A first comer might just drive by SOL House, unsuspecting, owing to its understated exterior. But as you enter, the dimly lit outdoor area, glimmering ascents around potted plants and tall barrels as sitting stools, sets the groovy vibe. The indoor space is brought to life with minimal décor and a giant painting, against the backdrop of which diners sit, savouring their meal. On a wintry evening under the open sky, my friend and I sat, ploughing through SOL’s eclectic and rather experimental menu. Yes, the eatery is amongst the handful which gained its exposure through Karachi Eat festival, as the owners Fahad Moten and Salman Chamdia tell me. We kick-started our early dinner with their Small Plates sections, going for curiously-sounding Patatas Bravas and Texas Twinkies, which landed on our table within a short wait of 12 minutes. Four slits of chilli poppers were topped with smoked cheese shredded, spices and generous swathing of spicy sauce. Slicing into the smoked chillis aroused our appetite, making for perfect morsels to set the mood for the meal ahead. I did not feel the same for Patatas Bravas – which appeared to be cubed crispy potatoes with a sideline of sauce. It added a nice crunch to our meal, but perhaps owing to its name, I expected more from crispy potatoes. For a relatively newly-sprouted eatery, the service was quick, efficient and staff well-coordinated. Halfway through the appetisers, our main meals arrived piping hot on the table. From the classics, we opted for Austin Midnight burger and Smoked Mutton on Rice, both with sidelines of fries. Long shreds of perfectly roasted beef briskets flavoured with jalapenos and cheese were stuffed inside smoked buns, making me swoon at first bite. What I loved was how the buns, sauces, jalapenos and brisket all carried distinct flavours of their own, yet tied so perfectly together in each morsel. It was definitely a highlight on the table, but I do wish that the serving size was a bit more. SOL’s pit smoked mutton was seasoned with aromatic spices, packed with juices and smoky flavours. Smoked meat on its own made for an option for anyone looking for something healthy on the menu. Eaten with sidelines of rice, salad and sauces further enhanced the flavours. We finished our early dinner with yummy servings of fried wantons stuffed with apple pie and caramel crème, rendering our taste buds a switch from savoury to sweet goodness.

Location: F65/3 Clifton B4, SOL House, Karachi
Average cost for 2: Rs 1800 to 2500

TASTE: 4Stars

Taste is SOL’s forte – and the eatery likes to tease the taste buds with experimental food choices, which may not work with everyone. But it did for us.

SERVICE: 5Stars

Affable and courteous staff stays on its toes to assist you. I should add that the owners have the best menu recommendations.

AMBIENCE: 3Stars

Understated, dim and moody. Even during the bustling hours, the ample space provides seclusion and peace. SOL is just transitioning from being a pop-up to a full-fledged eatery, perhaps they will add more elements to its budding ambience.

PRESENTATION: 3.5Stars

All dishes were presented well – with time I do wish they will consider crockery replacing cardboard plates. 

VALUE FOR MONEY: 3Stars

This is the only area where I feel the eatery faltered – most options including the burgers and mains were priced too high.