As you enter through the tall door at One8 Commune, the mellow glow of dramatic vintage-y chandeliers coupled with interiors dipped in the city's nostalgic heritage, offer quite a warm welcome. But before you have had a chance to take in the vastness of this sprawling 4500-ft resto bar, what grabs your attention is the LED lit signature of Virat Kohli. And just like that you’re overwhelmed by the fact that your favourite cricketer’s restaurant is in your humble town and here you are to savour the dishes he has specially curated for Kolkata’s unique palate.
Designed by Sumessh Menon, One8 Commune Kolkata is in fact the second outlet in the country after Delhi’s Aerocity. Done up in warm and earthy hues of rust, olive green and blue, the interiors with its arched windows, vaulted ceiling, and green foliage hanging from the top are reminiscent of Kolkata’s Victorian era. Add to that the vibrant charm and exuberant energy of brand Virat and you have millennials’ newest favourite hangout.
Coming to the finely curated menu by renowned Chef Pawan Bisht. There's something for everyone in the elaborate menu that boasts of multi-cuisine as well as regional dishes, along with Virat’s favourite picks from his travels. Whether you are a health-junkie, meat-lover or vegetarian, the Chef has ensured you go back with a full and happy stomach.
We started with the Mushroom Googly Dim Sum, which true to its name is a total knockout. The Bamboo Cashew Nut Chicken was an absolute delight to the taste buds. Bonus points for the presentation here, this dish comes steaming hot out of a bamboo bark! We couldn’t get enough of the Herb Crusted Fish and don’t even get us started on the deliciously creamy mashed potato that came with the fish. For mains, we tried the regional Begun Kasundi and loved it. They have a bunch of exotic cocktails and mocktails that go well with the food. Although left with little or no place to accomodate a dessert, the Chocolate Fondant (melting chocolate lava) was too good to resist!