Stack 'em high

The Mosaic House hotel and hostel held a grand opening party June 10, drawing a sizeable crowd for live music, free beer and a chance to nab some food off of roaming servers' silver plates. The kitchen is of a size to match the huge new residence, which offers plenty of seating to sample a menu that consists of largely American bar food standards, with some British and Australian favorites in the mix.

Nachos, quesadillas, potato skins, onion rings and buffalo wings are all available, but the main event promises to be the hamburgers. Seven different versions that range from 170 to 215 Kč include classic, Mexican chili, vegetarian, blue cheese or BBQ bacon. Even more interesting are some of the creative options like the Aussie; topped with beetroot, bacon, fried egg, pineapple and cheddar.

The menu is designed by UK-based Beds & Bars, which operates the Belushi chains, so don't necessarily expect a reincarnation of the Czech Inn hamburger, a much beloved version that was sadly discontinued.

More Masala

Masala Indian restaurant has enjoyed two years of success at its Manesova location in Vinohrady. The reviews, both in publications and from word of mouth, have been largely glowing. The only downside? The teeny-tiny space that seats about 20 - snugly.

The restaurant has finally adjusted its supply to the demand, however, with a second location that opened June 16 at Pod Karlovem 12 in Prague 2 (two tram stops from I.P. Pavlova on the 11 tram toward Nusle).

"[The Masala location] is very small and we were not able to cater to big groups of people or parties," explains co-owner Bhavna Rani.

The second location has a seating capacity of nearly 100 on two floors, as well as an outdoor garden dining area. For the next few weeks, the restaurant will be hosting special tasting events to get feedback on its current menu and possible additions. To participate, send an e-mail with contact information and the number of guests to infokarlovem@masala.cz.

Choice cuts

Speaking of Indian food, after this column complained of steep prices at the newly opened Dilli Delhi in Vinohrady, the owner contacted the columnist and graciously explained that he appreciated the feedback, and has adjusted the prices and portions. One example: The lamb Rogan Josh that the columnist sampled at 310 Kč has been reduced to 175 Kč.

Going upscale

Sushi Point, Prague's sushi restaurant chain, has opened a special seventh location offering a wider menu, called Sushi Point Black Label. The more upscale location in Dejvická offers four different types of fresh oysters, including fine de Claire, Marennes and Belon, at 60, 80 and 160 Kč a pop. Caviar options include Keta salmon roe, Molosol bowfin caviar and Molosol sturgeon caviar. The menu also has four Kobe beef options, including nigiri pieces for 170 Kč and a Kobe beef steak with shiitake mushrooms for 920 Kč. For nearly half that price, you can settle for an Aberdeen Angus steak at 520 Kč.

Claire Compton can be reached at
ccompton@praguepost.com