Mumbai's first floating restaurant has a lot to offer for those with a penchant for the sea. Here's what you can expect at this one of a eatery
Ark Deck and Bar/Instagram- @arkdeckbar
The Ark Deck and Bar has made its mark as Mumbai's first floating restaurant. Situated about 1.6 kilometres from the Bandra jetty, Ark Deck will lend you the novel experience of dining in the middle of the Arabian Sea.
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The restaurant is spread over three levels of a Russian-made vessel. The top level hosts the private dining area, while a lounge and three residential suites spread over the other two levels. With a capacity of 100 people, Ark Deck is the perfect place to take in the gorgeous sunset over the Mumbai skyline.
The Travel
Getting to Ark Deck is sure to be an experience of its own. The restaurant has its own boat service that ferries guests to and from the Bandra Sea Link Jetty. While the ride takes about 12-15 minutes, the service itself is available only a couple of times an hour.
We highly recommend that guests wear comfortable footwear. With no ramp available, getting onto the ship from the boat can be a bit of a jump, especially in choppy waters.
The Food
Shiraz braised goat shank
Ark Deck and Bar specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on freshly-sourced ingredients. The menu offers a selection of salads, appetizers, main courses and desserts, with specialities like Spaghetti Aglio Oglio, Shiraz braised goat shank, Shitake creme risotto and Rosemary grilled chicken. The bar also has an extensive selection of cocktails, whiskeys, vodkas, gins and other alcoholic drinks.
Ark deck and bar serves a variety of alcoholic
While the food imitates exquisite European flavours, the garnish leaves a tangible sense of duplication. Further, with a single kitchen catering to all the guests, the waiting time can often cross the half an hour mark.
The Cost
The restaurant levies a cover charge on each guest. The charges are Rs 2,000 per person between 5 pm to 8 pm and Rs 3000 per person from 8 pm onwards. The cost may be redeemed by opting for a variety of food and drinks.
Reservations can also be made for a private party at an additional fee.
The Experience
The lounge on Ark Deck and bar
While the concept behind Ark Deck brings a fresh touch to the city, there are several shortcomings in its execution that dent the overall experience. For the uninitiated, the constant rocking of the ship added to a distinctly marine odour, can cause nausea and light-headedness.
Guests might often spot pockets of water pooling at certain parts of the deck. Another point worth noting is the absence of a door securing the main entrance of Ark Deck. Now falling into the open sea is definitely not an adventure worth exploring!
Loud music and a personal greeting by one of the owners; Kookie Singh, Samyukkta Singh or Viraj Chandwadkar, are sure to liven up your visit. However, make sure to inquire the exact time of the return ferry. Infrequently scheduled trips back to the shore and occasional technical snags on the boat can mean that guests are restricted to the ship for an extended period of time. Overall, Ark Deck offers a truly singular experience for the thrill-seeking Mumbaikar.
At: Bandra Sea Link Jetty
Cost: Rs 2,000 - Rs 3,000 per person
Call: 022 33715979
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