The Haldi experience

HYDERABAD: Named after a popular spice used in Indian recipes, Haldi is an Indian specialty restaurant at Novotel Hyderabad Airport, open for dinners only and aims to showcase ethnic Indian culinary delights at its finest. But, with so many Indian restaurants around, what makes Haldi different from the rest? Head Chef Gaurav Chakraborty explains, “Haldi is typically an Indian restaurant, but we have tried giving a contemporary touch to the Indian traditional recipes. For instance, instead of usual aam ka panna, we serve shimla mirch ka panna, a drink made by the slow-roasting of green pepper broth with Indian spices.” And that’s not the only unusual aspect to this restaurant. Huge antique doors open to this restaurant will welcome you with fresh and rich aromas of the Indian spices — all thanks to the concept of open kitchen and the Chef’s table. The idea behind this restaurant was to provide their customers with a completely new dining experience — wherein a gourmand can can enjoy the thrill of seeing their choice of menu being prepared in the open, with the tantalising aromas and flavours wafting up to tempt their taste buds. “Our idea was to provide an interactive ambience for the customers. We thought that it will be a great experience if the customers get involved in the cooking. That is how the concept of an open kitchen came in,” says chef Gaurav. Also came in the idea of a Chef’s Table. Elaborating on that concept he adds, “The Chef’s table is a luxurious table for up to 10 guests. It  gives them an opportunity to gain intimate insight into the open kitchen, interact with chef de cuisine and learn about Indian gastronomy while they create an exclusive menu for them.” Another unusual aspect added to the roster of dining experience at Haldi is the concept of amuse-bouche — which is a single, bite-sized appetizer, but is different from an appetizer because they are not ordered from a menu by patrons. But, when served, are done according to the chef’s selection alone. Amuse-bouche is served as an excitement to the taste buds in order to prepare the guest for the upcoming meal. Apart from amuse-bouche, there are refreshing welcome drinks served in just the right quantity --- not too little and not too much. Welcome drinks come in tiny shot glasses and feature shimla mirch ka panna, spicy nariyal pani and Thandai, which will give you a a distinct taste with a tinge of familiarity. Haldi also serves special beverages with a dash of spice, stirring up sensational creations for the connoisseurs. Aquarius, a mint and ginger based refresher, is a must try to lift your spirits!   While Haldi promises to provide a wholesome dining experience with chef’s choice of appetitizer, refreshing welcome drinks and complete involvement with the kitchen, they also have two private dining areas for people who want to enjoy their dinner in leisure with their loved ones. They also arrange for a romantic set-up for couples who want to celebrate a special occasion all by themselves. So, whether is it a romantic dinner for two, or a family get together, or maybe just another food adventure for a gourmand, Haldi should be added to your list of must-visit.