Indian Accent, Mumbai, is one of the most swankiest restaurants
BY SHAFQUAT ALI
Two months after Indian Accent, Mumbai, threw open its doors at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre to what is arguably the swankiest restaurant in the country, the jury is still out on whether the food is better than the iconic Delhi outpost.
The good news is that most food lovers who have tried it out swear that the new, refreshed menu has ticked off all the right boxes.
While some say it has an edge over its counterpart in the capital city others feel it is at par.
Having been there twice, I am inclined to agree.
Even though Mumbai is an overcrowded market with top-notch restaurants it won’t be wrong to add that Indian Accent’s spectacular new outpost is seemingly not competing with any other outlet in the Maximum City; instead, like its high-profile owner Rohit Khattar says, it is only competing against Indian Accent in Delhi and Indian Accent in New York!
And, to be honest, what’s not to be loved about the new 75-seat restaurant? Grand interiors; warm and attentive staff; heartfelt service; and food to die for.
Trust me, it doesn’t get better than this!
After soaking in the stunning Art Deco interiors by the esteemed Russell Sage Studio in London, the exquisite art collection and the impressive view overlooking the central fountain that comes to life in the evening, I begin my gourmet journey.
The menu is a rollercoaster ride that gives us a taste of almost every corner of India – with a distinctive twist.
In addition to the many signature dishes that Indian Accent fans swear by, the menu features more seafood and vegetarian options.
Like its counterparts in Delhi and New York, Indian Accent Mumbai’s approach remains rooted in authentic Indian flavours while showcasing innovative culinary masterpieces.
The wide variety of starters – served with novel presentations that catch the eye and grab the imagination – set the mood. Dilli Papdi Chaat, Chhole Bhature and Burrata Chaat, Lotus Root Papdi, Mustard Tomato Jam were my clear favourites.
Next up are the mains. To be honest, here I did not have a clear favourite. I couldn’t really as every dish was a winner; it was impossible to make a choice. Not that I wanted to as I relished everything that was served with great aplomb – and, if I may add, a dash drama and fanfare!
While the flavourful Seafood Stew, Raw Mango and Smoked Chilli Curry transported me to Kerala, the amazing Baked Fish, Amritsari Masala Butter, Potato Grits brought out the best of Punjab and Chettinad Chicken Keema, Curry Leaf Lemon Seviyan, Sago Puffs took me to the heart of Tamil Nadu.
As I settled in, enjoying the jazz music wafting from the speakers and relaxing before the dessert arrived, the one thing I missed was the presence of my dear friend and Culinary Director Manish Mehrotra’s. However, Head Chef Rijul Gulati was very much there to take charge and personally give a lowdown of the masterfully created fare that landed on my table.
The desserts were a treat to beat all treats. From the all-time favourite Daulat Ki Chaat with Rose Petal Chikki and Roast Almond to the sinful Badam Halwa Pie with Cranberries and Cheeni Malai Ice-Cream to the delectable Pista Ki Lauj, this was the stuff of sweet fantasies.
If truth be told, this was a meal in itself and, as plate after plate of desserts kept arriving, the one thing I could not do was: say no.
Well, for anyone who loves his food, it is neigh impossible to not do justice to everything that lands at the table at Indian Accent.
I may have added dozen-odd kilos after my two visits but I have no regrets. Even though the feast is long over, the taste lingers on. At least till the next time.
