The not-so-usual place

A new entrant in Navi Mumbai's restaurant scene, The Usual Place is full of charm and works like an oasis for those who want to step out of life in the fast lane

We braved a heavy downpour on a gloomy day to reach The Usual Place (TUP) for brunch, all the while hoping it would be more than the usual. The newest space in Navi Mumbai boasts of a relaxed café-like vibe, with an extensive drinks and food menu for company. French-style minimal décor with whitewashed chairs huddled neatly in a small space gives TUP an element of undone-ness. A well-stocked bar, French windows, a quaint-looking corner and a pool table are among the things lending TUP a rustic allure, a laid-back atmosphere. A ’90s playlist and the pouring rains only added to the charm.

To go with the weather we tried the Baileys Irish Cream Coffee (Rs 450) — a visually delightful drink with a hint of cinnamon sprinkled over and garnished with a sprig of mint. The creamy top layer perfectly balanced the warm bitter coffee, soothing the throat as it went down. For starters, the Chicken Olivettes (Rs 300) came with a generous sprinkling of olive oil and butter. The taste of chicken is subtle, and the black olive inside rescues the dish. Fries have a special place in the menu so we tried the Canadian French Fries (Rs 250) which turned out to be nothing spectacular, with fries tossed together in a brown gravy, bell peppers, cheese and salami pieces. We love easy fries, but for these you need a fork.

Next up was the Fungi Fritti (Rs 300), mushrooms filled with cheese and crispy fried, which turned out to be a good vegetarian option. To down these, the Red Wine Sangria (Rs 1,100 for a pitcher) and the mocktail Peachy Temptation (Rs 210) proved quite useful.

For the mains, the Pizza Pepperoni (Rs 480) and Bangers and Mash (300) were our undisputed choices. While the thin-crust pizza was a good balance of cheese, salami and olives, the overcooked sausages and mash was quite a disappointment. Our high expectations were only partly met, thanks to the dry potato mash (we prefer it creamier) and the (burnt) side dish of pickled cabbage, peaches and raisins.

We got over them, with the Warm Apple Crumble (Rs 270) which was presented well, with mango ice cream and brandy sauce. The light and not-too-sweet crumble was just the perfect ending to the meal.

Conversations flow easily at TUP. Without realising, we ended up spending nearly six hours there. Get there, sample the delicious fare before the charm wears out. Rating: ***1/2 Cost: Rs 2,500 for two Address: Shop No. 9 to 11, Queens Necklace Shopping Paradise, Sector 18, Sanpada, Navi Mumbai