Boasting of genuine Italian food and simple yet artful interiors,Darios is a vegetarian paradise
Tucked away behind barricades of watchful policemen in Koregaon Park is this simple Italian restaurant,located inside the Hotel Sunderban premises. Surprisingly (though not unpleasantly) low on décor,the furnishing has shades of an American diner,with its mirror,bar stools and square tables,though the building that houses it has a slightly old-world,almost colonial feel to it. Welcome to Dario’s,the pride and joy of Sicilian chef and owner,Dario Dezio.
Most of the patrons of this completely vegetarian establishment are from the nearby Osho ashram,or are young couples on dates. On the wall bang opposite the aforementioned mirror hang many paintings done by Dario himself,and these are replaced once in a few months.
While waiting for the food to arrive,one thing was unfortunately very apparent the eatery tends to be noisy. The side effect of the airy architecture is that even the slightest noise echoes most unpleasantly.
While the food was being brought,garlic bread was served,with the butter presented very exquisitely,in the shape of a flower. In fact,the presentation of all the dishes was quite good,fulfilling both requirements it was aesthetically good looking and urged the saliva glands into overdrive.
The first to arrive was the Popette di ceci,a starter dish. Similar to pakoras ,it came with a delicious cheese-based dip. Next was the pasta,the Tortellini formaggio e funghi,using penne pasta. Then came the Etnea pizza – the genuine,wood-fire dish,that,in the world of quick service restaurants,India seems to have unfortunately missed out on. With a hard crust and a soft topping,and a spread of melted cheese,tomatoes,jalapeños and olives providing a delicately wonderful culinary experience,the pizza receives full marks. For dessert,the rich dark chocolate cake was a delicious way of ending the sumptuous meal.