What you see — Plodding down the narrow TD Road in Cochin is not easy; especially when you have to battle with mammoth trucks, impolite auto rickshaws and irksome cyclists. As we wondered if we were on the right track, a rather modest two storied building emerged before us. And there, on an elevated ground floor was Mirch Masala, the North Indian vegetarian restaurant we were seeking. We would have missed the restaurant but for its huge glass front wall.

Inside, the décor is simple and unfussy with basic furniture and an occasional spurt of color, thanks to some Rajasthani figurines. A glass wall separates the kitchen from the dining area and one can watch the chefs at work. The restaurant can seat around 60 guests and there is also a waiting lounge for about 10 persons.

What you get — After being gently ushered to our seats, we were handed the menu. We noticed our much loved North Indian dishes such as the tikkas, dals, sabzis and rotis apart from some Chinese fare for those who can’t compromise on their fried rice and cauliflower manchurian.

We ordered achari paneer tikka as starters with fresh lime soda. Our main course comprised sabz-e-bahar kofta (mixed vegetable koftas), tadka dal, missi roti, aalu parathas and jeera rice.

The panner tikka was absolutely delightful and was served with mint chutney. The koftas were melt-in-the-mouth and the dal had just the right amount of ghee. Jeera rice was just fine. The bright yellow missi rotis made with gram flour and wheat were good, considering that at some places they have been quite a letdown. What we weren’t too impressed with were the aalu parathas. We literally had to search for the potato stuffing! But having said that, the meal was excellent.

The dessert menu is limited to ice creams though we would have been happier to find gajar ka halwa or phirni or at least a kulfi at a North Indian restaurant.

Our verdict — The service is commendable. The staff is friendly and polite and quick to take orders, refill glasses and clear the table. The food arrives quickly. The Paisa Vasool Lunch at Mirch Masala caught our fancy. This one is a North Indian thali that includes two vegetables, dal, two tandoori rotis, rice, pickle, papad, curd, salad, and chutney, all for Rs. 65 for a one-time serve! They also have Special Thali that comes for Rs. 85 and additionally gives you a soup and ice cream of choice. You can also choose any variety of roti with this thali.

We loved the delicious food and the fuss-free ambience at Mirch Masala. Without doubt this is one place we’d want to come back to. Parking space is limited to about three cars though there is sufficient space for two-wheelers. Since Mirch Masala is located on TD Road in Cochin, be prepared to deal with the traffic congestion.

What you pay for a meal for two — Rs. 130 – 350

Anytime between — 12.30 PM - 3 PM and 6.30 PM - 11 PM