Grab a bite Poetry opens in Bandra
Rhea Dhanbhoora pops into Poetry for a quick bite, just to see what all the fuss surrounding this new café-patisserie in Bandra is all about
My love when I look at you
All demons and angels run
Towards me with sage and wine
– Rune Lazuli
That’s what greets you first in a little blue box as you flip open a pretty, pastel paper menu in this quaint new eatery. The verse fits with the café’s moniker, and fans of Love & Cheesecake are going to be thrilled about this one. The brand is bringing you more of its signature sweet treats and a dose of savoury specials. They’ve just launched Poetry, a charming space that sent out the cutest goodie boxes to announce its opening. Here’s a brand that really cares about its packaging, and it works!
I popped in unannounced on a weekday evening, happy that something so charming was just a short ride away from the office. Glass tables and sofa seating, pretty desserts and dangling lights — the romantic aura they promise does soar gently through the two-level dessert bar. The paper menu draws you into the rhythmic theme of the space even after the introductory poem, with the origin story that most menus are doing these days, carefully crafted by (or on behalf of?) chef Amit Sharma.
I decided it was fitting to start with a buttery Croissant as I waited for the food I’d ordered as takeaway, with an Americano (Rs 100) on the side. Take a look at their menu and then tell me if you can resist taking home some of the treats! Unfortunately, the coffee left me disappointed. Maybe it’s a better idea to try their juices or smoothies. The croissant was a dream —
melt-in-the-mouth and flaky. Still waiting and with all the treats on display in front of me, I couldn’t resist ordering another little bite, picking a delicious-looking Cinnamon donut from their display tray (check what they have on offer when you visit). However, while the cinnamon sugar sprinkled over the top was delicious, it was too chewy.
My pretty paper takeaway bag included a sinfully cheesy Croque Monsieur (Rs 385) on an indulgent brioche, a Quinoa & Fresh Vegetable Salad (Rs 315) that I loved, but may have enjoyed more without the pomegranate, and a delicious smoked salmon and cheese bagel, the New Yorker (Rs 420). I settled on an NY Style Cheesecake (Rs 160) for dessert. I loved everything about it, except the cookie base, but only because I favour a more buttery one. On a second visit for a sweet fix after dinner, I also tried the Tiramisu (Rs 150) — good, but not great — and the spectacular Lemon, Brownie and Red Velvet cheesecakes (Rs 160 each).
For the concept (soups, salads, sandwiches, small plates… what’s not to like?), the name (that I’m particularly fond of), friendly service (servers are aware of what they’ve got in store and chef Amit has been there and actively involved on all my visits), presentation (such cute dishes!) and the menu, Poetry gets full marks. However, maybe next time I visit they’ll have more coffee on offer and fix a few wobbly table legs! Prices can be a bit steep, but presentation and food quality more than makes up for it. However, don’t go here expecting a budget snack, unless you’re sticking to a beverage and croissant.
I didn’t have a full-fledged meal, but that gives me more of an opportunity to visit again for more. (Poached Eggs & Avocado? Hot Chocolate? Fondue? Yes please!) Watch this space!
Where Pali Darshan, Junction of 16th & 33rd Road, Linking Road, Bandra (w)
Contact 9819935135