Garam Masala, a newly-opened vegetarian eatery at Lower Parel might be located beside an iconic restaurant, but we think they will survive, thanks to their paisa vasool, street smart menu

Garam Masala, a newly-opened vegetarian eatery at Lower Parel might be located beside an iconic restaurant, but we think they will survive, thanks to their paisa vasool, street smart menu

Garam Masala takes its name very seriously. Enter the tiny eatery and you instantly notice that their glass-topped tables are covered with rows of whole spices, ranging from Bay Leaf and Turmeric to Dhania and Star Anise. Once you place your order at the self-service counter, you can sit on high bar stools and kill time identifying the spices.

Garam Masala at Lower Parel; Gardenia Pizza

The walls are covered with urban-themed caricatures, which seemed curiously inspired by the great Mario Miranda. Our food arrived within 15 minutes of placing the order.

They earned brownie points immediately for serving us at the table as we had lost ourselves in deep conversation. The Veg Fingers (Rs 60) were low on oil and high on taste. Made from potatoes, with shreds of carrot, chilli and cheese, the eight pieces disappeared in no time.

The Gardenia Pizza (Rs 60) topped with onion, capsicum and zucchini (they were nice enough to do away with the mushrooms) belonged to the fast food eatery version but was deliciously fresh and the aroma of fresh herbs was most inviting. It had a not-too-crispy, thin crust, just like we prefer.

The Aloo Tikka Roll (Rs 35) had heaps of onions but once we removed the extra content, it tasted good, especially in the portions where the potatoes were sprinkled with lemon. The Paneer Schezwan Tikka Roll (Rs 50) was excellent. The paneer's smoky aftertaste and the spices made the non-veggie in us forget that this was a vegetarian roll.

We liked the Aglio e Olio (Rs 90), which was pasta stir-fried with olives and capsicum -- an ideal option if you are not a fan of the cheesy version. Also on their menu are a variety of wheat parathas. We tasted the Pizza Topping Paratha (Rs 65) and the Pasta Paratha (Rs 65). The former got full marks thanks to its juicy filling but the Pasta Paratha was just average.

However much we tried, we were unable to trace the "pasta" element in it. If you are on a budget, Garam Masala offers value combo meals too. Plus, if you prefer choosing your own ingredients, they have a Make Your Own Paratha option.
u00a0
At Garam Masala, 11, Madhav Bhavan, opposite Kamala Mills, Lower Parel (W). Call: 24949370 / 9769771511 Garam Masala didn't know we were there. The Guide reviews anonymously and pays for meals.