The food habits of any region primarily depends on the majorly grown crops in the region and climatic conditions. Afghanistan being populated by the ethnic groups such as Tajiks, Uzbeks, and Pashtuns have adopted a unique cooking style, which is influenced by its neighbors. Their cooking includes a lot of raisins and kabuli. It is a fascinating experience to try out this cuisine, I got a chance to try this at Terracotta at Vivanta by Taj. The edifice is built with glass, which gives a polished look to the property. Being a business hotel and with the virtue of its location, it is been a strategic place attracting the business crowd.

I visited this place in Whitefield for lunch. The building is uniquely constructed with airy and pleasant ambience. As we entered inside, a fully loaded Afghan menu was waiting to treat us. We could see the open kitchen on the right hand side where chef was all set and busy with the preparation. Each and every dish was presented beautifully, the chef’s magic was evident. Also, chef served every dish by providing a brief insight about the dish which made the session interesting and lively. Even I was curious to know about these dishes.

To start with:

Bonjan Salad: It was based on egg-plant with perfect spice level. Just loved it!

Mashawa: Afghani Vegetable soup, which is made with perfection with decent spice level and it tasted extremely good. Believe me, it’s a must try soup and I advise not to miss this Soup!

In Kebabs, we tried Kabuli Chana Kibbeh, Bitata Hulwatan Seekh, Tarkari ki Shammi and Mushroom ki Galouti – Out of all, I liked Mushroom ki Galouti. It was just melting in my mouth by bursting the flavors.

Shebet Palaw: It was rich in texture with a lot of raisins and veggies. Tasted heavenly! Thoroughly enjoyed it! The Dill Leaves used extensively in the Palaw, which made the dish flavorful.

Ashak – Steamed Dumplings filled with Chives and topped with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. The dish tasted extremely good! For a moment, I thought it’s an Italian Ravioli with the Texture and Looks!

Kathal ki kofte – May be this was the only dish where I could see some spice level and the gravy has an Indian Influence. I could sense some Indian Spices flavor with it. The Kofta was soft and flavorful, which is perfectly blended in the Gravy.

Buranee Badenjan – Sauteed Egg Plant, Bell Peppers, Tomatoes with Mint Yogurt Gravy! I wasn’t impressed for some reason. Since, I tried the Authentic Afghan Food for the first time. So, I will not be able to comment on authenticity.

Baklawa: This was different from which I had tried in the past. But, this was prepared in a varied manner allowing the dish to be dominant on the dry fruit flavors. There was no artificial sweetness added to the dish. It was authentically prepared.

I would like to Thank “Vivanta by Taj” group & Akash Thakur from Edelmen for having us at Terracota. We thoroughly enjoyed the food! It was an experience more than a food!

Address: Vivanta By Taj, ITPB, Whitefield, Bangalore

Phone: 080 66933333

Cuisines: Afghani, North Indian, Lucknowi

Cost for 2 People: 3000 INR Approx…

Table Booking: Recommended