Restaurant review: A fun supper with kids at Chili's

Chili's is a vivacious outpost of the American Tex-Mex chain where kids and adults both feel comfy and stuffed, equally

Chili's
Food: Tasty
Service: Bright/noisy
Ambiance: Decent

The Tex-Mex cuisine joint, Chili's Grill & Bar, had been on our radar for quite some time as we had heard that the restaurant has a selection of food, especially for kids. Towing two of my young 'uns into the restaurant, we got blasting music, low lighting and a couple of men drinking at the bar. Suddenly, I was unsure if this was the right thing to do.

The Smoked Shrimp Pasta wafted with wonderful aromas

Looking at the crowd on a workday evening, this seemed to be an after-work hangout place. But with reservations, we were ushered in. The waiter propped three menus: one for drinks, one for food and the kids had a colourful menu card handed to them. The children's menu was a six-pager which had nuggets of information and trivia to read, as well as games to play. Perfect to keep the kids busy and entertained.

The Cheese Pizza was a great bite for all

Their choice lied between Mac & Cheese (Rs 175), Veggie Burgers (Rs 145), Chicken Crispers (Rs 145), Chicken Sandwich (Rs 175), Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Rs 175), Paneer Bites (Rs 175) and Cheese Pizza (Rs 145), for the main course. These came with a variety of sides like Loaded Mashed Potatoes, Corn on the Cob, Seasonal Veggies, Home-style Fries, Black Beans and more (the side order was complimentary with the mains and were the healthy part of the child's meal. Your child can choose any one). Juices were complimentary and a Chock-A-Lot Shake (Rs 75) was what we asked for.

The Watermelon Margarita was mixed to maintain a fine balance

While the kids ordered, our server kept on bending down so that he was at the kids' level; it was a sweet gesture. They called for the Corn on the Cob and Homestyle Fries. The corn was golden, light and perfect. What can one say about Fries except that they are irresistible? The kids called for Kids Mac & Cheese and a Kids Cheese Pizza. They were very
well-made and I couldn't resist tucking in.

Drawing myself out, I now decided for the adults: a Watermelon Margarita (Rs 525), a Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas (Rs 475) and Pulled Chicken Corn Cakes (Rs 250). The Margarita was delicious while the baked Enchiladas filled with seasoned chicken, cheese and chopped herbs were melt-in-the-mouth good. The Chicken Corn Cakes were delicious and had sour cream sauce, feta cheese and pickled onions.

Our last order was the Smoked Shrimp Pasta (Rs 550) which had a spicy Alfredo sauce. We watched other tables being served Molten Chocolate Cake (Rs 195) — their version of sizzling brownie. We took a nibble. It was nothing extraordinary. The portions were American-sized and one dish could be shared by three people.

Though half-portions may be advisable, like with most things lipsmacking, Chili's is the place to hog.

At: Ventura, Hiranandani Business Park, Powai.
Call: 67419003/67419002
Chili's didn't know we were there. the guide reviews anonymously and pays for its meals.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!