A Flavorful Fusion Delight at Ouza Cocktail Bar & Kitchen, Pune
Ouza Cocktail Bar & Kitchen in Pune presents an exciting culinary landscape, weaving together Mediterranean, Asian, Modern Indian, and European influences with flair. My recent visit left me thoroughly impressed, particularly with a few standout dishes and some unforgettable drinks.
The menu offers a delightful journey, and I truly fell in love with several items:
Fermented Tomatoes with Goat Cheese: This dish was an absolute revelation! Forget ordinary tomatoes; these were intense little bursts of tangy and sweet flavor, perfectly described as "tomato bombs." The creamy, smooth goat cheese provided the ideal counterpoint, making each bite a balanced delight. A fantastic starter.
Mushroom Spanakopita: A nod to Greek cuisine, this pie was expertly crafted. The earthy, savory mushroom filling was encased in beautifully flaky, crisp layers of phyllo dough. It offered a wonderful textural contrast and rich flavor that was incredibly satisfying.
Pizza con Patate: This wasn't your average pizza. Built on a lovely sourdough base, it featured a luscious white sauce instead of traditional tomato, generously topped with tender confit potatoes and infused with aromatic herb butter. It was unique, comforting, and utterly delicious – a sophisticated take on pizza.
While the food was memorable, the drinks equally shone. I had two mocktails that were simply outstanding – creative, refreshing, and expertly balanced. Though I unfortunately can't recall their names, I can confidently say they are a must-try. Don't hesitate to explore their non-alcoholic offerings; you won't be disappointed!
With its diverse menu spanning continents and offering delicious salads and desserts alongside its innovative savory dishes and cocktails (and mocktails!), Ouza Cocktail Bar & Kitchen is a fantastic spot. Based on my experience with these flavour-packed dishes and exceptional drinks, it's a place I highly recommend checking out in Pune for a vibrant and...
Read moreOuza Cocktail Bar Kitchen is a hidden gem in Baner that brings together Mediterranean elegance and modern comfort. From the moment we walked in, the calm and peaceful vibe instantly stood out. The outdoor seating, with soft dim lighting and a cool breeze, made the entire experience feel like a mini escape right in the city.
We started with their Butter Garlic Prawns – and they were absolutely delicious. Perfectly cooked, juicy prawns tossed in rich, buttery garlic sauce with just the right amount of seasoning. A simple dish, done really well.
Next up, we had the Chicken Dumplings – delicate, flavorful, and served piping hot. The filling was juicy and well-balanced, and they didn’t feel heavy at all. Great option if you're looking for something comforting to pair with drinks.
For mains, we tried the Prawns Thai Green Curry, and it totally stole the show. Creamy, aromatic, and packed with fresh herbs – it had that authentic Thai flavor we crave. The prawns were tender and soaked up all that beautiful green curry richness, perfectly complemented by the steamed rice served alongside.
Their cocktails deserve a special mention – each one was thoughtfully crafted and full of character. Whether you enjoy something bold, fruity, or balanced, there's something for everyone.
Overall, Ouza is the kind of place that feels effortlessly elegant. Great food, chill ambiance, and excellent service. Highly recommend for a relaxed evening with friends, a date night, or just some quiet solo time with good...
Read moreDear Ouza Team,
I recently visited your restaurant on a Saturday evening, drawn by the live band and the promise of a new dining experience. While the ambience was decent, I left feeling quite underwhelmed due to several disappointing aspects of the visit.
Cocktails: The quality of cocktails was very poor. The first drink had stale fruit and was badly mixed. Upon requesting a replacement, the second cocktail turned out to be even worse. If you're aiming to attract a crowd that appreciates good drinks, having an experienced and skilled bartender is essential.
Food: The starters were extremely disappointing—I'd rate them around 2/10. They lacked freshness and flavor. Overall, the food did not meet expectations, and the chef’s performance needs serious improvement to compete in today’s restaurant scene.
Service & Ethics: What shocked me the most was the PR staff going around to each table, asking customers to open Zomato and Google apps, and then prompting or even doing self-reviews with 5-star ratings. This practice is highly unethical and undermines the trust that future customers place in genuine reviews.
While the live music and atmosphere show potential, the overall experience was, unfortunately, mediocre at best. Ouza has a long way to go in terms of food quality, bar service, and authentic customer engagement. I hope this feedback is taken constructively, as I do see potential in the concept—with the right...
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