One8 Commune, a resto-bar owned by cricketer Virat Kohli opened its doors in Kolkata on 1st August, 21. This is its second outpost after the first one in Delhi Aerocity.
Located at Golden Park, the place merges a blend of the old-world charm with the contemporary styling. The décor complements the guise of togetherness, while incorporating the ambience of the city’s nostalgic heritage.
Designed by renowned interior stylist Sumessh Menon, the signature resto-bar spreads over an area of over 4,500 sq ft with has a seating capacity of 100 covers. This includes capsule style pods and a distinct raised VIP seating space, with a backdrop of an LED lit signature of Virat Kohli.
The colour palette includes shades of rust, olive green and blue in varying tones and textures to add drama to the whole space. The amalgamation of all elements also reflects the brand’s belief in harmony and compassion to create a space that is synonymous with comfort, based on a singular aura of togetherness and uniqueness.
Talking about this resto-bar, Kohli said,”My joyous connection with Kolkata remains integral to me from my under-19 days till today. Calcuttans know how to do justice to the food and Kolkata’s food culture has always been fascinating to me hence we thought One8 Commune could be a fantastic addition to the city’s gastronomic preferences with a bit of our distinctive twists. The blend of Kolkata’s colonial characteristics, architecture and history combined with its modern discoveries and contemporary vibes creates a quality contrast and that is what we aspire to bring to the table. The idea is to epitomise Kolkata through the Commune’s food and spirit.”
The multi-cuisine menu, curated by Chef Pawan Bisht, caters to a global palate; right from staple Pizza-Burger re-inventions, to heavy-duty community platters. It also takes cues from Kohli’s personal journeys and food experiences, creating a holistic culinary space foodies. Some signature dishes include ‘Red and white quinoa salad’, ‘‘Ghugni chaat cornetto’, ‘Chicken Keema Cornetto’, ‘Keema puff’, ‘Black Chicken’ in starters; ‘Napoletana con burrata pizza’, ‘Herb crusted fish steak’, ‘Spicy Malvani curry’, ‘Mumbai Dabbagosht’, ‘The One8 mezze’, ‘Communing Indian way’ and ‘Lahori commune’ in the main course. The signature desserts include ‘Five river mud cake’ and ‘Skillet apple pie’.
The beverage menu boasts of signature cocktails include ‘Loverture tiki’, ‘Commune no.7’, ‘Yellowtail’, ‘Barrel meister’, ‘POP!’ and ;Sage Thumb’. These have been devised under the guidance of Neeraj Sharma, Head Mixologist.
The experimental resto-bar also hosts an in-house DJ playing commercial pop and hip-hop to keep one hooked to the dance floor.
Former Miss Universe India, Ushoshi Sengupta, Communication Director at One8 Commune, said, “One8 Commune is an extension of Virat Kohli’s personality, his fondness for food and the people of India and I’m stoked that he chose Kolkata to be the second outlet after Delhi. We are all hopeful that in the coming years the resto-bar will have a Pan India presence.”
