Desi Deli: More than just subs

Despite being a tiny, hole-in-the-wall, Desi Deli in Bandra has never disappointed with its delicious subway sandwiches and cosy tables with little tin buckets of flowers. So, when we heard that a new branch in Andheri had opened up, we decided to check it out. Much bigger than the Bandra branch, the restaurant still managed to hold on to its warm, welcoming vibe with fairy lights strung along the walls of the spacious covered patio and a small indoor section. We chose one of the tables in the patio, pleased to find the chrysanthemum-in-tin-bucket centrepieces, which the Bandra branch has always carried.

Unlike the other branch, this restaurant had a number of bar menu options and we chose the Michelada (Rs 250), a beer cocktail version of the traditional Bloody Mary, to sip on while we waited for the food to arrive. The flavours sat milder on the tongue than the classic version of the cocktail and the chilli-infused salt on the rim was a nice touch.

Michelada

Instead of the usual subs, we decide to experiment with a few of the small plates and wine pairings. The first set to arrive is Tuna on Crisps (Rs 195) along with the York Sparkling Wine (Rs 2000). The light, bubbly wine is the perfect complement for the tuna, which has a texture similar to that of a galouti kebab with just a hint of spice. The crunch of the sabudana crisp served with it, creates an interesting combination of textures.

The next pair is the more-filling Desi Thai (Rs  345), which is served along with a chilled glass of Sula Reisling, a slightly sweeter version of the typical Reilsing. The Desi Thai plate, which is a plate of fried rice, with strips of roasted chicken and Thai style dressing is slightly on the dry side and a bit bland for our taste.

We quickly move on to the Chorizo Samosas (Rs 175), and here we are not disappointed. The crumbly texture of the crust gives way to a delicious gooey filling—a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. The Hobgoblin Beer that we are served with it is a match made in heaven, with its slightly sweet aftertaste.

Crepe Ka Meetha

Feeling full now, we decide to try out a couple of the desserts. The Strawberry and Chocolate Chantilly is as decadent as the name suggests, but the Crepe Ka Meetha, with its kurbani ka meetha filling, is a bit oversweet despite the novelty of the concept. As we sit, finishing one last glass of sparkling wine, enjoying the bustle of the restaurant, we realise that, despite the minor glitches, this is definitely a place we will visit again.

Address:  480, Adarsh Nagar, MHADA Layout, Oshiwara, Phase 1, Jogeshwari
Price for 2: Rs 1000
Rating: 3 stars