One8 Commune: Hyderabad’s New Cricket-Inspired Dining Hotspot Co-owned By Virat Kohli
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/25th July 2024
One8 Commune, the latest addition to Hyderabad’s dining scene, is quickly becoming a magnet for cricket enthusiasts. Located on the first floor of the Loft building in Hitech City, this new restaurant is part of a chain co-owned by cricket superstar Virat Kohli. A prominent board at the entrance proudly proclaims “Hyderabad Kohling!” and has turned into a popular selfie backdrop for visitors.
The restaurant’s interior design features a warm and earthy color palette, with light brown tones and furniture crafted from wicker and cane. The ambiance blends traditional elements with modern aesthetics, including striking metal and glass accents, and vibrant hues of blue and gold. The space offers a relaxed atmosphere with both high and standard seating options, complemented by engaging music, a diverse drinks menu, and a variety of food choices that keep patrons entertained throughout the evening.
True to its cricket theme, One8 Commune incorporates numerous cricket-related elements into its decor and menu. One standout feature is a glass display of Virat Kohli’s jersey, which he digitally autographed during a visit to the restaurant with the RCB team. This piece of memorabilia attracts many visitors eager to snap a photo.
The menu at One8 Commune includes many of Kohli’s favorite dishes. One notable item is the mushroom cream avocado cheese googly, a variation of steamed dim sum wrapped in beetroot juice-infused dough. The vibrant red wrap encloses a creamy blend of cheese and avocado, with hints of shitake mushroom, garlic, and truffle oil.
From the bar, Rahul S highlighted the trophy pour, a communal drink designed for four people featuring blue pea flower tea, gin, and vodka. For those who prefer something smaller, the mango picante is a spicy cocktail combining mango with tequila, perfect for fans of bold flavors.
Corporate Chef Agnibh Mudi of One8 revealed that the restaurant chain, which has eight locations nationwide, incorporates Virat Kohli’s favorite dishes while also adapting menus to local tastes. In Hyderabad, this means including spicy options like Byadgi mirchi paneer and lime chili pickled prawns. The paneer dish offers a fiery kick with its chili heat, while the prawns, spiced with green chilies and curry leaves, reflect local flavors. For a milder option, the avocado flatbread is recommended.
The menu offers a diverse selection, blending modern Indian, regional, Asian, and Continental cuisines. Patrons can choose from dishes such as pizza, khatti dal, mutton rogan josh, sliders, and global favorites like laksa and hawker-style noodles. The ‘Pasta and Large Plate’ section features classics like spaghetti aglio e olio and penne grilled salmon.
For dessert, the menu includes tempting options like tiramisu cornetto, burnt basque cheesecake, and coconut tres leches. However, I opted to skip dessert in favor of enjoying my meal al fresco, despite the persistent mosquitoes.
Overall, One8 Commune offers a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends cricket culture with a diverse culinary menu, making it a must-visit spot for both cricket fans and food lovers in Hyderabad.
