Restaurant Assessment: When planning a culinary journey in Mumbai, it is virtually unattainable to disregard Kamala Mills. Over time, the neighbourhood has grown to turn into a foodie paradise. Stylish cafes, trendy bars and award-winning fine-dining institutions – Kamala Mills has all of it. One of many latest openings this season is Tijuana, an off-the-cuff Mexican restaurant and bar situated within the coronary heart of the mill complicated. Helmed by Anurag Katriar, with cooks Jason Hudanish and Chef Rohan Dhotre (beforehand recognized for his or her collaboration on Xico), this spot is a good selection for lazy lunches or upbeat evenings. Have a look beneath at what we tried and advocate right here.
Picture Credit score: Tijuana, Mumbai
Within the starters, we tasted the Totopos: plain, crispy corn tortilla chips. To an everyday diner, they may appear to be an in depth cousin of nachos, however lighter compared. They’re served with cheese sauce, salsa fresca and Mexican crema. However what took our expertise to the subsequent stage was pairing it with the totally different choices at Tijuana’s signature salsa bar. This delectable vary of complimentary choices is one thing you shouldn’t miss out on. The salsa bar options 9 various kinds of salsas and dips, with various ranges of spiciness (indicated by Roman numerals on a board). Our high picks had been the verde cruda, chipotle aioli, roasted tomato chipotle and mango habanero. If you wish to attempt just one, go for the final. The pungency of the mango habanero hits you simply as you end chewing, and the feeling is unmatched.
Tijuana’s salsa bar
One other vegetarian favorite was the Potato Flautas. These are crisp, fried taco rolls full of potato and cheese stuffing. Lettuce, jalapeno, salsa and crema kind the accompaniments. The ultimate mixture is undeniably satisfying – we savoured the crispiness of the tortilla, the softness of the tacky potatoes and the freshness of the opposite veggies. Professional tip: Pair these flautas with the verde cruda (recent inexperienced salsa) from the salsa bar. Imagine us, it provides a complete different dimension to this appetiser.
Picture Credit score: Tijuana, Mumbai
Non-vegetarians, think about ordering the Hen Arracheras (marinated items of meat/veg substances served on skewers). The outline will undeniably remind you of desi kebabs and looks like a becoming parallel. The hen was fantastically tender and was effectively complemented by the guajillo salsa. The refined but distinctive smoky flavour confirmed it as “Al Carbon hen” (cooked over coal). For those who get pleasure from quesadilla, we advocate the hearty Birria Quesadilla, which has flavourful lamb stuffing. Be warned, this can be a heavy deal with, and also you may simply really feel further sleepy after ending it!
Picture Credit score: Tijuana, Mumbai
Among the many cocktails, the Avenida Revolucion (tequila, Campari, dry curacao, hibiscus syrup and lime juice) is a must-try right here. We additionally favored the Tijuana Temple (tequila aneo, litchi juice, yuzu syrup and lime juice). In any case, Tijuana prides itself on its “tacos and tequila”. However remember to take a look at what they do right here with the opposite Latin American spirits similar to Pisco and Mezcal. The Jai Alai Palace (Pisco, passionfruit syrup, lime and cinnamon) is a drink we’d return for. Fay Baretto and her crew at “Mr. Bartender & the Crew” are those behind Tijuana’s bar programme.
Picture Credit score: Tijuana, Mumbai
We appreciated that the non-alcoholic drinks had some fascinating choices past traditional choices. Within the mocktails, we fell in love with the rollercoaster of flavours that got here with a sip of Ignacio. Orange, ardour fruit, basil, chilli and salt had been mixed to make this tart concoction with a pleasant edge of warmth. If you wish to take the sourness up a number of notches, go for the Candy Maria (cranberry, floral candy spices and champagne). For those who’re in want of one thing easy and cooling, go for the comforts of Celestial – made with celery, inexperienced apple and lime.
Together with the culinary delights, Tijuana’s vigorous decor and music handle to usher in a sure sense of “fiesta.” All that is lacking is a few dance. For those who’re searching for a spot to unwind after a protracted day or week, with mates or household, Tijuana may very well be your subsequent foodie haven.
The place: Floor Ground, Kamla Mills, Tower B, Unit No.2, C S No. 448, Commerce, Senapati Bapat Marg, Decrease Parel, Mumbai
