Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
In this blog, we will review the restaurant, Capital Kitchen, situated in New Delhi.
Introduction
Nestled in the iconic Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi, Capital Kitchen is one of the few remarkable dining options available within the premises. Its grand entrance, marked by a magnificent staircase and a welcoming lobby, sets the tone for an exquisite dining experience. Situated beside the renowned Orient Express restaurant, Capital Kitchen offers a multi-cuisine menu in an elegant yet casual setting. This would have been an ideal restaurant for guests looking for an all-day dining option but unfortunately it’s dining hours are distributed into Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Ambience and Seating
Capital Kitchen exudes a European charm with its minimalist yet sophisticated decor. The restaurant features light wooden furniture paired with dark brown leather upholstery, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. At its center is an impressive island bar showcasing an eclectic array of beverages, from refreshing mocktails to premium-aged whiskeys.
Guests can choose between indoor dining, with expansive glass windows offering scenic views of the meticulously maintained lawn, or alfresco seating amidst a symmetrical garden surrounded by neatly arranged potted plants. The outdoor seating is perfect for pleasant weather, while the cozy indoor setting provides refuge during Delhi’s chilly, smog-filled winters.
The Menu
The restaurant serves a balanced selection of European and North Indian cuisines. European staples such as pizza, pasta, and burgers are complemented by an array of North Indian delicacies, including biryanis, kebabs, and flatbreads. The diversity ensures there’s something to suit every palate.
Our Experience
Visiting on a cold winter afternoon, we opted for a window-side table to enjoy the view while staying warm indoors and that turned out to be perfect for our experience. Overlooking the beautiful lawns, it was a delight to find curious squirrels and birds prancing around outside our window! The staff, ever courteous and attentive, greeted us promptly and guided us through the menu. For our meal, we chose the following:
- Hot Toddy (brandy-based)
- Fish and Chips
- Prawn Aglio Olio (Spaghetti)
The service began with a delightful assortment of warm bread. The host’s attention to detail was commendable, ensuring the pasta was prepared as per our preference (spaghetti in this case).
Hot Toddy: The drink was perfectly suited for winter, with a balanced blend of spices and the warming aroma of brandy that hit just the right notes.
Fish and Chips: Cooked to perfection, the fish featured a crispy, non-greasy crust, complemented by a rich tartar sauce. The accompanying fries were just right too.
Prawn Aglio Olio: Generously served prawns and a medley of herbs made this dish a standout, leaving nothing to be desired.
Every dish was executed flawlessly, and we couldn’t find a single fault with the flavors, presentation, or portion sizes.
Service and Final Thoughts
The staff deserves special mention for their attentiveness and professionalism. With only 6 to 8 tables occupied during our visit, the service was prompt and personalized. We also saw them navigate wheelchair seating for guests at another table smoothly with ease & courtesy.
The only minor flaw was a wobbly table, which was quickly addressed upon pointing. Ideally, these details need to be checked beforehand, however this was a small hiccup in an otherwise impeccable experience.
Verdict
Capital Kitchen is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed dining experience, complete with a refined ambience and flavorful dishes. Whether you’re indulging in a leisurely meal or sipping your favorite drink, this restaurant offers a memorable escape.