Until now, we'd never heard of an Aam panna hangover!

With that and other specialties, Kainoosh is signature Tikka

With that and other specialties,u00a0 Kainoosh is signature Tikka

Anusuiya and Marut Sikka's new restaurant Kainoosh epitomizes everything about India in the boom. It is zany, has modern interiors, an inventive bar and food menu, with an old-fashioned heart. A trait instantly evident with the signature drinks on offer.u00a0

Keya Magic with vodka, sambuca and a sizeable betel leaf is an instant hit. The Aam Panna spiked with vodka is just the summer cooler you need on a balmy night. For a subtle yet distinct taste, try the Pink Magic with a hint of rose in vodka.



The starters follow the same ambitious trail of taste. The smoked quail with chilli marinade is a pleasant diversion from the regular tandoori chicken. Three types of prawn dishesu00a0-- Goan peri peri, coriander fennel, and royal cuminu00a0-- offer yet another burst of flavours. But be warned, unlike with any other Indian starters, where you expect at least two pieces, most starters here will allow you only one piece. Though I ordered the lobster first, I was rewarded for saving it for the last.u00a0

Considering the kind of place it is, you can leave Kainoosh satiated with just drinks and starters. But if you must eat the main course, you can try the thaali. It offers just the right portion of everything on offer. You can choose six dishes.

I tried the chicken with brown onion and yoghurt (heavy in true desi style), cubes of lamb with saffron and cardamom (a must-try), prawns, and cauliflower (passable), baby potatoes (lost in the mix of the rich variety on the plate). If you are more experimental, you can try the sea bass while giving the dals a miss.u00a0

u00a0Though I did not think I could eat another morsel, I was tempted to try the ice cream. The aam panna sorbet was surprisingly refreshing but did not quite sit well with the other two, creamy scoops on the platter. I left Kainoosh promising the very hospitable Marut Sikka that I'll be back. Maybe, this week itself.

At: 122-124 DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj.
Meal for two: Rs 2000.
Call: 9560715544.
Timings: 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm to 1 am.

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