Spring offers a rare time to enjoy Delhi’s green outdoors with a cocktail and a delicious bite. From early March through mid-April, among the best months to visit Delhi, the chill of winter is far behind, and the scorching summer heat has yet to descend upon the city. In the warm-weather spirit, we give you a flavor of Delhi’s best alfresco hangouts so you can make the most of the pleasant spring evenings.
O Palacio
A serene retreat away from the bustling streets of Delhi, O Palacio offers a bit of Portugal in India. Set in quaint European courtyards surrounding an old banyan tree, its open-air fine dining restaurant serves international grills infused with Indian herbs; the mint-infused aubergine and the cottage cheese grill are must-tries.
Lodi – The Garden Restaurant
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Lodi Gardens, one of Delhi’s best attractions, Lodi – The Garden Restaurant is set amid cobbled walkways, dimly lit lamps and, unsurprisingly, beautifully landscaped gardens. The extensive bar collection as well as the continental and Mediterranean fare can be savored on the cozy rooftop or in the romantic garden setting. The mezze platters, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, are highly recommended.
In the modest setting of a balcony overlooking the serene waters of the lake at Hauz Khas village, Gunpowder is a favorite among Delhi’s locals. Traditional Kerala and Andhra cuisine is on the menu here, with treats like Malabari parathas and coconut-flavored buttermilk served in an unpretentious ambiance. It’s delicious on the tongue and light on the pocket.
A hep version of Gunpowder, Boheme’s rooftop offers a view of the lake at Hauz Khas village, with Mediterranean cuisine, bar seating complete with Internet charging stations, hip music and an extensive bar menu. It’s best visited at sunset, to watch the lake painted with the hues of sunset over a cocktail of the same shades. Order one of Boheme’s beer-based tipples like the “Lager and Lime” or “Beery Bloody Mary.”
Triveni Tea Terrace
Entrenched in Delhi’s art scene, Triveni Tea Terrace is an open-air garden café adjoining the Art Heritage Gallery in Central Delhi. The ambiance is serene, the dishes — like aloo jeera (potatoes), rajma (kidney beans) and channa (chickpeas), served with fresh rotis (breads) — are ones you’d find on a regular day in an Indian household and, for a city where dining costs are through the roof, the food is inexpensive. Lay back with a cup of masala chai, and you’ll forget for a few hours that you’re still in the bustling capital of India.
Photos Courtesy of Lodi, Boheme and O Palacio
