On the vastly explored terrains of Fort Kochi's gastronomical map, Raintree restaurant still seems undiscovered. An elevated dining lounge near the private bus terminal road here, the restaurant is quite a stunner with its hanging plant-pots, wind chimes and sculptured pillars.
It was warm inside despite the heavy rain beating against the window panes, thanks to the ripe smokiness from the open-flame grill. Raintree specializes in coastal cuisine: prawns and crabs cooked just right are served fresh on a light blue platter that resembles the sea itself. The continental section too is well worth a try, especially the creamy, saucy spaghetti and the delicious pasta salads. The restaurant also serves a variety of dishes for the main course.
A plate of spaghetti in white sauce, two phulkas, a stuffed paratha and a chilly mushroom gravy – ours was a strange but versatile dinner that helped us discern the multi-cuisine restaurant’s culinary finesse in a nutshell. I am sure this combo would make you hanker for more. Along with it, you may order a plate of egg pakodas or their boneless chicken counterpart as a toothsome appetizer. The destination is also famous for its steaming tomato and cilantro soup with creamy topping, which comes in a generous quantity.
The order may take a bit long to arrive to the table. But that’s not an issue as the crispy and peppery chilly papad would give you a savory company. There is no denying that Raintree’s continental sea food cuisine with an interesting ethnic twist is an indulgence. Yet, their Indian kitchen is a travesty of sorts, especially when it comes to vegetarian dishes.
The mushroom manchurian was less spiced and moderately sauced, much like the Italian main course it accompanied. But spaghetti tasted like heaven in white sauce and cream, garnished well with olives and spring onion.
The food quantity is generous and pricing, reasonable. The multi cuisine combo cost less than Rs 600, which is pretty easy on the pocket when compared to other three-star restaurants, cafeterias and dine-outs in Fort Kochi.
The phulkas you get here are soft and fresh and goes well with all kinds of gravies. Stuffed parathas, the fluffy Indian bread with rich spicy stuffing, make you feel full and satisfied. The service is good and the furniture, noticeably attractive. The wall-paintings, graffiti and decor around the dining area deserve a special mention. In essence, Raintree would offer you a thoroughly impressive fine dining experience on a budget.
Read more: Eatout | Travel | Beyond Kerala
