The stormy weather had no impact on seven-year-old Jonah in his veshti, who was very enthusiastic to cut the ribbon with his sister and open the restaurant Jonah’s Goes to Malabar Coast with Chef Anand on Monday.
His father Sam Paul, also the owner, talked to City Express about his Chronicles of Jonah’s. “The chronicles started in 2014 with Jonah’s Bistro in Besant Nagar , then moved on to Jonah’s goes to Japan in Phoenix Mall, Jonah’s meets Chef Willi at Poes Garden and now Jonah’s at Malabar Coast specialising in four different cuisines, European, Goan, Mangalorean and Keralite,”
‘Jonah’s Goes to Malabar Coast’ is adorned with light-coloured couches, fish net over the lights and a range of books to indulge in while waiting for the food.
“I selected a variety of books. Some are my own favourites, some best sellers and some books for children. We didn’t want to include any board games because that would steal the focus from the amazing food, “said Runima Biswas, president of Paulson’s Group.
With a variety of options, both vegetarian and non vegetarian, include Nadan Kozhi curry, traditional Kerala chicken curry with grounded spices, Pachakari Ishtew, traditional stew with potatoes and vegetables, Rasa Kayi, Karnataka style mixed vegetable in a coconut based gravy and a variety of rice to choose from.
“Every dish has its own unique taste and they are all inspired from a grandmother or mother’s recipes. I worked with them and learned new techniques and recipes. The Kerala recipes were inspired and taken from my own grandmother. For the Goan food, I will go to Goa, meet more such women and learn to make authentic Goan cuisine,” said Chef Anand.
Keeping the traditional elements alive, Chef Anand has also brought in a fusion of the European cuisine with Indian twists. “A grilled Indian style fish with ripe mango sauce and English-fried fish and chips with Thai -style oyster sauce,” he said.
Then there was the carrot cake with red wine sauce; it turned out to be the highlight of the night with a harvest of pictures, and second helpings.
With plans to make Jonah’s more interesting, Sam Paul will open another chapter on East Coast Road with Jonah’s with Chef Willi go Fishing. As the name suggests, it will be a treat for seafood lovers.
“Seafood is not appreciated in Chennai. It is available here on our coast, but is not being used properly. Octopus or groupers, they are beautiful and people do love it when they try it,” said Chef Anand.
The night ended with a clear sky, selfies, tummyful of gravies and yummy desserts.
For those who missed the launch , you can drop in at Jonah’s Goes to Malabar Coast at No 131, Block no, 3, T – 1, Yesesi Building, 4th main road, Anna Nagar.