The capital’s culinary landscape has witnessed a thrilling transformation with the opening of several new fine-dining destinations that promise unique experiences and exquisite flavors. From refined comfort food and Mediterranean delicacies to the modern South Indian cuisine, these restaurants showcase the best of creativity and sophistication, adding vibrant energy to the city’s dining scene. Here’s a look at the standout newcomers making waves in Delhi this season.
1. Avartana – ITC Maurya, Chanakyapuri
ITC Hotels’ award-winning brand, Avartana, brings its celebrated Southern Indian culinary experience to ITC Maurya, marking its fifth outlet in India. Renowned for its inventive approach to traditional South Indian cuisine, Avartana combines familiar flavors with avant-garde presentation in a luxurious 54-seater dining space. Listed among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Avartana emphasizes a harmonious blend of well-researched traditional and modern interpretations, creating a memorable dining experience for both Indian and international palates. With its view of the lush green ridge, Avartana’s luxurious décor pays homage to peninsular India, featuring banana leaf-inspired designs in mellow gold and light wood accents. The experience is further enhanced by earthenware, brass accents, and contemporary decor that exude elegance. With set menus in 7, 11 and 13 courses, each dish promises a sensorial journey through Southern India, providing an unforgettable dining experience.
2. NOE – The Diplomat Hotel, Chanakyapuri
Nestled within the historic Diplomat Hotel, NOE emerges as a refined yet approachable dining venue, where timeless elegance meets contemporary charm. For this chic restaurant, Sandeep Bishnoi (known for ventures like Perch Wine & Coffee Bar), has collaborated with Chef Dhruv Nijhawan to bring ‘elevated comfort food’ to the fore. The menu reimagines familiar dishes with creative techniques and rare ingredients, capturing the essence of global cuisines in an innovative, artistic presentation. NOE’s highball cocktail program, operated by Hoots (recently celebrated among Asia’s Top 50 Bars), complements the dining experience with inventive cocktails crafted from premium spirits and house-made mixers. Set against the sophisticated backdrop of Lutyens Delhi, NOE offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and novelty, making it an enticing destination for comfort food aficionados seeking a touch of modern refinement.
3. Chor Bizarre – Asaf Ali Road, Hotel Broadway
A legend in its own right, Chor Bizarre reopens its doors at Asaf Ali Road, bringing back the eclectic charm and nostalgic ‘thieves market’ vibe that has made it iconic. The restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, particularly the elaborate Wazwan feast, which has enchanted diners for decades. The decor, directed by Rashmi Khattar, retains signature pieces such as the antique four-poster bed, a vintage Fiat, and a Singer sewing machine table, which lend the space a distinctively Indian yet whimsical ambiance. Diners can indulge in a rich tapestry of North Indian flavors, with a diverse array of vegetarian options and street-style food that promise to take patrons on a culinary journey across India.
4. The Grammar Room – Khan Market & 32nd Avenue, Gurgaon
The Grammar Room (TGR), a cherished name from the Olive Group led by AD Singh, has now expanded to Khan Market and Gurgaon, elevating its relaxed, gourmet café experience to new neighborhoods. Known for its cozy yet sophisticated glasshouse ambiance in Mehrauli, TGR delivers an all-day vibe that effortlessly transitions from artisanal coffee mornings to cocktail evenings. In Khan Market, the 1300-square-foot space boasts chic decor, lush green accents, and a striped-marble community table, creating an inviting atmosphere for casual meetings or solo work sessions. Featuring a carefully curated coffee and cocktail menu, guests are treated to flavors as vibrant as the decor, with high ceilings and natural light enhancing the experience. This upscale café space is an exceptional addition to Delhi’s social scene, where conversations flow as seamlessly as the stylish interiors.
5. BLAQ and WYTE – Defence Colony
Located in South Delhi’s upscale market, the newly opened BLAQ and WYTE offers a dual dining experience, each boasting its own unique character. Founded by Nikhil Sharma and Ankit Verma, these neighboring restaurants capture both day and night dining moods, presenting distinct yet complementary cuisines. BLAQ specializes in Pan-Asian flavors, with highlights like Chengdu Lamb and Tuna Tataki, and by night transforms into a vibrant party destination with LED displays and energetic music. On the other hand, WYTE is a relaxed, airy Mediterranean-inspired space perfect for casual gatherings. Featuring dishes such as Lamb Adana Kebab and Mezze Platters, WYTE’s day-friendly ambiance with its bright, minimal decor makes it ideal for unwinding over long, leisurely meals. Together, BLAQ and WYTE create a versatile space that caters to varied dining preferences with flair.
