Its been 6 months I have shifted my base in Kolkata and was kind of busy with settling myself with the changes! I left Kolkata in 2008 and from then it was only visiting two or three times a year. As a result of this, I was in touch with the city mostly through discussions, newspapers and other media resources. I was not sure to how to start exploring the city again like I did for Gurgaon but as they say when there is will there is a way! I was approached by Saloni from Food Blogger's Association India (FBAI) to visit Studio- the Pan Asian Gallery, Novotel, Kolkata and to represent FBAI there!
I was in Pondicherry when Saloni send me a text for this and I was even not sure whether to attend or not given I was planning to return home and postpone everything with extended sleep but.... Then came the description of the event and I just couldn't resist myself to attend the Studio Live! And I was damn right! It was really good to be there and to taste some really amazing food along with live performance by Arko Mukherjee collective!
Studio" is Novotel Kolkata's newest offering and is located in the heart of New Town just opposite Axis Mall. They are offering a typical studio setup with live performances everyday which is inclusive of Live band, theatrical performances, fashion talk etc. They are offering Newtown Wednesdays, Thirsty Thursdays and Studio Live Fridays which are different thematically but bonded by performances. Coming to my visit, I witnessed the Studio live Friday there and the first place I attacked was the bar which was quite obvious after a super hectic day! started with an non alcoholic Thai welcome drink I have opted for a safe choice of Classic Martini!
Next few hours were a phase of mesmerization, music, and food! A bunch of beautiful notes by the "Arko Mukhaerjee Collective" where Arko is the lead vocalist and guitarist and is supported by Debopratim Bakshi on percussion, Koustav Dey on Guitar, Diptanshu Roy on Mandolin and Arinjoy Sarkar was worth witnessing.
I did opt for the starters and had Prawn Tempura with a subtle flavor of ginger which was then followed by Kai Phad King Thai Spiced Chicken. Their Dim sum offerings are inclusive of Chicken and Black Fungus Tortalini and Prawn Munti, Oracle vegetable crystal balls followed by some exotic Shusi, Chicken Satay, and crunchy Squid. The last thing I opted for was a refreshing Soup; Roast Chili and Lemon Grass Tom um Caviar with Chicken.
Last but not the least, I did attack the live kitchen there in Studio and Chef Neelabh Sahay was kind enough to allow me to my bunch of questions! I was shown the kitchen and he detailed about the menu! One thing I found really refreshing is the choice of the main course; they are offering pot meals instead of full course which is going perfectly with the theme of Studio. I was shown the process of making Pasta and different types of Sushi and dumplings and how they have opted for proper food fusion.
It was indeed a great experience to witness the Studio Live Friday and I found the ambiance and offerings are really good there. It is truly a first of its kind initiative in the city of Joy and worth visiting to enjoy good food along with live performances.
Disclaimer: Debjani was invited at the Studio by Novotel, Kolkata through FBAI her review for Studio has already been published by FBAI and can be found through the following link: Debjani's experience of the Studio- the Pan Asian Gallery by Novotel, Kolkata
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