19 July,2010 07:08 AM IST | | Fiona Fernandez
For those who intend to nurse a FIFA World Cup hangover for long, we suggest you head to Manchester United Cafe Bar's second branch in the city, for an all-round football vibe, excellent service and food, topped with a few neat moves behind the bar
Even as one comes to terms with life without football, post the one-month long extravaganza in South Africa, a pleasant reminder of the beautiful game greeted us as we stepped into the spacious, red and black interiors of Manchester United Cafe Bar at Mulund.
Set in a circular space with a funky neon outlined football-shaped ceiling in the centre to state the obvious, every inch inside reeked of football fervour, high decibel music included.
The walls were pasted with the club's stars past and present, even as several giant-sized screens all around ensured every table didn't miss out on the action.
A large bar with a jumbo screen above, resembled a futuristic, 'spirit'ually-inspired altar.
Clearly, we were ready for kick-off inside the Red Devils arena. Our table attendant gave us ample reccos before we settled for the Mango & Mint and Strawberry Margaritas ((Rs 375 each) along with Ginger Chilly Chicken with Honey (Rs 295).
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The nattily done menu made us flip through it from cover to cover.
The Margaritas were nicely done the fruity flavours holding their own, particularly with the Mango & Mint concoction.
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It was mid-week and nearing 11.30 pm, yet quite a few tables were occupied with a crowd of white collared corporates, middle-aged couples and football fans even as multiple sports channels beamed all kinds of adrenaline-pumping action.
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The generous portions of the Ginger Chilly Chicken kept us good company till our mains arrived; however the ginger flavouring took a while to hit our palate.
The Vodka-infused Penne Alfredo (Rs 325) and Smoked Chicken with Citrus Salad (Rs 325) took a while to arrive but it was worth it.
The vodka in this creamy white sauce pasta dish felt like an unsuspecting late raid while the salad was a health freak's delight, even as my dinner date relished every bite of the fresh olives and the other balsamic delights.
Towards the end, we were witness to a few gravity-defying pyrotechnics by their talented bartender Hiten along with a blazing finale, as he tossed up a flaming cocktail, the Depth Charge, that brought the house down.
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Our only grouse, a hefty 20% VAT along with service tax can have quite a sobering effect at the end of full-time.
AT: Level 2, Nirmal Lifestyle, LBS Marg, Mulund (W). call: 65888077
Manchester United Cafe Bar didn't know we were there. The GUIDE reviews anonymously and pays for meals.
