There are many places where one can get a meal that claims to be European, or Mediterranean, or American but it is just an Indian interpretation of the theme. So, for a change, we decided to try a place whose culinary mission is open and honest: “to do to continental cuisine what the Chinese from Calcutta did to Chinese food decades ago – highly Indianized, very affordable and easily available.”

That’s what Veekes & Thomas wants to do. And because we grew so tired of the overuse (and misuse) of the word "authentic" before any type of exotic food, that's enough to make us like the place. Offering anything from brochettes, soups, salads and croquettes to grills, pastas, risottos and stakes, Veekes & Thomas has a wide range of choices for each category. The cheese garlic bread along with a sautéed mushroom soup we tried was rich, creamy and absolutely soulful. However, they served the soup in glasses: innovative perhaps, yet a bit unpractical.

To make up for it, the Spanish leg roast that followed the starter was succulent and beautiful, came with a thick bed of gravy served with mash potatoes on the side and enriched with Indian spices. The caramel custard was delicious, one of the best in town: a great way to end the meal.

And the good food comes paired with an overall philosophy of good: Veekes & Thomas uses packaging that’s minimal and as environmentally friendly as possible, employs people from underprivileged sections of society – with whom they plan, over time, to share ownership - and supports NGOs working in education and development.

All the more reason to choose Veekes and Thomas. Treat yourself to an unauthentic continental meal soon.