The team behind St Kilda‘s hotspot Babu Ji has opened a new Hawthorn eatery, Piquancy. Owners and Cousins Mani Waraich and Ranjit Singh want to emphasise their childhood in Punjab, by bringing it to the forefront of their new restaurant.
“In India food brings people together and it puts a smile on everyone’s faces. This is what we want to do at Piquancy,” explained Mani. “Fresh and local produce is paired with carefully thought-out recipes to make our customers feel special and at home”.
The restaurant is open for brunch, lunch and dinner, and the menu will focus on lesser-known Indian street foods with a Melbournian twist. All the food is designed to be shared. Diners can expect such dishes as yoghurt kebabs, pani puri and cheese dosa. Look out for classic Indian dishes with rice, as well as healthier options like quinoa biryani or cauliflower rice to accompany the curries, which include achari pork chops, okra tikki and curried lamb shanks.
Waraich says, “We hope our venue will help shift the usual perception of Indian food, which is the typical curry and rice menu. When people talk about going to Piquancy, it’s a name that’s not obviously Indian, so people won’t have a preconceived opinion of the food. We want people to know they can order lighter street food dishes to share, and not fill up on just curry and rice dishes. We have a diverse menu and want people to experience all the elements of a contemporary Indian meal.”
Sommelier Jeff Sault maintains a strong focus on local winemakers, making a list that sits alongside a selection of 40 craft beers which will also be available from a help-yourself beer fridge. Guests of Piquancy can also bring these tantalising flavours into their own homes by booking a spot in one of the restaurant’s ticketed cooking classes for adults.
Piquancy
Address: 123 Auburn Road, Hawthorn
Website: http://thepiquancy.com.au/
Hours: Wed-Sun 6pm-10pm
Images: The Piquancy
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