Deep Adhya, PhD

Down the dusty roads and arid mountains of Haryana, one would not expect much. Sitting on the lap of the Aravalli Hills, in the National Brain Research Centre, and dreaming of strawberries, one is often left disappointed. Once on a visit to Mahabaleshwar, I had come across strawberries growing in the wild. But Mahabaleshwar is a hill station, experiencing cool climate throughout the year, the conditions extremely conducive to the growth of strawberries. On that hill station, industry constitutes strawberries and corn, and one can buy fresh strawberries the size of Darjeeling oranges, and their products such as jam (with whole strawberries) and pulp for use in desserts, and the works. But in an arid place like Haryana, around the Gurgaon region, and very close to the deserts of Rajasthan, one rarely expects strawberries to grow in the wild, leave alone be cultivated. But luck it seems shone on us, those who seek this red juicy berry. On a rare outing beyond the rear borders...

The restaurant front is uninspiring. But don’t shrug your shoulders yet, because one really mustn’t read a book by its cover. Covered in dark glass stands ‘Tapas World’, in the heart of Defense Colony Market. On the glass is inscribed a list of items from the menu – in small font, like an unending series. Look closer and the essence of the well-known Spanish Tapas Cuisine shall become apparent. Tapas is not just food, it is a way of life in Spain, a wide variety of appetizers or snacks which can be combined together to make a full meal. The late Steve Jobs believed that great products need great promotions. The owners of ‘Tapas World’ would have achieved much if they thought of it. Here, now, they have a great menu boasting of Spanish Tapas cuisine, very delightful, yet unknown, yet they do nothing to reach out to patrons of good gastronomy. The décor is deplorable with its low lighting and dark theme. Although it might suit a bar just fine, it does not help to create an ambience...