There’s another destination for grilled delicacies — first outlet of a Miami-based food chain at Saket. But if you want to taste authentic cuisine, this is not the place for you, says Iknoor Kaur
There was a definite sense of familiarity oozing out from the freshly-painted yellow and green walls. We expected some more colour and beachy imageries — after all that comes to mind when we think Miami, but Pollo Tropical’s first outlet in Delhi, rather India, looked like any other casual joint. Hats, sun shades and garlands saved the day and the guest’s expectations at the launch event of the retail chain, that specialises in Caribbean cuisine.
Goat stew and grilled delicacies are often referred to as a part of Caribbean cuisine. But seems like men behind the newly-opened chain were not sure of Delhiites’ palate and therefore they have opted for the safe choices. Grilled meat is a part of the menu, but if you will enter the joint with tastebuds prepared for goat stew, you will only get disappointed. Though not an authentic Caribbean restaurant, it takes flavours from the area and blends them with American grills. It boasts of serving only baked, steamed and grilled food without the use of oil.
Started in 1988 in Miami, spread over 100 chains all over the world, this fancy restaurant reinvented itself to suit the Indian crowd. Pollo Tropical is a good mix of fast food and casual dining. The staff at the restaurant gives you an overwhelming welcome and the relaxed atmosphere makes the experience worthwhile. There is also a photo section in the restaurant with the back drop of Miami.
Their kitchen is full of unique things. They use a machine for marinating chicken which has been brought from the US. There is also a separate section for vegetarians unlike their other outlets across the world.According to Manjit Saini, CEO of Paramount Group, who is handling the Northern Indian franchise of the eatery, it caters to the recent demands of people in the food circuit. He said, “We look at providing three main things — fresh food, grilled meat and healthy food. That is what people want today.”
The competition for this small fast food stop in the city may be a little more than they expected. Their platter serves chicken in its simplest form. Prepared with a combination of spices from the West, the flavour of the chicken lingers on the tongue. To much dismay their ‘no oil’ policy leaves the chicken dry, hence making you chew more. However, the caesar salad is crisp and delicious.
The other half of the menu covered up for their chicken. The black beans were well cooked and the aroma was perfect. Even their Tropichop section is interesting with a bowl meal of rice, beans, toppings and chicken or paneer. Their desserts had healthy cheesecake and mango magic which keeps up to their healthy theme. The tropical punches are good coolers and include soft drinks that have a refreshing feel, whether it’s the fruity pina colada or minty mojito.
Their assortment of dips was good too. They had over five different flavours of dips, from tamarind and honey to mint and spices. So far the restaurant is expected to spread roots only in the Northern sector. Cities like Gurgaon and Chandigarh are already on the list and Saini says that in the next four years the entire region will be covered.