A coffee shop at an art gallery can be quite refreshing. After 10 minutes of sipping coffee at the Banyan Tree Café, glancing through a glass door that acts as a barricade to the gallery, even a non-art aficionado will be tempted to take a stroll.
Banyan Tree’s minimalist and futuristic interiors are inviting. While the café is done up in stark white with black seating, the washrooms have a rustic feel to them.
The interiors get a thumbs up and luckily, the food is decent too. After this artistic display, one would’ve expected the food to have out-of-the-box concoctions, but you’re treated to the regular fare. Of the coffees, the cold coffee with cream was too light and a disappointment.
The beef burger (Rs 200) was fresh, but could do with less spillage. The coolers are a safe bet, and the steward even agrees to customise it, if you are on a specific diet. The Prawn Punch Wrap (Rs 220), large prawns hidden in a triangular wrap, looked different. The fabrication, though good, was not for all tastes. The prawn was bland and the wrap, tasteless. Dip it in any sauce at close range and it is palatable.
The desserts, however, are a supreme attraction. The Gooey Chocolate (Rs 100) was gooey enough and the Baked Cheesecake (Rs 120) melted the minute it was in our mouths. The highlight of the café was its easy-going prices, with a hearty meal for two, not exceeding an approximate Rs 1,200, and of course, viewing art at the adjoining art house, for the curious cats. Not a bad combo!
{{/usCountry}}The desserts, however, are a supreme attraction. The Gooey Chocolate (Rs 100) was gooey enough and the Baked Cheesecake (Rs 120) melted the minute it was in our mouths. The highlight of the café was its easy-going prices, with a hearty meal for two, not exceeding an approximate Rs 1,200, and of course, viewing art at the adjoining art house, for the curious cats. Not a bad combo!
{{/usCountry}}WHAT: Banyan Tree Café
WHERE: BMB Art Gallery, Fort
CALL: 22000061
WHAT’S ON THE MENU: Sandwiches, pastas, coffee and desserts
ALCOHOL: No
SMOKING: No
***