Who would have thought, in the back alleys of a quiet residential market in Rajouri Garden, you would find a brightly painted and cheerfully decorated continental restaurant that dares to serve dishes like Piccala Milanese, instead of the popular favourite—Tandoori Chicken. That’s the essence of Cafe Blue Tomato that wants to be different and isn’t afraid to experiment.
The name of the restaurant itself is unusual. It has been derived from a rare breed of tomatoes, called the Blue Tomato, high on antioxidants. True to its name, the chef says he too tries to be innovative with every dish. “We are the only stand-alone continental restaurant in this region. It is true, people prefer north Indian food here, but they’re always looking for other kinds of eating options. They go all the way to South Delhi to restaurants like the Big Chill for pastas, bakes, pizzas etc. Now they won’t have to,” says Executive Chef and owner of Blue Tomato, Dheeraj Mangothra, who holds a hotel management degree from Salzburg University in Austria.
Besides being the chef, Mangothra also doubled up as an interior designer. Having designed a couple of houses and restaurants earlier, this was his chance to work on his own baby. “When it’s your own product, you tend to be more careful and creative; afterall, you cannot afford to go wrong,’’ he says.
On offer are generous portions of everything— from whole wheat thin crust pizzas to Al Dente Pomodoro Risotto, Pesto Grilled Chicken Salad to the Apple Chicken Curry It’s good food, priced moderately.