Forum Mall is getting an all-new Sicily-inspired space. Cafe Mezzuna now comes back in a new avatar called Siciliana by Mezzuna. The space is done in an all-white and blue theme, similar to the houses as well as the vibe in Sicily.
Siciliana by Mezzuna is finding a space in the same spot where Cafe Mezzuna used to be earlier in Forum. The revamp comes with a need to bring in something fresh and new in the city while also keeping some of Cafe Mezzuna’s old favourites that city diners so loved. The all-white space allows a lot of natural light to come in, making it very warm and inviting. Siciliana by Cafe Mezzuna is the brainchild of founder and managing director Anjan Chatterjee from Specialty Restaurants Ltd, along with the culinary genius of chef Sabyasachi Gorai.
Let’s get you a first look.
The space covers a total area of over 5,800 sq ft and can seat about 120 guests. The idea behind the decor is that of a Sicilian drawing room, languid and breathable. The all ivory scheme is complemented beautifully well by the pops of bright blue. The furniture is a mix of blue and neutrals, and we love the blue tiled bar as well as the jute and wood infused ceiling lights.
The space has natural light as the main character complementing the overall decor. The round sofas with jute upholstery add a rustic charm and plenty of greens all over add to the freshness.
The distinct decor feature are these blue and white Azulejo tiles that date their origin back to the 13th century in early Arab architecture, and were subsequently imported to Europe where they became a distinct element of design in areas like Southern France, Italy, Portugal and Sicily.
Walls have added character with groove-style shelves that display an array of pieces reflecting the foamy seaside towns of the Mediterannean.
“In my mind, I had the idea of a Sicilian or an Italian drawing room when I envisioned Siciliana by Mezzuna. It needs to be a place where people can come down, relax and have a good time with their friends or family. My son and I took off to the region and we also have many friends around and those travels really helped us shape the look and feel of the space. When it comes to the food ofcourse chef Saby was my obvious choice because he has a very strong understanding of the cuisine and our visions really align well” said Anjan Chatterjee, founder and MD, Speciality Restaurants Ltd.
“If you take a look at the menu, most dishes you find are very simple, and not with too many ingredients. Grills are a major part of the menu because street-style grill is a major culture in the region. Ofcourse we have our pizzas and pastas, but a lot of fun stuff as well such as Sicilian Limoncell Cheesecake, and Sfincione flatbreads that are native to the region, added chef Sabyasachi Gorai.
The beverages too hero ingredients that reflect a taste of Sicily and surrounding areas such as the Tiramisu Martini (left) that has Bailey’s, vodka, tiramisu syrup, hazelnut and espresso. The Sicilian Mimosa is a mix of sparkling wine, Aperol, along with orange and cranberry juice, whereas the Memories of Victoria has gin, earl grey, berry shrub and lime with some candy foam.
Sfincione alla Sicily: A signature flatbread from the region, the sfincione usually has anchovies mixed into the dough and then topped with ripe muddle tomatoes and herbs. Vegetarians can also ask for a vegetarian variant.
Capri Story: A fresh salad that’s crunchy, zesty and creamy. This combines burrata with cherry tomatoes, and mixed greens in a pesto and balsamic dressing. We love!
Frittata Verdure: Fries, but make it Sicilian. A range of fried goodness, this plate has fried artichokes, lentil crisps and potato crisps served with a garlic aioli.
Marinated Bocconcini and Olives: A smooth and silky pesto-infused bocconcini paste forms the base of this dish that is then topped with marinated olives, and cherry tomatoes and sered with crackers. A conversation starting dish.
Harissa Spiced Grilled Chicken: Harissa finds its way across dishes in Mediterranean cuisine. These chicken skewers are slathered with a mix of herbs and harisaa and char grilled. They are served with some parsley hummus.
Gnocchi Alla Nerano: Borrowing from the fresh flavours of the region, this pillowy soft gnocchi is dressed in a sauce made with lemon and butter and topped with some shaved Parmesan.
Au Lamb Casserole: A comforting and hearty meal, this has Sicilian home-style lamb stew, simmered in brth and served with some saffron rice, rosemary potatoes and grilled vegetables.
Parsilade Prawns Griglia Fuoco: Juicy and succulent prawns are laced wiith herbs and extra virgin olive oil before grilling. This style of grill has no extra ingredients and relies on the juice from the protein to do the magic. It is served along with roast potatoes, melons, dressed greens, aioli and pouring sauce.
Hazelnut Torte: A European classic, don’t forget to dig into the decadent slice that has hazelnuts and chocolates and is served with some hazelnut praline for added crunch.
Cannoli Siciliani: Crispy pastry sheets are stuffed with a mix of sweet ricotta cheese, candied fruit and chocolate chips. You won’t be able to stop at just one.
What: Siciliana by Mezzuna
Where: 4th floor, Forum Mall
Timings: Noon to 11pm
Meal for two: ₹1,400-plus
Pictures: Pabitra Das