Cricket and Bollywood are the two significant interests that can drive Indians crazy. Therefore, anything connected with these two is sure to be a hit. For this reason, Bombay Bar, a newly-opened eatery in Connaught Place can expect success among so many differently-themed restaurants. Located on the first floor (outer circle), from its ambiance to food, the restaurant is inspired by Bollywood or film actors. Right from the stairs to inside the restaurant, there is a constant presence of the film industry, in the form of posters, pictures, CDs, and a colourful filmy menu.

Once inside the restaurant, one gets a feeling of having entered an old luxury cinema hall or theatre. Posters of popular films and brief information about the restaurant will keep one busy during the time one is at the restaurant. Even the seating arrangements are designed like the box in the old cinema halls. Interestingly, the walls are filled with pictures of only actresses, right from 1960s to the present, but on the menu, one can find pictures of male actors.

Overall dining at Bombay Bar is akin to watching films, with Hindi film music playing in the background. The restaurant has a rooftop area too.

Like its ambiance, the food also resonates with the film industry. The menu is colourful as well as decorated with pictures of famous film stars. Except the catchy design, names of the dishes are also filmy, such as Khao Gali Platters and Mumbai Chowpatti Chakna. Since Bollywood is associated with Mumbai, most of the dishes served are from Mumbai. Therefore, the best way to start the culinary journey is with Mumbai Pao Bhaji. Of course, this was the first thing we asked the chef. He smiled and requested us to also try their famous Parsi Keema Pao, in the non-vegetarian section. His recommendation was really good. While both Pao Bhaji and Parsi Keema Pao tasted really good, I personally preferred the latter. Apart from the savoury taste, the dishes were well presented. And of course, I could not resist taking pictures before tasting them!

Food is incomplete without some flavourful drinks. After listening to our choices, the chef came up with “Last Local”. Its tangy taste really went well the Keema Pao and Pao Bhaji. We wanted to repeat the Keema Pao but the chef suggested we try other dishes. He served Rose Tea Scented Chicken Tikka in non-vegetarian and Khao Gali paneer Tikka in vegetarian. I liked their Chicken Tikka but Paneer Tikka was a bit of a disappointment. Facing our complaining faces, the chef ordered “Banana Berry” and “Candy Soda” in mocktails, which to some extent compensated for the Tikkas.

But when we were served the main course, we had no complaints at all. In the main course, we were served Railway Mutton Ghosht and fresh vegetable mix along with Lachaa Parantha and Butter Naan. Railway Mutton Ghosht was a properly-cooked thick curry with soft and succulent pieces of mutton. Even the fresh vegetable mix was appetising. But one found the Ghosht much better.

Then it was time for desserts. They served Carrot Halwa and Motichoor Rabdi. The hot carrot halwa was a relief from the cold outside.

To sum up, one would say the place will soon become popular among people, given its food, ambiance and filmy theme.