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It is the season of love. The time of the year when flowers smell sweeter, music sounds more melodious and everything is colored in shades of red and pink. Nothing spells love like an elegant dinner with a loved one–fragrant flowers, flickering candles, cozy canopies, red carpets and a meal made especially for you can elevate your day – or week – of love to an all-new level. And when it comes to dining experiences, few places parallel the grandeur and elegance of Delhi restaurants. We bring you some of the capital's most romantic dining experiences this Valentine's season.
1. Orient Express, Taj Palace
There is nothing more romantic than a meal on a train — especially if it is The Orient Express. Inspired by the legendary long-distance train between Paris and Istanbul that run until 1977, the Orient Express has been New Delhi’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurant for almost 4 decades. One of the city’s oldest and classiest, it is also the most romantic dining experiences. Imagine a classic 5-course meal, finest champagne, and classic white-gloved service that takes you to the era of the real Orient Express! An evening aboard the icon that recreates the carriage of the fabled train and the exquisite ambience of that extraordinary era remains etched in your mind forever. As the team takes you through the classic five-course dining experience, the legendary pianist regales you with soulful tunes.
The experience begins at INR 16500 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 011 2611 0202
2. ROOH, Mehrauli
An evening in an enchanting centuries-old haveli, overlooking the majestic Qutub Minar, in the heart of Delhi — few things get more special than that. And at ROOH, the meal and service match the setting perfectly. Known for the perfect blend of technique and taste, this classic by chef Sujan Sarkar is also home to some great cocktails. The pop-art (don’t miss the murals in the foyer and the rooftop) juxtaposed against the classy minimalist decor is a visual delight. Food at ROOH is an interpretation of customary Indian sensibilities through international techniques and inspirations. The Valentine’s Day Chef’s special includes fresh seasonal flavours in a unique form — like strawberry ketchup raita pop, tandoori salmon, edamame galouti, and much more.
The experience begins at INR 5800 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 7303600299
3. Indian Accent, Lodhi Road
Indian Accent needs no introduction. Set inside the elegant Lodhi Hotel, it is not only Delhi’s but also India’s finest diner. The Valentine’s menu at the Lodhi has a little playfulness about it this year. The menu has individual courses, but there are also courses you can share as a couple. The dessert is an ultimate combination of berries and chocolate. It has a complete circle of tastes combining flavours (sweet, spicy, salty) that complement each other, textures (crisp, crunchy), colours, and richness to complete the romantic and gastronomical experience. Available exclusively on the 14th, the menu has been paired with Whiskey as well as Wines.
The experience begins at INR 11000 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 011 6617 5151
4. Seville, The Claridges
Named after Seville, the famous art and cultural capital of southern Spain, the Sevilla at The Claridges is the city’s most romantic diner in the capital. The styling at Sevilla is inspired by the azure skies and landscape of the Mediterranean that creates a visual delight. The indoors and outdoors merge in a free-flowing, casual dining experience reflecting the Spanish Riviera. The food at Seville is a mix of Southern European and Moroccan cuisines but you can also opt for Chef’s special 7-course menu with exclusive champagnes.
The experience begins at INR 14999 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 9871294834
5. Le Cirque, The Leela
Perched atop the 10th floor of The Leela Palace in the diplomatic area of Chanakyapuri, Le Cirque is the city’s most premium French-Italian dining experience. Designed by the renowned Design Spin Studio of Japan, Le Cirque showcases timeless elegance — a trait reflected in the menu as well. The three private dining rooms, include a Chef’s Table, where you can enjoy a specially curated chef’s tasting menu, present exquisite dining experiences, and can be customised to suit your taste and need. Each dish offered is authentic and classic allowing guests to experience the truly innovative Le Cirque cuisine; you can also indulge in the classic 5-course menu curated especially for Valentine’s day.
The experience begins at INR 13000 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 01139331212
6. Taj Mahal, New Delhi
In the heart of Delhi, loved by the who’s who of the city, The Taj Mahal, Delhi is as romantic as it gets. Its lush lawns corralled with high, centuries-old trees present the most gorgeous dining venue in town. Elegant canopies set under the stars, enchanting floral décor along the way, fragrant candles, and a red carpet welcome promises to make your evening special. The theme of love and togetherness meanwhile is perfectly complemented with a luxurious five-course dining experience of a set Modern Indian menu from Varq, the Classic Asian from House of Ming, or a special curation by the chef only for Valentine’s Day. A bottle of champagne and a signature cake along with bespoke service, a Taj signature, comes assured.
The experience begins at INR 75,000 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 011 6656 6162
7. San Gimignano, The Imperial
Set in the magnificent 100-year-old complex, San Gimignano is one of the most picturesque places in the capital. This Valentine's Day, you can experience an exquisite a la carte dinner featuring their signature Tuscan Italian recipes curated especially for Valentine’s day —think parmesan soup with truffle oil and dust, Ravioli Porcini with herb butter and truffle cream, strawberry panna cotta with fruit minestrone. You can also choose what they call the Unique Dining Experience under bespoke canopies that come with personalised butler service, a specially curated 5-course menu, along with champagne and sparkling wines in the lush lawns of San Gimignano.
The experience begins at INR 75,000 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 41116603/09
8. Gazebo, ITC Grand Bharat
Just outside the city, yet comfortably located in easy driving distance, ITC Grand Bharat is a treasure trove of novel experiences. This valentine’s you can experience an intimate rendezvous under the stars, in spraying lawns overlooking the mighty Aravalli range. Set along the waterbody, that draws inspiration from the ghats of Varanasi, the gazebos are set on the embankment and evoke a feeling of nostalgia of yesteryears. Together, the solitude of an elegantly done-up gazebo by the ghat, the impeccable ITC standard service and a special 4-course meal is an experience of a lifetime.
The experience begins at INR 20,000 plus taxes, per couple. For reservations, call 01267 285 500
Photo: Shutterstock and Featured Restaurants