12 May,2014 08:41 AM IST | | Hassan M Kamal
The newly opened Local Passenger, doesn’t get most things right on its food and drinks menu, along with an unnecessary dress code that could deter 'locals' even further
pub-cum-restaurant, Local Passenger
We first walked into Andheri's new pub-cum-restaurant, Local Passenger (LP) on a Monday night hoping to catch a few drinks before the last train. This wasn't to be. Their dress code prohibits entry of people without closed footwear or shorts; however, this rule is relaxed for women. Punctured (since we weren't wearing the desired footwear), we had to return, cursing this reverse sexism. We're fine with such rules being enforced in gymkhanas, but why a nightspot? Despite having enquired about the place before our arrival on two occasions, no dress code was mentioned to us.
The Mushroom Olive Crostini was the lone saving grace at Local Passenger
According to the manager, it's mentioned on their website, which was still under construction by the time this review went to press.
When we returned on a Wednesday night, the arrival wasn't pleasant. The staff made us change our seating several times; as it turned out, the best seats in the pub were reserved. We were offered a table under a big TV screen with two huge speakers, blasting forgettable music. Thus, we moved to a quieter corner.
We started with three of LP's special cocktails - Side Car (Rs 351) made with brandy, triple sec and lime juice, Havana Special (Rs 375) a concoction of rum and lime and pineapple juice, and Manhattan (Rs 325) prepared with a standard blended whisky, dry vermouth and a dash of angostura bitter - all major disappointments. Beer (Budweiser pint, '172) came to the rescue to quench our thirst.
For starters, we chose Lamb Chops with Rosemary Tomato Sauce (Rs 450) in which the meat was cooked unevenly. The Hungry Indian (Rs 405) was chicken drums doused in BBQ sauce but the Mushroom Olive Crostini (Rs 251) was the lone hit.
We gave the menu a final shot at redemption, with Spaghetti Bolognese (Rs 351). This was delicious but the portions were tiny, even for one person.
Our mood went downhill after seeing the bill; we were charged over Rs 1000 for taxes only, including 10% service charge. Overall, LP was this reviewer's worst experience. We'd suggest skipping the ride.
At Morya Landmark 1, off Link Road, opposite Infiniti Mall, Andheri (W).
Call 9167535306
Local Passenger didn't know we were there. the guide reviews anonymously and pays for its meals.
