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Restaurant review: Hitchki

A playful vibe combined with lip-smacking delicacies, Hitchki at Grand Millennium Dubai, Barsha Heights, offers a complete 'foodie' experience

In the age of the 'gram, even restaurants cannot help but keep it zany just so guests can post a picture or two right before they grab a bite. As we enter the premises of Hitchki at Grand Millennium Dubai, Barsha Heights, a gigantic bike with multiple headlights awaits us - my companion sees it as an invitation to pose, and hands me her phone so I can capture the moment. This unusual installation sets the tone for the experience one is likely to have at Hitchki, which, to sum up, can be best described as quirky. The restaurant has a fun, playful vibe with colourful interiors and elaborate cutlery. If you are already familiar with Indian cuisine, the menu could even throw up a few riddles. For instance, what comes to your mind when you hear of a dish that's cleverly titled 'Prawns Jaye Par'? Or 'All is Bhel'? There is also a good chance that you will forget all wordplay as soon as the real deal is laid out on the table, simply because everything tastes superbly delicious.
However, bring in a good appetite when you visit Hitchki because the portion sizes are huge. Also, prepare to be spoilt for choice even if you're opting for a standard three-course meal because there are multiple options for every course. Our best bet was our server, who we trusted to offer the best recommendations and weren't quite disappointed. Pleasant surprise? There are just as many vegetarian options.
Taste: Top-notch. Nothing was too spicy or too bland. The tenderness of the meats was just perfect. I loved the peppery prawns and Chicken Dhinchak, a spicier update on the traditional kadhai chicken. Also, I loved the refreshing sweet-and-sour drink aptly called Kuch Khatti Kuch Meethi.
Ambience: We visited the restaurant for a late lunch. Unlike the regular hours, it wasn't really packed, which only helped us appreciate the colourful decor and quirky furniture. It was peaceful and relaxing as opposed to the hustle-bustle that the restaurant is known for.
Service: One of the high points of a dining experience at Hitchki is its staff. They are quick, attentive and perceptive. For instance, they took feedback after each dish was served and tried by us. They were also quick to read our reaction to the dishes and offer details on the preparation.
Presentation: Whoever said Indian food cannot be presented well should see how it's embellished at Hitchki. Served on minimalistic but thoughtfully-designed tableware, the presentation takes you by surprise. My vote goes for the liquid nitrogen touch to the dessert (ice cream served with candyfloss).
Value for money: At Dh270 for two (with house beverages), Hitchki offers a great dining experience. The restaurant is one of the few in the city that is promoting the concept of casual-fine dining, and within that scope has a lot to offer to those who love Indian food. Highly recommended!
Hitchki, Grand Millennium Dubai, Barsha Heights; Reservations: 0522519983; Cost for two: Dh170 (soft beverages); Dh270 (house beverages)