Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra: Is it the Kohinoor in Delhi's Culinary Crown?

Masala Library opened its doors in Lutyen's Delhi on 18th July and from the word go, lived up to its Mumbai cousin's reputation of being booked out for weeks ahead. The irony lies in the fact that it was never even on the cards. Dildeep Kalra, Director, Massive Restaurants, shared that they had always planned Mumbai's Masala Library to be the only child. But when this space popped up next to Le Meridien, which was originally a Ferrari store (how apt, considering Zorawar Kalra's love for racing and cars), they just couldn't let it go. And thus was born Delhi's own Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra. The location is, in my opinion, a masterstroke. Set right in the heart of Lutyen's Delhi, one can quite imagine this to be where the power circles of the capital will hobnob. Politicians, businessmen from Golf Links, and corporate honchos from Connaught Place now have an elite and exclusive dining space to visit. Keeping this in mind, there is also a private dining area, completely segregated from the main room, which can be booked for privacy.As you enter Masala Library, the first word that comes to your mind is 'grandeur'. The high ceiling and double-storey glass facade give it a sense of space and royalty. The décor itself walks a fine balance of majestic and minimalistic, an incredibly difficult feat to achieve. The chandelier has been manufactured inhouse by their designers and is nothing less than a work of art. The bar itself has a ceiling-high display that boasts of perhaps the most extensive wine list outside of a five-star hotel. The tables however, stand out in their simplicity. There is not even a flower vase or candle in the centre. Save for the tall wine glasses and plain white napkins, they are completely bare, thus achieving the balance we spoke about.