There's a string of reasons why House of Celeste has been on our checklists ever since it was launched last winter. The vicinity being one, 32nd Milestone is the newest foodie destination in Gurugram, bustling with upscale restro-bars, cafes and bistros. House of Celeste is also Michelin star chef Suvir Saran's progressive Indian restaurant in India. After enthralling the world with his culinary finesse, chef Suvir has come back to India to give his patrons a fare worth remembering.
We started out with the masala pebbles served on a saffron tart. In look and feel, the entrée appears like a bunch of pebbles, but with a delish surprise waiting inside. Filled with chilly pineapple soup and tamarind chutney, the sweet pebbles are meant to be taken together at one go. It is hard to not appreciate the symphony of flavours here.
We also tried the roast onion-garlic sourdough. The wood-fired oven flatbreads are delectably fresh and soft, we loved how they have tended to the corners of the flat-bread, while one side is filled with mozerella cheese, and the other is packed with caramelised onions or Kerala onion jam as they like to call it. The bread is served with garlic aioli. Their beet balls are a quirky vegetarian rendition of meat balls. Beneath the crusty exterior awaits a creamy medley of beetroot and goat cheese,however, we wish they were a little more generous with the cheese. We absolutely loved the DIY style gilafi apricot seekh. The smoky mutton seekh kebabs with slightly sweet and nutty overtones is a delight in itself, however you must pair it with the flattened sheermal bread for a more wholesome experience. The chutney and bell peppers further elevate the dining experience.
The chicken 69, tossed in 65 masala served with the side of goat cheese crema is also very well-conceived and executed. Easy to cut and eat, this snack is ideal for those who are visiting in large groups.
The star dish for us was the fried chicken makhani. Chef Vardan told us that the dish was mainly designed keeping the Delhi clientele in mind. The butter chicken fans would love this new makeover of their favourite dish. Combining elements from all of the country, this dish comprised a beautiful blend of flavours and textures. Spicy and creamy gravy, crusty fried chicken, buttery red rice- this dish is indulgence overload. To add a bit of freshness, the dish is also crowned with crunchy kachumbar salad.
There's plenty to try and love here, however a slightly more expansive menu may translate into more happy diners.
Where: 32nd Avenue, NH 8, Part 2, Sector 15, Gurgaon
Cost For Two: INR 2200 for two