Chill Out

21 Fahrenheit,though,is a serious proposition consisting of the ice lounge,adjoining bar,and a restaurant upstairs that is expected to open soon. Their marketing head,Aalok Purohit,points out that the capacity for the ice lounge and restaurant is a strategic 45 persons each,thus making the establishment attractive for parties and corporate events. “We don’t see the lounge as a tourist attraction or a gimmick,the ice bar in Sweden,for example,has lasted eight years; we expect to attract residents from all over Mumbai and thus chose Oshiwara since it is a bit central and not as crowded as Bandra.” While one may disagree with the latter,the fact that the ice lounge has an adjoining though tiny regular bar is a redeeming factor; it could help retain customers for a while.

The experience itself is surreal for a first-time visitor; at minus 6 degrees Celsius,most noses feel frozen although the cold doesn’t really hit you for a while. The parka coat and insulated shoes provided are soon appreciated,especially when leaning against the icy bar. The drinks are fabulous,served in glasses made of ice and the shots are very reasonable at Rs 750 for five. The jello shots provide the most enjoyment,although characteristically aren’t very potent. Purohit emphasises Fahrenheit 21 is a lounge and not a bar as it is the only ice bar that serves hot food and drinks; this is clearly its paramount feature. Their hot chocolate feels like it is the best you’ve ever had if you consume it after a half-hour or so. The hot food,especially the prawns with wasabi sauce and chocolate lava cake,provide pleasant warmth; the cold food offered is better eaten upstairs. “We had to increase the potency of the flavour and spices as one’s taste buds are not as receptive in the cold,” Purohit points out. Our only major grievance is that the music is uncomfortably loud; the music is better suited to a nightclub than a lounge.

Unlike some other ice bars,this one allows you to go in whenever you wish and stay for as long as you want. For most people,an hour is the upper limit,but purely for the novelty factor this is an hour well spent. Other ice bars depend on tourists for long-term survival; Purohit believes there are enough people locally to ensure longevity. We aren’t certain of this,but can recommend you go break some shot glasses made of ice while you can.

21 Fahrenheit,Meera Apartments,opposite. Mega Mall,Oshiwara. Price:Rs. 750 per person including one drink. Tel: 022 2631 0021