/ Reviews / Fusion
Dance, Drink and Discover Self-enjoyment
by Jocelyn Betts
on Friday, June 11, 2010 12:00 AM
Shiva Lounge is not a restaurant. It is not a healthy-eating joint. It cannot be adequately defined by the term ‘bar', nor is it sufficient to call it an Indian-inspired hideout. In fact, this new venue packs so much into such a small space, it is difficult to summarize its potential in a few short paragraphs.
The external vista of 47 YongFu Road is guarded by two large statues of Ganesh, son of Indian god Shiva. Inside, a wall-mounted dancing Shiva is both a visual and ethical focal point for the lounge. "Shiva is a storm god," explains Weila Wu, the brain-box behind the business. "When he is dancing, he is at his most powerful," she says, with a glint in her eyes that the yoga guru may attribute to her drishti, but is more likely due to her daiquiri. Weila is sipping one of Shiva's signature fresh fruit cocktails, the strawberry-flavored Pink Knickers Frozen Daiquiri. This is the drink of a deity. The brand-new apple and kiwi flavors are just as delicious, priced at RMB65.
The food menu is divided into ‘Tasty Light Salads, Sandwiches, Wraps and More', ‘Universal Colours, Dips and Salsas' and ‘Light Bites that Delight.' In other words, it caters for morning munchies, post-workout re-fuels, afternoon pick-me-ups, end-of-work nibbles, pre-dance energizers and late-night feasting. But can the food match the beverages?
The Pooja Hallalujah is a salsa of fresh mango, onion and coriander. Although it is served with poppadoms and tortilla chips, you will be forgiven for spooning it straight into your mouth (RMB44). The sharing platters are a sociable choice, with interchangeable options to accommodate everyone's tastes. The Chicken Tikka with Tabbouleh and the Vegetable Samosas with potato and coriander, accompanied by mint and tamarind sauces, ought to be highly commended. It is rare to find pastry so crispy, yet not greasy; satisfying, but not stodgy. For the super healthy, the vegetable crudités with Mommas Hummus should be a platter perennial (RMB99 for two), or try the Trendy Ghandi for RMB150, which is ideal for four.
The grand opening is this Saturday night, and with Weila's vision, top DJs and cleverly-themed evenings, this really is just the beginning for Shiva Lounge.
The Bottom Line: Dedicated Shaivites are warmly welcomed to worship at this great location, with generous prices and a wonderful attitude.
