[Rated: 3.5/5]
A fairly amusing name with a red Lambretta adorning its entrance, likethatonly is definitely one of the more colourful and happy looking restaurants I have been to in Bangalore. Yes, good ambience does set one’s appetite, well at least for me it does. Add to that Chef Manu Chandra’s name and you have a sure shot winner.
Since the ambience had already set my mood, I, for the first time ever in my life, volunteered for a 10 course meal. I was first served a bread platter which had onion focaccia, a multigrain bread with whole grains both of which were served with basil butter. . The focaccia had an overdose of oil and the basil in the butter could hardly be identified. Having heard a lot about the drinks at likethatonly from my blogger friends, I decided it’s time for me to place my drink orders. I asked for the LOTTA (Rs 400) and the likethatonly (Rs 400) both of which were very well made. For once I was happy to have not been served sugar syrup in the name of a cocktail.
After a few sips of the drink we were served the LTO Smoked Clam chowder (Rs 225) which was a delicate tasting soup. Colours and simple flavours bowl me off and what I got next was a sure winner, Beetroot Pannacotta with Walnut and Goat cheese crumble was served as amuse bouche. This dish, though vegetarian, caught my eye for its concept, presentation and the taste. Also, in line was the Brie Tempura (Rs 265) which was served with plum sauce pickled grapes and beetroot. Sushi snobs will love this place as it has a wonderful array of sushi and nigiri rolls, I had the Prawn Tempura Roll (Rs 300) and the Tuna Nigiri (Rs 485) both of which I loved. I also had the Smoked Foie Gras (Rs 695) which was served with a beautifully made fig pudding – so much so that I loved the fig pudding more than the foie gras itself.
I had heard plenty about the Soy Glazed Chilli Pork Ribs (Rs 330) here and whatever I had heard is surely an understatement. The pork was gorgeous and even after all the food I had, I was left wanting for more. The Crispy Chicken Leg Confit (Rs 555) which came next was less exciting though. The moment I dug my knife into the chicken I knew it was dry, but I still tasted it which reaffirmed my judgment.
I was eagerly looking forward to the desserts, I was served the Mango Pannacotta which to my disappointment came without compote and was sour in taste. The Bitter Orange Torte (Rs 220) too lacked in both flavor and sugar.
Summing up, likethatonly is for sure the place you should head to for your meat cravings. With cozy ambience, stunning drinks and food (yes, I am ignoring my disappointment with the desserts hoping it was a one off thing as most people I know love what they serve) likethatonly is sure one place you can’t afford to miss!
Food: 3.5 | Ambience: 4.0 |Service: 3.5 | Overall: 3.5
Meal for two: Rs. 2500| Alcohol: Yes | Credit Card: Yes | Timings: 12 Noon to 11:30 pm
Address: LikeThatOnly, 14/31A, Hagadur Road, Behind Forum Value Mall, Whitefield, Bangalore | Telephone: 080 6547 5610
– Aparna Jha