Even if it was right after a late-ish brunch, my colleague could not resist showing me to another place, an institution marked by its retro-checked tablecloth, creaky wooden chairs, cocktail-style-folded serviettes, dusty metal-bladed fans, peeling paint and finally, the four generations of Parsi-owners working in the restaurant. For some reason, Britannia reminded me much of our own Colbar.
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| low tech |
We were full, it was less than 1.5 hours since we ingested any food. But we were there and Bombay duck was actually available (it was not available previously when my colleague ate there). We had to eat!
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| BOMBAY DUCK?? |
Did you know that Bombay duck is actually not a duck dish? Well, I found out it is a fish, coated with a fragrant spice rub, and small enough to be deep-fried whole and could be eaten bones and all. Somewhat like sardines, but less fishy and very moist and soft. Most of the bones were soft enough to chew through and swallow. The spice rub was very addictive and despite being very oily, I wished I could eat more.
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| Berry vegetable pulao |
The colleague needed some substantial food (read: carb) and he ordered a special berry veg pulao (pilaf), which essentially is similar to a briyani, but tossed with dried cranberries and a mixed vegetable masala. It was very tasty, but again, anything cooked with much ghee would not taste too bad. There were three fried potato balls on the sides and contrary to what I thought, they were unfortunately not very memorable.
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| old school fans |
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| cocktail fan-styled serviettes |
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| entrance |
Britannia is one of those rare gems and long standing restaurants that oozes with history and memories. Recommended!
Opposite New Customs House,
Ballard Estate Fort City, Mumbai
Phone: 022/2261-5264
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