Founded by Maestro Jiggs Kalra and his dynamic son Zorawar, the restaurant is famous for its deconstructed food, location, and superb tasting menu.

PROFILE

Masala Library is located in the very heart of the city, just beside Meridien Hotel and on one of the most storied roads of New Delhi, bang on Janpath. The restaurant is notable for its deconstructed food, location, and superb tasting menu; founded by Maestro Jiggs Kalra and his dynamic son Zorawar, the chefs infuse diners’ palate is imploded with the 33 courses of molecular gastronomy in a large, well-lit, 90-seater space with beautiful interior.

MUST TRY 

Radhuni sea bass with pui saag.

AMBIENCE

D้cor is kept simple to avoid distractions from the innovative progressive Indian fare. Central light console and a staircase-accessible wine cellar, white tablecloths, and solid cutlery complete the luxurious dining feel. Reservation is made sometimes a week in advance.

SERVICE

The presentation of the dishes is excellent. The serving staff were attentive but can be a bit hasty at times.

FOOD

The restaurant retained many of the old favorites while introducing some interesting new additions. The tasting menu consists of 19 bite-size consisting of de-constructed samosa and shrimp, Mushroom Chai, and Black cod Khichri. The menu features dishes like the jhal moori cookie with ghugni c1haat topped with a ghugni chaat puree, Dahi Bada, Nizami Haleem with mutton pickle, and the tawa keema with spicy pickled karela slivers. Chicken Mizo stew flavored with Mizo herb and spices served with super healthy black rice Naga Pork flavored with the fiery Bhut Jolokia accompanied with braised black beams and bamboo shoots. Chicken Tikka is infused with smokey flavors of hickory wood. The vegetarian option of Papad Ki Sabzi, Hand Pounded Churma, and Jaipuri Bhindi. The Kabab is spiked with pesto; kulchas stuffed with gucchi, Quesadillas with sarson ka saag, and Butter chicken mellowed and smoky with San Marzano tomatoes. Outstanding lamb chops are braised with a hint of sweetness of maple and tang of kokum. Other dishes on the menu include The Gujarati Kadi Risotto, The Chicken Dhansak, Laal Maas. Ashen Kulfi stood out, Jalebi Caviar, Belgian chocolate ganache. There are different types of wine as well.

PRICING

INR 3,500 average for two

SUMMARY

This concept makes each dishes tell stories with scientific panache. There are many conventional dishes vegetarian options but Masala library is not consistent. A number of dishes’ creativity tips over into gimmickry and a few with the brilliant concept falters in execution. The food is good and very expensive to dine here.