Manashimaya
One8 Commune, the newest restaurant situated on the first floor of the Loft building in Hitech City, Hyderabad, is drawing cricket fans in droves. Wondering why? This gem is part of a chain of restaurants co-owned by cricket icon Virat Kohli. A board at the entrance that proudly declares “Hyderabad Kohling!” has quickly become the latest selfie hotspot, enticing fans and foodies alike.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by interiors in earthy tones of light brown, featuring wicker and cane furniture, lights, and fans. The view is juxtaposed against a metal and glass high-rise with sharp looks and bright colours ranging from blue to gold. Discover a world of flavours at Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune in Hyderabad, an easy, breezy place with a mix of high and regular seating. When the evening rolls around, the restaurant keeps guests entertained with music, drinks, and food until late into the night.
Predictably, cricket paraphernalia abounds, from the menu to the stylish apparatus in which drinks are served. The restaurant practically screams cricket. A standout piece of decor is Virat Kohli’s jersey, which he digitally signed live during a visit with the RCB team. This piece alone draws almost everyone inside for a photo opportunity.
Without a doubt, the menu features a lot of the cricketer’s favourites, like the mushroom cream avocado cheese googly—a slightly tweaked steamed dim sum in red, thanks to beetroot juice in the wrapped dough. With the first bite, warm cream cheese oozes out, offering a mushy taste of avocado and occasional bites of shiitake mushroom, enhanced by the woody and garlicky flavours of truffle oil. Truly, you can discover a world of flavours at Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune in Hyderabad with every bite.
From the bar, Rahul S was eager to showcase the drinks that cater to a table of four. The trophy pour, made with blue pea flower tea and a mix of gin and vodka, stood out. I opted for the mango picante, a mango drink with a spicy kick—perfect for tequila lovers who enjoy a zing in their beverages.
Corporate Chef Agnibh Mudi of One8 explains, “We currently have eight restaurants across the country. At every restaurant, we feature several of Virat’s favourites. Each city also has a menu section to suit local palates. In Hyderabad, we’ve added a love for spice to chicken, prawn, and paneer dishes. We also feature local favourites like Hyderabadi khatti dal, anda keema, pav, and are working on a soy version of haleem. I am very proud of that trial.”
With local flavours in mind, the Byadgi mirchi paneer and lime chilli pickled spicy prawns were brought to the table. The paneer was a hot choice in terms of both chilli heat and flavour. The pickled lemon prawns also packed a spicy punch, complemented by green chillies and a final touch of curry-patta tadka.
For those seeking milder options, the avocado flatbread is a safe bet. The menu is a delightful mix of modern Indian, regional, Asian, and Continental dishes. From pizza and khatti dal to mutton rogan josh and sliders, global staples like laksa and hawker-style noodles, there’s something for everyone. Classic dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio and penne grilled salmon grace the ‘Pasta and Large Plate’ section.
I opted for the kheema ghotala, perfect for an early evening dinner, mopped up with warm butter-toasted pav. The dessert section promises sweet treats like tiramisu cornetto, burnt Basque cheesecake, and coconut tres leches, but I chose to skip dessert as the al fresco seating came with a side of persistent mosquitoes.
Discover a world of flavours at Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune in Hyderabad, where every dish and drink offers a unique taste experience, making it a must-visit for food lovers and cricket fans alike.
