It takes around 5-7 years for a truffle to grow once found. Interestingly, the biggest truffle found in the world was in the region of Tuscany.

Pollo Arrosto Al Tarufo

Each truffle is a different story. They work best when paired only with the best ingredients. She

suggests, “Try using it with ingredients that can absorb its essence. Always combine it with fat as it absorbs the truffle’s taste. You can try it with eggs & rice. Risotto is also a good example. After making a dish, you can then store it.” Fish like salmon also works well.

Pesche Al Forno

Now that the truffle information is absorbed, we go over to the food festival served by Chef Roberto. His Italian delights with truffle truly are enjoyable. The antipasti - Tagliatelle with Prawns and Truffle – had a slight truffle touch to it which was quite delightful and not at all overwhelming. That was a good sign as truffles can have that tendency. Well-cooked Tagliatelle was slightly spiced with herbs & prawns were cooked to perfection. The soup – Zuppa Di Patate E Porri – was a winner. Smooth was the taste of potato & leeks and the truffle oil when mixed with the soup added to the smoothness. It was somewhere between filling and lightness. The main course was the well-made roast chicken with truffles called Pollo Arrosto Al Tarufo. Simple was the word for this dish. I ended the meal with the master touch – a dessert called Pesche Al Forno – a chocolate peach dessert. Chocolate was baked with peach and topped with custard. I was in seventh heaven with each bite of this melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. The dishes were paired well with Sula wines.

The set menu has the price for the main course while you get to select dish each from the antipasti, soup, salad and dessert. So, get your 5 course meal at the price of one. A perfect deal! Visit the Truffle Festival created by Chef Roberto Boggio at the newly launched Italian restaurant Bene at Le Meridien Pune (soon to be Sheraton Grand). Visit till October 15 in the evening from 7.30-11.30 PM. 

Truffle Food Festival at Bene, Le Meridien Pune

 Truffle lovers can visit Bene, the newly launched Italian restaurant at Le Meridien Pune where the truffle festival is on till October 15. Be delighted with Italian food with a touch of truffle.  

Tagliatelle with Prawns and Truffle

How many of us are really aware of truffles? Not many! That is where the Italian restaurant Bene belonging to Le Meridien Pune (soon to be Sheraton Grand) comes in the picture. They are holding the Truffle Festival where truffle expert Silvia Landucci has come to remove any truffle confusion. Her family-owned company Boscovivo has been dealing with truffles for quite some time. The newly launched restaurant is also holding a food festival where Chef Roberto Boggio will create Italian truffle dishes as an ingredient till October 15 in the evening from 7.30-11.30 PM.

Zuppa Di Patate E Porri

Silvia reveals that there are around 5 different & major kinds of truffles to be found in Italy. Considered to be god’s gift, the valuable truffles were gifted as a mark of peace. “Prices keep fluctuating daily and can start from as much as 6000 Euros.” While the black truffle has a long season and has a huge harvest, it is the white truffle which is quite famous. Most restaurants depend on Carpaccio or thin slices due to the expensive rates.

Silvia adds, “Truffle is an acquired taste. It is quite a different product in terms of growth. You cannot grow in polluted land. Although some truffles can be grown in the mountainous areas of Italy, it can be mostly found in the other areas.” It takes around 5-7 years for a truffle to grow once found. Interestingly, the biggest truffle found in the world was in the region of Tuscany.

Pollo Arrosto Al Tarufo

Each truffle is a different story. They work best when paired only with the best ingredients. She

suggests, “Try using it with ingredients that can absorb its essence. Always combine it with fat as it absorbs the truffle’s taste. You can try it with eggs & rice. Risotto is also a good example. After making a dish, you can then store it.” Fish like salmon also works well.

Pesche Al Forno

Now that the truffle information is absorbed, we go over to the food festival served by Chef Roberto. His Italian delights with truffle truly are enjoyable. The antipasti - Tagliatelle with Prawns and Truffle – had a slight truffle touch to it which was quite delightful and not at all overwhelming. That was a good sign as truffles can have that tendency. Well-cooked Tagliatelle was slightly spiced with herbs & prawns were cooked to perfection. The soup – Zuppa Di Patate E Porri – was a winner. Smooth was the taste of potato & leeks and the truffle oil when mixed with the soup added to the smoothness. It was somewhere between filling and lightness. The main course was the well-made roast chicken with truffles called Pollo Arrosto Al Tarufo. Simple was the word for this dish. I ended the meal with the master touch – a dessert called Pesche Al Forno – a chocolate peach dessert. Chocolate was baked with peach and topped with custard. I was in seventh heaven with each bite of this melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. The dishes were paired well with Sula wines.

The set menu has the price for the main course while you get to select dish each from the antipasti, soup, salad and dessert. So, get your 5 course meal at the price of one. A perfect deal! Visit the Truffle Festival created by Chef Roberto Boggio at the newly launched Italian restaurant Bene at Le Meridien Pune (soon to be Sheraton Grand). Visit till October 15 in the evening from 7.30-11.30 PM. 

Chakhna & Fine Dining

Try the Chakhna food option at Punjab Grill at Phoenix Market City, Viman Nagar if you want to go beyond its fine dining experience and have a budget to lookout for.

Terrace of Punjab Grill

Adding something extra is always welcome, especially when it comes to good food. Punjab Grill which happens to be a known & well-liked gourmet fine dining restaurant has been wowing Punekars as it was recently launched at Phoenix Market City, Viman Nagar. Apart from catering to fine diners looking for some fantastic Northern food delights, the eatery has recently launched their terrace for a more casual dining experience with food options of its own. Punjab Grill belongs to the house of Lite Bite Foods.

As mentioned before, the terrace has casualness attached to it with casual sitting and soft music being played. The food is quintessentially North Indian with drinks similar to it. The food launched by the brand is the new ‘Chakhna’ menu which goes with the whole mood along with starting price of Rs. 100. The chow ranges from quirky desi-videshi combo drinks to total Desi Chakhnas & snacks.

Tandoori Kukkad Wings 

In the Rs. 100 options, your options are very typical but interesting. You have the Classic Masala Peanuts Kaffir Lime Scented, Mixed Seeds Chana Zor Garam, Chhalli Masalewali Corn on the Cobs and Masala Ande Corn Meal Toast. While all tasted good, the Mixed Seeds Chana Zor Garam was perfectly spiced and tangy for my taste while the Masala Ande was just like one like and went well with the Corn Meal Toast. Chakhna never got better. The beverages for Rs. 100 were Kingfisher Draught Beer Mug, Blender’s Pride, Smirnoff Vodka, White Rum, Dark Rum and Gin. Pick your poison for a lovely evening.

Then, I tried the main North Indian bite sized meals to spice up the evening. I loved the spicy flavour which enhanced the sweetness of pineapple in the Tandoori Pineapple with Shashlik (Rs. 250). I found the Paneer Ke Soole (Rs. 250) like any paneer starter – not bad, but nothing great either. Vegetarian or not, everyone has to try the Chukandar Ke Kebab (Rs. 250) which is delicately flavoured Beetroot kebab with yoghurt filling. This melt-in-your-mouth kebab allows every individual ingredient to wow you.

Ambarsari Macchi Desi Aloo Chips 

For the non-vegetarians, the options would be more and equally good. Try the Chicken 3 Ways (Rs. 300) which had Haryali Kebab, Malai Kebab and Tandoori Chicken. All well, the Chicken Haryali Kebab had the green Masala well prepared & applied. I loved the slightly spicy with a hint of honey (I presume) on the Tandoori Kukkad Wings (Rs. 300). Though prepared well and with not too overwhelming spices, the Kotkapure Da Atta Chicken (Rs. 300) was not my cup of tea. For the uninitiated, it is chicken cooked inside an atta or flour coating and then broken open. The Ambarsari Macchi Desi Aloo Chips (Rs. 400) again was typically spiced fish pick-me-ups which would have been better with less salt. It went well with the aloo chips.

Seating Arrangements

Everyone on the table agreed on the beverages or special cocktails being quite an agreeing factor the delicacies. The Nimboo Ka Achaar Caipiroska (Rs. 350) is the piece-de-resistance. The tangy spiciness of the pickle added a unique charm to the vodka cocktail. The Bloody Mary (Rs. 350) was a bloody good Bloody Mary with a strong hint of curry leaves. Those who love their usual dose of JD & Coke can go for Matka Jack (Rs. 650). There is also Punjabi Krantt (Rs. 350) and Dangar Dose (Rs. 400).

Overall, the slightly hatke experience of eating snacky bite size food was good. It was couple with live music on the day I visited. Some might feel to question to need to visit a rather fine diner for Chakhna. But what matters here are well-prepared food and a fantastic complete experience for an enjoyable evening. Punjab Grill can definitely be that option for those with budget.

Venue: Punjab Grill, Level 2, Phoenix Market City, Viman Nagar

Contact: 020 66890610 

Pune Event Listings

Here are the latest events happening in Pune. Choose your favourite for a great time…

KARAOKE SINGING WORKSHOP @ ISHANYA

Ishanya brings to you a chance to master the art of singing with a “Karaoke Singing Workshop”. Master the finer nuances of karaoke at the workshop conducted by Saregamma Music Institute at Ishanya. 

WHEN: April 17 2016

WHERE: Ishanya, Off Airport Road

TIMING:  6 PM Onwards

FOR DETAILS & REGISTRATIONS, CONTACT: 020 4000 4026/ 9890622320

GOAN FOOD MASTERCLASS @ HYATT PUNE KALYANI NAGAR

Revel in the Goan spirit in Hyatt Pune Kalyani Nagar at the Goan Food Festival Masterclass with guest Master Chef Tanuja. Whip up the delicious Goan delights as the chef opens up her Pandora’s Box of authentic secret Goan ingredients.

WHERE: Eighty Eight, Hyatt Pune Kalyani Nagar

WHEN: 16th April 2016

TIMING: 3 pm – 6 pm

COST:  Rs. 1000 (All Inclusive)

FOR RESERVATIONS, CONTACT:  20 41411234 / + 91 7798889653

A BONE CHILLING EXPERIENCE AT LOST THE PLOT

Terror! Fear! Horror! If these words tingle your nerves, then wait no further as Lost the Plot is preparing for a haunted weekend with the cult classic, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, A Tale of Two Sister and 1408. Why wait for Halloween when Lost the Plot can terrify you in the in the middle of April?

WHEN: April 16-17 

WHERE: Lost the Plot, Seasons Hotel, Aundh

COST: Rs. 300 per screening

FOR BOOKINGS, CONTACT: 8308174419 or email @ info@losttheplot.in  or http://in.bookmyshow.com/pune/events

ARTIST WORKSHOP FOR KIDS @ FORENNTE

The MUSE at Forennte presents a workshop for kids to learn techniques and new methods to express

themselves. Enroll them in a two-day workshop at the guidance of artist Parinita Goenka.

WHEN: April 16-17 2016

WHEN: The MUSE, Forennte, Shop Nos. 1 & 2, Princeton Flair, Lane No. 8, Koregaon Park

TIMING: 11 AM – 1 PM (Batch 1); 3.30 PM – 5.30 p PM (Batch 2)

AGE: 8-12 Years

COST: Rs. 2,650

CONTACT: Ritika @ 09881222495

CATCH THE IPL FEVER AT EVVIVA SKY LOUNGE

Enjoy the IPL this season at the open air bar Evviva Sky Lounge at Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre, courtesy a string of packages and offers on food & beverages. Wear the jersey of your favorite team on the day of their match and avail exciting offers with cricket themed cocktails and mocktails.  

WHEN: 11th April Onwards 2016

WHERE: Evviva Sky Lounge, Courtyard by Marriott Pune, City Centre, Bund Garden Road

CONTACT: 07620664652

PAINTING EXHIBITION @ BLISS ART GALLERY

An exhibition of exclusive paintings “Celebrating the Colours of Divinity” by artist Sanjukta Arun is

at Bliss Art Gallery. This series reveals her unusual visual language of artistic expression through the apt use of colors, mediums & textures.

WHEN: April 17 – 6 May 2016

WHERE: Bliss Art Gallery, Lane E, North Main Road, Koregaon Park

TIMING: 9 AM to 6 PM

CONTACT: 09769323888