Food review: Yauatcha in Mumbai

Yauatcha is the dim sum heaven for all Cantonese cuisine lovers. It can be easily termed as a modern tea-house, famous for its innovative Cantonese food delicacies in a sophisticated and Orientalised western setting. It serves 24 different varieties of tea from around the world.

The restaurant is in two levels and flanked by a high glass facade illustrating the restaurant’s minimal yet understated décor. The first level known as the ‘retail’ area features a variety of teas, including white, green, black, Chinese tea and many more. The  selection of colourful desserts could tempt anyone to linger at the counter but I ensured that I inquired about the desserts before I was escorted to my table. The second level features the bar and wine cellar, leading to a 200-seat dining section separated by large fish tanks.  There are also two private dining rooms which can seat around 10-15 people and the mood is set by soft music and dim lighting.

There are a variety of dim sums served at this restaurant — fried, pan-fried or steamed. I started with the Truffle and Edamame Dumplings which created a minor flavour explosion in my mouth. Next, I ordered the Crispy Prawn Cheung Fun which was wonderfully textured with a thick potato pastry sheathing the prawn.  After the heavenly dim sums I moved on to the main course ordering the Shanghai Siew Long Bun with Chicken served in an aromatic soya sauce. The chicken was a treat to the eyes as well as to the palate. Along with our food I was served refreshing tea cocktails and smoothies.

Last, but not the least were the desserts which reminded me of the time we spent at the ‘retail’ area and it brought a widespread smile to my face. The bright coloured macaroons brought to my table instantly reminded me of the irresistible macaroons which I had tried at a café in Sydney. I had also pre-ordered the raspberry delice — a raspberry chocolate brownie served with ice cream or sorbet.

Meal for two: Rs 4,000 
Address: Raheja Tower, First Floor, Bandra Kurla Complex,  Bandra East
Call: 022 26448888
Rating: ****