Simple, yet explicitly dishy is what describes the food best at Naati Manae, with local Karnataka flavour adding to the fervour
Simple, yet explicitly dishy is what describes the food best at Naati Manae, with local Karnataka flavour adding to the fervouru00a0
Just a lane behind the bustling 5th Block Road in Koramangala is housed a modest hut-shaped restaurant named Naati Manae. Though nothing fancy, this countryside themed eatery is a haven for times when you want to dine out naati (read native) style.
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Koramangala wins hands down in paving way for such diverse food tastes, saving driving time to the far-flung Gandhinagar or Malleshwaram for those naati times.
Young owner Ravi Shankar has revived the dying art of Warli paintings on the walls, honing the unique simplicity of this cozy diner. Sections of spices rimmed in glass compartments make interesting tables. The wooden tray-shaped black colour dual-sided menu is easy to browse.
A group of boys at the restaurant were gleefully tearing their way into the meats and none seemed to give a damn for the IPL cricket match on the television screens as we threw a glance around.
Afternoons go packed house and so do evenings and Sunday mornings with foodies teething into the wholesome country chicken with barely any other such restaurant serving simple secret treats the way Naati Manae does.
The menu shares food from all four South-Indian states. We bit into the juicy, succulent Chicken Lollypops (R 120) which has been added this month on the menu to cater to a larger palate. The signature dish, Naati Koli Pulusu Saaru (R 110) is best mopped up with a large plain Dosa (R 25).
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The curry is flavourful and not too fiery. Those who dig spicy must try the Guntur Chicken, but we played it safe this time. Also, don't hold yourself from binging at the Mutton Chops (R 115), which we had in thick, piquant coriander and methi green gravy with a Coin Paratha. The chops were zesty and oozing of aromatic herb flavours.
Donne Biryani, Naati Koli and Mutton ChopsA must have for every non-vegetarian is the Donne Biryani in both mutton and chicken. We had the chicken (R 115) version, which is dum cooked and served in a donne, a leaf bowl.
The leaf bowl adds to the flavours with the rice and chicken that could leave anyone in a sated state. Vegetarians might like to try the Ragi Mudde, Paneer, Mushroom or Babycorn Manchurian which have also been just added on the menu.
Step out for a Sweet Paan and see how the city weather turns so pleasant post a drool-worthy meal.
At Naati Manae, 334, 17th C Main, KHB Colony, 5th Block, Koramangala.
Call 40986161/60. Meal for two R 400.
