(From top) Tanusree and Ananya sample dishes at Arsalan; the Bhai Phonta and Id spread at Kewpie’s; chefs show off dishes at Baan Thai. Pictures by Rashbehari Das

What: Launch of Arsalan.

Where: 119 Mirza Ghalib Street (Ripon Street).

When: October 12.

Take a look: With a name that means “lion” in Urdu, Arsalan is doing just what it should — occupying a lion’s share of the Mughlai food market in the city. “There is an increased demand for Mughlai cuisine like biryani, chanp, kebabs and curries, so why not expand when the time is right?” said Akhtar Parwez, director of the popular chain that launched its third outlet in the city.

Only two months ago, Arsalan took over Porto Rio at Circus Avenue and now Chino Bistro, the Italian-Chinese restaurant, has given way to the Mughlai eatery. That’s not all. By the year-end, Calcuttans can expect a couple of more branches.

The 4,500 sq ft restaurant spread over two floor levels boasts 150 covers. The eatery has been divided into a barbecue counter, mocktail bar, kathi roll takeaway counter and dining area.

The spread: The menu includes signature Arsalan dishes, from biryanis to kebabs. But it’s not just the Mughlai selection that the outlet is offering. “To cater to all tastes, this branch will also serve Chinese cuisine along with our traditional Mughlai platter. A new addition is the mocktail section that does not exist at any of the other branches,” said Parwez. So the menu is a mixed bag comprising everything from Murg Chatpata, Pudina Paneer Tikka and Hyderabadi Biryani to Hunan chicken, Garlic Noodles and Toffee Walnut.

Pocket pinch: Biryanis start at Rs 50, chanp at Rs 45 while kebabs and curries are priced at Rs 45 onwards.

Voiceover: “The management is the same, so the quality of food will be maintained,” assured Sarafat Ali, head chef of all the three branches of Arsalan.

Bengali bite

What: Bhai Phonta and Id festival.

Where: Kewpie’s at 2 Elgin Lane.

When: Till October 29.

The spread: There are Jamjamat Thalas in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Besides, there are the regular Kewpie’s Sadharon Niramish Thala and Mithu’s Amish Thala.

You can choose from a host of vegetarian and non-vegetarian main course items like Doi Begun, Pomfret Posto, Muri Ghonto, Chicken Jahanara and Chitol Petir Jhaal. Round off with sweet treats like Shemai Payesh, Patisapta and Malpua.

Pocket pinch: While the thalas are priced between Rs 155 and Rs 360, a la carte dishes cost anything between Rs 50 and Rs 325.

Sea spread

What: Underwater Delicacies festival.

Where: Baan Thai at The Oberoi Grand.

When: Till October 28.

The spread: If you can enjoy crabs even after the arduous task of breaking the oh-so-tough shells, try Poo Phat Prik (stir-fried crab in chilli paste) or Poo Nue Phad Phong Karee (curry dusted mud crab tossed in onion, chilli and celery). If scampi is your choice, you are spoilt for choice. There is Kaeng Kari Koong (scampi in yellow curry with coconut milk and fresh red chilli), Koong Phad Nam Prik Phao (stir-fried scampi with chilli paste, spring onion and Thai basil), Koong Phad Bai Krapaw (scampi stir-fried with chilli and hot basil) and more. Like lobsters? Dig into Koong Mangkorn Makhampiak (broiled lobster in tamarind sauce with coriander root and shallots), Koong Mangkorn Pao (grilled lobster with garlic, Thai herb and light soya) or Koong Mangkorn Takrai (grilled lobster marinated with lemon grass, kaffir lime, galangal, onion and garlic). Sometimes sweet, sometimes spicy, this seafood spread is sure to impress.

Pocket pinch: Dishes are priced between Rs 650 and Rs 1,100.

Voiceover: “This is undoubtedly the best season for fresh and nice seafood,” smiled Manas Krishnamoorthy, F&B manager of The Oberoi Grand.