World over this concept has worked as a common gathering space for like minds. They all possess mean machines too! They are serious community motorcycle garages, where any enthusiast can come work on their bikes, take a workshop and get knowhow. In many cases, the space has been extended to motorcycles and Egg Benedict or even motorcycles and Ramen! So tank up Kolkata as we get ready for our first ride to The Bikers Café. The idea is to provide a café space for bravehearts and motorcycle enthusiasts alike. Decor: We expect a looming warehouse look, with tools and tattooed service staff. Instead, are pleasantly surprised by the swanky woodwork at the first floor space. Divided into two sections – a guarded lounge area and an open café – it has a welcome, action-packed and happy feel. Spot lighting keep focus on the round tables branded with Royal Enfield, Harley Davidson et al. Bike headlights and handlebars for light fittings, helmets used as lampshades, motorcycle saddles for seats, metal number plate signages, framed posters and graffiti on the walls, a game of table foosball and a gleaming Harley Davidson on display completes the atmosphere. Madonna, Ace of Base, Modern Talking, Michael Jackson and the reigning Eighties music pep it up. Food: The menu we find is a wee refined for the wild outdoor people. Several options, drawing inspirations from well-known motorbike tracks of the world, actually keeps in mind an urban palate. Breakfast is important, with a variety of Chef’s special Vegetable, Sui Mai and Pink Salmon Benedict (we are told it is a Bikers’ favourite!). A bit of huddled contemplation and we decide to go with Honey Chilli Cajun Potato (Rs.160), The “Twin Cam” Fish Burger (Rs.270), Wild Wild West Pizza (Rs.280), Jack Daniel BBQ Lamb Steak (Rs.580), Prawn Calzone (Rs.580), Fruit Crepes with Ice Cream (Rs.180). PlusMinus: The French fries are frail, even with its honey-chilli zing. A rustic bowl of homestyle potatoes with skin and all, drizzled in Cajun spices, would be wonderful. The square pizza brings with it a hearty home flavour, resplendent in rocket and basil notes, worth savouring. The Burger does no magic; crumb-fried twin slabs of fish are slapped between the soft buns. The highlight lamb steak arrives - springy and firm with a satisfying chew doused in the overwhelming Jack Daniels sauce. The quibble still remains, when will they ever standardize the portion for a steak in this country? The much touted Chef special - outside of the menu - stewed Prawn Calzone, is over cheesy, cooked to a barely set stickiness and does not make a mark. The paper-thin crepe rolled in with an assortment of fruits, a dollop of ice cream and chocolate sauce is worth keeping the little extra room for dessert.
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