There are many upscale restaurants in Delhi and new restaurants keep popping up from time to time. Some of them live a short life and some live to be in our hearts. Chica is one such restaurant that is here for the long haul. Delhi’s discerning population is always on the lookout for new experiences but what we always seek is opulence, luxury, a soothing ambiance and of course, good food. Chika Tick marks everything on our checklist. The high-octane restaurant was attracting Delhiites looking for a good time, and it piqued my eagerness to meet myself to try it.
It was a memorable evening. The rain gods had given a moment’s respite from the scorching summer heat and it was the perfect day to experience alfresco dining at Chica. While the weather put me in a good moment, my spirits soared high the moment I stepped into the restaurant which is nothing short of an architectural marvel. Filled with mesmerizing multi-colored flowers, the entrance takes you inside the open French-themed garden, which is filled with greens and blooms, offering a nature getaway in the middle of the chaotic city. Not that the indoor dining area was any less beautiful.
A Gastronomical Journey to Remember:
Chika’s menu is inspired by tales of samurai traveling to the sultans, and focuses on Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, bringing out the fusion of the two – the Mediterranean!
While I was enamored with the grand setting, my taste buds were thanking me for treating them to a nectarine meal. I started my dinner with an alcoholic cocktail (must try – Sunset Boulevard) paired with my favorite sushi; And came first to my happiness suicidal – A clever amalgamation of salmon, tuna and crabstick that exudes a font of flavor. Mango and Avocado Sushi I was quite surprised – I wasn’t sure about Alfonso in sushi but I quite liked it. The sweetness of fresh mango complements the creaminess of the avocado. The plate was pf dimsum Bokchoy Wrapped Chicken, Smoked Pork Gyoza, Sesame Shrimp and Caviar, and Gold Leaf Charcoal Scallop and Asparagus, While I enjoyed all of these dimes, I thought bok choy chicken could do better with more jus. However, the flavors were on point.
was next on my desk Mint Crispy Lamb Combined with the crunchy lotus stem – it was so delicious I wanted to lick the entire bowl. Crispy meat with a well-balanced flavor – it was perfect. And that’s why I get my vote for the most recommended dish at Chica. edamame kawarma – Tender Chicken with Edamame Hummus, paired with pita bread, is another must-try that worked my appetite for more.
Thank goodness I was brought in a chef-special Pump – Sour Pied Which was an eye opener. If you thought pumpkin on pizza was just a spectacle, you need to try the pump at Chica to understand why the concept made waves. Chef Adit Grover neutralizes the flavor and sweetness of pumpkin with strong flavors of goat cheese and chimichurri. Caramelized walnuts lend the right amount of crunch and arugula leaves refresh it to the core. After eating the sumptuous pizza, my palate disapproved of the bao served, but then, the best was yet to come.
my meal came with a sweet ending Miso Caramel Cheesecake and Bailey’s Tiramisu, And I have no hesitation in admitting that this is the best tiramisu I’ve ever had. The pungency of Baileys and the bitterness of cocoa were muted to offer a soothing, creamy, sweet dish—and that’s what desserts are supposed to do.
Chica’s menu reflects the culinary evolution of its creators with every bite of deliciousness. Don’t remember this place.
What: Chica
Where: One Golden Mile, New Delhi, Bhikaji Cama Place
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.