Saffron

Critic´s Review

• Food: 3.5 / 5
• Service: 3.5 / 5
• Decor: 3.5 / 5

-By Rashmi Uday Singh

Just off the sprawlingly dramatic lobby of the JW Marriott is this irregularly shaped, minimalist Indian restaurant. Within the contemporary interiors and show kitchen (festooned with spice jars, etc.) it serves cuisine that's inspired by the homes of Awadhi nawabs and Hyderabadi nizams. As the book goes to press, I eat here and am happily surprised by the packed-with-flavour Nalli Nihari, the unerringly cooked Tandoori Lobster, Zaffrani Lobster Curry and Lahsuni Jhinga. Kebabs (especially the Galouti Kebab and Tangdi Kebab) are the highlights here. There are interesting and innovative vegetarian options like the Rajma ki Tikki and Jain Palak Dal (tasty and wholesome). Tohfa-e-Zameen (lotus stem, yam and lentils), Dal Makhni, Dal-e-Khaas, biryanis and vegetables constitute the mains here. For dessert, try the Malai/Chocolate Kulfi or the Shahi Tukda (bread-based dessert with saffron and Rabadi spread on a slice of sugar-soaked homemade bread garnished with silver leaf, pistachio and almonds). They've also added on an Almond Kulfi and Sheer Korma. The set menu allows you to savour all of the delicacies for a fixed rate - Rs. 1,995 for vegetarians, Rs. 2,595 for non-vegetarians and Rs. 2,995 for seafood.