oh WOW!
You know, I have sorta been a part of the Delhi'O'Delhi journey from just about the beginning .... all those years ago.
I only go occasionally, and by occasionally I mean once every two years.
Last Sunday night, four of us decided we wanted something Indian and something a little bit fancier than your norm .... and remembering Delhi'O'Delhi, the enthusiastic owner and the table clothes - this became our choice.
We also had a very talented and established chef with us who has done well for herself over the years and sorta wanted to impress.
To start with, the place is pristine, smart and not looking old in anyway what so ever.
Big smiles met us, offered (and accepted) a table which could have seated six and then given a minute or two to settle in.
Gotta say, I was mighty impressed to see the menu was very much about the Restaurateur and the Chef, and not about being customer friendly to get the hordes in ... meaning none of the dishes (that I could see) had a choice of chicken, beef, lamb, goat or tofu - they were straight with one protein, except for the vegetarian choices.
Wine list was delightful and we settled for (two) bottles of Lisa McGuigan's Pinot Gris (perfectly subtle and did not challenge the Indian spices in our meals) but was it's own taste sensation (must get some for Christmas).
We ordered three Entrees between us, which were great, but, OH-MY-GEE-JILLY-WINGEES the Khasta Kachori are an absolute stand-out - presentation and taste.
We ordered five dishes, the Rada Paneer (vego), Aam Phoolkopi, Organic Chicken Curry, Duck Chettinad - all outstanding, subtle, fresh with great contrast in flavours. The fifth dish was really the only one which let us down. It was the Beef Chutney. Billed as 'a serious chill hot' it was that, but that was it, no contrast in flavours, especially upfront. It was also a dark dish and in the night light, didn't do much to visually excite us as well. I also think, if you promise/state a serious chilli hit, you might also accompany with yoghurt - just in case (but we didn't need it).
This aside, we really enjoyed our dinner and are planning to come back in the New Year (2017).
Staff were lovely, suggestive and helpful, ambiance was perfect and of course a great location - in the heart of Newtown without being in the absolute hussel'n'bussel.
Sorry, we didn't try the desserts - too stuffed.
PS ... the chef loved it. read more