Restaurateur Rohit Khattar is clearly playing no small game. His culinary empire now stretches across Nilaya Anthology, stacked like a well-played round of gourmet Jenga, three distinct concepts in as many months. And while each venture has its own flavour, it’s Drift Café Bar, the newest layer of this gastronomic puzzle, that really steals the spotlight.
Drift isn’t just a space, it feels like a mood. The earthy tones, flowing cane light fixtures, and understated charm don’t scream for your attention. They whisper, warmly, inviting you to stay awhile, which is exactly what I did. Drift is effortless, a sweater for your soul, as comfortable and familiar as it is assured in its simplicity.
Chef Sumit Sawardekar knows how to wield restraint like an artist’s brush. Case in point: The Drift Omelette, a luscious Parisian ode with Gruyère and chives tucked into custardy folds, straw potatoes crisp as autumn leaves on the side. Or the fried chicken burger: honey-drizzled crunch wrapped tight in a milk bun so soft it could win awards for cuddling. Even the beet-orange salad with a surprise cameo from tender gourd feels like rediscovering an old playlist in your car.
And then, the cocktails. Oh, Varun Sharma’s cocktails aren’t just drinks, they are experiences. Want theatre? Sip the Cheese Negroni, where gin mingles with burrata and tomato vermouth as if they’ve known each other forever. Or try the Black Forest Sour, cherry-soaked nostalgia with a boozy kick.
Drift isn’t just a café, it’s a gentle nudge to slow down, savour and stay, much like perfection itself. Why rush what’s already this good?
