AnnaMaya, the European foodhall at Andaz Hotel, courtesy Hyatt, is the summit of quintessential posh cuisines, says Malaika Kirti
I entered the large hall-way that was the restaurant. I had, honestly, forgotten counting after the third room. It was one large space into another, and might I add, as elegant as it could get. The blue marbled kitchens — there were different areas for preparation of various cuisines, in different palace-like rooms, of course. The Indian kitchen was distinct, the European hall with an Italian preparation ground, alongside others, was different. Yes, I’m still talking about food. The live kitchens were so pretty, so well lit, it seemed as if a party itself was going on there! The place glistened with yellow lights. My nerves were, as if, soothed by the time I found a place at the remotest corner of the extravagant AnnaMaya. I realised you mentally unwind in the atmosphere of yellow lights. You know, white lights are for office.
I learnt that AnnaMaya, the European foodhall at Andaz Hotel, has been at the forefront of its ‘vocal for local’ purpose with a focus on sustainable food that echoes the vibrant flavours of India. What I, especially, loved about the place was its thoughtful concepts. One was the bringing alive ‘401 Reasons to fall in love with Delhi’. The book, of the same name, written by Fiona Caulfield, is an insightful illustration of Delhi and its myriad ways. Part city guide, part cultural resource, this book is designed for both the dilliwalas and those who are new to the city. Andaz took upon its shoulders the responsibilty of hosting the '401 pop-up', which ensures one activity being held every Sunday that glorifies and celebrates one aspect of Delhi, the city of love. At AnnaMaya every Sunday, thus, they organise the AnnaMaya Artisan brunch. I felt it was one of the most innovative things I’d ever seen.
Once I settled, I received, what I can only describe as, ‘foodgasm’ when I tasted the first dish brought forward — Chicken tikka. The chicken was so well cooked and so deliciously soft, it melted in the mouth. The spices were adequate.
The crunchy, sweet aftertaste of a dish as mundane as Bun- tikki made me truly appreciate the skills of the chef. The aloo patty in itself was delectable.
The uncommon combination of cheese and Paneer tikka reinstated my belief in cheese — it made everything taste heavenly.
The Veg ravioli with spinach fillings was just as good. Although, there was too much spinach for my taste, I thoroughly enjoyed the sauce comprising butter, cream and oregano.
In some cases, like a classic chocolate milkshake, you should judge a book by it’s cover. Therefore, when I saw the large shake covered in froth, I knew it would be filling, and I was right.
I surveyed the beautiful interiors when I was served with Spicy mango curry with red rice. I had never tasted something like this and you know how they say, the first impression is the last one? Well, I would always expect all future Spicy mango curries too be as great as that one. I don’t even know how it was prepared, for it wasn’t spicy on the tongue but the throat. The pretty haldi colour of curry tasted of coconut and mango flavours mixed well together. The red rice was bland, but the mixture was beyond perfect. I must say, the combination was very well crafted. And, it easily was my favourite.
I was also offered the Chocolate brownie with ice-cream which was, I felt, pretty large portion for one person but, of course, there was no flaw in the taste.
I rate Anna Maya a good 9 and I look forward to experiencing the luxury again.