Earth Cafe Powai Mumbai | Food Review | Healthy Delicious Vegetarian Food Fiesta | Pet Friendly Foodie Destination

Summer Garden reinvents itself into Earth Cafe, so the basic idea remains the same (focus on healthy,natural,eco friendly) with comfort dishes (such as pasta, samosas) added to the menu but even they are healthy and guilt free indulgences for the most part. In a nutshell, reasons to visit-

1- Ambiance + Eco-Friendly + Pet friendly = Rustic, elegant, simple decor comprising of fairy lights, trees,bamboo shoots and jute, reminding of Goa or Hawaiian shacks,

Bamboo straws used for drinks instead of plastic straws,

PLUS there is a stillness and sense of calm here even in the midst of a bustling urban jungle, 

It is also happy place for pets, their menu has a special little pet section too.

2- Food & Drinks = Honestly good ingredients, 

Mostly organic, gluten free, super-foods sourced locally and made fresh,

Using minimal processed ingredients,

Using healthy replacements such as Jaggery instead of sugar, 

Global menu made with healthy ingredients,served in a comforting way.

Prices are on the higher side and especially for main course items, feels expensive, though quality is very premium too, so can't complain much.

Started off with bevy of drinks, 

YOGI- Dates, Banana, Hazelnut, Almonds, Coconut Water, Cinnamon = Wholesome mix of some tasty ingredients, refreshing, would love to have it every day, want little bit more dates and coconut water flavor in there,

PINK LEMONADE - Lemonade and Cranberry came together to solve our sultry summer woes, looked beautiful, ultra refreshing,

MINT CUCUMBER ICED TEA - No explanation needed, refreshing, cooling, instantly transporting to heaven,

They customize the beverages as per YOUR taste profile, so do not forget to let them know how you like it, more/less sweet, more/less tangy and so on. 

Also, in food, we wanted to try more things so asked for smaller portions, AND whatever is described in the menu is exactly what is presented on the plate so read and decide (and ask the staff to suggest)

In salad, NUTTY FETA - Mixed Fresh Leaves, Walnuts, Feta, Pomegranate, Popped Amaranth, Olives in healthy Balsamic dressing, beautiful flavors, sweet + tangy deliciousness and popped amaranth was the boss :) A bit less leaves and more walnuts + feta would make it great,

In nibbles, we had AVO TOAST - Chunky fresh avocado, sauteed spinach, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese on toasted bread, MUST-HAVE for me, I am still salivating thinking about it! Delicious mix of some really healthy and strong flavors ♥

GUNPOWDER FRITTER - Lentil fritters tossed in gunpowder served with spicy tomato chutney, comforting south Indian touch to our meal, got exactly what was described in menu, 

BEAN TACOS - Crispy Tortilla Shells stuffed with beans, shredded lettuce, guacamole, salsa, sour cream and yellow cheddar, another comforting dish, cooling and refreshing, will definitely re-order ♥

In main course, AUBERGINE PARMIGIANA - Stacked aubergine disk, layered with an Italian style tomato sauce topped with parmesan cheese, served with garlic bread and house salad, absolutely delicious and MUST-HAVE for aubergine/eggplant lovers, portion must be increased though, I wanted more and this is main course item so that has to be looked into,

PANEER STEAK -Coconut Chilli paneer steak on a bed of spicy rice topped with house salad and popped amaranth, again beautiful flavors popping on palate, LOVED the paneer marination, but portion must be increased, 

Finally, for dessert, we had STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING - Baked Toffee Pudding, Sticky Toffee Sauce & Toasted Almond Ice Cream = Heaven! A boatload of caramel to drown into, it had dark flavors and enough quantity for 2 people to share (and this is coming from a dessert fanatic like me!). This is unlike any other dessert I have ever had and will be the one dish I will cross 7 seas for ♥♥♥

Since the whole concept is based around natural flavors, healthy ingredients, fresh food, obviously it tastes different at first but at the same time, there is a comforting touch and Indian twist. The best part is that the Chef herself takes feedback on every dish and was very gracious in taking all our tips. I am sure next time our experience will be even better. Love the place and no hesitation in recommending it to every foodie out there :) 

5 Reasons To Buy A Toy For Your Cat | Animal Lovers Corner

One of my childhood friends is a huge animal lover and just recently adopted her own cat. I have never had a pet myself and was never even aware of the whole process of caring for them just like our own kids. Having spent some time with my friend and her cute ''Bolshin'' (that's her cat's name!), I have realized that our responsibility as a pet owner does not end by getting a cat, rather it just starts. Buying a toy for the pet cat is one of the most crucial decisions to be taken. Here is a look at 5 Reasons you should buy your cat a toy:-

Respecting Nature

Cats are natural predators. Nature had gifted them skills to hunt for survival. The fact that a cat has been adopted as a pet does not change its natural instincts which are sharply honed to chase, stalk and pounce upon their prey. If they are not given appropriate toys to indulge in their agile predator skills, there are bound to be repercussions. This is the most important among the top 5 Reasons you should buy your cat a toy.

Eliminating Boredom

Cats are naturally curious creatures that always need some sort of challenge. Boredom makes them lethargic and shows as a multitude of unexpected problems in their behaviour and/or health. Watching them chase a bird or even simply looking out the window at the hustle-bustle of daily life proves how much they loathe boredom and need toys for a healthy output of their curious instincts.

Health Reasons

Being agile, curious and naturally hyper creatures, cats need plenty of physical and mental exercise on a daily basis. Toys fulfil this need in the most meaningful way. Even a simple cardboard box keeps them occupied for hours thanks to their fertile imaginations. In absence of exercise, they become anxious and are prone to health problems such as weight gain or even diabetes due to excessive sedentary lifestyle.

Bonding Purposes

Cats love to chase and would not hesitate to use their claws to hurt others while playing. They could also exhibit behavioural problems such as inappropriate anger or health problems if their need for mental and physical stimulation is not properly met. If you help your cat meet their instinctual drive, you will be happy to live in the company of a happy cat who will bond with you effortlessly. One of the most important among 5 Reasons you should buy your cat a toy is simply to make it feel safe and secure so that they look at you as a comforting friend and not as a dangerous opponent.

Behaviour Modification

Cats love to rest for long hours, but thereafter they are ever ready to indulge in their natural instincts of hunting. Their need to seek and hide, climb trees and stalk their prey teaches them life skills, builds confidence and relieves stress. With the help of toys, you can not only help in their development, you will also be able to modify their behaviour positively and get a great pet in return.

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