Besides Mayfair's Aquarium & Veranda (tel. 06752/22-7800; www.mayfairhotels.com), where you can sample Orissan seafood specialties (chingudi tarkari, prawns prepared in a traditional Orissan gravy, is delicious), you can dine at Wild Grass (V.I.P. Rd.; tel. 06752/22-9293; daily 11am-11pm), a self-consciously eco-friendly open-air restaurant set in a lush garden with stone and slate pathways and tables arranged in various nooks at different levels. Come for the delightful ambience, but don't expect the most spectacular food or service. One of the highlights here is an Orissan thali, but it must be ordered at least 2 hours in advance (well worth it). Grilled brinjal (eggplant, known as baigan poda) is another favorite; or try tandoori prawns, nargisi fish kebab, or prawn malai curry. For dessert, try the local cheesecake, chhena poda. Restaurant Peace is an utterly laid-back cafe-style eatery with plastic chairs under thatched roofing; it opens early and serves the best bowl of muesli in India. A genuinely huge portion of fresh fruit, mixed nuts, curd, and honey is a perfect way to start the day (C.T. Rd.; tel. 06752/22-6642; no credit cards; daily 7am-11pm).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
