Where Raiders Dare

The Pantry
Yeshwant Chambers, Military Square Lane, Kala Ghoda
Tel: 22678901
Meal for two:?Rs 800

The atmospheric lanes of Fort are in the midst of a fascinating transf­ormation. Over the past two years, chic art galleries, boutiques, cafes and bookshops have squeezed themselves into the city’s old and hithe­rto ramshackle business district. The newest and most charming entrant is the airy, 10-table eatery, The Pantry.

With its verdant window boxes, bright white facade and cheery staff, it’s an inviting place. Pat­rons are urged to “eat in harmony with the season”. We enjo­yed poring over the menu, which revo­lves aro­und seas­onal fruits and vegetables and offers refreshing options like a Leek, Zucchini and Sweet Lime Soup, Carrot Apple Ginger juice and Gor­gonzola and Apple sandwiches.

Sipping on a light, tan­gy Ginger Lemon Iced Tea (Rs 95), we relaxed in the cool green-and-white room, as the lunchtime crowd char­ged in and grabbed tab­les. Our food arrived remarkably quickly; the children were soon tucking into their flaky, mustard-laced Sausage Rolls (Rs 145) and hearty, flav­ourful Lamb Stew served with sli­ces of country loaf (Rs 375).

The Vegetable Lasagna (Rs 295) was delicate and delicious. The Tuna Sand­wich, named Marine Drive (Rs 295), was a hit with the adults but a bit too fishy for the children. The Pantry off­ers a tempting array of baked goodies and desserts. The children loved the crunchy Chocolate Chip Cookies (Rs 45), chewy Oatmeal But­te­rscotch Cookies (Rs 45) and generous Chocolate Twist (Rs 55). The adults, meanwhile, made the most of Mumbai’s fleeting winter and indulged in a Hot Cho­colate (Rs 55) and Cranberry Scones served with whipped cream and Apple Cinnamon Compote (Rs 65). Yummy, though I would have preferred the traditional strawberry jam with my scones.