Spice at a Tasty Price

3 Photos

by Juliann Kirkland
on Friday, July 24, 2009 12:00 AM

Sitting just across the fence lining Century Mart is Chor Bazaar, a new Indian restaurant that opened in early July. Indian food aficionados may recognize one of the owners, Mr. Negi, who was involved in the openings of both Bukhara and Kebabs on the Grill, and has now partnered up with the charismatic Mr. Raman to launch this enticing North Indian eaterie.
Chor Bazaar, meaning ‘Thieves Market' is lively and upbeat. Downstairs is a small area featuring the ‘Thug Bar' where energetic Baliwood music videos play in the background. Upstairs is a casual dining area, beautifully decorated by Mr. Raman's wife. All the food is prepared in a closed kitchen by three chefs hailing from New Delhi.
The extensive menu is not finalized yet, but currently stands at ten pages. At first, it seems slightly overwhelming, but closer reading reveals that the dishes are categorized by their main ingredients, and are helpfully numbered to facilitate easier ordering for difficult-to-pronounce choices. The owners have also marked their top picks with a ‘thumbs up' sign.
We followed the recommended list, only veering away once when a unique dish we had never heard of before - number A19, Pahadi Kebab (RMB45) - caught our attention. These cubes of chicken are marinated in spinach and curd before being barbequed, and deliver a sweetly smoked flavor on the tongue.
Among the recommended selections were the deep-fried Chicken Lollipops appetizer (RMB35/8pcs), and creamy Butter Chicken (RMB42) - washed down by delicious Marsala Chai tea (RMB25). The Vindaloo Lamb (RMB45) was listed as ‘extra hot,' but it seemed rather tame compared to most other Shanghai restaurants serving it.
Chor Bazaar aims to give customers value for money, and also offers a 10% discount on all take-out orders and delivery services within a 5km radius.
The Bottom Line: A laid-back Indian restaurant serving delicious Northern Indian food at reasonable prices.