And patrons from as many continents make India Grill a gourmand's globe

And patrons from as many continents make India Grill a gourmand's globe

Not many non-five-stars in the capital offer you the luxury of Qua, Evian, Ty Nant, Tau, Perrier and Voss for that first sip. At India Grill, however, the waters from as far as Norway, Wales and France flow free. Ditto with the laughter. The place is packed with expats on any night, the colours of skin as varied as the languages and topics of chatter. A golden glow fills the insides, adding grandeur and glory to the gastronomy. And with every glass that's emptied, the incandescence only becomes more intense.

India International: Jaitooni murg tikka

Golden globe
The cuisines here traverse most continents, but it's the Indian that appears the firang favourite. So we embark on our epicurean exploration with super-hot kacchi mirch ki seekh and jaitooni murg tikka, taut and tangy. The burra kebabs and teekha ajwaini jheenga follow the firsts proudly, with the latter making the tummy go weak. But wait, says our attendant, there's more to try before we call for a second serve. The palak soya ki tikki, for instance, is innovative in combination and cutting technique. The kesari malai paneer tikka, too, is a welcome, mildu00a0 break from super-spicy grill stuff. Their wines and whiskies come from far corners, seasoned in spirit, and the staff makes sure alcohol proportions adhere to your preferences. The tandoori aloo is all takes to opt for a 10-minute breather. Don't let them spoil you with too much too soon!u00a0u00a0

Off-shore
In India, do as the expats do. Nibble on niceties from here and there, chuckle-chat your way to a heady high; get experimental. So, the mains would be multi-flavoured: fettuccini ala Sophia, veg Caesar salad, chicken and mushroom risotto and murg tikka masala to romp with garlic naan. Sophia stuns, Caesar is predictable, Risotto good at the mush and the murg affair, affable. And if you think the la carte can be a tad too expensive to try much, they have a bustling buffet counter, too. The music's mostly country, but classic takes over at times.

Berry cap
In desserts, the warm Swiss chocolate cake is a good substitute for brownie buffs. If you're looking for something fresher and more original, the berry pudding's our pick for you. And while you're at the walk out, spare a see for their long row of wine racks, standing splendidly in the centre. Sure to put any collector to shame.

India grill
Food: Wide-ranging
Service: Attentive
Ambience: Warm
At: Hilton Garden Inn, A4 DLF Place, Saket District Centre. For reservations,
Call: 39191919.
Timings: 6.30 am till midnight.
Meal for two: Rs 2000.