Kayastha Cuisine at The Suryaa Hotel – My Experience

I am a big foodie and love to explore different places and cuisines all the time. I was intrigued to learn that The Surya Hotel has introduced Kayastha Cuisine and the same will be served every Saturday night at the Inhouse Restaurant “Ssence”. I am a Kayastha myself and was obviously quite elated. Here are some pictures of the Ssence Restaurant (Inhouse) , I know no article is complete without dozen of pictures 🙂

During one of the discussions with Mr Pankaj Mathur (General Manager, The Suryaa Hotel) I got to know that everyday dinner will have a new cuisine, e.g. Monday it will be Sicilian Cuisine, On Wednesdy Lucknowi Delicacies will be served etc. However the regular menu will be there too.

The menu has been designed by The Suryaa Hotel Team & Anoothi Vishal, The famous Food Critic, who happens to be a Kayastha herself.

Ankur Dixit (Restaurant Manager) offered me some “Virgin Guava Mary” , I can’t explain how good it was ! Spicy, sweet and refreshing ! I also liked the snack that was served “Moong Dal Pakodi with Aam Panna” . Had he not insisted , I wouldn’t have dared to taste something so different, now I am glad that I did 🙂

“The Suryaa will host the Kayastha Night every Saturday which will continue till end of August to introduce their patrons of the rich flavors and the cooking methods of this very home-centric cuisine. The vegetarian strain in Kayastha food is distinctly rich, not just the meats but even vegetables are treated to elaborate cooking methods and a sophisticated use of spices. “

Chef Sanjay Bahl, Director F&B expressed , “Skillful blending of ingredients and subtle cooking techniques is what makes Kayastha Cuisine different form the rest it is a fusion of veg and non-veg dishes blend into authentic cooking styles that are distinctly unique. We have chosen some of the popular dishes like Moong Dal Ki Pakori, Shami Kebab, Aloo Kulle, Bhuna Chicken, Take Paise, Papad Ki Subzi, Moong Dal with Palak to start with.”

The distinctive flavors make this Cuisine robust and aromatic and authentic spices raise this cooking to a sublime art form.

The Pastry Shop (Inhouse)

Open Bar

Live Kitchen. I love the concept of Live kitchen, you can see what’s going on and can get some of the dishes customized.

Our Table, tastefully decorated !

Menu

Veg & Non Veg Starters. Veg Platter Had – Aloo Kulle and Kalmi Bade, Non Veg platter had – Shami Kebab, Chicken Parchey, Aloo Kulle and Kalmi Bade

Main Course has 8 Different Curries (Veg & non Veg), 2 Types of Rice dishes, 3 types of breads

In my Plate – Bhuna Chicken, Keema Kofte & Matar Ki Tahri. These 3 were my favorite dishes. but I decided to taste some veg dishes too and loved Bharwan Bhindi. It was spicy , tangy and crisp, just the way I like it 🙂

Being a Kaystha my life starts & ends on Non-Vegetarian dishes but let me tell you some of the Vegetarian Dishes were awesome specially Bharwan Bhindi, Matar ki Tahri & Papad Ki Subzi. I also Tried Bedmi-Aloo &  it was delicious.

In desserts – Lauki ki Lauj & Makhane ki Kheer. For me Lauki ki Lauj was a clear winner. It was light, mildly sweet & very delicious ! You can spot two small “Pans”, I am not a huge fan of Pans but tasted it. It was ok ! Bit bitter for my taste.

I can’t think of anything else than my faithful “Virgin Mint Mojito” , On Ankur’s suggestion I also tried Aam Panna which was quite refreshing !

Below is the list of cuisines served everyday at Ssence for your reference.

1. Monday: Sicilian and Prosecco Wine
2. Tuesday: Organic Veg /Chandon
3. Wednesday : Regions of Punjab with Patiala Pegs
4. Thursday: Lucknawi/Beers of the world
5. Friday: Tapas and Sangria
6. Saturday: Kayasthas /Single Malts
7. Sunday: World Street Food / Ssence Signature Cocktails

Overall I really liked the home-cooked feel of the food. Simple food fragrant with spices, that totally reminded me of the times when my grand mother used to cook for us. If you love trying new cuisines, then you must try Kayastha Cuisine once 🙂 And I am really looking forward to the “World Street Food” menu on Sunday nights !

Cost – Rs 1750 per person , on Saturday Nights (Till 30th August).

 

*Food & Services were complimentry