Stepping into Le Cirque at The Leela Palace, New Delhi, is akin to being enveloped in an atmosphere where time stands still. The restaurant, already a beacon of Franco-Italian fine dining, has recently unveiled its 'Legacy Menu' - a tribute to its most celebrated dishes, inviting patrons on a nostalgic culinary journey.
As I settled into the plush seating, surrounded by the restaurant's understated elegance and sweeping views of the cityscape, there was a palpable sense of anticipation. The ambience at Le Cirque is one of intimate sophistication, a perfect backdrop for the gastronomic experience that awaited.
The Legacy Menu, featuring thirteen of Le Cirque's most-requested specialities, is a testament to the restaurant's enduring appeal. Each dish is a harmonious blend of delicate French flavours and hearty Italian fare, crafted with precision and passion.
My culinary journey began with the Seared Scallops and Purple Potatoes. The scallops, perfectly caramelised, paired exquisitely with the tangy passion fruit and the earthy celeriac puree, setting the tone for the meal. The Butternut Squash Croustillant with Goat Cheese was a revelation - the crunch of the croustillant complemented by the creamy parmesan fondue and sweet pumpkin puree.
Among the Italian specialties, the Lobster Ravioli stood out. Cooked in a rich lobster bisque and paired with a vibrant Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Ragout, each bite was a burst of flavour. The Beetroot and Burrata Risotto, adorned with 24-karat gold dust, was as visually stunning as it was delectable, the creamy burrata melting into the perfectly cooked risotto.
Le Cirque's dedication to culinary excellence was further evident in the Sousvide Chicken with Butter Corn Puree. The chicken, tender and succulent, paired seamlessly with the sweet corn puree, creating a dish that was both comforting and refined. The Beetroot Cured Scottish Salmon, vibrant and fresh, was another highlight, its flavours delicately balanced.
Desserts at Le Cirque are nothing short of legendary, and the Legacy Menu does not disappoint. Baked Alaska, with its perfectly torched meringue and rich ice cream centre, was a delightful end to the meal. However, it was the Chocolate Sphere that stole the show. As warm chocolate sauce was poured over it, the sphere melted to reveal a luscious interior, a fitting finale to an unforgettable dining experience.
The Legacy Menu at Le Cirque is a culinary nostalgia, reminding us why some classics never fade. It's not just about revisiting the past but experiencing the artistry that has kept Le Cirque at the peak of fine dining. For those seeking an evening of timeless elegance and culinary brilliance, Le Cirque awaits.
Where: The Leela Palace, 10th Floor, Diplomatic Enclave, Africa Ave, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110023
About Shubham BhatnagarYou can often find Shubham at a small authentic Chinese or Italian restaurant sampling exotic foods and sipping a glass of wine, but he will wolf down a plate of piping hot samosas with equal gusto. However, his love for homemade food trumps all.