Bukhara is a Legendary Dining Experience Steeped in Tradition.
In the heart of New Delhi's diplomatic enclave lies Bukhara, a culinary institution that has been transporting diners to the rustic northwestern frontiers of India for over four decades. Named after the famed Silk Road city in Uzbekistan, this iconic restaurant within the luxurious ITC Maurya hotel offers a dining experience like no other.
The moment you step inside, you're immediately transported to what feels like a cave dwelling from centuries ago. Low ceilings, stone walls adorned with copper pots, and wooden log seating create an atmosphere that is ruggedly charming. Diners adorn traditional red and white checkered bibs, embracing the primal ritual of eating with their hands.
But the true star is the cuisine - rustic, boldly flavored North West Frontier fare that celebrates the grand traditions of Indian culinary heritage. The menu is a masterful showcase of dishes like succulent kebabs and tandoor-roasted meats and seafood that have remained unchanged over the years.
As I stepped into Bukhara at ITC Maurya during its momentous 45th-anniversary celebration, I was instantly transported into a world of culinary heritage and timeless flavors. The restaurant's warm ambiance and rustic charm set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
Seated amidst the buzz of patrons, I perused the legendary menu that has remained unchanged over the years—a testament to its enduring popularity. Each dish on the menu bore the hallmark of authentic North-West Frontier cuisine, promising a journey through rich, robust flavors.
I opted for Bukhara's renowned specialties, including the iconic Dal Bukhara and the succulent Tandoori Jhinga. The aroma of charcoal-grilled kebabs wafted through the air, tantalizing my senses and heightening my anticipation.
As the dishes arrived, I savored every bite, relishing the tender, smoky flavors and the perfect blend of spices. The culinary mastery behind each dish was evident, showcasing decades of tradition and expertise. This place exuded a sense of timelessness and culinary excellence. It was more than a meal—it was an immersive experience that left me with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the artistry of North-West Frontier cuisine.
One of the highlights is the legendary Dal Bukhara - velvety black lentils that simmer for 18 hours, imbuing them with a depth of flavor so rich and extraordinary that its recipe remains a closely guarded secret. Bukhara's chefs deftly demonstrate that authentic Indian food need not be blisteringly spicy, instead allowing the char of the clay tandoor and the subtle interplay of spices to take center stage.
As if the cuisine wasn't theatrical enough, Bukhara's open kitchen offers a captivating glimpse into the frenetic energy of its chefs skillfully maneuvering skewers laden with marinated proteins into the blazing tandoor ovens. Watching them effortlessly pull out whole chickens, lamb shanks, and the iconic 3-foot-wide Bukhara naan flatbread is enough to awaken your primal instincts.
Bukhara's clientele has included global luminaries like former U.S. presidents, Vladimir Putin, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. But whether you're a diplomat or a tourist, this legendary establishment offers a multisensory journey into India's culinary soul. Timeless, rustic, and unapologetically flavorful, a meal at Bukhara is a ceremonious rite of passage!!!
Absolutely a must-visit place!!!
Opmerkingen