Desi delights

Desi delights

Just off the sparklingly dramatic lobby of the JW Marriott, is a beautiful and small restaurant named Saffron. This Indian restaurant has fashionable interiors and a large show kitchen decorated with spice jars. Sacks of spices stand against the outer walls of this restaurant at the hotel, and having a menu on a stand helps, too. The ambience spells opulence and royal grace. The dining area has an elegant décor with polished wooden floors. The soft lighting and the vibrant use of copper mirrors on the walls lends to an interesting play of lights in the room. All this adds to your dining experience. The cuisine is inspired by the homes of Nawabs. The chef is really very attentive and he takes a keen interest in knowing your choice of food, so that he gets what is perfect for you. For starters I ordered Dahi Tikka, which was delicious. For main course Paneer Labarda, the finely cooked Zaffrani Lobster Curry and kebabs which are the highlights of the menu. The use of spices is well balanced in all the dishes. There are also lots of innovative vegetarian options like Rajma ki Tikki and Jain Palak Dal which is tasty and wholesome. Tohfa-E-Zameen which is made of Lotus stem, yam and lentils is worth a mention as well. Besided these, the Dal-E-Khas and the biryanis are worth spending as the portions were fantastic and the taste just yummy. Try the Dal Makhani with Garlic Naan — it’s one of the best combinations in food. For dessert, try the Malai Kulfi or the Shahi Tukda which is a bread-based dessert with saffron and rabadi spread on a slice of sugar-soaked bread garnished with silver leaf, pistachio and almonds. The Shahi Tukda just melts in your mouth and is heavenly. Thought the service is a bit weak and slow but overall the restaurant is ideal for special occasions. It’s beautiful, the food is delicious and one can taste all the subtle flavours. Don’t forget to eat some Paan at the end of your meal.