In the heart of Delhi lies a treasure trove of luxurious cafés and restaurants, each offering a unique blend of artistry and flavor. Picture yourself savoring a slow-cooked biryani amidst the zardozi-lit grandeur of Dum Pukht, or enjoying handcrafted Italian delicacies under the starlit courtyard of Ottimo at West View. The city’s culinary gems, like the Mediterranean oasis of Sevilla or the modern Indian innovation of Indian Accent, reflect a harmonious blend of tradition and global flair.
Whether it’s the earthy charm of Bukhara, the French garden fantasy of Chica, or the ingredient-rich creations at Élan, every venue invites diners to explore a new facet of indulgence. These spaces, adorned with everything from traditional stone carvings to vibrant chandeliers, promise not just a meal but an experience—where every bite tells a story, and every set feels like a dream.
Dum Pukht – A Royal Culinary Symphony
Step into the regal embrace of Dum Pukht at ITC Maurya, where history and gastronomy unite to recreate the elegance of royal kitchens. The restaurant’s interiors are a masterstroke of colonial opulence, with zardozi-embroidered furnishings and Awadhi-style lamps illuminating the space with a soft, golden glow. This is not just a dining experience; it’s a journey into the past, where Nawabs indulged in culinary artistry.
Central to Dum Pukht’s identity is its namesake technique of slow-cooking food in a sealed handi, a method that draws out intense flavors and aromas. Signature dishes like the Dum Pukht biryani and the subtly spiced baghare baingan embody a harmonious balance of tradition and innovation. Beyond its culinary brilliance, Dum Pukht exemplifies sustainability through the Himalayan Raw & Fine Element philosophy, sourcing ingredients locally and responsibly. This commitment to reviving traditional food practices and supporting artisan techniques elevates the experience, making it not just a meal, but a cultural revelation.
Chica, New Delhi – A French Garden Fantasy in the Heart of the City
Chica is a visual and sensory masterpiece that redefines luxury dining. Sprawled across 10,000 square feet, this immersive venue is an ode to inclusivity and design ingenuity. Conceptualized by Aayushi Malik, the space is a perfect blend of architecture and landscaping, evoking the charm of an idyllic French garden.
At the core of Chica’s charm lies its Dining Room, crowned by a striking chandelier crafted from 250 pieces of burnt glass in hues of rose, sage, and white. This luminous centerpiece reflects the timeless elegance that defines the venue. As you wander through Chica’s diverse spaces, from the intimate nooks of The Fountain Court to the vibrant Club Bar, each corner unfolds like a frame from a cinematic dream. Unique textures, finishes, and distinct identities are meticulously curated to create an enchanting narrative.
The menu is as captivating as the surroundings, offering a seamless blend of contemporary and traditional flavors. Drawing inspiration from global and local palettes, Chica invites guests to indulge in an elevated culinary journey amidst a setting that feels like a slice of paradise.
Ottimo at West View, ITC Maurya – A Slice of Italy in Delhi
Ottimo at West View, where the charm of rustic Italian dining meets the elegance of fine cuisine. Helmed by Chef Vittorio Greco, this restaurant combines authentic Italian recipes with a creative twist, delivering a culinary experience that transports you straight to Europe.
The interiors of Ottimo echo the essence of Italy, with warm, rustic designs that emphasize simplicity and a connection to nature. At the heart of the space is the Ottimo Square, a community dining table designed to foster conversations and shared experiences. The outdoor area extends this welcoming charm with its stone pizza oven, vertical herb garden, and tranquil water body, all set against the stunning backdrop of Delhi Ridge.
From wood-fired pizzas to fresh, house-made pasta, every dish celebrates the richness of Italian flavors. Ottimo’s blend of a convivial atmosphere and exquisite food makes it a destination for family gatherings and indulgent escapes.
Sevilla, The Claridges – A Mediterranean Oasis Reimagined
The allure of the Mediterranean finds its perfect home in Sevilla, the signature dining destination of The Claridges Hotel, New Delhi. Recently transformed into a more vibrant and immersive space, Sevilla combines romance, elegance, and culinary excellence.
The reimagined design features intimate indoor and alfresco seating, with flowing architectural elements that mimic Mediterranean landscapes. The alfresco section, set apart from the main hotel building, is framed by lush greenery and romantic lighting, making it an ideal spot for celebratory dinners or quiet evenings with loved ones.
The award-winning restaurant is renowned for its impeccable tapas, paellas, and signature seafood dishes, paired with a curated selection of 150 global wines. It’s no wonder Sevilla continues to set benchmarks for Spanish dining in India, winning accolades like the Times Food & Nightlife Awards.
Élan, The Lodhi – A Symphony of Global Flavors
In the heart of Delhi’s Lodhi district lies Élan, a restaurant that celebrates global cuisine through a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This culinary haven is as much about ambiance as it is about flavor, offering an inviting retreat from the city’s hustle.
Élan’s design strikes a balance between sophistication and relaxation, with a scenic courtyard and alfresco seating that provide a serene backdrop for any occasion. The stylish bar complements the space, offering the perfect spot for leisurely cocktails or pre-dinner drinks. The menu at Élan is a vibrant showcase of the season’s finest produce, with each dish crafted to highlight the inherent flavors of its ingredients. From eclectic international recipes to locally inspired creations, every meal at Élan is an ode to sustainable and mindful dining.
Kiyan – The Roseate: A Culinary Haven Amidst Tranquility
Kiyan is an all-day dining restaurant that artfully blends European, Indian, and Thai cuisines. The restaurant’s striking architecture features grand Isfahan columns, surrounded by serene, royal blue water bodies, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.
At Kiyan, the culinary philosophy revolves around a farm-to-table concept, with dishes crafted from organic vegetables grown on the resort’s expansive two-acre farm and complemented by free-range meats. Every plate is a masterpiece, handcrafted by expert chefs, offering diners a harmonious blend of artistry and flavor in a setting that feels like an escape into nature’s lap.
Kheer – Roseate House: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Kheer, at the Roseate House, is not just a restaurant; it’s a visual and culinary marvel. Designed by Nariyoshi Muramatsu, the space blends traditional Islamic motifs with modern craftsmanship. The entrance and imposing stone pillars are adorned with intricate carvings on Autumn Brown quartzite, enhanced by playfully falling light that creates a stunning interplay of shadows and textures.
The restaurant offers an elevated Indian dining experience, celebrating the country’s rich culinary heritage. Each dish is an exploration of bold flavors and traditional techniques, served in a setting that seamlessly fuses heritage with contemporary elegance.
Indian Accent – A Modern Ode to Indian Flavors
Located at The Lodhi, Indian Accent is a culinary gem that reimagines Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Helmed by the visionary Chef Manish Mehrotra, this celebrated restaurant blends the essence of traditional Indian flavors with global ingredients and techniques, resulting in a menu that surprises and delights at every turn.
The thoughtfully designed space exudes sophistication, offering an inviting ambiance that complements the innovative food. Signature dishes evoke nostalgia while exciting the palate, making the Indian Accent a favorite among both adventurous diners and those seeking comfort in familiarity.
Having expanded to New York and Mumbai, Indian Accent continues to gain international acclaim, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in contemporary Indian dining.
Bukhara – ITC Maurya: A Timeless Culinary Legacy
For over 45 years, Bukhara has been a beacon of culinary tradition, celebrating the robust flavors of the Northwest Frontier with unwavering dedication. This iconic restaurant at ITC Maurya remains a masterpiece of consistency, earning global acclaim as a symbol of authenticity and excellence.
The interiors exude rustic charm, with stone-clad walls, traditional carpets, and handcrafted wooden furniture that invite diners into an intimate yet unpretentious setting. The warm glow of copper urns and pots, paired with earthy crockery, completes the immersive experience. Adding a playful touch to tradition, diners are offered aprons, encouraging them to savor the joy of eating with their hands—an homage to the simplicity of age-old culinary practices.
From the smoky tenderness of kebabs to the hearty richness of lentils in the legendary Dal Bukhara, every dish is a celebration of flavors that transport you to the rugged landscapes of the frontier.
Varq – Taj Mahal Hotel: A Contemporary Take on Tradition
Located within the grandeur of the Taj Mahal Hotel, Varq offers an inventive twist on Indian cuisine, merging timeless flavors with modern sensibilities. Its name, inspired by the delicate gold and silver leaf used in traditional cooking, reflects the finesse of its culinary offerings.
The ambiance blends luxury and intimacy, with deep burgundy tones, textured geometric walls, and Indian-inspired accents. While the design aims to create an intimate boudoir-like setting, its bold colors and spacious layout exude understated opulence.
The menu showcases carefully crafted dishes that balance tradition and innovation, such as lobster infused with coastal spices or stuffed morels in a saffron sauce. Varq promises an elegant dining experience that caters to both the adventurous palate and those seeking comfort in familiarity.
