Summer months are brutal but the heat this October is just as bad and with the humidity on high, there is just no chance of indulging in heavy food. As much as you would like to devour a pizza or drown your sorrows in a bowl of creamy pasta the weather just makes it impossible and the thought of big meals is daunting.
To battle this heat and still enjoy a meal out that will keep you cool refreshed and most importantly keep your taste buds happy, we picked some of our favourite spots.
Candy & Green- This meatless restaurant has a menu full of interesting dishes which for the most part are light on the stomach but it is the Kale Chip Chaat, Watermelon and Goat's Cheese Sandwich ( which is actually a salad ) and the Avocado Toast that we love. It is all vegetarian, easy to digest and delicious. For a more filling meal any of their Wholesome Bowls work well and to really cool down the Black Sesame Ice Cream.
Le Pain Quotidien - This Belgian restaurant is known for its assortment of breads, croissant and other comforting carbs. If you move away from the usual suspects and inspect the menu you will notice a lot of light meals that are perfect in this weather and also in between a work day so you do not get sluggish at your desk post lunch. The Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is stunning but you can customise and make your own salad as well. The Summer Harvest Bowl is a wonderfully balanced meal with chicken, rice, chickpeas, kale and tahini and if you're on a more liquid diet, the Green Detox or Citrus Aloe Vera gets our vote.
Olive Bar & Kitchen - This Bandra institution is Bollywood's favourite stomping ground and while the possibility of a glimpse of famous faces is alluring the main attraction is their new revamped menu. The old menu gives way for more contemporary plates and each dish is filling but does not make you feel bloated or like you have overeaten. The Chipotle Prawns with Caramalised Apples, Cauliflower and Leek ( the cauliflower is presented in 3 ways ) and Salmon Nicoise are our favourites. The Burratta with Heirloom Tomatoes is another winner but make sure you leave room for dessert.
Smoke House Deli - This is possibly one of the best casual cafes to grab a meal at where the menu gives you more food for thought than needed. You can pick from their Keto meals, Vegan specials, a specially curated vodka-based cocktail menu ( apart from their regular beverages ) and so much more. The Paleo Coconut Seafood Broth and SHD Caesar's Salad are staples for us but the Melon Sangria, Smoked Salmon Platter and the Asparagus Grape and Toasted Flax Seed Salad are worthy picks. For a more filling option, the Half Roasted Chicken with Zataar and Grilled Vegetables works well.
Oh Dough - If you are anything like this writer and can not imagine a full-blown meal but will always make room for dessert then pick an ice cream to help deal with the heat. If its ice cream you want then there is nothing more satisfying than the Red Velvet Ice Cream here. It is a ball of bright red and masquerades like a raspberry sorbet but it is thick, creamy and full of that red velvet goodness and very much an ice cream. If you are more of a chocolate fan then it is the Dark Chocolate for you. Other popular flavours include Pistachio Black Truffle, Smoked Vanilla and Salted Caramel.
Special Mention:
Punjab Grill - This is the last restaurant to recommend to someone looking for a light meal but their new outlet in BKC has a buffet lunch spread that is unlike any other. Yes, of course, there are lots of Punjabi delights including curries and heavy dals but what makes it unique is their array or lighter appetizers, lots of fresh salads and a lassi that rivals any other. Just the Lassi itself will keep you cooler and calmer but there is also a great selection of other refreshments to do the same.
Better known as the Tiny Taster, Roxanne is an internationally respected blogger and expert on the Mumbai food scene. She has hosted many events, including the Upper Crust Food & Wine Show and travels the world, sharing her knowledge and gaining more experience.
