Dining at Malaka Spice Pune: A Culinary Journey from Farm to Fork

Experience the magic of Malaka Spice in Pune, where every dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to fresh, local ingredients and sustainable practices. Join us for a memorable evening under the soft glow of candlelight and the warmth of authen

Malaka SpicePuneSoutheast Asian CuisineOrganic FarmingSustainable DiningReal Estate PuneNov 18, 2024

Dining at Malaka Spice Pune: A Culinary Journey from Farm to Fork
Real Estate Pune:On a recent Thursday, I drove down to Pune with one goal in mind dinner at Malaka Spice in Koregaon Park. This cherished restaurant, founded by Praful and Cheeru Chandawarkar in 1997, has been a culinary landmark, renowned for its inspired Southeast Asian cuisine and dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

I arrived on the 14th of the month, and it turned out to be a special evening. Malaka Spice hosts a “Lights Out” event every 14th, where the restaurant reduces its energy consumption by using only essential lighting. The rest of the space is illuminated by soft candlelight and warm lamps, creating a magical atmosphere. Shadows danced across the walls, and every table seemed to glow in its own intimate spotlight. Whether it’s a quiet dinner for two or a lively gathering of friends, the setting was perfect for a memorable evening.

The meal began with a plate of pumpkin chips, crisp and delicately salted. Next came the Top Hats, a Malaka icon. Each fried cup was packed with herbs, sprouts, and chicken, offering a crunchy burst of flavor that made it hard to stop after just one. The mains were equally captivating. The Debal Curry, a Malaysian specialty, brought bold spice and a depth of flavor that lingered long after the last bite. The Lotus Stem Tango added a playful contrast, with its tangy slices paired with a sweet, sour, and spicy honey-chilli sauce that I couldn’t resist.

For drinks, I started with The Forager, a cocktail that blends fermented starfruit, jalapeño, and pineapple milk-washed tequila into a refreshingly complex drink. For a gentler counterpoint, I sipped on the Mulberry Coke, a fizzy concoction with just the right hint of sweetness to complement the meal.

The next morning, I ventured out to Cherish Farm, Malaka’s four-acre organic farm nestled in the lush sugarcane fields of Maharashtra. This farm is a quiet revolution against chemical-laden produce. All the ingredients at Malaka Spice trace their roots here, from the vibrant mulberries to the crisp pumpkins. The farm relies on natural fertilizers and avoids pesticides, allowing the produce to grow fresh, unhurried, and unspoiled. The basil leaves that added flavor to my Debal Curry were fragrant in their natural habitat, and the pumpkins had a satisfying heft that hinted at their future crunch. It’s one thing to enjoy a meal you love; it’s another to stand amidst the very ingredients and understand the care that went into them.

For anyone planning a trip to Pune, Malaka Spice is a must-visit. It’s a place to slow down, savor, and connect with the food on your plate and the land it came from. If you’re lucky enough to visit on the 14th, you’ll find it not just lit by candles but by a palpable sense of care for the little details that make a meal truly unforgettable.

Malaka Spice is more than just a restaurant; it’s a commitment to sustainability and the highest quality of ingredients. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking for a delightful dining experience, Malaka Spice is sure to leave you satisfied and inspired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Malaka Spice known for?

Malaka Spice is renowned for its inspired Southeast Asian cuisine and commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant was founded in 1997 and has become a culinary landmark in Pune.

What is the 'Lights Out' evening at Malaka Spice?

Every 14th of the month, Malaka Spice hosts a 'Lights Out' evening where they reduce energy consumption by using only essential lighting. The rest of the space is illuminated by soft candlelight and warm lamps, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.

What are some must-try dishes at Malaka Spice?

Some must-try dishes at Malaka Spice include the pumpkin chips, Top Hats (a fried cup packed with herbs, sprouts, and chicken), Debal Curry (a Malaysian specialty), and the Lotus Stem Tango (tangy slices with a sweet, sour, and spicy honey-chilli sauce).

What is Cherish Farm and its significance to Malaka Spice?

Cherish Farm is Malaka Spice's four-acre organic farm located in the lush sugarcane fields of Maharashtra. The farm grows all the ingredients used in the restaurant, ensuring they are fresh, unhurried, and unspoiled. It is a testament to Malaka Spice's commitment to sustainability and high-quality produce.

What makes Malaka Spice a sustainable dining option?

Malaka Spice is a sustainable dining option because it sources its ingredients from its own organic farm, Cherish Farm. The farm uses natural fertilizers and avoids pesticides, ensuring that the produce is fresh and unspoiled. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in every dish served at the restaurant.

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