If you're seeking a culinary adventure that marries Indian and Middle Eastern flavors with finesse, look no further than Mister Merchant’s, Pune's exciting new dining destination. This restaurant pays homage to the rich culinary traditions along the Silk Route, presenting a delightful fusion of flavors and a charming vintage ambiance. The menu boasts an array of dishes inspired by Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, offering a unique gastronomic journey.
To start, we savored the Lahm Hummus served with fluffy Pita Bread and tangy Pickled Vegetables. The hummus was exceptionally smooth, infused with the earthy flavors of lamb, complemented by the freshness of the vegetables.
Next, the Chicken Kash Kash arrived—a dish that delighted with its succulent chicken in a rich, aromatic sauce. The infusion of spices took us straight to the streets of old Hyderabad, with each bite bursting with flavor.
The Mushroom and Truffle Baklava was a revelation—a creative twist on a classic dessert. Layers of flaky pastry enveloped a savory mushroom and truffle filling, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
For dessert, we indulged in the Knafeh Ice Cream—a delightful marriage of crispy, sweet pastry topped with a generous scoop of ice cream. It was a perfect ending to our meal, combining tradition with innovation.
Mister Merchant’s also boasts a standout cocktail program, which we thoroughly enjoyed. The Rose to Strawberry cocktail was refreshing and ideal for summer, while the Wood Apple to Raspberry concoction was a unique and crisp delight. The Coffee to Avocado cocktail stood out as a creamy, dessert-like treat that left a lasting impression.
The restaurant's interiors and ambiance perfectly complemented the culinary experience, enhancing our enjoyment of each dish. The vintage decor and speakeasy atmosphere added to the overall charm of Mister Merchant’s.
In summary, our visit to Mister Merchant’s was nothing short of exceptional. From the inventive menu offerings to the well-crafted cocktails and inviting ambiance, this restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that is sure to delight food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Mister Merchant’s is a must-visit for those looking to embark on a culinary journey through time and taste. Make sure to treat yourself to their unique offerings—you won't be...
Read moreThis is a restaurant so befitting the Pune milieu – like visiting the home of a Parsi gentleman/trader who has voyaged across Persia, the Middle East, and Central Asia – in its theme, décor, and the cuisine. ‘Contemporary Indian Mezze’ best describes the menu at Mister Merchant’s as the culinary journey across the Levant, Egypt, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, and a return home to India. The textured walls, warm woods, geometric black-and-white flooring, antiques (heirloom lamps and figurines), and the bespoke cutlery, transport you to a bygone era that is easy going, yet plush. Food is in line with the Silk Route narrative as cuisines from India and the Middle East.
We ordered the stunning Merchant’s Hummus, the generous sprinkling of sumac and the “kiss-me” pita bread, winning me instantly. We had round two of the same. Thecha & Curry Leaf Hummus, Ghee & Podi Hummus, Steak Hummus are listed too.
In kebabs, we went with the Persian Chicken Joojeh Masti marinated in saffron, the utterly juicy chunks of chicken wearing a delicate, amazing aroma.
How about a Mushroom Truffle Baklava for a vegetarian? A very fine pastry, I say.
I wanted to try a mutton dish and went for Merchant Mutton Curry with ‘lachha paratha’. This silky-smooth curry was done well, but then, there are many more interesting/new things to try – the Mutton Kabsa, saffron chicken flatbread?
Drinks are gorgeous here, curated by the amazing mixologist, Chong Sherpa. I would put the cocktails as the finest that I have had in my recent visits to other restaurants and five-star properties and are at a far affordable price. We immensely enjoyed, Orange to Bitter, Apricot Smash, and Hapusa Gimlet.
Desserts has baklava, ice cream, chocolate pudding, Mysore pak mousee. We were ‘so’ rightly recommended the Knafeh Ice Cream – a caramelized pistachio mascarpone mousse, toasted kanefeh, rose syrup, and toasted nuts.
The staff is very amiable (smiley) and knowledgeable. You get a wet towel as you sit, a side table to put your bag/s, and a...
Read moreMy visit to Mister Merchant's restaurant was an absolute delight from start to finish. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a sense of sophistication in the ambiance that instantly set the tone for a memorable dining experience. The tastefully designed interior, with its attention to detail and elegant decor, created a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.
As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but be drawn to the hummus, and it did not disappoint. The hummus was a perfect blend of creamy texture and rich flavor, accompanied by freshly baked pita bread that added a delightful crunch. It was evident that it was the chef's expertise and best seller.
One dish that truly stood out was the red chili falafel, a unique twist on a classic favorite. The unexpected combination of the falafel with Rajasthani kadhi sauce was a pleasant surprise that melded together seamlessly. The spiciness of the red chili falafel was beautifully complemented by the tangy and creamy kadhi sauce, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.
The service at Mister Merchant's restaurant was nothing short of exceptional. The attentive and friendly staff ensured that every need was met, contributing to an overall sense of warmth and hospitality. It was clear that the team was dedicated to providing a top-notch dining experience, and their efforts did not go unnoticed.
It won't be fair to them if I don't mention about the music, it's different every day and it's mostly refreshing.(it's near my workplace thus after lunch walks helps me discover some nice songs)
In conclusion, my visit to Mister Merchant's restaurant was a culinary journey that exceeded my expectations. With its delectable dishes, impeccable service, classy ambiance, and enjoyable music, this establishment has truly mastered the art of creating a memorable dining outing. Whether you're a food enthusiast seeking innovative flavors or someone looking for a refined dining atmosphere, Mister Merchant's is undoubtedly a gem...
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