Ramadan Kareem

The holy month of Ramzan is here. During this month, faithful observers throughout the world fast and offer prayers from Sahour (sunrise) to Iftar (sunset). This is then followed by a delectable feast.

Last week, Muse got the chance to explore the by lanes of Bhendi Bazaar in search of the best iftar dishes. A melting pot of culture & cuisine, Bhendi Bazaar offers some of the best eateries. The tour was organised by Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT), an organisation that is altruistically working towards the development of this area at the same time maintaining its cultural essence.

Here’s a list of #MuseMustEats on your next trip to Bhendi Bazaar -

Haji Tikka

1.    Khiri (udders) @ Haji Tikka

The buttery texture of this meat coalesces with its crunchy crust, making it so yum, you literally cannot eat just one!

Khiri

Khan saheb owner of Haji Tikka talking to us about how khiri is prepared

Tawa fare @ India. On top you can see the Naan Chop

2.    Naan Chaap @ Indian

Bhendi Bazaar’s very own take on The Burger, this bun and patty combination will make your dil go hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

3.    Nalli Nihari @Surti Bara Handi

Usually a breakfast item, the dish is now available even in the evenings. An explosion of spices steeped in rich gravy & lard, this mutton stew will transport you back to the era of the Nawabs.

Seekh

4.    Seekh @ Haji Tikka

Succulent rolls of minced meat adequately spiced!

5.    Baida Roti @ Indian

Yummy keema (mince) wrapped in silky egg coated roti. It was the perfect amalgamation of meat & egg!

Pichota

6.    Pichota @ Surti Baara Handi

Now, that’s how exotic I could get with meat. Pichota or tail is meant to be a delicacy in some cultures. You have to try this one. Statutory Warning: This may be followed by a cardiac arrest!

Malpua

7.    Malpua @ Tawakkal

These luscious discs fried in a huge kadaai tasted nectarious. Pair it with Malai (cream)

Assorted Phirni

8.    Naan @ Vallibhai

The Pichota & Nalli Nihari are incomplete without Vallibhai’s naan. Roasted in a traditional earthen oven, these naans have a distinct flavour to it!

Mango Barfi with mithai

9.    Mango Barfee @ Tawakkal

Everyone gushes about the phirni at Tawakkal but my personal favourite is the Mango Barfi. The pillow-like texture and dulcet taste is what heavens are made of!

And guess who Muse met?

Chef Vicky Ratnani with Muse

How to find these places?

Indian Hotel

92/96, Shop No.1/2, Bohri Mohalla, Khara Tank Road, Bhendi Bazaar

Ph 022-23460687, 9819047255

Haji Tikka

76, Raudat Tahera Street, Opp Evan-e-Husseni Hall



Tawakkal Sweets

26, Khara Tank Road, Bohri Mohalla, Bhendi Bazaar

Ph 022-23466360/53

Surti 12 Handi & Vallibhai

12, Dharamsey Cross Street, Bohri Mohalla

Ph 9819305788.

Tasting the Stars

Wine Tasting @ The Renaissance Hotel

The famous monk and wine connoisseur (now you know why Martin Luther said Beer is made by man but wine is made by God) Dom Perignon, on having a sip of champagne said “Come quickly, I am tasting the stars”. Seriously, can anything be more alluring than the taste of this good ol’ nectar?

Last weekend, CM and her fiancé, let’s call him Big (yes he is a big fan of Sex and the City) spent their time tasting (not just that) and savouring some of India’s wine produce.

It was ‘Global Day of Discoveries’ at The Renaissance Hotel & Convention Centre and they decided to put together a wine tasting soiree. Four of India’s wine producers were present – Fratelli; Sula; Grover & Turning Point each displaying their produce.

Sula Rose Brut

I decided to start with the Sula Rose Brut – sophisticated salmon coloured wine packed with a million bubbles. Beautifully mild on the palate it is a mixture of Chenin Blanc & Zifandel grapes. To all the newbies who are looking to start drinking wine; I would suggest you opt for this one. Goes perfectly well with brie.

Fratelli Chardonnay

The next one was the Fratelli Chardonnay – tart (acidic), this wine is a little high on the alcohol content

Fratelli Shiraz Rose

The Fratelli Shiraz Rose – rose gold color with fruity tones. Light and easy on the palate

Sula Dindori Shiraz Reserve

The Sula Dindori Shiraz Reserve - extremely strong; smelt like burnt lego (yes the game); full bodied wine. Not for the faint hearted

By now, I was swinging in my own world. Rumi’s words described me the best - “Either give me more wine or leave me alone.”

The next was Turning Points’ Chenin Blanc – crisp, light, floral and easy on the palate.

Turning Point’s Sauvignon Blanc was spicy, hint of green pepper

 

Grover’s Viogner

Grover’s Viogner was the winner for me. With hints of tropical fruit like peach, it grows on you. The taste is not as intense as the smell.

 

Grovers’ La Reserve

Grovers’ La Reserve, a nice violet purple in colour with a distinct oak flavour

Quick Tip: Do me a favour and go with your partner for at least one wine tasting session. Trust me the bubbly will make both of you really happy!

PS: If you are prone to acidity, be careful not to drink or mix too much wine. The morning aftermath could be bad