Hang out in style at Olio in Bangalore

There’s a point in life when chilling out doesn’t always mean going to a packed dance floor or a dark, dingy rock pub. Many working professionals want to just sit down somewhere where they can sip on beer or wine, eat good food and listen to their favourite tunes, which isn’t too jarring. Olio is a place just for the same.

I went there on quiet Tuesday evening. The hotspot had some CCR playing in the background and I chose to seat myself by the walls of this tiny yet warm restopub. The first thing one notices about a place like Olio is its interiors. Brick walls, simple furniture and some quirky rock paintings on the wall ensure it gives one a very welcoming feeling.

I decided to order for a round of sangrias, with red and white wine options. Along with that, we asked for a plate of Bacon Wrapped Prawns, Fritters with Spinach and Cheese And Tiny Potato Jackets. The service here is prompt and the best bit is the fact that even though it is a relatively small joint, the staff here is non-intrusive and give you privacy.

The sangria here is quite nice. While it had just one fruit, apple, diced and generously served in the drink, the flavouring of the cocktail made up for it. Hot cinnamon and mint leaves ensure you have two contrasting flavours playing along with your taste buds with every sip that you take from the drink.

The food left us nothing to complain either. The prawns and bacon were fresh and tender, which was very good. The two vegetarian starters were equally good. The potato jackets especially had the right balance of spice. And the little layer of cheese ensured that you get to do your little bit of sinful eating, but it isn’t too much indulgence either.

We asked for a repeat of our sangrias. The pub also served draught beer and has a decent list of wines, apart from their house wine. We also asked for an assorted platter of vegetarian tarts and Chicken In Teriyaki Sauce. The tarts here deserve a special mention. A generous helping ream cheese, with options of either corn or sun-dried tomatoes for vegetarians and bacon or chicken for non-vegetarians, ensure you’re left wanting for more after biting into every tart.

We ordered for one portion of main course, Soya Garlic Shitake, Pakchoy And Brocolli in Black Sauce with basil Rice. The gravy was a tad too salty, which wasn’t a very pleasing thing. Luckily, the one dessert that we’d ordered — Orange and Lemongrass Ice cream — compensated for the salty main course.
Olio is a place that you’d want to come back to, with your friends, family and even that special someone, because there’s something about those brick interiors that makes you feel at ease when you’re there.