Contributed by Pawan Soni
South Indian and Chinese food have become very popular in North India as comfort food and it is no surprise to note the mushrooming of restaurants in this segment. Virundu is a small, year old, family run Chettinaad restaurant.
The décor was minimal and the restaurant needed maintenance. Virundu had a seeping wall, loose light fittings, goods cartons lying inside the restaurant and a dirty wash basin with an even dirtier towel. The Nepali order taker had difficulty understanding Hindi or English while the owner was busy taking home delivery orders which is probably normal practice at any small, family owned restaurant. After almost 5 minutes the server inquired about our food order without serving us water, which I believe should be the norm.
All throughout we were of two minds to eat at Virundu or explore other options for lunch. Fortunately, we looked at the simple laminated menu card which definitely wasn’t run of the mill. It offered unheard of options in Dosas and included north Indian and Chinese food too. We were surprised to see Choley Bhature featuring under the South Indian Uttapam section. I wondered if this Punjabi favorite has become a staple in the South. Finally, the ex-serviceman owner came by, apologized for the delay and helped us place the order.
The under-cooked Kesari (Rs 25) and the bland flavors of Chicken Biryani (Rs 100) disappointed us. During my travel to the South I have always found an egg in my Biryani, which was conspicuous by its absence. Other dishes starting from Rasam and Fried Fish (Rs 125) to Mutton Curry (Rs 220) were fresh, well cooked, spicy, aromatic and authentic though with mellowed spices. The multilayered Malabaar Parantha served with Korma (Rs 60) was delicate and soft, while the Vellappam (Rs 80) a rice bread, unlike a recent experience at a fine dining restaurant, was pretty good. The accompaniments on the table included Gunpowder, crushed sugar, Garlic Chutney, and Til ka Tel (sesame oil). The items in the menu were reasonably priced for the quality and quantity delivered.
Though not a great dining out experience, Virundu could be a nice home delivery option, if they can deliver their food hot.
Meal for Two: Rs200 | Alcohol: No | Credit Card: No| Parking: Free
Address: 1185, Golf Course Road, Near Technopolis Building, Sector-54, Gurgaon | Phone: 9650130583
-Pawan Soni
Nice find.. Since last 1 month I am wanting to go there… Gr8 you went there and narrated your likes and experience. Chole Bhature…. tht’s a surprise, everybody wants to become successful by selling hot selling items too in their place.. Actually in these family run places, all is well if the food is good, as what matter is taste.. Once again-Gud job Pawan..
Dear Pawan and Amit, We, at Virundu, value your comments which tells us that our food is authentic and we need to continually improve service and ambience, We are doing up on ambience and improving service. In Virundu , customer is king. We focus on authentic tamil food. and warm hospitality. Thanks from Virundu Team !
Dear Suguna,
I am happy to report that recently I visited Virundu again and I was happy to note the improvement in services. Thanks.
Pawan Soni
Tks for updating Pawan. Wud b eating there shortly..