Modern culinary scene in India is seeing a drastic shift towards western foods. But the charm of traditional recipes has still not dwindled; in fact, it is here to stay forever. The only problem is to find those long-forgotten flavours that still win our heart. The GT Road restaurant, nestled in the heart of Delhi, offers the experience of relishing good old meals imbued with traditional flavours and cooking techniques. The GT Road takes patrons on a gastronomic journey of 2600 km that traces Asia's oldest highway runs between Kabul and Chittagong passing through regions that have a treasure-trove of flavours to share.
In the 16th century, the Grand Trunk Road was the first route traders took from Kabul to Kolkata. The grills and barbeques of Afghanistan and Pakistan, the fish fry of Amritsar, the Nawabi cuisine of Delhi and Agra, the MacherJhol in Kolkata cooked with fresh spices and relished with fermented breads and lucchis. The terrain has earned its historic and geographic importance, but the food along the route is a living story of its own.
The aim of GT Road is to keep the pot stirring with the authentic flavours and aromas that kept the traders along the route well fed and satiated. The moment you step in the restaurant, you are greeted with ancient swords, knives, guns and currency coins from the era. The old pictures on the walls add a charming grandeur, and pride in the heritage of our country.
The menu is so vast that I was spoilt for choice during my visit there. I started my meal with chaats and Dahi Bhalla Chaat was to die for. It had the right amount of tantalising spices with a tinge of sweetness.
I tried to have almost all the kebabs from the live barbecue grill, placed right there on my table. The ones that really stood out with great flavours and textures were - Bhatti Ka Chatpata Paneer Tikka and Dahi Ke Kebab from the Vegetarian section and Achari Macchi Ka Tukda and Zafrani Murgh Tikka from the Non-Vegetarian section.
I loved theRed Sauce Pasta from the Live Counter. It is a great option for kids dining with families. Also, not to be missed is hot piping jalebi paired with rabri.
From the Buffet, almost everything was delicious. I highly recommend trying Dal Sultani, Amritsari Chole, Murg Makhanwala and Anda Curry.
And don't forget to finish your meal on a sweet note with Shahi Tukda, sugar-free Gulab Ki Kheer and Vanilla Fruit Pudding.
What: The GT Road
Where: M-39, Shankar Market, Block M, Connaught Place, New Delhi
Cost: 2,000 for two people (approx.)
About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.