Tucked inside the grand Imperial Hotel in New Delhi, The Spice Route feels less like a restaurant and more like stepping into a living, breathing work of art. Hand-painted murals whisper stories from the ancient Spice Route, while the subtle hum of Asian mysticism fills the air.
It’s the closest thing to teleportation you will find without leaving your seat – and their new Luxe Lunch Set Menu, running until July, is the golden ticket to take that trip. At a steal of INR 1,350-plus taxes, this limited-time offering is pure edible escapism. Naturally, I started with the crisp Rice Crackers and Cassava Chips, the kind of nibble that’s more addictive than Netflix. The appetizers make tough choices harder: a sharp, punchy Thai Mango Salad or Rujak Tofu Pockets cloaked in a tangy Javanese sauce (the latter wins, but barely).
For the mains, the flirtatious fragrance of the Thai Green Curry seduced me, an orchestra of fresh veggies and coconut cream. It’s hard to turn your back on the Kerala-style Nadan Khozy chicken curry, though, it’s all spice-laden warmth and culinary intimacy. And dessert? The Mango Chia Pudding is a tropical daydream, while the Che Thai sings a sweeter, subtler tune.
It’s a meal that dances between continents and centuries. As the GM of Imperial Hotel Louis Sailer says, this menu is about “magic”. And boy, does it deliver.
