There’s nothing more disturbing than waking up to depressing news. But we live in India, so we’re more or less prepared for that. This new bar in Bandra makes an honest attempt to make you forget those negative stories and focus on the positives for a change. The Daily has highlighted happy stories from global news in frames adorned all over the ceiling and walls.
One special spot behind the bar has even been dedicated to a frame announcing Vasant Dhoble’s transfer from the social services branch. But the bathroom doesn’t follow the theme. There are some depressing stories in there, we’re guessing to avoid people spending too long inside. Even then, the first impression is good, but leaves you wanting more space.
The bartenders, dressed in suspenders and fake, black spectacle frames, are welcoming. Since space is a bit of a concern, and we happened to visit on a Friday night, we found ourselves a spot at the bar. A bartender named Topson, who we’d highly recommend for anyone who enjoys great cocktails, took care of the rest.
The bar menu’s ‘pre-Prohibition Era cocktails’ section instantly caught our attention. Of the five options (each with descriptions of the drink and its origin), we picked the Southside (R500). This was apparently the preferred drink of Al Capone and his gang; how could we resist? From the molecular cocktails category, we opted for Gypsy Queen (R600).
Both drinks looked similar in presentation, but it took a sip to change that perception. The first has the potential to convert someone into a gin drinker. The syrup, lime and mint mix well with the gin, creating a smooth, refreshing drink. As for the second, which Topson infused so effortlessly with apple wood, cinnamon and clove smoke, was dangerously potent. While the cocktails initially seem a bit expensive for the bar, the potency (which shouldn’t be taken lightly) justifies the cost.
{{/usCountry}}Both drinks looked similar in presentation, but it took a sip to change that perception. The first has the potential to convert someone into a gin drinker. The syrup, lime and mint mix well with the gin, creating a smooth, refreshing drink. As for the second, which Topson infused so effortlessly with apple wood, cinnamon and clove smoke, was dangerously potent. While the cocktails initially seem a bit expensive for the bar, the potency (which shouldn’t be taken lightly) justifies the cost.
{{/usCountry}}For a bar, The Daily has an extensive food menu, from soups and salads to bar snacks and tea-time specials. Pizzas, burgers and main course options are there too. The quantities of the Loaded Nachos (R260) and the Pollo Italiano (R260) weren’t as impressive. The Pollo Italiano (olive-stuffed chicken with mustard mayo sauce) stood out in taste, but the Morroccan Lamb (R365) and rice were the highlight. The lamb was well-cooked and not chewy, a preparation not many places in the city often get right. We wouldn’t mind going back for a drink if someone promises us a spot.
But with its growing popularity, we don’t see that happening anytime soon. (HT Café reviews anonymously and pays for its meals.)
What: The Daily
where: Ground floor, behind Shoppers Stop, SV Road, Bandra (W)
Call: 2641 8409
What’s on the menu: Pizzas, burgers, salads, soups and more
Drinking: Yes
Smoking: Yes
What we like
The pre-Prohibition Era cocktails
We don’t like
Limited capacity