With stunning views and delectable delights, ‘Dome’ at Mumbai’s Intercontinental Marine Drive is an uplifting, high altitude treat discovers Krishnaraj Iyengar.
EYE-CATCHING LOCATION
A teasing nip in the air, a racy lounge number complimenting the dance of the waves beyond, a whiff of sensuous rose, amber and black musk base notes and a Pinot Grigio for the perfectly romantic soiree! In the ever-effervescing manic metropolis Mumbai, that’s ‘Dome’ atop Mumbai’s Intercontinental Marine Drive!
The swank, chique and minimalistic décor sets the right mood for an amazing array of mouth-melting appetizers and fine spirits as the grandstand panoramas of the Arabian Sea inspires endless selfie sessions by newlyweds and families posing by the glass railings at sunset.
Along with a sea-facing al fresco, a cozy air-conditioned section housing twenty covers and a bar are enclosed under the building’s dome. The sea breeze serenades joie de vivre at the intimate poolside dining on the mezzanine, a favourite of passionate daters and couples with high-end preferences.
GOURMET GLOBE-TROTTING
A wholesome assortment of signature delights from various countries offers flavours from diverse lands and cultures. Right from its famed Sushi and Sashimi selection and pan Asian varieties to Italian treats to rugged delicacies from motherland India, culinary globetrotting at Dome is incomplete without the exquisite wine pairings.
I chose to commence with my all-time manna -a traditional Lebanese Hummus platter! Staring out at the world famous Queen’s Necklace, the winding stretch of the sparkling coastal promenade and sweep on Marine Drive whips up my appetite. The olive oil and tahini tangoed on my palate taking me to the plush beach cafes of Beirut with the warmth of the oven-fresh pita reminiscent of legendary Levantine hospitality.
Next was a wholesome Indian ‘Paneer Makhani Wrap’, a favourite of Dome’s ardent vegetarian patrons. Hearty stuffings of Indian cottage cheese (paneer) with vegetables cooked in tangy masala wrapped in Indian roti (flat bread)-that was exciting! Perfectly paired with the paneer was a Chateau de Fontenille Semillon Sauvignon Blanc from Bordeaux, France.
Heading eastwards, I began journeying through the Orient with a platter of ‘Crispy fried vegetable spring rolls and garlic sauce’. In addition. the ‘Crispy seasonal vegetables tossed with hot garlic sauce’ was a perfect symphony of tantalizing Chinese flavours, the joy of crunchiness and the thrill of spice was heightened with the sharp garlic sauce.
Blending beautifully with Dome’s young and vibrant vibe was the ‘Truffle Infused Chili Cheese Puffs’ -tomato, onion and coriander with truffle oil, a Tuscan La Brancaia TRE red offering fine accompaniment. The delightful wine paired superbly with the eclectic ‘Indian Butter Chicken Roll’ topped with homely mint chutney.
LA DOLCE VITA
A recreation of the famous ‘Choco Bar’, an all-time kids favourite candy was the ‘Popsile’, taking me right back to my school days! Embellished with eclectic flavors the marriage of chocolate mousse, chocolate crumble and crispy chocolate pearls was nostalgic delight with a fine dining touch!
Who can ever resist a Fruit Tart? Especially when enriched with short dough crust, frangipani cream, fresh fruits and vanilla ice cream! For a sip of sober fizz, ‘Plum and Basil Mojito’ with fresh plum, basil and cranberry drops the curtains on an unforgettable culinary concerto.
Address: 135, Marine Drive, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Phone: 022 6639 9999
Website: ihg.com
