Kebabs on the Grille

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by Rosy Meek
on Monday, September 22, 2008 12:00 AM

In an unusual location where few expats have yet explored the Cool Docks are largely elusive and hard to spot. Alley-way entrances with minimal signage hardly prepare you for what lies beyond. This is a shame, the outcome of maze-like rambling leads you onto a plethora of plots ready for evening entertainment entrepreneurs to cultivate. Touted to be the new Xintiandi the Cool Docks is in prime position for the Shanghai Expo in 2010, and with some of the best Bund views around, why wait until the masses catch up on the act?
As house-hold names begin setting up shop, Kebabs on the Grille is already cashing in on intrepid explorers looking for a change of scene. It boasts a fantastic concept that has been cleverly executed. Each table has a space beneath a decorative tile, where a grill can be installed. And the kebabs that are served off it are a taste sensation. The seafood platter held 4 different kebabs with an intense assortment of flavours. Skewered Fish Lasumi or cod fish in a cream sauce was exemplary. The Malai Prawns were offset perfectly by the mint chutney placed beside it. Although not inexpensive, it was a show-stopping first course, 350RMB. Arguably the best Chicken Tikka Masala to be found in Shanghai was to follow. Spices were mellowed by the creaminess of a sauce that had an unusual but delicious nutty quality; an unexpected yet enticing taste 60RMB. Daal Makhani was soothing and moreish, the black lentils served in a copper pot and best enjoyed with a buttered Naan. 50RMB. Barrah kebab, individual mutton chops marinated in an array of spices giving them a deep red colouring, also proved a favourite 75RMB. Leaving us fully satisfied we had a typically Indian dessert Gulab Jamun, or fried milk dumplings in a sugary syrup 35RMB. As one of the first restaurants on the scene, Kebabs on the Grille has set a high standard for other fine-dining restaurants to follow.