Delhi has a string of high-octane restaurants and bars but only few make a lasting impression and make you want to go back. Zooey, a culinary bar located in Defence Colony, Delhi, offers a distinctive experience that seamlessly blends delectable culinary options and exotic cocktails amid a contemporary setting. Zooey, which means "life" in Greek, is a testament to the bustling nightlife of Delhi. The expansive casual dining restaurant is spread over two floors. With stunning interiors and a vibrant terrace, Zooey is a treat for the senses.
The mood is buoyant and the vibe is relaxed at Zooey but the food looks straight out of a gourmet kitchen. The menu at Zooey offers a wide range of dishes from European, Mediterranean, and Pan-Asian cuisines. And the cocktails are worth every sip.
I visited Zooey with my friends for a much-needed night out and it turned out to be super fun. The lively music and vivacious ambiance lifted up the evening and the lip-smacking cocktails elevated it further. We tried Berry Smash (vodka with plum reduction), Spiced Paloma Margarita (tequila with citrus flavours), Smoked Temptation (vodka with fruit juice and coffee liqueur) and Hibiscus Gin & Tonic. All the cocktails were concocted well with a great balance of complementing flavours.
We started our meal with Burrata Salad - it was the perfect amalgamation of greens, cheese and crunch. Mushroom Parcel came as a surprise. A large puffed parcel stuffed with creamy mushrooms was quite a filling treat. It tasted good but looked even better. I am a prawn fan, and Jumbo Tiger Prawns from Charcoal Grill section was just what I needed to whet my craving. The prawns were cooked well and the flavours were on-point. Yaki Tori (Japanese chicken skewers) were pretty good too but I wished them to be juicier.
Coming to the best part of any meal - the desserts. Petite Antonie - French party with hazelnut and Belgian dark chocolate flavours paired with ice cream is a nice platter for chocolate lovers. But for me, Banoffee With A Twist was the sweet treat that won my heart. Served on a fluffy cushion-like plate, the dessert was just perfect.
My gastronomical journey at Zooey ended with good memories, which make want to go back soon.
What: Zooey: A Culinary Bar
Where: D-26, Defence Colony, Delhi
When: 1pm - 1am
Cost: INR 3500 for two (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.