Taking inspiration from a whimsical retro- futuristic mashup between a cyberpunk and Victorian aesthetic, crafts brewery called Ministry of Beer (MOB) in Connaught Place (CP) is an architectural gem. It is spread across three levels and houses antique lights, mechanical clocks and metal gears with gothic flair.
“From steampunk elements to awesome food to friendly service that will redefine the word ‘sumptuous’, we aim to reinvent the nightlife of CP at MOB,” says chef Meet Malhotra.
The multi-cuisine restaurant offers a palate of culinary preferences, out of which, the Asian cuisine fares the best. If you miss the Palak Patta Chaat from its pint bites, then it is much of a travesty. The dish has crispy spinach with tamarind chutney, olive and cheese spread on leaves, implanting a robust tangy flavour on your tongue. The lucent dimsums were juicy and tasted better with a tinge of the piquant dry chilli black bean sauce. The California Maki Roll and soy-wasabi mix balanced out the savoriness and saltiness. The pocket-shaped Mutton Rahra Lukmi offered a spicy aftertaste but could have been gentler on the surface. Chicken Tacos donned a Punjabi cape with chicken tikka in achaari masala, Amritsari choley and cheese.
In drinks, the Green Apple Martini, which was apple mixed with a subtle hint of citrus, stole the show. The Frozen Orange Margarita made from lime cordial, triple sec and tequila was great.
With distressed leather sofas, coffee table and high chairs, the place has the necessary logistics for comfortable seating. MOB houses a quirky and unique 360-degree rotational DJ sound system.
The space boasts of an ETP installation, an environment-friendly wastewater purification system certified and approved by professors of IIT Mumbai. The picturesque plating and humble staffers’ service certainly upscaled the dining experience.
A decent adieu end to the night was with the malty and creamy glass of Beera-Misu dessert (like tiramisu but with beer). But with few drink options at my disposal, I was left craving for more mocktails and cocktails.
Those looking forward to an evening of malt liquor drinks might be disappointed as the in-house brewery awaits its license to start operations. All in all, the renfaire-style historical re-enactment can certainly transport you to another era while you enjoy an ambrosial evening.