Khushamdid is the way of saying welcome in the Urdu language. Khushamdid to S36, take a step into the new fully fledged Mughlai-cuisine restaurant that has opened up in Kochi. The name S36 is derived from Kerala’s representative in the national cricket scene, Sreeshant’s jersey number, 36. Its no surprise as its a restaurant run by Sreeshant’s family and family friends. The place is located by the old Bat & Bowl locale near Fine Arts Hall on Four Shore Road, its neatly tucked by a side road so if you don’t keep your eyes open, you will miss out on some Mughlai delights.

As you step into S36 you will notice the subtle blend of modernity and slight traces of Mughlai art and such works. Ambiance is charming with the restaurant having three different sections, one on the outside where a street side style of dining is apparent. This has a Chaat counter and a stage that is graced by Ghazal artistes every friday, saturday and sunday. The outside section can be noisy and lively, suited for group dining.

Stepping inside you can either choose to be seated in the Mughal-stlyle decked area or another section that is decorated with canvas paintings of yesteryear Bollywood movies that has Mughal connections. For a more quiet, private and laid-back dining, it would make more sense seated inside, away from the hustle and bustle of the exterior dining area.

The restaurant claims to use herbs and spices from Agra and Punjab to keep dishes as authentic as possible in addition to the Chefs that are specially working behind the scene to get the best they can in terms of Mughlai cuisine. With the cuisine having being influenced by the imperial kitchens of the Mughal Empire, it is certainly imperative to keep authenticity at its highest.
To top it all off they have some delightful Bengali sweets. So expect only Bengali sweets for desserts, but they were delightful from what I got to try out, it makes up for quantity by character. I am sure the rest of their whole menu will fare likewise. So if you want some authentic Mughlai food in a really simple yet classy restaurant, head to S36.

Khuda hafiz!