In the ever-evolving tapestry of Delhi's culinary scene, Noche stands as a phoenix, having gracefully risen from the ashes of a temporary closure to reclaim its throne at the same location. Returning to Noche feels like coming back to a familiar and comforting embrace. The ambience remains inviting, adorned with a spartan yet cosy decor that allows the food and drinks to shine. As I stepped through the doors, a wave of nostalgia mixed with anticipation swept over me, affirming that this was a familiar place reborn, promising a culinary adventure like no other.
A quick look at the menu might give the impression of a lengthy list of dishes, but when it comes time to decide, the choices are clear, making it easy to select the perfect option. At a glance, the menu might seem extensive, but decision time is surprisingly straightforward, making it a breeze to pick the perfect dish. Kicking off the culinary experience is The Mad Hatter's Guacamole, offering a refreshing blend of smashed avocado, cilantro, and a hint of lemon light-hearted start that sets the stage for what's to follow. Next up, Aladdin's Skewers feature expertly grilled chicken, paired with sides generously portioned to complement the main dish. The interplay of aioli, hummus, homemade pickles, and grilled tomatoes creates a harmonious blend of flavours that captivates the taste buds.
Shifting focus to the Chilli Oil Chicken Gyoza, this dish introduces an Asian twist with delicate dumplings balancing spice and succulence. The culinary journey detours to the streets of Yangon with the fragrant Burmese Curry, where jasmine rice complements tender chicken in a flavorful sauce. Meanwhile, the Smoked Chicken Pizza stands out as a culinary masterpiece, with fresh mozzarella and goat cheese crafting a melty, savoury symphony subtly touched by smokiness.
The Chicken Scallopini takes the spotlight as a hero on the plate - an expertly pan-seared chicken escalope accompanied by garlic-sauteed vegetables, smashed potatoes, and a mascarpone sauce that gradually weaves everything together. It's a dish that deserves a moment of quiet appreciation.
As I turned my attention to the drinks menu, I discovered a libationary modern tale of its own with each cocktail playing a role in a modern tale where everyone's individuality is celebrated. Picture a place where it's totally cool for guys to wear skirts, and ladies proudly embrace their natural skin tones. The vibe here is all about being yourself, and the only competition is for the best Instagram moment. It's a laid-back spot where diversity takes centre stage, and everyone is part of the story!
Sipping on Peter Pan's Magic Potion, the blend of green grapes, spearmint, and Sauvignon Blanc offered a light and carefree touch. It was a refreshing sip that seemed to capture the easygoing vibe of Neverland, where time slowed down, and worries felt momentarily distant.
Aladdin's Magic Lamp, with its subtle smokiness, took me on a flavorful journey. The Scotch whiskey and Laphroaig combination added depth, reminiscent of wandering through the bustling markets of Agrabah with hints of pinewood tea and vetiver.
Snow White's Poisoned Apple, though not a standout, brought a unique mix of gin, spiced apple cordial, elderflower, and truffle. Each sip hinted at the inspiration drawn from modern fairy tales, offering a gentle journey through enchanted forests where royalty might enjoy such subtle concoctions.
Cinderella's Stiletto, featuring gin, fresh blueberry, and sparkling wine, raised a glass to Noche's forward-thinking vision. It embodied an era where glass slippers weren't mandatory, and a stylish stiletto became the accessory of choice, capturing the spirit of a chic and carefree time.
Noche concludes this gastronomic journey with a dessert plot twist-the Affogato Tiramisu. This unique twist on the classic Italian flavour combines dark chocolate and espresso, delivering a sweet yet caffeinated finale that lingers on the palate, leaving a lasting impression.
With Noche's reopening, it's not just a comeback, but more like a fresh start. It shows how a familiar place can transform into something even better, adding a bit of magic to the mix.
Where: One Golden Mile, Netaji Nagar, New Delhi