Depot 29

Those who has an addiction for watching food shows are well acquainted with chef Ritu Dalmia. She has often taken us for a ride to Italy and all over India. She knows her food well and also how to make a restaurant a success. If Depot 29 is any example then she surely is good at what she does. The restaurant located at safdarjung, south delhi is her project with two partners where they serve eclectic American and Mexican cuisine. The interiors of the restaurant is classy yet modern. The black and white photographs add dimension to the edgy décor. Huge picture windows let the natural light flood in in abundance and also gives a fantastic view of the locality. Being owned by an acclaimed chef the food presentation is kept in mind. The rustic platters flaunts the food to its maximum. Each dish is prepared well with skilled techniques.

Menu is short and sweet. The starters are divided into bars for example, guacamole bar, quesadilla bar, taco bar and burger bar. Each bar has its variety with multiple filling options. Starters and salad section has watermelon salad, habanero marinated prawns, tostada with chicken confit, Caesar salad, empanadas and roasted carrots avocado salad. The burgers are served with onions, tomatoes and picked gherkins on the side. Sesame crusted fava & chickpea burger with crispy plantain chips, smothered with tzatziki are one of the best burgers. So do try that. For more desi taste buds vada burger i.e. vada pav is available too. The mains have few but definite winner recipes. Coffee marinated mutton chops, grilled fillet of fish with chilli-lime and pink peppercorn drizzle, pumpkin & mushroom wellington are some of the best things on the menu. Have a go at them. Sides have good old favourites too. Fried onion rings, bacon strips, parmesan truffle fries can grace any meal you order.

The dessert have day to day selections. Waffles and ice creams are fixed on the menu so you have no chance of disappointment. The restaurant hosts live gigs to entertain the clientele and liven the evening. Ritu Dalmia has tried to create a balance in entertainment, food and ambience. The management has tried to control the noise level by placing thick glass on the windows. The staff is well informed and attentive your every need. Depot 29 is slightly expensive but its reputation makes it a must visit restaurant.