Food: This tapas bar in Andheri does not serve tapas

The first impression at SOHO Tapas Bar didn't disappoint. A minimalist bar caught our eye, and a poster that announced special offers on Bira pitchers set the mood nicely. Seated in a comfy sofa with a groovy lounge playlist, we were ready to indulge in tapas or Spanish appetisers. But there were none

We love small plates, especially the ones that celebrate meats in cutesy portions. So, a bar, that calls itself a tapas destination, seemed like the apt place to head to for a lazy, Sunday indulgence.

Lavender Martini. Pics/Nimesh Dave

The first impression at SOHO Tapas Bar didn't disappoint. A minimalist bar caught our eye, and a poster that announced special offers on Bira pitchers set the mood nicely. Seated in a comfy sofa with a groovy lounge playlist, we were ready to indulge in tapas or Spanish appetisers. But there were none.

Missing from list
A flip of the menu revealed crowd-pleasing bar snacks such as aranchini balls, malai mushrooms and crumb chicken listed under tapas. The rest included mains, salads and soups.

Disappointed, we called for Beer Batter Onion Rings (R180) and Koliwada Dusted Fish Fingers (R285). For cocktails, we opted for Ash On Ice (R350) and a Lavender Martini (R400). The service was slow despite only two tables (including ours) being full. Thankfully, the food was good.

Fish to rescue
The onion rings were perfectly crisp and minus the usual dripping oil. The fish fingers with a hint of masala softened the blow of the tapas no-show. The heady, floral whiff of the Lavender Martini was as good as its taste. Ash on Ice was a whiskey-based cocktail that needed some theatrics involving lighting the glass for preparation. The result was a basic cocktail.

Koliwada Dusted Fish Fingers

For mains, we ordered the Inspirational Veg Lasagna – Kolhapuri Style (Rs 350) and Herb Crusted Lamb Chop (Rs 850) with a beer pitcher. The lasagna reminded us of another desi pasta dish that we had reviewed recently. The Lamb Chops were perfectly grilled but overpriced. It's unforgivable to a patron to name an eatery after a food item that is conspicuous by its absence. The Versova eatery needs more innovation and less mish-mash of popular fare.

Time 7 pm to 1 am
At SVP Nagar, near telephone exchange, Four Bunglows, Andheri (W)
Call 33126708
SOHO Tapas Bar didn't know we were there. the guide reviews anonymously and pays for its meals.

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