Restaurant Review: A hip new hangout 'Hoppipola' in Powai

Hoppipola is trying to be your neighbourhood drinking spot where you congregate with friends. Hence the slate tables and chalks, the game corner and people playing UNO everywhere.

If that is not up your alley, then perhaps the fact that the bar serves some delicious cocktails at reasonably low prices ought to draw you in. We didn't get off to the best start with the service, but it soon smoothed over as we were served our first set of starters.

The slight tang of the Lambada (Rs 230), a lamb patty over pita bread, is a good start. The Aila Aioli (Rs 195), a baked potato dish served with two sauce toppings, doesn't quite land, but the stuffed mushroom croquet, OMG (Rs 170) is spot on. We then tried the Harissian Fish (Rs 215), which is nothing out of the ordinary and move on to the Sergeant Peppers Lonely Roasted Bell Peppers (Rs 160).

Now, this is a bold and flavourful plate of pickled pepper bruschetta. The cocktails — a Frozen Strawberry Margarita (Rs 375), Kafir Lime & Lychees Mojito (Rs 225), Sonora Sangria (Rs 295) and a Spiced Pomegranate Vodkatini (Rs 195) — were all equally splendid.

The main course was a parade of childhood classics — the mac and cheese called All 4 One (Rs 275); The Subjects Favourite Fish & Chips (Rs 275), the best we have had in a while, with the tartar sauce being a highlight; and the Lamburgini (Rs 275), a succulent lamb burger that was juicy with cheese and mint to complement. The only downer was a limp slice of the pizza Jerken Around (Rs 265) that did no justice to its ingredients.

Ultimately, it is a satisfying meal with touches of fine dining at affordable rates.

Hoppipola

Where: Galleria Centre, Hiranandani, Powai

Tel: 7738344799

Meal for two: Rs 1,200+taxes