‘I love a good raan biryani’

He’s quite a Mumbai boy when it comes to eating out. For Riyaaz Amlani admits he has no pretensions when it comes to his repast. “A meal can taste good anywhere, that’s why I love to go for the Minara-Masjid kebabs and khimiri roti fare, not just during Ramzan but anytime in the year,” he smiles.

“I also make it a point to go to quaint places like Paradise at Colaba, Ayub’s, even Kalbadevi’s old thali restaurants – they’re all hidden gems,” he smiles.

The penchant for good food must obviously be a fillip, giving him a better insight into his restaurants, with Salt Water Grill set to re-open soon. “Yes,” he agrees. “You can get the best combinations out of creativity. There’s nothing I like better than to get into the kitchen and stir up things. I once made my own tomato sauce with noodles; everyone found it delicious.” Of course, the kitchen at his home bore the brunt of the task. “My mother has given up on me after that,” he laughs. 

Even his work station has an adjoining kitchen laden with cook- books that are bought from trips abroad. Of course, there are other factors that please him too. “Food must be served with pizzazz,” he continues. “I remember I once ate at this place in London called Sketch, not only was the menu innovative, but the food was presented with such drama too.” His own choice is hard- core non-vegetarian food. “I love a good raan biryani. I think if I had to just eat greens I’d end up eating my hand,” he doubles up with laughter. 

And guess what? Mumbai’s coffee man doesn’t drink coffee that often. “I start my day with tea,” he grins, “Just like a good Indian boy.”