It is never a pleasant feeling to be caught in an unexpected traffic jam. That’s exactly what happened when I left for The Embassy in Connaught Place.
It is normally a 60-minute drive from West Delhi, but I had the misfortune of spending a lot more on the busy roads of the capital. While I failed to fathom the reason that resulted in the traffic coming to a crawl, I was completely unaware of the fact that I would appreciate the very same trait - things slowing down – on reaching the restaurant.
Yes, the first important thing that caught my attention after I spent a few minutes at The Embassy was how it allowed me to slow down. Thankfully, for some time I felt that my life wasn’t a grueling race, helping me feel both ecstatic and relaxed.
Décor: The Embassy, which started a year after India’s independence, was badly damaged by a devastating fire a year back. While the incident had left many of its loyal clients in a state of shock, it gave the decades-old popular eating joint a complete renovation. The restaurant is delightful with new, chic interiors that include – wooden work, a floating ceiling, white arches beautified with wrought iron – all taking inspiration from CP’s unique architecture. Since the place is often visited by politicians, bureaucrats and retired professionals – the setting up of a flat TV screen is acceptable.
Food: The menu card which boasts a huge list of food items is segregated under different categories such as ‘Heritage of India’, ‘Old Glory From 1948’, etc, all to emphasise its legendary dishes. From mocktails, I was first offered Dusky Sunset (224.75), a Guava juice with lime coriander and green chilli. This spicy option is amazing for those who aren’t really into sweet flavors.
Since the service is a bit haphazard, my appetizer and main course took some time. But I didn’t mind as the waiter was cordial and extremely excited to speak to me about his years long association with the same eating joint. While vegetarians have Creamy Mushroom Toast (Rs 229), Classic Cheese Toast (Rs 229), Embassy signature Tikka (Rs 399) to choose from, I opted for a Tandoori Platter- which was a luscious combination of assorted vegetarian kebabs. So yes, it comes with 4 variations – Paneer, Mushroom, Potato stuffed items. As far as non-vegetarians are concerned they are also spoilt for choice.
I wallowed in Chicken Espetada (Chicken Marinated Overnight With Thyme Burnt Garlic Served With Creamy Mayo - Rs499) and made sure I didn’t miss their Classic Fish & Chips (Golden fried sole fillet is offered with French Fries – Rs 674). Their Mezze Plateer (Rs 724) is also popular with the diners.
From Palak Paneer, spicy White Chana, Dal Makhni and Paneer Lababdar that’s offered in the main course, I found the former to be the best.
While I found the meal satisfying, a bit of tweaking in a few dishes can work in the favour of the restaurant, making the food not so predictable. Those not afraid of adding to their waistline, can’t opt for the Embassy Pudding.
Service: Even though a few might find the service a bit slow, it doesn’t work against the restaurant. It is the rapport that the staff shares with the guests that speak volumes of the importance this restaurant carries. The 84 cover restaurant is packed even at 12 noon on Sundays. The clientele doesn’t stick to a particular age group, but finds an interesting mix of guests - youngsters, those in mid 40s and senior citizens.
Our Opinion: With a loyal clientele, it will always be one of the city’s best restaurants.
Address: 11-D Connaught Place, New Delhi
Timings: 10 AM to 11 PM
Meal for Two: Rs. 1,200 plus taxes (Without Alcohol)
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