05 December,2016 08:36 AM IST | | Krutika Behrawala
Revamped in time for Yuletide, the version 2.0 of American Express Bakery adds Polish breads and steak pies to its festive menu
The revamped exteriors; (inset) The refurbished bakery offers more room to move around. Pics/datta kumbhar
A selection of breads
OVER the last few days, if you've strolled down Hill Road, you would have noticed a red wall painted with a gentleman in a baker's outfit, standing on a tiled floor, posing with goodies. That's the mascot of American Express Bakery beckoning you to step into the Bandra landmark's recently revamped avatar. "The wall art goes with the vibe of the suburb. The last time we changed the interiors was back in 2003. The shop needed a fresher look. So, two months back, we decided to go for a layout change," says the fourth-generation owner, Emil Carvalho, who runs the business established in 1908, with younger brother Yvan.
What's new
Besides the rejigged interiors that offer more room to move around, the cosy bakery's mast on the front door has undergone change too, all thanks to Bandra-based Bubble Design. While the menu retains signatures like Chicken Pattice, pastries, biscottis and breads, it was expanded two months back to include varieties like Garlic Roast Chicken Crostini, Pearl Millet And Caramelised Onion Lavash, and Whole Wheat Sandwich with Meat Loaf, Egg and Kale. "We put items on and off the menu depending on sales and season. Soon, we will introduce a spiced Apple Pie and Strawberry Frangipane Almond Tart," says 49-year-old Emil, while supervising the prep at the bakery's production outfit on Clare Road in Byculla.
Christmas cheer
From mid-December, expect a Christmas menu with 17 items, including Stollen Bread with Marzipan, Dundee Cake, Plum Pudding, Guava Cheese and Fruit Mince Pies. "This time, we are also offering Chocolate Hazelnut Babka ('700 per loaf), a Polish bread that is made overnight and stays for a couple of days, along with Steak And Kidney Pie ('80)," he shares. Those planning a Christmas party can place advance orders for Yvan's specialty, Stuff Roast Chicken ('900 for a kilo). "We use recipes that are either passed down through generations or those created by us. But it's all in the family," says Emil, adding that the café-style outlet on Clare Road, next to the production unit, will be revamped by January.
