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NDTV
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Late Checkout Review: What's Worth Trying At This Cool Cocktail Bar In Lower Parel
In the heart of Lower Parel, an old textile mill has been thoughtfully reimagined as Late Checkout. This new addition to Mumbai's dining scene offers a calm but considered escape from the city's pace, offering globally-inspired bites and an exciting cocktail program. With a menu shaped by travel memories and a bar that leans into inventive techniques, it invites guests to settle in and stay a little longer, making time feel like an afterthought rather than a constraint. Late Checkout is the tenth venture from Chrome Hospitality (co-founded by Pawan Shahri and Nikita Shahri), which also includes well-known restaurants like Gigi, Lyla and others in Mumbai. The space pays homage to its industrial past with soaring 21-foot ceilings, exposed brick, and steel accents, while layering in unexpected touches of opulence. Think plush upholstery, glittering chandeliers, and decorative items sourced from different parts of India. A dramatic bar anchors the space, its metal-and-wood design catching the eye whether bathed in golden daylight or wrapped in the warm, chalet-like glow of evening. Divided into three seating zones, the venue flows effortlessly from cosy date-night corners to convivial setups for larger groups. The kitchen at Late Checkout is led by Chef Amit Dhoundiyal. As we browsed the bar bites section on the menu, we noticed something of a pattern - several of the options had one familiar component, which was then combined with others in unexpected ways. This was our first hint of the bar's distinctive style and sense of novelty, and we were immediately curious. For instance, we were craving the satisfaction of a potato appetiser, so we called for the Porcini Pate On Hash. What arrived was a sophisticated yet undeniably comforting treat - a creamy porcini mushroom pate piped onto small hashbrowns and dotted with a spiced berry compote. Next, being in the mood for something crispy, we gladly ordered the French Onion Tempura. What happens if you cross the delicate flavours of French Onion Soup with the homely crunch of Onion Rings? The answer is this delicious delicacy. One doesn't expect a greasy basketful of the usual fried bar bite, of course. What arrived were four carefully crafted large rings with a unique tempura coating and a silky dip reminiscent of the soup. Despite their elevated avatar, the rings managed to remain a fun snack. Chef insisted we try the signature Crab Rangoon Dip and Wonton Cracker, and we were so glad he did. It turned out to be a particularly clever deconstruction of the original. Talk about a protein-rich chip and dip! Chef Amit specialises in Japanese techniques, so ensure you try the sushi and/or cold plates like the Smoked Tuna Carpaccio. We tasted the latter, and it was nothing short of exquisite. But don't forget that the menu derives inspiration from countries across the globe. For instance, we also liked the Poached Chicken Manti, which were dumplings with a Middle Eastern twist. The pockets were served on a spicy tomato base with herbed labneh. Another non-vegetarian delight we recommend is the Duck Curry Puffs, featuring flaky pastries with a wonderfully meaty stuffing and complemented by a smooth Japanese curry sauce. Amidst all these intricate ingredient combinations, if you just want something simple and yummy, go for the Parmesan Churros. These crispy savoury churros felt like the best kind of cheat meal, and we couldn't help returning for seconds. We appreciated that the cheesiness was not overdone, as eating heavy churros at this point would have been off-putting. The large plates similarly offer a wide variety of delicacies, including familiar ones like Dan-Dan Noodles as well as niche offerings like Tokyo "Fish & Chips." The bar programme is helmed by Prithvi Agarwal, who spotlights mainly Asian flavours using refined mixology techniques. There are 9 signature cocktails on the menu, ranging from easygoing, fruity concoctions to bold, spirit-forward libations. Happy Accidents (lemongrass-infused gin, coconut water and guava juice) was a great option to start with. Refreshing and tropical, it's bound to be a crowd-pleaser. We also thoroughly enjoyed the LC* Picante, enhanced with pineapple, cucumber juice and a housemade tincture made of chilli and bell pepper. The spice was not overpowering, allowing pleasant sips alongside the food. If you're looking for something much more potent, Main Character Energy lives up to its name. This cocktail featured gin and umeshu, and had a unique umami taste. If we had to choose only one drink to return to and relish again, it would be the Slow Roast. Reimagining a Vietnamese Iced Coffee as a clarified cocktail, it was a smooth combination of a 16-hour drip brew and coconut oil-washed vodka. The flavour of the coffee was beautifully balanced. We ended our meal with a satisfying Tropical Panna Cotta and an artisanal Wild Raspberry Sorbet. The latter was amazingly rich and creamy, and it ended up being one of the best things we tasted during the meal. There's also a popular matcha tiramisu on the menu, but we thought we'd leave something for next time. Whether you're looking for a chic spot for after-work drinks, a fun spot for a catch-up with friends or an impressive date night location, Late Checkout promises a memorable experience.
NDTV
3 days ago
- General
- NDTV
All About French Onion Soup : A Dish That Feels Like A Hug
There is something universally comforting about soup. No matter where you are in the world, soup has a place at the table - warm, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable. It is a dish that does not follow strict rules but instead reflects the flavours, ingredients, and traditions of the people who make it. From the spicy complexity of Thai tom yum to the rustic charm of Italian minestrone, soup is both an everyday staple and a culinary art form. And among the world's great soups, one stands out for its blend of humble beginnings and rich, indulgent flair. It starts with onions and ends with a flourish: French onion soup. Also Read: This Thai Soup Has Made It To UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List From Humble Roots To Haute Cuisine: A Brief History French onion soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients - onions, broth, bread, and cheese - can come together to create something extraordinary. According to Alexandre Dumas in his Grand Dictionnaire de Cuisine (1873), the soup gained popularity at the royal court of Versailles in the 1700s. The story goes that King Louis XV's father-in-law, the exiled Polish King Stanislas, tasted the soup at an inn, loved it, and insisted on learning the recipe. That early version was incredibly simple: just fried onions, water, and croutons. Another recipe from the same era added a spoonful of lean broth for extra flavour. Interestingly, these early versions did not include cheese or the golden, bubbly top we associate with the dish today. Because onions were cheap and widely available, the soup was often referred to as "peasant-style". It was considered poor man's food - until its rich, caramelised flavour won over even the most refined palates. Over time, it evolved into the luxurious, cheese-topped version we know and love. Also Read: Mulligatawny Soup: Is It India's First Soup? What Is It Made Of? Photo Credit: Pexels What Makes French Onion Soup So Special? At first glance, the ingredients are modest. But together, they create something deeply satisfying: 1. The Onions: Caramelising onions slowly is the soul of this soup. It is a patient process that draws out their natural sweetness and transforms them into golden, melt-in-your-mouth strands. It takes time - but it is worth every minute. 2. The Broth: Traditional recipes call for a rich meat stock, which gives the soup its deep, savoury base. Some modern versions use chicken or vegetable broth, but beef remains the classic choice for its bold, umami flavour. 3. The Bread: Slices of baguette or rustic country bread are toasted until crisp, then floated on top of the soup. They soak up the broth and add a hearty, satisfying texture. 4. The Cheese: Gruyere is the star here - nutty, melty, and perfect for forming that irresistible golden crust when broiled. It is the finishing touch that turns a simple soup into something truly special. Find the detailed recipe for French Onion Soup here. Also Read: Chicken Vegetable Soup Is The Protein-Rich Winter Dinner Recipe You Were Looking For The Final Sip: French onion soup is more than just a dish - it is a connection to centuries of tradition, to cosy kitchens and bustling Parisian cafes. It is proof that with a little time, care, and a few humble ingredients, you can create something deeply comforting and undeniably elegant. So, the next time the weather turns chilly or you are craving something nostalgic and hearty, remember the magic that happens when onions meet broth, bread, and cheese. Advertisement About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: French Onion Soup Italian Food Global Cuisine Show full article Comments
