Delhi’s dining landscape is a vibrant blend of legacy, innovation, and culinary craftsmanship, where every iconic space tells a story far beyond what arrives at the table. This edition of TF Recommends spotlights four legendary dining destinations that continue to shape the capital’s food culture, each unveiling refreshed menus that honour tradition while embracing contemporary flair. From the inventive, globally inspired plates at Indian Accent—now celebrating 16 years—to the aromatic, spice-laden creations at The Spice Route, these restaurants offer journeys as rich as their flavours. Dakshin returns in a beautifully reimagined avatar, celebrating the depth of South India’s culinary heritage, while Jamavar’s new menu pays homage to India’s royal kitchens with artistry and indulgence. Whether you’re seeking refined tasting menus, soulful regional cuisines, or dishes steeped in heritage, these four dining spaces promise unforgettable meals and thoughtful expressions of India’s diverse gastronomic identity.
Indian Accent: As Indian Accent turns 16, Chef Shantanu Mehrotra has unveiled the new tasting menu that brings together India’s traditional spices and flavors with carefully chosen global ingredients and contemporary techniques. Each course reflects a harmonious balance of heritage and innovation- the essence of Indian Accent’s approach to cuisine. The vegetarian menu begins with Dahi Gujiya, a North Indian festive classic brightened with cherries. Bengal inspires the Apple Eggplant Bhaja with Panchphoran Orzo and Kasundi Malai, while the Nagpur Orange and Tulsi Sorbet, offers a tangy respite from the complexity of flavours and spices in the menu. The meal concludes with the subtle sweetness of Custard Apple Cream, Salted Makhana Chikki, Berries. And for non vegetarians, the highlights include Kanyakumari Crab in Mustard and Coconut served with crisp Appalam, and Spiced Confit Duck paired with nutty Popcorn Upma, which adds a modern twist to southern comfort.
Dakshin at Sheraton New Delhi: Dakshin has opened its doors once again in a refreshed avtaar.The interiors showcase handcrafted wooden accents, carved pillars, ornate furniture, gold-toned detailing, and Kanjivaram-inspired motifs, evoking the grace and grandeur of South Indian heritage. Celebrating over 35+ years of culinary legacy, Dakshin at ITC Hotels takes pride in its regional cuisine identity. Drawing on the cultural tapestry Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Pondicherry, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana Dakshin invites guests to rediscover the soul of South Indian cuisine — where every meal is a journey through the southern states and every detail celebrates tradition with a modern sensibility. Signature dishes such as Tomato Pappu an Andhra-style lentil delicacy, Kori Gassi, a Mangalorean coconut-based chicken curry, Veinchina Mamsam, a rich spiced lamb preparation and Patchakari Stew, simmered gently in coconut milk, highlight the diversity and depth of this regional cuisine.
The Spice Route, The Imperial: The Spice Route has also unveiled its bold new winter menu crafted in their legendary kitchens. The new dishes promise vibrant flavours, textures, and aroma. Standout dishes include Over-Roasted Salmon finished with a glossy red curry reduction and bright kaffir lime, a Crispy Baked Chicken accompanied by a Pomelo Salad and a tangy Asian Som Tam dressing, and a Silken Tofu présenté in a velvety black pepper sauce where king oyster and shiitake mushrooms mingle in a comforting vegetable medley. For dessert, don’t miss Sticky Banana Cake with coconut ice-cream, or Coconut Panacotta with pineapple confit.
Jamavar at The Leela Palace New Delhi: They have unveiled a new menu that reimagines India’s royal culinary heritage with a modern flair. The refreshed offerings celebrate the country’s diverse gastronomy, blending timeless recipes with contemporary artistry. The new menu is a meticulously curated journey, balancing North and South Indian fare, while also introducing select dishes that celebrate the bold, rustic flavours of Central India. Among the standout signatures are the Raan-e-Jamavar, a 12-hour marinated lamb leg that’s slow-cooked as well as the Nihari, a classic slow-braised lamb shank prepared in a rich marrow broth. The Dal-e-Jamavar, a beloved staple, returns with its velvety overnight-simmered black lentils. From the imperial kitchens of the north, the menu features delights such as the Gucchi aur Mushroom Galouti, a melt-in-mouth Kashmiri morel and mushroom patty and Kathal Ki Seekh Kebab, an elegantly spiced jackfruit skewer. The dessert selection offers a sweet conclusion to the journey- rooted in nostalgia, yet crafted with a refined, modern touch. The Ooty Chocolate Delice marries rich Indian-origin chocolate with a scoop of homemade Thandai ice cream, while the Elaneer Payasam, a delicate coconut kheer, offers a refreshing finish.
