ITP Indian Travel Places: Food, Travel, Tourism Business Events and Trade Shows
Address: Taj Coromandel, 37, Lobby Level, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Nungambakkam, Central Chennai, 600034 India
Time: 10:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Meals for two: Rs. 2,000
Cuisines: Bakery
Facilities: Air Conditioned
La Patisserie – Taj Coromandel, Nungambakkam, Chennai: DECOR
Going past La Pat with my eyes averted is an exercise in self-control. Like a magnet, they get drawn to this lobby level, a strategically placed outlet with a fully loaded counter. I walk into its golden-brown interiors and see people sitting around tables. Some are engrossed in business discussions, while others are deeply engaged in their sweet temptations. The aroma of masala chai drifts my way, tempting me into a comfortable looking sofa for the long haul and I get set to go on a sugar high.
La Patisserie – Taj Coromandel, Nungambakkam, Chennai: FOOD
I begin with the light and ultra-thin, crisp Biscotti with almond slivers adding their nuttiness. Is that orange zest hiding in there? Yes, it is. As if by magic, my eyes land on the Coffee Chiboust. Good for the evening, I think, and sink in my spoon till it hits the bottom of the platter. That coffee flavored almond sponge has just a hint of coffee. Layered above, the custard-y sabayon is perfectly smooth, while the slightly caramelized coffee cream on top completes this delight. Breaking the sweet monotony, the crumbly cheese straws do get addictive, so I switch to a softly rolled, golden, fresh Chicken Croissant. The moist, well-cooked chicken shreds are well marinated and the filling reaches both ends of the croissant. Back to the sweet attack, I move on to the Salted Caramel with Banana Caramel Mousse on a cookie crumble base. Both the Salted Caramel and Banana Mousse are perfect combinations. That little bit of saltiness in the caramel enriches gooey caramel flavors and the banana mousse has the distinctness of banana coating the tongue. But I object to the cookie crumble base. I think an almond meal sponge would work as a better support to both, the caramel and the mousse.
La Patisserie – Taj Coromandel, Nungambakkam, Chennai: PLUSES AND MINUSES
La Pat’s revenues have grown tremendously since the move from the basement to lobby level. In the past, this was the go-to place for classy desserts and pastries. Those goodies, however, need a little more attention. Some experimentation, innovation and change would do wonders.
The lemon tarts were garnished with parsley!! What nonsense! How can a pastry chef garnish a dessert with parsley!