There are brunches, and then there’s the Firewater Neo Sunday Brunch, a lively, sunlit event where the city’s Financial District briefly trades spreadsheets for sangrias and deadlines for dessert spoons.
Perched above the weekly hustle, Firewater Neo Bar & Kitchen makes an impression from the moment one walk in. With its sleek lines, soft lighting, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great reminder that it’s Sunday, and you’re here to enjoy yourself.
To be honest, the real highlight of this brunch isn’t necessarily the buffet; it’s the bar. The bottomless package (INR 2,300++) offers a two-hour selection of cocktails, mocktails, and spirits presented with style and flair. The mixologists don’t just pour; they perform. One moment, you enjoy a perfectly shaken Whiskey Sour; the next, you’re sipping a Cosmopolitan that could be straight out of a ’90s rom-com.
For those not drinking, the mocktail section shines on its own. The Watermelon Basil Refresher, for example, is the kind of drink that could easily make you think it has a secret splash of gin.
Even the non-alcoholic brunch (INR 1,800++) is a lesson in balance. The spread is generous enough to satisfy cravings while still keeping things interesting.
Starters set the perfect tone for the meal. The Mushroom Kebabs and Mirchi Bhaji deliver comforting nostalgia with a tangy twist, while the Irani Paneer Tikka adds a smoky touch. Meat lovers will be pleased that the non-veg options are just as impressive, featuring favorites like Thread Chicken, Chicken Makhmali Tikka, Royyala Vepudu, and Fish Fry.
Before diving into the mains, don’t miss the soups. The Oriental-style Lemon Coriander and Asian Meatball soups provide comforting introductions without being heavy. For a special treat, consider the à la carte options; the Chicken and Broccoli soup, Hyderabadi Talahua Mutton, and Garlic Butter Prawn with mashed potatoes consistently steal the show.
The buffet mains truly showcase the Chef’s skills. Each dish bursts with flavor, from the comforting Coconut Rice with Banjara Veg Curry to the rich Malbari Chicken Curry and the luxurious Mutton Dum Biryani. For a taste of the Far East, try the subtly spicy Thai Red Curry with Jasmine Rice and zesty Butter Garlic Noodles with stir-fried vegetables.
No brunch review is complete without a sweet treat, and Firewater Neo makes indulging in dessert worthwhile. The dessert counter’s fusion creation, the Rasmalai Tres Leches, is creamy, airy, and decadently rich , definitely the perfect way to wrap up a wonderful Sunday afternoon.
asmita.mukherjee@saffronsynergies.in
