Scola, Sector 7, Chandigarh

Restaurant Name: Scola, Sector 7, Chandigarh
Phone: +911724630400, +911724622300
Address: SCO 180, Inner Market, Sector 7-C, Chandigarh 160019 India
Time:11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Meals for two: Rs. 1,700
Cuisines: Coffee, Healthy Food, Mexican, Italian, Seafood, Pizza, Beverages
Facilities: Home Delivery, Takeaway Available, Wine and Beer, Board Games, Indoor Seating, Table booking recommended, Card Upon Delivery, Vegan Options, All Day Breakfast, Desserts and Bakes, Free Parking, Free Wifi, Gluten Free Options

An eatery that has doggedly held its ground despite a ravaging pandemic, Scola continues to sport a cheery,welcoming air. This cosy little cafe, with comfortable seating, lively artwork,and quirky design elements–including a giant wreath framing their laurels, has been one of my go-tos for dessert and coffee ever since it was called Gusto. The name change some years ago brought about several modifications in the menu as well,though by and large it remains your choice for a hearty Mediterranean meal. You can also expect the odd Asian or North Indian favourite. Interpretation of the Butter Chicken–a smoky mushroom stuffed breast with makhni gravy and Moroccan flatbread–is a signature offering. Gluten-free dishes are available,sans multiple choices. They have lately added langar catering to their off-site services.

Scola, Sector 7, Chandigarh: Food

Of Scola’s winter specials,the zucchini tart,chicken lasagna and mutton shawarma (love the use of wasabi mayo) are mention-worthy. And so is the Crumbed River Sole–another signature dish–served with a tangy risotto and carrot sauce. The frittatas from the All-Day Breakfast selection have been a personal preference,often succumbing to the allure of both the broccoli-asparagus and sausage-bacon version. On a recent churros-and-coffee visit, I was joined by a friend who prefers greens over caffeine. She picked the Watermelon and Feta Salad.

Plus & Minus:

The sugar-dusted churros were chewy and delicious,fried to the perfect outside crunch,with a soft inside. This crispy treat was accompanied by spiced hot chocolate and a scoop of vanilla ice-cream,and chased down by a well-made Americano. A couple of bites into the salad,however,one wished a more seasonal choice had been made. The watermelon was bland,and did little to foil the peppery freshness of generously used arugula leaves,the vinaigrette too sweet. In general,their portion sizes have been consistently adequate. The plating is mostly attractive, the packaging functional and fuss-free,and service good.