Monkey Bar, Vasant Kunj, Delhi: Breakfast Time

Its 9 am on a Sunday morning, and I am already on my way from Gurgaon to Monkey Bar in Vasant Kunj, Delhi. I am wondering why? I am not a certified drunkard who starts drinking in morning, then why am I in a Bar so early in the morning?

Monkey Bar has recently introduced its breakfast menu in Delhi and already in love with the gastro-pub’s offering on my last visit, this trip is a must for me. Especially when there are plethora of brunch options that start at noon or later but not many options for a good breakfast in the city that generally wakes up late on weekends. I have never understood the idea of a brunch that starts as late as lunch time but that is another discussion.

This is late February and 2014 is a unique year when sun still doesn’t hurt and it’s still convenient with a jacket. The sun peeping through pyramid shaped glass building only makes atmosphere more comfortable, and I order a fresh water melon juice (180) and cereal sundae (165). Juice is fresh and served in a fancy martbaan (earthern vessel). I have never been fond of cereals but what is served at the Monkey Bar is spectacular. With house made granolas mixed with dried cranberry, pecan, wheat bran, honey, oats and topped with lemon yogurt it takes my heart. Bite after bite ensues, and a feeling that I am eating something healthy (atleast to start with).

My friend order for bbq pork steamed bun (130) which is as good as any other char siu except that I miss on the oyster sauce flavours in this. Breakfast Slider (225) is made on a bed of a Louisiana style biscuit which is supposed to be crunchy on the top with fluffy and moist interiors. The poached egg, bacon and house made sausage patty are nicely done but the biscuit is too brittle to give all flavours in one go. The egg Benedict (215) has an excellent hollandaise sauce (not too thick) but here too I miss on the flowing yolk which is a sign of this wonderful dish.

My friend loves the vegetarian option in Garden of five senses (465) that has vegetable crepe, hash browns, feta-cheddar-yellow & red bell pepper stuffed mushrooms, grilled tomato, baked beans and tomato chutney served with toasts. This is a complete meal and any vegetarian who has been looking for options is going to be very-very happy. At the same time I almost finished eggs in a blanket (325) which is an egg parantha that I ordered with pandi curry. It is recommended for anyone who is Punjabi by heart and gourmand by nature and it satisfies both.

We not only get a brilliant start at Monkey Bar but given the exceptional desserts, we end on a high too. Cinnamon and toffee pull apart bun and the red velvet waffle (195 each) are mind blowing. The wonderful flavour of cinnamon and toffee is contagious. It is impossible to stop once you start eating it. The presence of toffee does not make it overly sweet. Red velvet waffle equally excites with cream cheese and almond praline.

It is just the second day of its weekend breakfast and with my prior experience at The Monkey Bar, I am sure they will tie-up the loose ends soon.

Here is my list of not to be missed items on the menu at the Monkey Bar: Cereal Sundae, Garden of five senses for vegetarian and eggs in a blanket for non vegetarians. Don’t leave without Cinnamon and toffee pull apart bun.

Ratings (out of 5):

Food: 3.0 | Ambience: 4.0 | Service: 4.0 | Overall: 3.5

Meal for two: Rs. 1000+ without alcohol | Alcohol: Yes | Credit Card: Yes | Breakfast Timings: 9am – 1pm | Special Note: Alcohol served after 11am

Address: The Monkey Bar, Plot No.11, C6 & C7 Commercial Complex, Next to Nanking & Barbeque Nation, Adjacent to Kotak Mahindra Bank & Mini Cooper Showroom, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi | Telephone: 011-41095155