Juice it up: Fresh off the kart By: Kanika Parab September 4, 2006
Carrot-Lime-Cherry-Apple-Peach concoction for Rs 55
The new trend in the constantly evolving gastronomy circuit in Bandra is up-market food carts. New eateries seem to be taking their cues in terms of form, taste and design from the popularity of the omnipresent rasta food and beverage joints. By patronising the chaat, Paani Puri and juices that have travelled from roadside gullies to the confines of air-conditioned eateries, we can’t help but wonder if we are betraying the khao gullies on which the city was built. But when we stopped at J Kart, (at Union Park, Khar) the latest entrant on the circuit, we found that hygiene, exotic combos and well-informed owners were enough to put our guilt to rest. With their fresh fruit and veggie juice venture, owners Rachna Kumari and Anupam Upadhyay aim to become the new-age doodhwalas of the city. Rachna explains, “We want our brand to become synonymous with early morning door-step delivery. People need to understand the importance of starting the day with a nutrient-packed glass of juice.” And if the duo isn’t around to dole out fruity facts, you can browse through a rack of juicy books as you sip on a Papaya-Muskmelon or any other equally exotic concoction. “These books explain the five-a-day (why five servings of fruits a day is mandatory) trend that’s hot in the US. You can also figure out the colour of fruits and veggies best suited for you,” adds Anupam.
J Kart take-away juice counter at Bandra
Since you might lose your patience (and sanity) trying to pick a juice from the million combinations available, we will save you some time by recommending a tall glass of Raspberry-Pear-Banana (Rs 65), New Zealand Rose Apple-Lime (Rs 55) and Carrot-Spinach-Tomato-Mint juice (Rs 30). If you are feeling adventurous, ask for a health shot of wheatgrass or bittergourd. While J Kart is big on taste and size, they don’t hold back on aesthetics either. Each glass is served with a small dish of the fruits that were blended together to make the juice. And while you have the option to sit on the tree bark stools and enjoy your drink, we warn you that you might have company in hyperactively buzzing flies. Our advice — order it home, or get one to go. Oh, and fitness freaks are going to love this, you don’t have to be home to avail of home delivery. “If you feel like a health drink when you’re jogging away at Carter Road, just call us and we will deliver it free of cost,” promises Rachna. J Kart also delivers fresh fruits to your doorstep. “At rates that could be cheaper than those ruling the market. One kilogram of our New Zealand rose apples will cost you Rs 105, as opposed the market rate of Rs 120,” claims Rachna. kanika@mid-day.com How to get there J Kart, near Olive Bar and Kitchen, Union Park, Khar. For free home delivery in Bandra and Khar, call: 9833790043
