CIRQA Assessment: Many corners of Decrease Parel have turn into undeniably engaging hubs for culinary lovers within the metropolis. Huge areas occupied by Mumbai’s well-known mills in bygone occasions at the moment are dwelling to fine-dining eating places, luxurious retail shops and different shocking institutions. The evolution of those localities is a testomony to town’s nature to continuously change and renew its choices. We just lately visited the Todi Mills space of Decrease Parel for the launch of an thrilling new cocktail bar referred to as CIRQA. In some methods, the bar itself is a mirrored image of town’s multifaceted appeal.
Photograph Credit score: Assad Dadan
The primary cocktail of the night was Sakura’s Punch, a beautiful concoction of Tanqueray gin, Campari, and Grapefruit genmaicha shrub, topped with carbonated water. The cocktail is dry and citrusy, with subsequent to zero discernible sweetness. Sakura is the Japanese phrase generally used to discuss with the world-famous cherry blossoms. Nonetheless, many people affiliate it with Sakura Haruno, the character from the Naruto manga and anime collection. Gaurav Suvarna, our mixologist for the night, additionally factors out the affiliation. Such hints of playfulness throughout the in any other case extremely subtle menu make us all of the extra curious to strive extra of CIRQA’s creations.
L-R: Sakura’s Punch and Clear Colada. Photograph Credit score: Toshita Sahni
CIRQA has a couple of savoury cocktails on supply, whose quirky names and unconventional substances are positive to catch your consideration. As an illustration, their ‘Breaking Bread‘ incorporates toasted bread, black garlic-washed vodka, tomato water and clarified lime. However now we have a mushy spot for puns and the one we determined to go for is ‘Shut The Duck Up.’ It is made with duck fat-washed bourbon, orange and black pepper Cinzano Rosso discount, lavender tincture and citric answer. It is an expertise in itself – with every ingredient managing to make its presence recognized. Complicated but satisfying, this drink was a pleasant discovery we would return for.
For these feeling much less experimental, CIRQA additionally has traditional cocktails with their signature twist. The one we particularly beloved was the Bombay Cosmopolis (hibiscus and cardamom-infused Gray Goose, with cranberry and lime, served with a Luxardo Maraschino cherry). The flavours appear acquainted sufficient, but the distinctive trace of the cardamom manages to take you unexpectedly. We additionally appreciated the Clear Colada, with plantation rum, caramelised pineapple, lime and clarified coconut milk. As we sipped, we have been transported to the tropics for a couple of moments – far faraway from the hustle and bustle just some metres away from us, exterior this cosy haven.
Candy Roots with Magaj Crema. Photograph Credit score: Toshita Sahni
The meals menu includes a number of bar bites, small plates and huge plates. Indian, Asian and Continental substances are expertly remodeled into elegant treats that match the complexity of the drinks. One could time period it “fusion,” however that label would not appear to do justice to such fastidiously curated dishes. The Candy Roots with Magaj Crema is a must-try. It consists of beetroot and carrot combined with a plum dressing and topped with crispy strands of potato salli. That is neither a chaat nor a salad, however a mixture of one of the best elements of the 2. Among the many non-veg bites, do not miss the crumb-fried Millet and Duck Croquettes, that are crisp and flavourful.
Pumpkin Rillette. Photograph Credit score: Toshita Sahni
We additionally advocate the Prawn Sesame Bites – by far, probably the most ‘standard’ merchandise on the menu. We admit we have been left craving one thing easier amid all these wealthy treats, and these shrimp appetisers have been the proper answer. Indulging within the delicious Pumpkin Rillette with white onion soubise, seed granola and lavash, was a memorable a part of our night. Heat and nutty, this small plate comes with totally different layers of softness and crunch. Among the many desserts, the Peanut Butter Sundae is bound to turn into a crowd favorite. The flavour mixture is reassuring and chances are you’ll end up simply dropping your self in its yumminess after an extended day.
Photograph Credit score: Assad Dadan
Whereas the culinary creations of the bar are markedly modern, CIRQA’s decor exudes old-world appeal. The bar has two storeys, with the higher one designed to take you again to the great outdated days of classic bars – extra particularly, to 1960. So put together to be swept away – in additional methods than one!
CIRQA is helmed by brothers Pankaj Gupta and Avinash Gupta (the duo who’re additionally behind Taftoon, Oye Kake, and Cafe Haqq Se), whereas entrepreneur Adele de Fontbrune serves because the Co-Founder and F&B Director. The bar programme is led by Louness Ducos and Agnieszka Rozenska, co-founders of Tales and Spirits, distinguished mixologists from France and Poland who at the moment are based mostly in Goa.
The place: Plot 126, Floor Ground, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Pawar Marg, reverse Zeba, Decrease Parel, Mumbai.
