Orient Express

The new outlet is spread over a single floor,and gives an instant impression of a Zen-like ambience. A life-sized statue of the Buddha is placed near the entrance,perched atop an artificial fountain. Fish swim aimlessly in the water alongside floating candles. Inside the 100-seater restaurant with two private dining areas,smart concealed lighting creates a cosy atmosphere. Running along the wall at the far end,are an endless number of Chinese tea pots in wooden cabinets. A laughing Buddha completes the picture.

The eatery,which has faithful fans of its food,has wisely left the menu untouched. The portions,however,are measly — a 1×2 serving of Mum Chow Thong chicken soup (Rs 140) will generate a scarce three helpings. The dim sums are absent from the starters list for now,so we settled for steamed pork wanton (Rs 245) and found it to be unusually soggy (probably over-steamed).

The roast sliced duck (Rs 750) with black olives made up for the early disasters. It was a heavenly preparation of succulent morsels of duck with an essence of olives that melted in the mouth. But,once again,the small portions left one crying for more. The Gin Chicken (Rs 231),with its crispy gin-soaked chicken balls is an old favourite at the GK I outlet,and is one of the better dishes of the new eatery. The Sapo chicken (Rs 370) was too much of a fiery broth,with the taste of the chicken pieces lost in the spices.

To tackle its fiery aftertaste,we ordered a chocolate mousse (Rs 165) and were disappointed as it wasn’t the right consistency. A meal that began badly,ended the same way. Thankfully,the main course gives reason for hope.

Meal for two: Rs 2,500

Contact: 24672346

Address: Hotel Ashok,Chanakyapuri

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