The newly opened Paratha Mantra in Fort is great for a big lunch or even just a quick snack. Rhea Dhanbhoora tells us more…
Nestled inconspicuously between gourmand greats Trishna and Kala Ghoda Café, Paratha Mantra could do more to stand out. The restaurant, though small and sparse, does have a few plus points when it comes to the décor. The ceilings are high and the bright lighting gives the place a nice, airy feeling.
Paratha Mantra is relatively unpacked early in the evening, but we’re told that they get big crowds during lunch time. They have a Jain menu as well as a normal one and prices are mostly the same. For an area in posh Fort, the place is priced very reasonably.
On the menu you’ll find unusual parathas such as the Pasta Paratha, Jalapeno Cheese Paratha and Vada Pav Paratha for `135, as well as regular ones such as Aloo and Gobi for `95. They also have a make-your-own paratha option (`135) that’s fun if you’re experimental.
I started off with a Khichiya Churi (`85), pieces of papad, onions, tomatoes, coriander and spices all carefully tossed up. It is a delicious snack that’s value for money. Then I tried the highly recommended Pizza Paratha, with capsicum, tomato and cheese stuffed into the wheat. The paratha itself wasn’t bad, but overall it was a letdown.
The Cheese Chilly Milly on the other hand surprised me. Soft and melt-in-the-mouth with just the right amount of cheese as well as chilli, it was definitely a paratha I’d go back for. The onion pickle and raita that came along with it was a good addition. The parathas may seem a bit expensive but they’re filling. All their parathas are made with wheat and devoid of any maida and they also have less oil and diet varieties.
They also have several chaas options on the menu, from a simple size (`40) to a Patiala chaas (`100). The chaas itself was alright, not as flavourful as I’d have liked it to be but worth a try and decently priced. Their special dessert is, of course, a chocolate paratha (`180) that’s likely to appeal to children. Overall, Paratha Mantra delivers what it promises — good and filling parathas.
Where Navbharat House, Burjorji Bharuch Marg, Fort Contact 9769115114, 9821626387 Meal for two `400 Alcohol No