India’s culinary scene has evolved massively over the past decade or so. Perhaps this can be put down to the development of a more sophisticated and advanced palate born from a worldly-wise, more discerning audience, but no matter whether you’re going to a fine dining restaurant or heading for a casual dining scene, delivering an unforgettable experience has become the prime focus of every culinary venture.
Recently, the list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2024 was unveiled at a ceremony in Seoul, and India had good reason to cheer, with a few entries on the list.
Masque, Mumbai (Ranked 23rd)
Masque, under the expert guidance of restaurateur Aditi Dugar and chef Varun Totlani, has once again clinched the title of Best Restaurant in India for the second year running. Masque’s ten-course tasting menu is a tribute to India’s abundant produce and offers a diverse array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. From the indulgent Kashmiri morels with patra to the playful sea buckthorn pani puri, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to reimagining traditional Indian flavors with innovative twists.
Indian Accent, New Delhi (Ranked 26th)
Indian Accent, a consistent presence on Asia’s 50 Best list, secures the #26 spot this year. Founded in 2009 by renowned Chef Manish Mehrotra, the restaurant is celebrated for its innovative and contemporary take on Indian flavors. Nestled within the elegant ambiance of The Lodhi Hotel, Indian Accent presents a tasting menu with some dazzling delights that serve as the ultimate showcase of Chef Mehrotra’s culinary genius, such as his meetha achar ribs, daulat chaat, and sensational dal moradabadi. With a harmonious blend of global textures and local flavors, Indian Accent marries the unconventional and traditional with consummate ease, and remains a crowd favourite.
Avartana, ITC Grand Chola, Chennai (Ranked 44th)
Avartana, nestled within the luxurious ITC Grand Chola Hotel in Chennai, and now with an outpost in Mumbai, makes its second appearance on the list. Under the guidance of Chef Ajit Bangera, the culinary team at Avartana creates a contemporary ode to South Indian cuisine. Guests can indulge in a range of set tasting menus offering an extensive selection of vegetarian options spanning from seven to thirteen courses. Each tasting menu promises a delightful journey of small bites, showcasing innovative culinary techniques that dazzle the mind and palate.
Americano (from Mumbai, ranked 61st), The Bombay Canteen, (from Mumbai, ranked 70th), Comorin (from Gurgaon, ranked 79th), Dum Pukht (from New Delhi, ranked 87th), and Ekaa (from Mumbai, ranked 98th) were other restaurants from India ranked among the 100 best in Asia.
With an array of exceptional dining establishments popping up across the length and breadth of India, one hopes that India’s culinary scene scales new heights in the years to come, with a diversity of dazzling flavours on full display.