In a slightly better turn of events than my failed breakfast (and then lunch) from the day before, my meal at Mohalla started off on an excellent note. Although my ability to correctly park at D3 has not changed (I needed the steps, so who’s counting, really), Mohalla was easily found – at the front of Building 5 – well signed, and with outdoor seating. Inside, like many a D3 property, the ceilings are high, but in a smart move, the restaurant is not overly large (I’m looking at you, Molecule). By keeping the number of covers small (or at least, smaller than average for Dubai), there’s an immediate intimacy that many a venue in the city lack. With floor to ceiling windows, there is also plenty of natural light, with quirky references to India throughout.
My guest and I were greeted warmly, and I’m told ‘mohalla’ translates to ‘community.’ I hear a few other phrases during our visit, and for those from India, I think the sense of humor and charm would be even more appreciated. The menu is broken down into various sections, including ‘small bhook’ and ‘big bhook’ (which I believe loosely translates to ‘craving’ or ‘hunger’). The range on offer is quite involved, fortunately, our knowledgeable server is on hand to help. While I prefer my food at ‘white girl spicy’ (the description usually gets a smile), it’s good to know that Mohalla offers everything from mild to ‘sweaty.’
Although I skip by the breakfast menu (good to know, for a later visit), we’re started with a basket of light, crispy bread served with various flavored yogurts. To begin, we order Raj Kachori, AED35 which is wonderfully crunchy, sweet and with a bit of heat — it’s my favorite dish during our visit. From there, my dining partner is excited by one of the ultimate dishes in comfort food, Maggi noodles, AED25. Hey, it’s pedestrian, but it also conjures up a homey dish for just about everyone around the world. Our server encourages us to order the Calamari Koliwada (or rather, the Mohalla take on calamari, AED55), but I’m not impressed, with price a bit on the high side for my preference. I prefer my squid a bit crispier, even if I appreciate this slightly healthier twist. For our mains, we split a divine Shrimp curry (sweet and filling, owing to the use of coconut milk, AED60) and a Mutton curry (AED60) that I didn’t particularly enjoy. Even if the gravy was flavorful, it’s not a protein I would usually choose. Still, my dining partner seemed happy, so that’s all that matters. Although we debate adding on of the naans to go with our order, basmati rice is enough.
Furthermore, as with any good Indian restaurant, there are plenty of options for vegetarians. Although we decide to split all of our dishes and they are big enough to do so), diners could also eat portions as a large serving on their own.
Thus, while not every dish at Mohalla was a hit for me, I wasn’t doing the ordering (I had no issue with this, as I was happy to act as hostess). I think if I had a bit more control of the orders, my level of appreciation would rise, and there is plenty to choose from. And while allusions might be made to say, Farzi Cafe, to me, Mohalla focuses much more on plating, healthy cooking, and a range of options rather than gastronomy gimmicks.
Would I go back to Mohalla? Sure. Like many a venue at D3, it’s quirky and fun, offering something different than many of the other restaurants in Dubai. The general value for money is here also makes it an attractive option.
Who is Mohalla best for? A quick lunch meeting at D3. Those looking for something unique and interested in sharing a few dishes. People with a sense of humor.
What’s your favorite restaurant in D3?
A to Za’atar was a guest of Mohalla. Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.
