On The Way (Restaurant)

A lot of takeaway joints, coffee shops and even roadside bandis have profited from the eclectic timings of those working the graveyard shift. Starting from the Convenio Petrol station in Begumpet and leading all the way till the bread-omelette stall opposite Cyber Towers, are many little places that offer everything from biryani (Y2K Tandoori) to frankies (Tibb's) to chicken stroganoff. Yes, the real stroganoff, and no, it doesn't cost the earth. We speak of a tiny little place called On The Way.

Started off as purely a takeaway, OTW went from two tables in an unused parking lot to a proper restaurant within two years. First in the news because of the variety it offered in continental cuisine, this place has become quite a favorite not just with the Madhapur crowd, but also the residents of Banjara and Jubilee Hills. With a home delivery radius of 5km, OTW sends lunch to offices nearby like HSBC. Chinese, Italian and Indian food (kebabs and curry) is also served here.

Tandoori kebabs make a great starter, and so do the golden-fried prawns. Paneer salt and pepper is another favorite. But the most-ordered dishes are Double Roast Chicken/Lamb, Chicken Stroganoff, Fresh Mushrooms In Ginger Sauce, Macaroni And Cheese, and the Spaghetti Bolognaise. The Curry Club includes perfect accompaniments for plain rice like Paneer Pasanda, Hundi Chicken, Punjabi Chicken and Dal Makhani.

The sizzlers (paneer or chicken) here are a hit, and the pepper steak is very good. If you're looking for a substantial snack, try the foot-longs or the fish and chips. The Chicken Hawaiian Salad is delish. For dessert, try the Fried Ice-cream With Honey or Date Pancake With Ice-Cream. The service is efficient and the interiors are cosy, if a little crowded at dinner.

OTW will eventually start serving continental and English breakfasts: juice, toast, eggs, bacon, pancakes, the works. So keep an eye on this one. And stop by when hunger strikes.