Daler Mehndi not allowed in this Portuguese paradise

Experience art, food, jazz and fashion in a just-born mini Portugal in the city. And they want no cultural contamination

Since the time the high horses of coveted kingdoms trotted in the Walled City, the capital was revered for its royalty. That feeling's back, and this time, in pure Portuguese style. O Palacio is a multi-purpose leisure hub, as splendid as spunky. More follows.u00a0u00a0u00a0u00a0


The 1956 Fiat Milicanto designed by Yusuf Arakkal can even be driven
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Art is where the heart is
The place houses in itself an art gallery, three designer stores and a Portuguese restaurant. The four-room art corner, Galeria de Arte, will see constant alterations depending on artists and their exhibits. It will see a comprehensive spread of carefully selected and handpicked paintings, drawings, photography, sculptures, digital, video, new media, interactives, installations and public art across various styles, tastes and price ranges.u00a0u00a0

Platter flatter
Rich, aromatic Portuguese dishes will be rolled out at 'Casa Portuguesa Restaurante', the Portuguese restaurant, by staff dressed in authentic Sixties attire. " If you're really lucky, the chef may even sing for you and play guitar," says Nakul Sen, the designer behind the place.

No noise, all poise
There're three women's fashion boutiques with Nakul Sen and Shyam Narayan Prasad from Delhi and Gayatri Khanna and Zoya from Mumbai. " Since we're dealing with high profile clients, we want to give them an exclusive buying experience, without the noise characteristic of crowded malls," adds Nakul.

Eventful year ahead
The calendar of cultural events, which is yet to be finalised, has a line-up French artists, renowned Fado singer Sonia Shirsat (Fado literally means destiny or fate. It is a music genre whichu00a0can be traced from the 1820s in Portugal), works of theatre and jazz music. "It is a lively complex where one big event will be held every month.
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Later in the year, we're thinking of organising an international carnival with Portuguese theme, which will be preceded by a show of master desi artists. We're also open to corporate parties, small get-togethers and celebrations, but we'll never ever play Daler Mehndi, because it doesn't suit the ambience that we have.

Anyone who wants to have small sips of coffee for hours can sit here without being interrupted, " signs off Nakul. That's an attractive bait.u00a0

O Palacio
Add: E-12/70, Hauz Rani, Opp DLF Place Mal, Saket
Time: Noon till 11 pm
Restaurant: 6 pm till 11 pm
Ring: 26671270, 9582317623, 26681270