01 August,2016 08:36 AM IST | | Dipanjan Sinha
Cafe Trofima scores high on taste and choice in a comfy ambience
Black Pepper Chicken
Cafe Trofima
Food: Good
Service: Quick
Ambience: Cosy
When we mentioned name of a new eatery at Shivaji Park, a colleague warned about the area throwing up "mostly flops." So, when we headed to Cafe Trofima, our hopes were not too high. After all, every new place starts in the area because something else has shut.
Also read: Shivaji Park's Open House Cafe and Bar is the perfect hangout
Black Pepper Chicken
We found the place inviting with glass walls, offering a fine view of the busy road outside. Settling down, we decided to order from across the fairly vast menu comprising continental fare. As we discovered during the meal, the menu offered VFM options, going by the generous portions.
Chicken Pepperoni Sandwich
The enticing breakfast options like eggs Benedict (Rs 215) and Lamb Ghotala Pao (Rs 175) were unavailable as they are only served from 8 am to 11.30 am. So, we kicked things off with the Lamb Cheddar Kebabs (Rs 275). The kebabs, which came dressed in cheese, were high on taste but low on tenderness; a bit too chewy. Thankfully, midway through dealing with the kebabs, the Pepperoni Grilled Sandwich (chicken; Rs 315) and the Mixed Bean and Corn Burger (Rs 270) arrived. The sandwich, accompanied with French Fries, was a hit with the layers of vegetables and meat melting in the mouth with a rich flavour of chicken pepperoni. A topping of tortilla crumbs added a nice crunch to the chunky burger, which was polished off. Meanwhile, the Chilli Garlic Potato Wedges (Rs 75) were picked and devoured in a jiffy.
The cosy interiors of Cafe Trofima
Generously spiced with garlic and paprika, the wedges were deep-fried yet non-greasy and light. By the time the table was cleared off the first orders, the main course arrived. We had picked Black Pepper and Chilly Rubbed Chicken (Rs 325). The peppery chicken was accompanied with spinach leaves and mashed potato. However, the chicken slices could have been a little more tender.
Though full, we couldn't leave without trying out a Freakshake, which was part of the cafe's dessert menu. We called for Freaky Snickers (Rs 280), a giant mug of creamy explosion featuring salted caramelised nuts, coloured and sprinkled candy and choco shots; a blast in short. And it lived up to it. Though at some sips, it did feel a little too sugary; possibly one ultra sweet ingredient short, and the drink would be at the perfect pitch.