Virundu, Gurgaon

27th May 2011: Due to non standard quality control at Virundu, the rating is dropped from 4 star to 3.5

[Rated: 3.5/5]

There are times when the restaurant fails to impress upon their guests, and the owners are not happy with the results. This is especially true when one is invited for a review with the belief that it will spread a positive word for their restaurant. My last visit at Virundu wasn’t too great in terms of ambiance and service. The owner who became a friend by the time I finished my work, was obviously not happy with the review which was published else where. Unlike many others, he remained polite and never mentioned it in our conversation, speaking highly of him.

In an anonymous visit, I again visited Virundu yesterday with my family. The owner wasn’t present and the staff, that didn’t recognize me, courteously welcomed us. I am happy to report the ambiance was much nicer and they have expanded to accommodate over 50 guests. The wash-basin and the towels were clean and the new menu was printed to rectify the errors reported in the last menu. I was certainly pleased as I was honest in giving a frank opinion and the outlet made an attempt to improve their offering. Wish everyone can take the criticism in their stride.

During Navratras I try to be a vegetarian but still couldn’t resist the Egg Appam (Rs 100) and the layered super-soft Malabar Parantha (Rs 80) both of which were served with well-made vegetarian Korma. The food was never an issue at Virundu and we immensely liked the items. The Appam’s at Virundu is like a benchmark for me on which I gauge the same at other restaurants. My 3 year old immensely enjoyed the Appam and wanted another piece and the staff obliged by serving a single piece and charging for the half plate.

Kesari

Appam

Accompaniments

I didn’t like the runny coconut chutney which otherwise has always been of a better consistency at Virundu. But the Kesari (Rs 25) completed our meal on a happy note. The accompaniments on the table included Gunpowder, crushed sugar, Garlic Chutney, and Til ka Tel (sesame oil).

In Gurgaon, there are few choices for authentic South Indian food served at modest prices, in a clean air-conditioned environment served with efficient service. The rates are inclusive of government taxes and they do not include extra service charge in the bill, against the normal practice these days. Do not miss Virundu for an authentic budget meal.

Meal for Two: Rs200| Alcohol: No| Credit Card: No| Parking: Free
Address: 1185, Golf Course Road, Near Technopolis Building, Sector-54, Gurgaon
Phone: 9650130583/84/ 0124-2578175

-Pawan Soni