Saturday, August 17, 2013

Aloo Tikki Chaat at Chowpatty - Oman

Aloo Tikki Chaat at Chowpatty

There are Chaats that are slushy-moist and there are Chaats that are dry, but to have a blast of the all-in-one Chaat is something rare and can speak volumes about the “Love” in the Chaat. And, yes, we have a winner at Chowpatty, as there usually is, in many restaurants. It is “Aloo Tikki Chaat” (ATC).

There are a few dishes that can create an explosion from the very first bite to the last and paralyze all your senses which are possible only if the dish is made with utmost love and innate talent.



The Looks
As they say, looks can be deceiving. ATC is nicely coated creamy white Yogurt with a splash of chili powder and chopped coriander leaves which are an appealing contrast of white, red and green. For a first timer, as you dig in your first scoop, with the expectation of ATC to be a slushy Chaat, the deceiving part which is the brown potato that comes to light with a striking contrast. And, there is a bit of drama in a subtle way………to complete the taste that tickles the taste buds.

The Service and Ambiance
It is a friendly place with good service and the ambiance is pretty good for the relatively economical price tag. The sleek porcelain plates/cups, the heavy metallic fork-spoon, the sleek menu card and the clean-cut setup are a bit surprisingly rich for a small-time restaurant.

The Taste
The collision of the creamy yogurt laced with chili powder with the crispy potato cutlet is simply “made for each other”. The chopped onions play a vital role in blending the slushy yogurt, spice and potato cutlet. The Chaat spices and a touch of sweet tamarind sauce bring out the final flavor/punch of the Chaat family.

Oh, yes, I had two ATC just like many other times. It was goooood.


Verdict: ATC is outstanding and good value for money

Improvisation:
1.       Ask for extra spicy.
2.       Ask for additional chopped onions and coriander to toss on top.
3.   Masala chai is good which complements the spicy Chaat. It is a bit extra sweet though.

Cost       : Omani rial 800 baisa

Restaurant:  Chowpatty


Location: Al Khuwair, Oman, opposite to Best Western Hotel