14 January,2009 07:27 AM IST | | Bhairavi Jhaveri
A few Sushi choices from the Oriental spread. Pics/Bhairavi Jhaveri
PAISA VASOOL
While a sushi platter alone costs anywhere between Rs 500 to Rs 800 at Jap restaurants in the city, China Gate's buffet is complete value for money. WHAT's ON had a decadent experience
As though the interiors of China Gate restaurant at Link Square Mall, Linking Road, alone, weren't gorgeous enough, the chefs here have now whipped up a buffet fit for a king and his immediate family. As you enter, your focus immediately shifts from the Chinese architectural domes, calming water bodies and beautiful fauna, straight to the inviting spread of food.
The waiter enquired if it was our first time to the buffet, and then dished out a few quick instructions he let us know our table no, and handed out large-sized paper clips marked with the number. "If you want to order a hot appetiser (if, below the name of the dish, it reads Table Service), drop in your clip in the bowl set in front of the dish, and we will bring it to you when it's ready. Everything else is self-service," he explained. Something about thisu00a0 "organised" meal seemed exciting, already.
First stop: Sushi and Sashimi bar: Sevenu2013odd vegetarian and non-vegetarian sushi varieties and little one-dollop-sized bowls of traditional appetisers like Potato Salad, Green Beans, Cold Noodles were placed at a live counter laden with ice to keep the food fresh. The Potato Salad was especially a hit with us, and the Sushi was crafted to perfection. The pungent dash of wasabi rocketed right to the tip of our noses, and made our eyes misty, but we loved the inconvenience. A vigorous headshake, and we were ready for second helpings.
Second stop: Hot appetisers: Steam Dumplings, Strawberry Poa, Vegetable Roll were among the steamed options; Paneer Roll, Spring Roll, Biscuit Potato, Sesame Toast were some of the fried choices. Patrons could choose from four soups two veg and two non-veg choices. A whole array of mini main course-style appetisers like Fried Brinjal, Stir Fried Veggies, Coriander Panner were also available on order, samples of which were neatly arranged on the counter.
Third Stop: Main Course: The main course section was tucked away to a far end inside the restaurant, which wasn't visible from the live appetiser counters. It was a surprise in itself to know that another section of food still awaited us, after all that we had devoured. The main course, thankfully, was a little less tiresome in terms of choice, which helpedu00a0 in "taking the pressure off". It would be a shame to know we had stuffed ourselves with the "wrong" food, right? Malaysian Noodles, Thai Curry, Fried and Steamed Rice and Mixed Veggies was our final choice. Though seemingly simple picks, the food was delicious.u00a0u00a0u00a0u00a0
Fourth Stop: Desserts: Mini chocolate, dark and white chocolate, pineapple, coffee, blueberry cheesecake pastries were stocked next to a pile of other baked sweets like Butter and Madeline Cakes.
What we liked: Small servings ensure you get a chance to try much more than your appetite could have braved otherwise. Most recipes were replete with authentic Oriental flavours, and were cooked to melt-in-mouth perfection.
At Third floor, Link Square Building, Linking Road, Khar (W), Mumbai.
Call 26469001
Moolah you need to dish out?
Lunch (12 pm to 4 pm):
Monday to Saturday:
Rs 475 + tax
Sundays: Rs 650 + tax
Dinner (7 pm to 1 am):
Monday to Thursday:
Rs 575 + tax
Friday, Saturday and Sunday: Rs 650 + tax
