Familiar Flavour

Lemongrass,the new Asian fine-diner in Sector 26,takes its name rather seriously

There is little to debate on when it comes to the cuisines that are popular in the city. Most would agree that the tandoori chicken and its buttered versions,along with Mughlai fare,continue to remain bestsellers. North Indian menus are closely followed by the Oriental kind and the number of restaurants in the tri-city is a testament to that. So news of yet another fine-diner choosing to tread the same path is both surprising and unexciting.

Located on Madhya Marg in Sector 26,Lemongrass comes from the stable that previously dished out The Manor,a multi-cuisine fine-dining restaurant that didnt have a very long innings. But owner Munish Bajaj is optimistic with what the new restaurant and lounge has to offer. Theres a lot of Chinese fare available but no specialisation in Thai,which is our USP, said Bajaj as we arrived for lunch.

The location is familiar,though parking continues to be an issue during the first half of the day. As you step inside,the first thing you notice is the long island bar with a lounge area opposite to it and of course the lemony lighting that dots the ceiling. So far,theres little to suggest the South Asian leanings of the place. The dining area has been relegated to the furtherest end with 30 covers,and tables housed irritatingly close to each other.

The menu does try to pull in more than the usual,listing Thai,Vientnamese,Chinese and some Korean as well. A lot of dishes prominently feature lemongrass,the main ingredient for Thai fare. Salads seem to be honouring the flavoursome grass with the likes of Crunchy Vegetable with Lemongrass,Crispy Chicken Lemongrass and Sweet Basil and Tossed Chicken with Thai Lemon dressing. The latter is a good mix of flavours. The seafood section is robust and so is the line-up of hors doeuvre. The corn salt and pepper was well done and the potatoes in a tangy brown sauce were what you would dig into on a rainy day. Having said that,its not a menu that is completely new in its appeal.

If you are looking to toast some drinks at the bar,catch live music and dig into satay sticks,Lemongrass will appeal to your senses.

Meal for two: Rs 1,000 approx

address: SCO 18,Madhya Marg,Sector 26,Chandigarh

contact: 9888896382

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