The Chicken Pinchos were great value-for-money and packed a lot of meat

On our attendant’s recommendation, we ordered the Chicken Pinchos (Rs 269). The Chicken Satay strips were grilled and tossed in hot chilli sauce, but weren’t too spicy. The meat portions were also generous, making it our value-for-money pick of the day.

The Kiwi Cooler (Rs 95) and the Chilli Fruit Beer (Rs 155) served as thirst busters. The electric green kiwi drink was refreshing but the fruit beer lacked fizz. When we pointed this out, our attendant replaced it with a zestier version. Filled with chunks of apple, pepper and mint, it spelt healthy.

(L-R) The Brownie Sundae looked as appealing as it tasted; the Fruit Beer is one of their highlights. Pics/Sameer Markande

Back to our food, we opted for Chicken BBQ Burger (R299) that arrived with fries. It had a crusty patty (a tad too much for our liking), and was topped with tomatoes, lettuce, and the special spread. A bit messy, it kept falling apart though we eventually managed to pop it in our mouth. We loved the grilled flavours and sauces in it. The fries were a tad soggy but tasted delish.

Sauce dips are integral to savouring grilled food. Strangely, Grilla didn’t have any as accompaniments, except for ketchup pouches (that too, produced on request).

The Paneer Makhani Pizza (R399) was topped with makhani sauce, onion, coriander, herbs and melted cheese. When it arrived, it appealed to the palate but tasted bland. The flavours of the Makhani sauce were subtle while the other accompaniments didn’t appease.

Our choice of dessert, the Brownie Sundae (R140) arrived in a swirl of colours, resembling a work of art — a fitting finale to a memorable evening.

At Level 1, Viviana Mall, Eastern Express Highway, Thane (W). Call 61701523

Grilla didn't know we were there. The GUIDE reviews anonymously and pays for meals.