Colpo di Fulmine

Non-Indian cuisine? Check; vegetarian? Check; Italian food? Check; Valet Parking? Check; Good wine list? Check; Centrally located? Check. Considering it checked all the right boxes, Little Italy Ristorante Bar was love at first sight (rather, at first aural reception) for us. No sniggers there from the back row – it is “aural”, note.

Ambience: The restaurant is divided into four distinct areas for seating. Outdoors on the remnants of the lawn is the place to be seen in. Don’t expect to be seated here unless you have reservations. There is a cozy little bar area as well adjacent to this. The indoor mezzanine lounge area is usually occupied by those who couldn’t make it to the outdoor area – it looks snug and comfy, though I must confess I haven’t been there yet. If you are in a group you might prefer the first floor indoor sitting area. There is a second floor family area as well that is usually opened up only when the other three areas are occupied (and that is quite often in the weekends). This has what looks like a dance floor and a DJ’s console and if you have kids, is a good place to let them loose.

There is a choice between chaired and sofa seating in most of these areas and I found the sofa’s, though low, very comfortable.

Other than this the ambience is nothing much to speak of; nothing much to complain – a lot of whites and brightly lit. Tables are reasonably well spaced. A fountain is thrown in at the waiting area. Popular music is played at most times.

Food: I really enjoy the food at this place. The variety available is excellent. The pizzas are of the classic, thin crust variety and are quite delicious. The pasta sauces taste fresh and the combination of ingredients and sauces are quite innovative. I especially liked the pesto sauces available. The starters could have been better, though. I would not particularly recommend the bruschetta. The selection of wines is pretty good and I have heard the desserts (esp. the home-made gelatos) are worth a try.

Service: I have had mixed experience with the service – pretentious once, but helpful and friendly on other occasions. Catching the eye of the bearer might be tough at times – though you could attribute that to their respecting your privacy!
In short, if you like Italian food, this is a place you must not miss. I would recommend that you make your first visit on a week day though!

Little Italy is at No. 1135, 100 Ft Road, HAL 2nd Stage, Bangalore-38. Ph. 25297482, 25289126.

Colpo di Fulmine in Italian literally means a thunderbolt (of love) – love at first sight.

Finito!

Lunch@TGIF - Worth a shot

My other (who said it was the better one J) half works at Diamond District, bang opposite TGIF and being the foodies that we are, this has been a good enough reason for us to visit Friday’s for lunch.

I had been to Friday’s a few times prior to this, but mostly during early evenings, and usually during the Happy Hours. Visiting the restaurant during happy hours (from 4:30 to 8:30 pm everyday) is a great way to enjoy the place, without letting the expensive prices get to you. There is a “one-for-one” offer on for most drinks and selected short-eats!

Lunch: The entire experience was pretty impressive. The place is not too crowded for lunch and it is not too difficult to get a place you like. The air conditioning is well done – nice and cool, without the irritating draught you get in many places. The service is brisk. There is a decent mix of American, Mexican and Italian food to pick from. The portions are generous and the quality of food is impeccable. It is a trifle expensive, but then we expected that when we walked in.

There’s also an offer by which you can get a pint of Fosters for Rs. 50 along with select main course orders – try this out!

Recommendation: Surely worth a try. I intend to visit this place once a month myself for lunch! The evening visit during happy hours is also worth a shot. Try the chips and salsa along with your drink (Margaritas/Long Island Tea can’t go too wrong)

Location: TGI Friday’s is located close to the intersection of Airport Road, Inner Ring Road and the Indranagar 100 ft Road, beside the flyover and opposite Diamond District.