One8 Commune’s “What’s Poppin? with Chef Sandeep Sreedharan

One8 Commune Bengaluru was buzzing with excitement as the stage was set for yet another exciting pop-up event, “What’s Poppin?” in collaboration with Zomato Experiences. This special brunch pop-up showcased the culinary creations of Chef Sandeep Sreedharan, a renowned restaurateur and private chef. Kerala’s famous toddy shops inspired the lively two-day brunch takeover, delivering a feast of bold coastal flavours. The chef crafted an unlimited menu that diners relished in a stylish and comfortable setting, designed to tantalise their senses. To elevate the experience, a selection of specially crafted cocktails provided refreshingly inventive pairings to complement the rich cuisine.

Sharing his incredible journey with TheGlitz, Chef Sandeep says his culinary journey began surprisingly late in life. Transitioning from a management consultant in the corporate world, he spent the last seven years dedicated to mastering the art of cooking. He aims to bring Kerala’s coastal cuisine into the limelight, showcasing both its vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, which he believes are often overlooked.

The vegetarian offerings included intriguing dishes like crispy Tapioca Fry, Paneer Pollichadu, and Arbi Theeyal served with flaky porotta. For meat lovers, the menu showcased a diverse selection of Kerala’s coastal cuisine, from the fiery Fish Cutlet with Pineapple Ketchup to the indulgent Crab Varattiyathu and succulent Prawn Peera.

For this pop-up, Chef Sandeep offers a toddy-shop style menu, insisting that the must-try dish is the fish curry with tapioca, prepared in a very traditional manner without modern twists. Diners will get to experience the rustic side of Kerala cuisine at this event. When asked which dish he would serve to a global audience, he quickly replies that it would be the super spicy fish curry with tapioca, which he believes will be thoroughly enjoyed. Chef Sandeep revealed plans to expand the pop-up across different cities, spotlighting Kerala and South Indian coastal cuisine with Goan and Mangalore influences.

Settling into plush, low-height sofas, we scanned the tabloid-sized menu. The cocktail selection was refreshingly non-fussy and concise—five varied options spanning rum, gin, and tequila-based drinks. Our Blueberry & Kachampuli Sip hit the perfect note, so much so that we immediately ordered a second round. The food menu notably favoured non-vegetarian options, offering nearly double the choices compared to vegetarian selections.

We explored the vegetarian options. The first plate to come to the table was Paneer Pollichadu—a two-layer housemade paneer slice marinated in authentic masala, perfectly cooked, and wrapped in a banana leaf. Unwrapping and tasting the steaming, tender paneer was pure bliss.

Next came a surprising tapioca fry—crispy and hot—it vanished within seconds, compelling us to order another round. For mains, we chose Arbi Theeyal and Pineapple Pulisherry with Porotta, a unique and generous combination. The flavours far surpassed typical restaurant offerings. We skipped the single dessert option, content with our meal’s richness.

Chef Sandeep’s meticulously curated menu and exclusive cocktails at One8 Commune promised an unforgettable culinary journey. The Sunday afternoon pacing was impeccable—service was at par and struck the perfect balance, neither too fast nor too slow. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or seeking a unique dining experience, this pop-up delighted all senses.