Hop on the Orlem food trail

Growing up in Malad West, Orlem in particular, I have tasted the best of both worlds. Veg and non-veg dishes. The former is easier to find, while the latter sometimes fails to impress. Exorbitant rates aside, one usually has to contend with the usual absence of authentic flavours. This is one of the few suburbs where you can enjoy a variety of pork dishes -- Goan specialities and yummy baked treats -- for a fraction of the cost you'd pay elsewhere. Reason enough to rush to Orlem?

Bacon 'n' eggs breakfast
A lazy Sunday is best celebrated by rewarding yourself to a scrumptious brunch. And this cosy joint has it all worked out. It's one of the few places in the vicinity that's open to innovation and experimenting with dishes. That's why you will find a meatloaf made with sausages, topped with bacon shavings, served in the shape of a cupcake. It's a new addition to the quirky/classic menu. Starting this week, you can choose to try the meat cupcake (Rs 80 for chicken) and (Rs 100 for pork). However, the one dish that draws Orlemites here every Sunday is the traditional English breakfast. A hearty treat that comes with bacon, salami, sausages, eggs, baked beans, toast and hash brown, it's a steal for the money you pay and is guaranteed to leave all your taste buds singing.
Cost: Rs 250
At: Brunch 'n' Munch, 12 Costa Gravas, Sunderlane

Missing Apples?
While the name Apple Chicken hints at an interesting culinary innovation combining the crunch and sweetness of apples with chicken, you may be disappointed to know that the connection ends there. Even the staff does not know how this popular starter got its unique name. But that should not stop you from tucking in. For those not in the know, Apple Chicken is a spicy marinated version of the regular Lollipop Chicken, served at JB Dynasty in Malad. It is spicy and makes for a good starter, especially if you are bored of its simpler twin, Drums of Heaven aka Lollipop Chicken.
Cost: Rs 180 a plate for the regular one and Rs 190 for the boneless version
At: JB Dynasty, Sunderlane

Viva Goa!
Sausage chilly fry is a dish most Goans swear by. In fact, it's something that we crave for when not in Goa, but while many try to replicate the taste, very few succeed. If you are looking for that authentic experience of digging into fiery Goan sausages, Mangoes is the closest you will come to it, this side of town. Our one grouse, however, is the portion of sausage meat served, which is not consistent -- at times, generous and at times, miserly. We hope they maintain consistency rather than risk losing regular patrons. Mop it up with a chapati or pav, just like Goans do.
Cost: Rs 180 a plate
At: Mangoes, 601, Almar Arcade, Near Orlem Market, Opposite Old Mangoes

Tuck in to chicken
Dorothy's is known for it's affordable snacks which include rolls, burgers, croquettes and more. However, the one dish we recommend you must try is the BBQ chicken. Now don't go expecting chicken dunked in bbq sauce, this one is actually a healthier version of the ever-popular dish, grilled to perfection with a tinge of lime and pepper. The simple flavours work well, and give you a smoky chicken that's absolutely delicious, and will have you coming back for more. It's generally available after 11.30 am everday, except on Sunday.
Cost: Rs 65 for a BBQ chicken breast or leg.
At: Dorothy's 1, Janet Castle, Near Our Lady Lourdes Church, St Joseph's School

Sweet surrender
As you pass by this cafe, you' can't help but be drawn in by the whiff of aromas that flood your senses. Apart from the snacks that the place doles out dime-a-dozen, what has many coming back day in and day out for, are their delicious baked treats. We recommend you try the Chocolate Swiss Roll cake (Rs 80) that has decadently rich layers of chocolate that make for a sinful dessert. However, if you want to go all out, we suggest you splurge and order their Chocolate Rum Cake. It's the best thing on the menu, and ideal for birthday celebrations. A boozy mix of rum and silken chocolate available for 1/2 kg onwards only on order.
Cost: Rs 450 for 1/2 kg cake
At: Aaron's Bake N Brew House, 5, Lourdes Heritage, Marve Road

Get your fill of chocolate
A new kid on the block, JBBackus has both savoury and sweet treats. Their chocolate tart is a must-try. A generous swirl of chocolate fills the tart, letting you enjoy it one melt-in-your-mouth moment at a time.
Cost: Rs 40 for a chocolate tart
At: JBBackus, 2, Almar Apartments, Father Justin D'Souza Road