There is no shortage of Indian restaurants in Dubai, however this new entry on the scene is certainly raising the bar.
Purani Dili was first launched in the Makhool area of Bur Dubai earlier this year, and already has its second home on Dubai’s most prime location, Sheikh Zayed Road in the Four Point Sheraton hotel.
The team gives credit to its quick success to the authentic recipes sourced straight from the lanes of Old Delhi, where it is believed that the famous Mughlai cuisine (served at Purani Dili) originated, and of course to a very personalised service and live entertainment.
Mughlai cuisine is often associated with a distinctive aroma and the taste of ground and whole spices, and this is exactly what we experience as we take the first bite of the galouti kebabs starter, which come delicately sitting on the delicious Zafrani bite sized naans.
We can easily set them apart from all the galouti kebabs we have had in the past because of the distinctive aroma of this flavourful royal food.
Similar is the case with the second starter of dahi kebab. The outer crust is crispy and the stuffing is generous and creamy, and with the first bite we wish that chef could give us his secret mix of spices to take home.
Moving on to mains, we order kadai chicken and daal makhani. For vegetarians, daal makhani can either make or break any Indian restaurant’s reputation and this rich, creamy flavourful daal works just in its favour.
And as we scoop up the kadai chicken off the plate with every bite of laccha naan, we get nostalgic of our foodie trips to Old Delhi, but the experience is better here due to the interiors bringing out the regal charm of the Mughal Empire, along with two talented singers setting the mood with their golden voices singing the famous ghazals and soulful songs.
This destination for Mughlai cuisine is divided across two sections, the pre-dining area, where guests can unwind over a few drinks, and a main dining area reflecting the quaint appeal of Delhi’s famous Chandani Chowk in a modern and elegant setting.
We finish off the Mughlai culinary trip with flavourful and nutty gulab jamun. A great way to end a great meal. Expect to pay Dhs 300 for two.
Call 04-3169726.