Post-lockdown, the culinary landscape has seen a rise in all-day cafes. The all-day cafés are as much an aesthetic as they are a cuisine. And they are not just influencing the way we eat. But extends to cooking, working, socialising and even curated decorating. Tucked into one side of Kamala Mills there is a charming addition to the list of all-day cafes. An all-day cafe bar called Demy. A feminine name, the space is equated with a minimalist modern setting. It offers a relaxed take on modern-European food. But it aspires to do so with a deft touch of versatility by serving coffee, wholesome meals and drinks all at the same time.
A three-storeyed cafe, each floor equally aesthetic, there is also an outdoor garden terrace with sophisticated cabanas and a well-stocked bar. We sink into soft accent chairs and catch a glimpse of this all-day space slip from late afternoon into the early evening. And here’s what we learnt.
How’s the ambience at Demy?
It’s pretty easy to spot Demy as soon as you enter the Kamala Mills compound. The entryway is strewn with pebbles. Exotically persuaded porch teaming with deep green foliage of palm fronds, Philodendrons and ferns lined on the sides greet you. The vibe is reminiscent of European tropical cafés. The insides are of a monochromatic white and nude colour palette coupled with mammoth lanterns with a smattering of greens.
Designed by Spiro Spero, Demy’s ambience stems from the idea of blending the concepts of a brasserie and a conservatory. This is why we see the usage of tones and elements that blur the boundaries between industrial space and Romanian Gardens. The result is a beautiful, modern yet intimate enclosure with aesthetic greens and added a touch of modern-day fun with contemporary details and pretty corners. Also Read: Loci and Toot: Is this cutesy Khar cafe a hoot? We find out! Also Read: Loci and Toot: Is this cutesy Khar cafe a hoot? We find out!
How are the drinks?
Signature, old-fashioned, mimosa & sparkling wine cocktails feature amply. We cool down with some refreshing mocktails named Pink Lemonade and Cranberry Twister. The former featuring hibiscus, berry, rose and ginger ale was tangy with a surprisingly evocative bitter aftertaste. Pink Lemonade- As time passed, the rose petals infused and lent a beautiful sweet taste making that bitter aftertaste disappear. And the latter featuring the obvious cranberry with apple, ginger and cinnamon was fresh, vibrant and beautiful looking. The taste was fruity with a sweet kick.
How’s the food?
The menu is ingredient-focused. Also, in essence, it is a global comfort menu where there is something for every day- from all-day breakfast to mains. We started off with the edamame truffle hummus bowl. A pretty looking platter served with banana plantain chips, lotus stem, sweet potato and fried okra. Light, airy and crispy, we polished off the bowl in no time.
Next, we tried the Demy signature avo toast. It featured beetroot hummus with cream cheese quenelle and lotus root chips. A pretty-looking dish, the slightly sweeter multigrain bread was peppered with seed mix and black sesame and flax seeds. It provided a nice crunch to the otherwise creamy texture of the toast. Also Read: Juliette Ristorante Review: Love for food has a new name?
Next up was the burnt garlic dim sum – a highly Instagrammable dish made with exotic blue pea flower colour. Filled to the brim and packed with a juicy punch, the dim sums scored high on looks and taste. Then came sushi in the form of Demy’s signature 24k gold roll. It featured gold dust, black rice, guacamole, asparagus tempura and cream cheese. The rolls came generously in portions of 8 and were taut, and dense with a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.
On large plates, we tried the peri peri chicken steak with sauteed veggies. The chicken was succulent, spicy and loaded with flavour, the veggies were sauteed to perfection lending the perfect crunch to the protein. The accompanying sauce was tongue-tinglingly – something that you’ll want to smother on everything.
The dessert was a Nutella San Sebastián cheesecake. It featured a soft and succulent cheesecake, hot chocolate Nutella, sea salt drizzle and vanilla bean ice cream. San Sebastián cheesecake, a famous cheesecake from Spain is also known as Basque burnt cheesecake or La Viña cheesecake. Did we work out what most of the things on each plate were without prompting? Certainly, we did because we are flavour ninjas. A cohesive dessert with creamy, rich on the inside, crustless cheesecake, crunchy accompaniments and a tender soothing ice cream to tide you over.
What’s the verdict on Demy?
Demy is fresh, fun and delicious. The spacious seating with plenty of room between the tables lends it an airy and light feel. Their minimalist aesthetic ambience, a dynamic menu teases diners with collections of flavours and ingredients that are designed to tempt. The cooking is rich and layered and beautifully executed. Our server was confident and directed us to the finer points. The place attains a glamorous vibe after nature has flipped her dimmer.
Throughout the week, Demy is the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee or a light lunch, after-work drinks or a relaxed dinner. During weekends, it is definitely a brunch spot to be reckoned with Remember, this place isn’t just a daytime venue — it’s all day. Pop in soon to say hello to the demure yet dandy Demy.
