Does kulcha go with coffee?

Red poha with coconut stew. Pics/Shadab Khan

When you are clubbing dinner with coffee, the last thing on your mind is to order a chole paneer kulcha. But coffee house chain Starbucks has decided to marry quintessential desi flavours with western style puffs and pies, all to go with their range of coffees. On the new limited-edition menu at Starbucks, curated by chef Sanjeev Kapoor, are five dishes inspired by Indian flavours: turmeric brioche with makhani dip, chole paneer kulcha, red poha with coconut stew, bhuna murgh pie and masala chicken croissant.

Bhuna murg pie

Although we had our doubts, the turmeric brioche (Rs 230), served with a creamy makhani dip went perfectly with our green tea latte. Soft and flaky, we liked how the subtle hint of turmeric paired with the herbs. The Singaporean curry puff inspired bhuna murgh pie (Rs 270) too was a hit with its perfect chunks of roasted chicken in Indian spices. The chole paneer kulcha (Rs 260) was the big let down - something about it was off and the flavours (which were supposed to be tangy) lacked a punch. Also, not sure how chef Kapoor went wrong with the masala chicken croissant (Rs 260). It was entirely lacking in flavour.

Turmeric brioche

The description mentioned cheese, but it certainly didn't feel like there was any in it. The star of the meal, though, was the vegan red poha with coconut stew (R220). This "fusion" treat had carrot, peas, cashew, and yam go with smooth coconut stew. It's a mini meal on-the-go for those with a minuscule appetite.

The menu, they claim, is meant to showcase hand-made dishes with high-quality ingredients. Not sure how long these items will stay on the cards but our vote stays for the brioche, bhuna murgh and red poha.

Where: Across all Starbucks outlets in Mumbai
When: 8 AM - 11.30 PM
Log on to: www.starbucks.in
Rating : OKAY
Starbucks didn't know we were there. Sunday mid-day reviews anonymously and pays for meals.