Page 43 - June-July23

elmed by former captain of the Indian precision. At the helm of the culinary affair is Corporate
cricket team Virat Kohli, one8 Chef Pawan Bisht. With a wide experience of over 12 years,
Commune in Juhu is not just your he has whipped up some authentic dishes full of flavours
regular restaurant but a place that and packed with versatility and innovation.
makes you feel a sense of belonging to a The one8 Commune kitchens brings a globally
Hcommunity. recognisable menu, focusing on light and healthy food with
On visiting one8 Commune property I understood that eclectic yet subtle experimentation of “comfort classics”
they have designed specifically for its context – the buzzing and light cooks that retain their original flavour giving a
city of Mumbai, the surroundings, the people. few favourites to every kind of palate along with a focus on
That being said, the restaurant pays homage to the late as-fresh-as-possible organic produce.
Kishore Kumar. Located at his old house, it celebrates the The menu is pleasantly vegetarian friendly; loaded with
pluralism and humanism that being in the “commune” cult snacks, and leans towards both old favourites and the
implies. restaurant’s variations to them while also retaining a
It’s a space for everyone to relax, chill, hang out and just promise of refinement in plates inspired by global
unwind, and is literally designed with a “homely” yet tastebuds.
elegant social vibe. It is democratic to a larger than the normal variety as
Virat was aptly inspired to take up this flawless project with Juhu itself. It caters to all the flavours, preferences,
after his years of touring, where he discovered that dining and demands of Mumbai’s always-fascinated tastebuds. It
meant a million things to a million people, but the larger specialises in delicious food featuring fresh ingredients
part of the experience consisted of “going out”. such as Poke Bowls, Taro Leaf Wadi, Cottage Cheese Steak
As the name implies, one8 Commune is all about with Fennel Stew, and Maharashtrian Lamb Curry, spices
community – a community that is ready to appreciate, of which have been sourced from the native of Kolhapur,
welcome and stand by humanism, a tribute to the human Bhavnagri Mirchi sourced from Gujarat, and the pickle
spirit and its resilience. from Nepal.
Doing justice to the fact that Mumbai comes from a These exquisite ingredients have been gathered to cater
uniquely diverse architectural and urban design language, to all communities. They are procured organically and
one8 Commune focuses on a singular aura of togetherness. effortlessly made with a perfect combination.
This led to a design that kept the space fluid and free Whether you’re ordering a multi-course meal or
spirited in its feel and invokes nostalgia, creativity and grabbing a drink and some Buffalo Wings, one8
inspiration. Commune’s lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it
Add to this the fact that the property is itself located in perfect for dining with your loved ones. In a way, one could
Juhu, the heart of a dynamic neighbourhood which is call it an ideal go-to spot that is unique, throughout the day
always looking for the next happening place. The intent, and adheres to its multitude of moods.
therefore, is to remain relevant by encompassing the entire one8 Commune has a section on the menu called ‘Virat’s
spectrum of what it means to be “happening”, through the Favourites,’ which includes top picks from the menu like
day and into the night. the newly added Pearl Barley Risotto to the old favourite
It also brings calmness to the experience by using a Superfood Salad. It is light and has a touch of Virat’s
generosity of space, and a conscious choice to not have rigid preferences. Avocado Tartar is also something you don’t
visuals, physical space dividers and obstacles, and in turn want to miss, consisting of sliced avocado topped with
bringing the feeling of being connected to one’s tempura avocado, sweet corn sriracha mayonnaise,
surroundings, allowing for visual and emotional scallion and ponzu soy.
interaction. Mushroom Googly Dimsums made with assorted wild
one8 Commune’s kitchen unveils a memorable feast of mushrooms, cream cheese, vegetarian broth, and truffle
global cuisines, all created with passion, refinement, and oil; and Pearl Barley Risotto, made with mushroom pate,
truffle oil, parmesan, baby cress, and fresh herbs also make
it to the list.
“ONE8 COMMUNE IS A SPACE FOR Complementing the elaborate food menu, the beverage
EVERYONE TO RELAX, CHILL, HANG programme, is a modern reincarnation of exquisitely
OUT AND JUST UNWIND, AND IS crafted cocktails, inspired to help drinkers discover
LITERALLY DESIGNED WITH A HOMELY multi-dimensional cocktails from the bold down to the
subtle.
YET ELEGANT SOCIAL VIBE.” one8 Commune has created a well-balanced mix of

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www.hospitality-horizon.com JUNE-JULY 2023 hospitality horizon