Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Travel - Mumbai "City & People"


In this 2 part series of blog on Mumbai, I will share my thoughts on the "City & People" followed by "Food and Culture".
Finally my one year old desire to re-visit Mumbai, finally came true. Eversince the terrorists terrified the nation on 26/11 by launching a daring attack on the landmarks of financial capital of India, I wanted to visit the places hit as a mark of my tribute to the brave soldiers, citizens and victims of that massacre.One thing that comes up time and again to the fore is the character of this amazing city and its people.
Mumbai - you will hate it at first and then fall in love with this city.For a man coming from the laid back city of the Nawabs, the first time I visited Mumbai way back in 1999 - the sight and smell of Mumbai hit me out of my socks. My first reaction travelling from CST to Vashi in the early hours of the morning with its blatant display of poverty and misery disgusted me to say the least. Crowded one room shacks, utter disregard for hygiene or dignity it was revolting to say the least.I used to wonder why would people from all over the country flock to this long and crowded city seeking a better life and settle for such a shabby life. Every time I visit, eversince my first visit, I am still getting a kaliedescope of answers for this question of mine - this is when you start falling in love with this city. 
Mumbai is not for the faint hearted or the lazy bums - this city will ensure that you are always on your toes, it has something for everyone. Except for decent housing a peanut seller would lead a purposeful life enough to save and take care of his family. The name of the game is hardwork. And once you are injected with its blood you will be an addict, you would not like to live in any other city.Whatever you are, an uneducated boy to the highest qualified citizen this city has a big heart and work to keep you occupied.
People would assume that a big city is a bad city - but Mumbai is different.There is probably no other city where you will the disparity of the "Haves" and the "Have Nots" more than in this place and hence a breeding ground for dishonesty. Its one of the most honest and safe cities in India. May be there is enough work for everyone or may be people dont have time to think of cheating others - that does not mean you let your guard down, just that people are not really interested in making an extra buck out of you. I can recall many incidents to vouch for the same.
Another amazing thing about the city is what is called the "Spirit of Mumbai" - it never dies. Be it devastating terrorist attacks, life stopping floods, communal riots this city and its people always bounces back.You cant keep this city locked up in their houses for any reason.There is amazing solidarity right from a common labourer to the richest business man to the famous film start - they love this city in the true sense of it.The grafiti on the walls from Bombay Central to Churchgate says it all. They are proud to say its "Aamchi Mumbai".
All I can say of this wonderful city is "Salaam Mumbai " a truly wonderful city.


More Pics : http://www.orkut.com/Main#Album?uid=16831825160219067580&aid=1260834623

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Eat Out - Cafe Europa

Intro :
This is my first review and I decided to write something about 'Mama Mia - Italiano'. A new European Lounge eat out called Cafe Europa. There are a couple of Italian restaurants in and around Hyderabad notable amongst them are Little Italy, Olives and Cheese, Silver Spoon (closed now) and many pizzeria's converted to pasta joints like Dominos. In my opinion Cafe Europa stands out in a couple of departments when it comes to having a good time with family and friends as elaborated below.


Menu :
One of the main point on which Cafe Europa scores is the menu something for everyone and  Authentic European !!. If you ever travel abroad and managed to eat in any decent European cafe - you would know what I am talking about. Mind you I am referring to European and not Continental stuff . The menu is a kaleidescope of  food from across the region tempered down to suit our conservative Indian tastes - Pasta and Pizza from the land of the mafia - Italy, Salads and fruit smoothies to suit the palate of the figure conscious French, Sandwiches and fries to suit the stiff lipped English and top it all with some delicious cold coffees and hot cappuccinos - and not to forget the tempting desserts on display. 


Review :
Having talked with the owner of the cafe - I get to know the secret of thier delicious food - Stick to the basics. The problem with many food joints in our country is that they try to Indianise the recipe and in the process screw up the taste . How often have we seen schezuan shrimp being served with a plate of roti, onions and lime ?? Ok, I love the onions and lime ... but please thats not an excuse for bad presentation - If you visit a Chinese restaurant be Chinese and have chinese - I love the Hindi-Chini bhai bhai concept .. but lets not extend the concept to our food plates :).
This is an aspect I was happy about they chose to stick to the original reciepe - but have to wait and see if the pressure from Indian public changes their stand. The Italian food is reminiscent of Little Italy only thats it much lighter on the pocket and food tastes equally good, but again I feel you have a better choice when it comes to light snacking.


Ambiance & Service :
The layout, the decor and the music is typical lounge style. I would have liked a little privacy with some curtains but I am told it will be in place shortly :) . I like their chalk board menu, the color combinations and some interesting wall hangings :). Best part is you have ample space to throw a party and can easily accommodate 20-30 people.
The service is courteous and prompt and the people seem to be well trained. 


Recommendations : 
I would recommend people to try the pasta here and please do experiement there is a lot to choose from - I am told the Basil Shrimp pasta is a somewhat exclusive to this place. Apart from them you can try the Cafe Europa special Salad and Hazlenut  coffee !! Pizza - Spicy Fiesta and Santa Fe chicken are good choices. Last but not the least I loved their litchee smoothie after a spicy pasta.


Pricing : 
Very reasonable. A dinner for two would not be more than Rs 250 - 300. Thats very reasonably considering the quality and quantity of food.

Location :
The location is strategically close to one of the main shopping areas - Its on the way to DPS from Diamond point (Sikh Village). And the signage will ensure you will not miss it. Not being a very busy road its easy to find parking


Shop 3, Mahalaxmi Trade Center (Next to More supermarket), Delhi Public School lane, Karkhana, Secunderabad
Landmark: Near Diamond Point
Phone: 42016580


Ideas for thought :
Some points which might be worth considering by the management.
1. A little privacy. 
2. I am not sure if they had ice-creams, if not please include them - at least for the kids :)
3. Bring in more genuine European cuisine.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Prologue !!


Hi there !!
As I begin this new blog, I wish to extend warm regards and heartfelt thanks to my existing readers.

I am immensely greatful to all the regular readers of my earlier blog who have been kind enough in providing useful tips and inputs to add value to it. Thank You :)

I would appreciate the same kind of patronage for this blog too. As a hopeful I hope you would enjoy reading this blog too.

As part of this journey I would like to share the experience of the various sights, sounds, tastes and quirks of my life in this fascinating country. Eat outs, performances, events, movies and any other stuff I participate in or take fancy too would be covered as part of this blog. In sharing my observations I wish to add to the experience of others.

"The best day of your life is the one on which you decide your life is your own. No apologies or excuses. No one to lean on, rely on, or blame. The gift is yours - it is an amazing journey - and you alone are responsible for the quality of it. This is the day your life really begins."

So let the journey begin....

Cheers
Vips