Delhiites' relentless obsession with intoxicated indulgence sets them off to seek that perfect drink amid the perfect ambience. Delhi is brimming with resto-bars and lounges with a slew of alcoholic offerings. But, the discerning drinkers of the capital city settle for nothing but the best. Smoke House Deli, a popular all-day cafe, has already won its patrons' hearts with its ambrosial meals. It now rivets their attention again with its all-new cocktail menu. Cocktail making is a culinary craft that only a few can master. What chefs are to kitchens, mixologists are to bars. To strike the perfect balance between drool-worthy flavours and head-swaying spirits is not easy. Smoke House Deli promises to take a lover of cocktails through an eclectic journey of signature flavoured infusions and artisanal cocktails.
(Also Read: 10 Best Cocktail Recipes For Your Next Party)
When the news of this fresh offering by Smoke House Deli reached us, it piqued our interest to visit the place and give it a try. And, we were delighted like how. A mix of vintage techniques and new age ingredients honour six cocktails that adorn the new menu. Head mixologist Vijay Prakash let us in on the secret of their one-of-a-kind recipes. He informed us that all the drinks are made with fresh, flavourful flowers and herbs and no additives or sugar is added!
We kick-started the evening with Peach'd to Meet You, a Ciroc vodka cocktail with dried apricots, peach schnapps, lavender and blueberries. The medley of sweet and sour fruits with the smooth spirit got us afoot on the right note.
Ciroc vodka cocktail with dried apricots, peach schnapps, lavender and blueberries
Paradise Punch is another but similar Ciroc cocktail you'll really like. With vodka, peach schnapps, pomegranate, strawberry chunks and lavender, it was an electrifying beverage.
Vodka, peach schnapps, pomegranate, strawberry chunks and lavender cocktail
For a more aromatic spirit, they have the It's Mint to Be. Gin-infused with elderflower and mint - this is for those who relish darker spirits.
Gin-infused with elderflower and mint cocktail
Our tipsy trip culminated with Avo Great Day, a combination of Jack Daniels, Avocado and Peach Schnapps. It's a deep smoky drink for people who like it intense.
Jack Daniels, Avocado and Peach Schnapps Cocktail
(Also Read: 6 Exciting Summer Cocktails To Beat The Heat)
Good eats complement a good high. We could not have left the place without feeding our appetite with some good food from their European cuisine. To satiate our taste buds, we had the following dishes:
Grilled Chicken And Lemongrass Skewers
This appetising dish with perfectly cooked chicken teamed with the freshness of lemongrass, pleased our palate instantly. It's a great meal to go with your drinks when the main meal is a while away.
Grilled Prawn Sambal Skewers
The shrimps had a great texture and were presented beautifully but the meal could really do with less amount of spice. After all, you don't want your tongue burning while you sip on your soothing, sweet cocktail.
Cambodian Basa With Smoked Pimento Puree
For the mains, we decided to order this fish dish and we thanked the Gods that we did. The mushy, melt-in-your-mouth fish and the accompaniment of sour cream and mashed potatoes with grilled veggies made this meal an exemplary one.
We were stumped when mixologist Vijay Prakash divulged that most of the herbs and veggies that form their dishes are sourced from their home-grown garden, right there on the terrace of Smoke House Deli! Cocktails have become a lifestyle and a statement, and this new menu from Smoke House Deli pays rightful tribute to it.
What: Smoke House Deli
Where: 17, 1st Floor, Khan Market, New Delhi
When: 8 am - 12 midnight
Price: INR 1700 for two people