By Editors
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls {ideally, above 21 years of age}, get set for what could possibly become the most fun destination for an evening out with friends - Monkey Bar. If you've been to Bangalore/have friends in Bangalore, they've most definitely told you about Monkey Bar. The gastro-pub has developed a cult-status in Cinderella city, and the folks behind it have recreated the concept in Delhi.
The interiors are a contrast to the mod-pyramid structure it's housed in; you'd least expect Monkey Bar to be in space that's housed the likes of Ministry of Sound. Despite being massive, the ambience of Monkey Bar is inviting and warm. Wood floors, rustic furniture, leather bound chairs, bare-brick style walls, and fooze-ball and pool tables set the tone for the evening. We went after work for drinks with a few of our friends, and walking in we were instantly set in another zone. The vibe is very pub meets restaurant - the top "level" is for those looking to sit down and eat, there's an area around the bar for people to stand around and dance if they like, and a little nook towards the back provides for a secluded space for people to play games and get drinks.
They've got the basics covered well - an extensive alcohol menu, affordable prices, friendly staff, and good music. The highlight, we reckon, is going to be their food. Chef Manu, a Culinary Institute of America alum who's also the Executive Chef at Olive Bangalore, has a kick-ass menu planned for Monkey Bar- Shammi sliders, MoBar burgers, fried to perfection cheese rolls, vadapaav- there's a mix of it all, and it tastes good! The cocktails should be another big hit {given our experience in their Bangalore outlet}, and fortunately they don't cost a bomb.
The Verdict? Monkey Bar, as a desi alternative to a Gastro Pub, hits all the right spots vis a vis their set-up, food and drinks menu, and price points. That it's backed by the culinary-skills of Chef Manu mostly definitely gives it a head start in comparison with similar establishments in the city. But the million dollar question is- Will it be able to get Delhiwaalas to loosen up and strike up a conversation with strangers, as people do in pubs the world over? Your guess is as good as ours.
Notes in our Little Black Book |
Monkey Bar is ideal for pre-drinking or a game night; it's laid back, and very chilled out. Keep the hectic pace for someplace else.
Where | Monkey Bar, Plot No 11, Pocket C 6 & 7, Commercial Complex Vasant Kunj {Adjacent to Kotak Mahindra Bank and Mini Cooper Showroom}
Contact | 011 41095155
Price | Meal for two without alcohol: Rs. 1200++; Meal for two with alcohol: Rs. 1800++
For more details, check out their Facebook page here.
