MasalaCraft, the popular Bandra restaurant, makes an impressive debut in the central suburbs
MasalaCraft, the popular Bandra restaurant, makes an impressive debut in the central suburbs
Thane is known for its many small eateries that offer fresh but basic, home-cooked food for the commuter-on-the go. The tiny places that offer Maharashtrian fare are quite popular with the local folks.
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A good, North Indian restaurant, however, isn't easy to find. So, when MasalaCraft s The Indian Kitchen, opened its doors recently we were only too eager to try it out.
The restaurant is in the thick of the bustling residential area in Thane-West. That's one reason why they don't serve alcohol at this branch, the waiter informs us.
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The interiors are spacious and is divided into the open air and air-conditioned section. We didn't see any fans in the open-air section, and refusing to sweat it out for a meal, we decided to find a table in the cooler section.
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The place was practically empty for a middle-of-the-week visit, making us wonder if the food was keeping people away.
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The waiter tried to assuage our fears, while handing over the menu and cranking up the volume on a Celine Dion playlist.
We chose the Murgh Ke Sholay (Rs 120), which promised to be spicy, and Karara Palak Chaat (Rs 80) for starters.
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The chicken starter was soft and marinated really well, yet the masala didn't overwhelm, working in its favour.
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The Palak Chaat was oily but definitely worth a try if you are in the mood to experiment. For the main course, the waiter recommended Paneer Lababdar (Rs 145) and Murgh Lahori (Rs 145).
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The paneer was creamy, just like it should be in a North Indian dish and the succulent chicken complimented the rich gravy.
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We tried a Lal Mirch Ka Paratha (Rs 25) with the gravy. As its name suggests, the paratha was fiery, not recommended for the faint-hearted.
By the end of our meal, all our fears about being the lone diners were taken care of. Thaneites should check this place out.
AT: Next to Kopat ST Bus Stand, near Akruti SMC, Pokhran Road, Thane (W).
TIMINGS: 12 noon to 4 pm, 7 pm to 12.30 am
Call: 25340555 / 25360555
MasalaCraft didn't know we were there. The GUIDE reviews anonymously and pays for meals.
