Successfully Loca

When the opening of Loca Loca was announced (on April 20),it was being considered a Cuban bar,but that is not entirely accurate. “It’s more of an expression of a Cuban bar,” Kishore says. So despite the obvious Fidel Castro poster,Loca Loca isn’t meant to have any particular theme. Either way,the lounge-like furniture with the new,light green walls and lamps and lanterns hanging over the bar counter,work. The music too is primarily Latin,sometimes instrumental,sometimes not,but always at a volume that allows easy conversations.

The menu shows much more variety and includes a dish named Cocoa and Cheese Poppers. Encased in a round shell is a generous helping of cheese flavoured with jalapeno and towards the very centre there is melted milk chocolate. The combination of cheese and chocolate isn’t unexplored,but often doesn’t succeed. This,however,does,with the jalapeno and chocolate blending perfectly. The Loca omelette with a choice of chicken or pork chorizo is the perfect accompaniment to drinks. Using only egg white,the omelette is presented like a pizza,contains a generous topping of chorizo — in our case,pork — and is not far from perfection. Loca cuscurro,is a Mexican chaat,but appearance-wise,not particularly different from your street bhel. This is a more refined bhel with tortilla and beans.

The new drinks on offer are easily the high point. The tropical cocktails — daiquiris and cubanitos with fresh fruit — are perfectly fruity and refreshing while still serving the purpose of a cocktail (in terms of alcohol content). Watermelon Cubanito and Vodka Sangria are highly recommended.

Although the food hits the mark in terms of taste,it has a long way to go in terms of concept,says Kishore. “At the moment,there’s generic stuff and bar food like grills and barbecues,” he says. “We’re going to rework the concept and the food menu will be changed.” Whether or not,however,as it stands Loca Loca could well become a good spot for a post-word drink and nibble.

Meal for two: Rs 1,700 with alcohol