10 of Pune’s best vegetarian starters at pubs and bars you should spend on, to hold in that last drink in case and get home safe! This listicle is in no means ranking the following dishes; I’m merely stating that they should be up here. Fair warning: I have cheated by mentioning places adjacent to pubs and bars, as well as including items that are not starters but should be tried. Forgive, but don’t forget to try these out..!
Potato Wedges, Hidden Place – The Hangout, Koregaon Park:
I have only been here once but I can swear by the potato wedges they serve which is not just, fried and golden but also is the perfect accompaniment to any cheap booze of your choice.
Cheesy Assorted Potato Fries, Swig, Koregaon Park:
I am rather biased to deep fried items and the dish ranks right on top of my list as these are no ordinary fries. Served on a bed of marinara sauce, the cheese is well contrasted with the sauce’s tanginess. Eating suggestion – Scoop up the sauce with the fry ensuring you get enough cheese. You can thank me later.
Jalapeno Cheese Crackers, Effingut Brewerkz, Koregaon Park:
Slightly pricey for student’s pockets however, completely worth it. They are deep fried cheese croquettes with jalapeno peppers. ALWAYS try it with the accompanying sauce.
Cajun Style Crumb Fried Button Mushrooms, High Spirits, Mundhwa:
The name leaves no room for further explanation. I ate these on someone else’s tab and I can assure you that even if you’re paying full price, it is something you won’t grudgingly spend!
- Nachos with refried beans, Effingut Brewerkz, Koregaon Park:
Being a huge Mexican food fan, I am always up for nachos with salsa. Generously topped with cheese and overflowing with the refried beans, the quantity as well as quality scored the points on this one.
6. Hummus and Pita Bread, Agent Jacks, Mundhwa:
An unusual choice of food however this dish is one of the best starters at this branch of Agent Jacks. The fresh hummus, oozing with olive oil and bread provides a tasty respite between those Rs.80 vodka shots.
- Vegans Delight Pizza, High Spirits, Mundhwa:
I know I mentioned starters but if you have someone to share this with, why not? Thin crust, wood burn pizzas are the rage and this particular one, though simple fills your stomach and ensures enough cheesy goodness goes in to prevent *ahem* drinking repercussions..
- Totopos, Hoppipola, Hadapsar:
Every day is nacho day. The salsa is to die for. Perfectly spiced and balances excellently with the cheese fondue and guacamole.
- Fried Mozzarella Sticks, TGI Fridays, Magarpatta:
Served in a similar fashion to the Cheesy Assorted Fries at Swig, it is every cheese lover’s dream come true. Bite into these deep fried sticks and keep napkins handy just in case you can’t lick up all the molten cheese.
- Any vegetarian burger, Burger, Mundhwa:
Highly recommended for dinner before going to High Spirits. The burgers are well above average portion size and delivers on taste as well. Remember to always get extra cheese and an iced tea to make it a complete meal.
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- Pune’s 10 best Vegetarian Starters - November 25, 2016