Kalapatti, Coimbatore, may not be the first spot that comes to mind for a taste of Goan beach life, but Warehouse is redefining expectations. While it lacks the waves of Candolim or Anjuna, it embraces a bohemian spirit, especially on a post-rain day when the outdoor space glimmers with charm. The venue offers cozy indoor seating for those who prefer a sheltered atmosphere, while its private dining room has an air of intrigue—perfect for a secret gathering of imagined Goan pirates.

At the heart of this culinary experience is Chef Baski, who boldly reinterprets familiar Kongu flavors with a creative twist. His menu features intriguing dishes that prompt reactions ranging from “That’s interesting” to “Am I supposed to drink this?”

We began our meal with cilantro chicken, a crispy delight that perfectly showcases coriander and mint. For a bolder flavor, we moved on to the chicken pops, seasoned with peri peri powder for an extra kick, maintaining that satisfying crunch.

Among the cocktails, the Verdant Elixir, a vodka-based drink with pink grapefruit syrup, impressed with its balance of flavors. Grey Horizon combined earl grey tea with whiskey for a unique experience, but the standout was the God of Sun, a refreshing mix of brandy, sweet paan, and tonic.

Next up were the Pallipalayam fritters, a modern take on a Kongu classic. Enhanced with coconut flakes and red chili, they offered a delightful blend of home-cooked charm and contemporary flair, thanks to a judicious use of coconut oil. Just when we thought we’d had enough chicken, the elanthari kozhi roast arrived—flambeed in rum and packed with flavor.

The highlight was the man chatti choru, a clay pot filled with Kerala-spiced roasted beef, chicken, and rice soaked in rich flavors. Each spoonful unveiled new layers of taste, with the rice absorbing the masala and harmonizing beautifully with the tender meat.

Dessert brought delightful surprises. First was the paan Shot Twist—a drinkable version of traditional paan that left us pleasantly puzzled and eager for more. Then came the panchamirtham le panna cotta, an inventive fusion of the beloved Kongu dessert and classic Italian panna cotta, creating a harmonious blend that surprised and delighted.

Chef Baski, leveraging his deep knowledge of Coimbatore’s culinary traditions and international experience, aims to present local flavors in fresh, unexpected ways. “Our goal was to showcase familiar tastes innovatively,” he explains, noting the transformation of chewy beeda into a drinkable form as an example.

While Warehouse may still be establishing its bohemian vibe, it has the potential to become Coimbatore's go-to spot for vibrant dining and socializing. As word spreads, this restobar could very well become a beloved destination for both celebration and culinary exploration.