Indian Accent’s 15th anniversary marked a memorable evening, celebrating its rich legacy with a blend of nostalgic classics and inventive culinary creations, says SAKSHI PRIYA
As Indian Accent New Delhi celebrated its 15th anniversary, the occasion paid tribute to its remarkable culinary journey. With softly dimmed lighting and elegant candlelit tables, the ambiance set a warm and inviting tone for the evening. The sophisticated atmosphere, combined with a touch of nostalgia, created a perfect backdrop for a dining experience that was both refined and memorable. Walking into Indian Accent felt like stepping into a space where the charm of tradition and the excitement of modernity seamlessly merged, crafting an unforgettable experience.
The evening featured a nostalgic look back at Indian Accent’s inaugural tasting menu from 2009, allowing guests to revisit beloved classics that had been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s journey. Dishes like the Whole Wheat and Semolina Puchkas, Paneer Tikka Chaat and Khakra Mille Feuille served as a heartwarming reminder of the restaurant’s evolution and enduring appeal. The journey began with Chef Shantanu Mehrotra at the helm, who crafted a menu that would soon become a sensation. Reflecting on those early days, Chef Mehrotra recalls the excitement and challenges of the original menu. While some dishes met with mixed reviews, others quickly captured the hearts of diners. Today, Indian Accent is celebrated for its pivotal role in bringing modern Indian cuisine to the global stage.
The celebration commenced with a sensory feast, beginning with the Blue Cheese Naan. This dish was a revelation, a delightful twist on a classic favourite. The crisp texture combined with the bold, creamy blue cheese offered a unique start to the evening. Paired with the Mushroom Shawarma, subtly spiced with garam masala, it was a comforting yet adventurous introduction that set the tone for the meal to come. The evening begins with a nod to the past through a selection of appetisers that have become icons of Indian Accent’s innovative approach. The Whole Wheat and Semolina Puchkas provided a playful yet refined take on street food. The trio of waters - mint and coriander, tamarind and jaggery and buttermilk - offered a delightful balance of flavours, beautifully encapsulating Indian Accent’s approach to blending traditional elements with modern sophistication.
Chef Shantanu Mehrotra’s talent was unmistakable throughout the tasting menu. His creations, such as the Paneer Tikka Chaat and Khakra Mille Feuille, were perfect examples of his ability to blend textures and flavours in imaginative and delightful ways. The Beetroot and Peanut Tikki with Caper Wasabi Chutney was particularly memorable, showcasing his knack for transforming humble ingredients into something truly remarkable.
The main courses continued to impress with their inventive twists on both classic and global flavours. The Bharwan Mirch with Goat Cheese Mousse and Chilli Aam Papad Chutney was a revelation, blending bold flavours with finesse. The Paneer Lasagna with Smoked Aubergine and Goji Berry Makhni offered a creative and comforting take on a beloved classic. The Turkish Sultanas and CousCous Ki Tahiri with Anar Avocado Raita was a brilliant example of how global influences can be seamlessly integrated into modern Indian cuisine.
The grand finale of the evening was nothing short of a dessert lover’s dream come true. The Indian Accent Kulfi Sorbet was like a refreshing burst of icy goodness, cleansing the palate with a playful, creamy touch. But hold on tight, things got even sweeter with the Kinnaur Apple Shakarpara Crumble. Imagine the crunch of perfectly baked apple crumble mingling with the smooth, homemade vanilla bean ice cream- every bite was a joyous celebration of texture and flavour. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, the Coconut and Jaggery Brulee with Ruby Grapefruit Pops Amarula Ki Chuski arrived, turning dessert into an art form. The rich brulee, with its luscious coconut and jaggery notes, paired with zesty grapefruit pops and a hint of Amarula, was an explosion of taste that left us craving more. Complementing this sweet finale was the Daulat Ki Chaat, which emerged as a standout. Its saffron-infused elegance, adorned with almonds and a hint of sugar, was both a visual delight and a burst of refined flavours. This dish exemplified the restaurant’s commitment to creative excellence and its ability to elevate even the most familiar flavours into something extraordinary. Each dessert was a playful, indulgent end to a meal that was nothing short of spectacular!
Reflecting on this milestone, it became clear that the 15th anniversary was not just a celebration of Indian Accent’s rich history but also a vibrant showcase of its future. The event honoured the restaurant’s legacy while highlighting its ongoing dedication to culinary excellence and innovation. Chef Shantanu Mehrotra’s passion and creativity were evident in every dish, underscoring the restaurant’s status as one of New Delhi’s most cherished culinary destinations.
Indian Accent’s 15th anniversary celebration was a memorable reflection on its past, with a touch of nostalgia, while also offering a glimpse into its future. The evening was all about elegance, creativity and exceptional flavours. Chef Shantanu Mehrotra’s innovative approach and remarkable talent shone through in every dish, proving that Indian Accent is more than just a restaurant - it’s a symbol of innovation and sophistication in the culinary world. This anniversary wasn’t just a milestone, it was a celebration of a remarkable journey filled with flavour, creativity and lasting excellence.
