The flashing lights of the spinning cups, thudding of the hammer dropping in whack-a-mole, aroma of caramelised popcorn has been a rite of passage for most of us. A melange of glimmering sights, thumping sounds and crackling tastes is a journey of joy and merriment that's found only at the carnival. So as an adult, to know that a luxury dining experience which is inspired by the carnival, exists, is a delightful discovery.
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Carnival by TresInd is a restaurant unlike any other. Inspired by global carnivals that take place from Goa to Rio de Janeiro, it promises a treat to every sense beyond just taste. Part of the Passion hospitality group, Carnival stands besides Dubai's Michelin-starred TresInd Studio and TresInd, which have featured in the World's Best Restaurant list. Having previously experienced TresInd in Mumbai's spectacular service which celebrates Indian cuisine most extravagantly, my expectations were as high as they could get.
Located in a flashy complex in Juhu, the dark interior designed with neon pops of colour exuded extravagance through the ambiance. Eclectic elements like pops of bold patterns, masks and metallic decor lent festive fervour in the decor. Adding to it were the servers staying in character with whimsical masks for the theme.
Introductions were made at the bar, where cocktails with vivacious notes were inspired by carnivals of the world. While their beverage menu is fully-equipped with the finest of spirits from Mezcal to Vermouth, their experimentation is visible completely in their cocktails. Java Jamboree is like a miso-tinted boozy cuppa joe and Tikitiki is a tropical treat with notes of pineapple and hibiscus. Their specialty liquors like creme de cacao and triple sec were made in-house, which is a commendable feat.
Once the food service started, it never really stopped. The Chaat Sundae featured yogurt ice-cream and tamarind granita; and despite being unfamiliar components, melted in the mouth lending familiar flavours. While the Duck Croquette wasn't your regular appetiser, it made for a succulent bite that paired beautifully with a black lemon tzatziki dressing. The Tom YumRasam was the perfect blend of East meets South where the zesty flavours of tom yum ended with a powerful punch of curry leaf. The Tandoor Tiger Prawns and Soft Shell crab were seasoned perfectly but didn't steal the spotlight from the flavour of the sea.
The highlight of the Small Plate section however, was the Vada Pav. Assembled at the table, it looked almost identical to the neighbourhood vada pav stand one visits for a quick greasy bite. Carnival's was only identical to it in terms of appearance because a single bite was enough to reveal its gourmet flavours. The patty was made of lobster with potatoes and furikake while the garlic accompaniment featured yuzu kosho and tamarind chutney ended it on a tangy note. I don't think I'll be able to ever eat a regular vada pav again.
A pleasant break from our meal came from a magic show by magician Mayank Chaubey. Performed right at the table, the sleight of hand session was a delightful touch which any diners would look forward to.
When dining resumed, it only got better as the Large Plates came in. The Champaran Style Carnitas added a fun DIY aspect to the meal as one has to assemble the tender pork and guacamole into the tortilla shells themselves. The Kosha Mangsho was a uniquely dry gravy, complete with a crisply green pea kachoris. The Balchao featured Goan flavours that shone through the tenderly cooked seafood within.
To end our meal on a sweet note, the Tiramisu caught our eye. This being Carnival, it looked nothing like a regular tiramisu but tasted just like it. The fragmented Baileys ice-cream was a treat as it disappeared on the palette but paired delightfully with the filter coffee notes.
Carnival by TresInd gets all the praise for all the right reasons. It boasts of gourmet ingredients sourced from across the globe, culinary skill that rightfully gets high praise and expertly-crafted dishes that still provide soulful flavours. So it's clear that the Ferris wheel ride at this Carnival comes packed with unique flavour combinations while being served most luxuriously.
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