Mumbai Food: Waffles taking centre stage at city's restaurant menus

Jackfruit Corn Waffle
Here, the rather sparingly used jackfruit is tossed in home-made barbecue sauce, and set atop a corn meal waffle. Goat cheese is added to cut through the tanginess, and caramelised onions for some sweetness. It is served with a side salad."We use seasonal produce and fruits for many dishes," says Clyde Comello, chef de cuisine. "Jackfruit being the fruit of the season, we introduced it in a dish with a savoury and sweet combination."
At: Theory, Kamala Mills, Lower Parel.
Call: 66666506
Cost: Rs 625

Crispy Khimchi and Fried Broccoli Waffle
Crispy khimchi and crunchy broccoli on tobanjan-spiced waffles, topped with wasabi-flavoured sour cream and an apple and fennel salad, make for a great combination. The taste is enhanced by horseradish mayo and a side of pickled cauliflower. "Most people associate waffles with breakfast. We wanted to bring out their versatility through our loaded savoury waffles," say head chefs Aagar Thite and Harish Devadkar.
At: Swey, Rooftop Atria Mall, Worli.
Call: 30151682
Cost: Rs 625

Waffles Croque Madame
A unique take on the classic French breakfast dish of Croque Madame, here a crispy-topped, fluffy-centered waffle is loaded with local ham, bechamel sauce, and finished off with a sunny side up egg. It is served up with home-made bacon jam. 'Nuff said! "The combination of this savoury waffle works well as it draws great flavours from ham and cheese," says Kaustubh Gujar, chef de partie.
At: The Pantry, Kalaghoda, Fort.
Call: 22678901
Cost: Rs 345

Duck and Waffle
This one is a clever take on the Southern American classic fried chicken and waffle combination, where the rather common chicken is eschewed in favour of the more game-y duck. So, what we have on hand is a citrus-spiced, slow-cooked pulled duck, nestled atop a fluffy, rocket leaf-lined waffle that comes drizzled with citrus sauce. This is then topped off with the de rigueur runny fried egg."Universally, the waffle is considered a dessert, but with chefs pushing classic dishes to innovate and educate people's palates and taste buds, the waffle has become a fun ingredient," shares executive chef Subhash Shirke.
At: Woodside Inn, Woodhouse Road, Colaba.
Call: 22025525
Cost: Rs 695

Spicy Jalapeno and Melted Queso Waffle
This all-veg preparation that comes topped with oodles of unctuous melted cheese is for those times when you want something savoury that still hints at a bit of sweet for a lazy Sunday brunch. For that added bite, you can also add some pico de gallo and salsa picante. "We like savoury waffles, so we had to have at least one on our menu," says head chef Sandeep Sonawane. "We went for a meatless option so that everyone can enjoy these waffles, but some regulars do ask for crispy bacon when they're looking for a more indulgent treat."
At: Jamjar Diner, Aram Nagar ll, Versova.
Call: 26358880
Cost: Rs 270

Savoury Pumpkin Waffle
This take on savoury waffles is a gluten-free one that's filled with roasted kabocha - commonly called Japanese pumpkin, a known aphrodisiac in many cultures - along with sage, caramelised onions and house-made tulsi yogurt. "Apart from having a chestnut-like texture and sweet potato-like taste profile, kabocha is high in beta carotene, iron, and Vitamin C. With a gluten-free base, you won't feel a drop of guilt as you enjoy this savoury waffle," shares chef Paul Kinny, culinary director.
At: 212 All Good, High Street Phoenix, Lower Parel.
Call: 62216020
Cost: Rs 425