Bringing the experience of Old Delhi outside of Delhi-6, Le Meridien, Gurugram, has introduced its first pop-up restaurant, Salaam-e-Dilli. In an open area, its ambience of a lavish but limited seating looks warm and welcoming. The lanterns and candlesticks seem romantic and exclusive, as though making promises to the customers of a memorable evening from 6.30pm till 10.30pm.
With a live cooking setup, the restaurant allows diners to witness great culinary creations. “The idea of going to Old Delhi during peak winters to enjoy the widespread Mughlai cuisine, so that the food doesn’t make one sweat but warm, is what inspired us to have an outdoor restaurant,” says Chef Talat Mehmood Khan.
The menu has been curated and executed by celebrity chef from Purani Dilli, who has more than 30 years of culinary experience and has catered to a number of star guests. Chef Khan began his culinary journey in Purani Dilli, admiring his grandmother and learning from her recipes and methods. When it comes to creating enchantment on a plate, Chef believes in authenticity of flavours.
The menu includes a classic Gosht Nihari, which is a chef’s special. It is a deliciously smooth flour based stew with slow cooked mutton in a myriad of spices. Traditionally Nihari was cooked all night and then served to the Mughal Kings of Delhi in breakfast after the morning prayers. From the royal kitchens of the Mughals, the dish has now crossed all borders of region, and it consists of luscious meat braised for over 24 hours with traditional flavors and spices, providing several health benefits. The menu also includes the delectable Shammi Kebab, a delectable blend of traditional Indian spices and flavors.
A range of exquisite authentic vegetarian dishes with a unique blend of flavors and spices are also available at the restaurant. Malayi Paneer ki seekh, featuring Velvety paneer reshmi seekh kebab marinated in sour cream infused with saffron and flavored with nutmeg and star anise, then roasted in the oven in bamboo skewers. The delicacies are a delectable treat for the cold Delhi winter.
The menu also features a choice of traditional dessert Zaffrani Kheer, slow cooked for hours with a touch of saffron and an amalgamation of flavors like coconut and cardamom.
Chef Khan, known for his culinary skills, will showcase his culinary skills on the deck through a live set up for the guests to experience the authenticity and the warmth of the food by not just the taste of it but also by experiencing in the entire preparation of the food.
