Simply Fondue
The American chain opens in the capital but leaves much to be
desired. Cheese and chocolate lovers can justify a visit if only for a
novel dining experience.
Simply Fondue, quite simply put, warrants a visit for its fondue alone. They hadn't obtained a liquor license at the time of my visit, which was rather unfortunate given that the centerpiece around which their menu revolves lacked the very ingredient that lends it essence, namely the wine. Given that we were sampling fondue sans wine, the experience was underwhelming since what you end up with essentially, is melted cheese accompanied by accoutrements.
Aside from the obvious, here's what was lacking. The location for starters did nothing to elevate the restaurant. Located in Nehru Place just left of the storied commercial block, there is nothing inviting about the approach, or for that matter the interiors which hit you with a musty odour of paint as you enter. The decor was neither plush, nor minimal and just didn't come close to the standard professed by the chain. Next came the seating. Divided into what seemed like a dining and bar area, both spaces were devoid of character and offered uncomfortable seating which made us want to go through the meal faster just so we could get back into the comfort of our car seats. My third grouse, was the meandering menu which neglected to explain the fondue courses as would be expected.
When it comes to the food, each course was well presented. Our waiter, Tenzin, seemed pretty clued in on the European menu . With a touch of showmanship, he dished up the fondue live at our table (each setting has an electronic hob at the centre), enticing us as he went along with his preparation. In a nutshell, just stick to the fondue and you'll be fine. Skip the fondue style entrees. Stick to the cheese fondue and wind up with the chocolate fondue for dessert, and you'll be happy when you leave. We suggest waiting and confirming the restaurant's liquor license before proceeding to a reservation, no point in sampling a wineless rendition of a classic dish.
Aside from the obvious, here's what was lacking. The location for starters did nothing to elevate the restaurant. Located in Nehru Place just left of the storied commercial block, there is nothing inviting about the approach, or for that matter the interiors which hit you with a musty odour of paint as you enter. The decor was neither plush, nor minimal and just didn't come close to the standard professed by the chain. Next came the seating. Divided into what seemed like a dining and bar area, both spaces were devoid of character and offered uncomfortable seating which made us want to go through the meal faster just so we could get back into the comfort of our car seats. My third grouse, was the meandering menu which neglected to explain the fondue courses as would be expected.
Cheese Fondue
When it comes to the food, each course was well presented. Our waiter, Tenzin, seemed pretty clued in on the European menu . With a touch of showmanship, he dished up the fondue live at our table (each setting has an electronic hob at the centre), enticing us as he went along with his preparation. In a nutshell, just stick to the fondue and you'll be fine. Skip the fondue style entrees. Stick to the cheese fondue and wind up with the chocolate fondue for dessert, and you'll be happy when you leave. We suggest waiting and confirming the restaurant's liquor license before proceeding to a reservation, no point in sampling a wineless rendition of a classic dish.
