Chianti means a dry red Italian wine originally produced in the region of Chianti, central Tuscany, Italy. A land that was divided into seven sub-areas, creating Chianti Classico, has seen many upheavals and power battles, yet preserved its beauty and culture. Dense forests, olive groves and vineyards, rural churches and stone architectures.
 |
| Chianti, Tuscany - Image credit: Chianti.com |
Such an amazing history behind the name, a name that is spreading delight in the corners of Bangalore, India. Chianti, is a dining restaurant serving handcrafted Italian food with authentic Italian ingredients. On an impulse, we (me and my man) decided to Masala Ink Chianti's Indiranagar outlet this weekend since our previous experience was quite interesting. And of course, all things Italian make my toes curl. Tuscany is a place of dreams and romance. One of my favourite movies, Under the Tuscan Sun, captures the beauty and life in Tuscany perfectly.
via GIPHY
If you are planning a special evening, I recommend you book a table first, you can call them directly or book through Zomato. There's quite a rush on weekend and you might need to wait a bit if you just walk in. During festivals, New Year or special holidays, the place is usually packed so booking in advance will be a good idea.
The ambiance is cozy with wooden flooring and beams, comfortable seating and warm lights. Classic paintings adorn the walls. Service is welcoming and quick, you may need to tell them to keep a gap of 10 minutes between serving the dishes so you can enjoy the food peacefully. Such food shouldn't be eaten in a hurry, it's more like being on a date with food. Give it equal attention, savour every bite, let the flavours tease you.
 |
| "Never lose your childish innocence. It is the most important thing." Under The Tuscan Sun |
We spent the evening romancing the food, it was more like being on a second date. You have few reference points, some awkward moments but still ready to be swept off your feet. I managed to order successfully, starters, main course and we got coaxed into dessert! Last time, we had tried wine which was good, this time we wanted a non-alcoholic drink and ordered a virgin mojito and it was the best mojito I have had in a long time! Loaded with mint, lime and crushed ice, order it for lunch and you'll be bright eyed refreshed in no time.
 |
| Virgin Mojito |
1. Bruschetta Al Pomodoro is a complimentary appetiser. It comes with four slices of bread, cherry tomatoes, basil and garlic. It's a ritual you must not miss, rub the garlic, basil and tomato on bread slowly, the aroma will sneak up on you. Watch the green and red paint as you pour few drops of olive oil. Admire your art as you take a bite and your senses awaken.
 |
| Bruschetta Al Pomodoro |
2. Then Involtini Di Formaggio Di Capra appeared, this would be eggplant rolled with goat cheese, rucola, sun-dried tomatoes and Sicilian sauce baked in oven. We were a bit unsure since I had pictured it differently in my head but it turned out to be a star! You may get tempted to cut it but you'll enjoy it more if you put the entire piece in your mouth and let the flavours burst and wash over. It's juicy, creamy and tangy with the smooth smoked texture of eggplant.
 |
| Involtini Di Formaggio Di Capra |
3. Next, Verdure comes with black olives, oinion, bell pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, zuccini, olive oil, non-existent tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. We felt it was dry and hard, not all that different from your Dominos and Pizza Huts leather loafs.
 |
| Verdura |
4. Fettuccini Al Sugo Di Pomodoro described as fresh homemade fettuccini with juicy tomato sauce, olives, basil and parmesan cheese, it wasn't as juicy or cheesy, there was something missing and since it was served before we could finish our pizza, it had cooled down a bit.
 |
| Fettuccini Al Sugo Di Pomodoro |
5. Panna Cotta - Italian vanilla pannacotta served with berry compote and fresh fruit slice. An unforgettable experience, bless the person who encouraged us to try it! Light on the tongue with just the right hint of sweetness coupled with tangy berry sauce, cooling ice cream and freshness of the fruit. Beautifully presented. A must try.
 |
| Panna Cotta |
My suggestion would be to focus more on appetisers and desserts and keep pizzas and pastas as a second choice. If you are ordering a full course or more than 2 dishes then make sure to keep a gap of 10/15 minutes between each for a wholesome experience. Mangiare per vivere e non vivere per mangiare (eat to live, don’t live to eat).
The cost for two comes around Rs. 2000 if you order a full course meal, Rs.1500 if you just want to go with fewer dishes along with the kick of GST.
Suggestion to Chianti, improve the flavours and presentation of the main course. Let people finish one dish before presenting the next. Create a corner for couples to enjoy a quiet romantic evening, The main area is big enough for business and family gathering, few tables away from the crowd, outside or on the right-hand side just for couples will add to the special experience that you intend to provide.
They also have another outlet at Koramangala that I haven't Masala Inked yet but I'll get to it soon. "Unthinkably good things can happen even late in the game. It's such a surprise." - Under The Tuscan Sun.
I would like to recreate Involtini Di Formaggio Di Capra in my own style soon, watch this space to see how it turns out!
"Terrible ideas are like playground scapegoats.Given the right encouragement, they grow up to be geniuses." - Under The Tuscan Sun
I would give this place a rating of 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ chillis.
Located at: 960, Next To Gold Gym,12thMain, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar, Bangalore.
Call: 080 41265000
Timings: 12 pm to 11 pm
Alchohol: Yes, especially wine
Parking: Available
Disable friendly: No
Pets Allowed: No
Wifi: No
Ideal for: Family, business, couples.
Tortilla chips come with roasted tomato salsa and pico de gallo salsa. Ask for guacamole on the side, makes a nice threesome! This is what I meant by juicy, fresh salsa and salty chips. It's mouth watering, I mean, just look at it! 
Rakshith wanted to us to try Churros, it is eggless by the way and comes with chocolate dip. With the first bite, my eyes closed as the crispy pastry, sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon, melted in my mouth. I was floating with pleasure, it was love at first bite. 
