Four must-do destinations on the Indian gravy train

(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue dated October 2024)
AMRITSARI ASIAN
Who would have thought that the land of lassi and kulchas would be home to one of the finest pan-Asian experiences in India? Enter Shiso, Amritsar’s hottest new foodie destination, with a menu curated by Chef Honey Mishra and an ambitious bar programme. On offer is an array of pan-Asian small plates, including Duck Tacos and Thai Betel Leaf Roll, and signature dishes like Lamb Five Spice and Crispy Carrot Bao. But the highlight has to be the Omakase dining experience, with a personalised chef’s tasting menu highlighting the finest seasonal produce.
Cost: Rs 2,100 ++ (Meal for two) without alcohol
Where: Shiso, Majitha-Verka Bypass, Shastri Nagar, Amritsar; +91-7973959532
ALL IN THE FLAVOUR
In order to introduce consumers to the diversity and richness of Indian spirits, The Good Craft Co. (a Diageo India initiative) has launched Flavour Lab, a first-of-its-kind, immersive sensorial tangible experience centre rooted in craft stories. With four unique zones of engagement, consumers get a ring-side view of the creation process, complete with guided tasting sessions.
Contact: The Good Craft Co. team at +91-8618320996 to book an experience (currently free)
Where: The Good Craft Co. Whitefield, Vydehi Medical College Building, Vijayanagar, Nallurhalli, Whitefield, Bengaluru; www.diageo.com
ON A FOODIE MISSION
A new restaurant in Delhi brings the cuisine of San Francisco to our shores. The Mission Bay is a labour of love for Puja Sahu, founder of the much-loved Potbelly Bihari Kitchen, who has been dividing her time between Frisco and Delhi thanks to her Silicon Valley-based husband. The interiors, with a mid-century feel, are inspired by iconic Frisco restaurants. Under Head Chef Adam Timney’s watchful gaze, dishes pay homage to Frisco’s multicultural heritage, from hamachi crudo to brined pork chops and parmesan sformato, besides pork carnitas for some street food cred.
Cost: Rs 4,000 ++ (Meal for two) without alcohol
Where: G7F G8F, Eldeco Center, Block A, Shivalik Colony, Malviya Nagar, Delhi; +91-9113960148
WILL TRAVEL FOR FOOD
JrnyOn, a new experiential travel platform, has launched culinary journeys, among others, across India, led by celebrity chefs. Called Maestro Jrnys, they are led by Chef Thomas Zacharias (aka Chef TZac), Masterchef Nambie Marak, Chef Sapna Anand and MasterChef Aruna Vijay. The first set of journeys runs till February 2025 and includes a Kerala spice trail with Chef Sapna Anand and Chef TZac’s Northeast escapade.
Cost: from Rs 49,000 pp; www.jrnyon.com
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