There are restaurants you visit for dinner, and then there are those you visit for an experience. Le Cirque, newly reopened at The Leela Palace New Delhi, firmly belongs to the latter. Long celebrated as one of the capital’s most iconic fine-dining addresses—and recognised on the World’s 50 Best Discovery list—Le Cirque’s return feels less like a reopening and more like the unveiling of a thoughtfully restored masterpiece. Drawing from its storied Franco-Italian lineage and its legendary New York origins, the refreshed interiors strike a delicate balance between quiet theatre and intimacy. Plum and gold hues shimmer across a bespoke glass-tile feature wall, while rich wood panelling, sculptural lighting, and plush textures cocoon diners in understated luxury.
With just 40 covers, the space feels exclusive yet inviting—designed for lingering conversations, unhurried courses, and moments that deserve to be savoured. At the heart of the reimagined Le Cirque is a philosophy that treats food as an art form—timeless, elegant, and deeply cultural. The menu pays homage to the culinary traditions of France and Italy while weaving in modern creativity and refined technique. Ingredients are thoughtfully sourced from across the globe, and every plate reflects poise and precision.
Dinner at Le Cirque unfolds like a well-composed symphony. From the antipasti, the Fresh Creamy Artisanal Burratina immediately sets the tone—luxuriously soft, paired with macerated tomatoes, delicate consommé jelly, and an unexpected basil soil that adds both aroma and intrigue. It’s a dish that feels deceptively simple, yet meticulously crafted.
The Yellowfin Tuna Crudo with fennel textures, Sicilian orange, fennel pollen, and olive sabayon is another standout—clean, bright, and beautifully balanced. The citrus lifts the richness of the tuna, while the fennel elements add layers of crunch and perfume, making it a masterclass in restraint and flavour harmony.
From the pasta and risotto section, the Ravioli Stuffed with Barolo-Braised Duck is unforgettable. Rich, slow-cooked duck finds its match in a silky carrot velouté, with rosemary morel mushrooms adding earthiness and a light parsley foam lending freshness. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming—a dish that lingers long after the last bite.
The Soup of the day (in our case), a heartwarming roasted red bell pepper soup, offered comfort in its purest form. Smooth, robust, and gently smoky, it feels like a pause in the meal—a moment of calm before the mains take centre stage.
And take centre stage they do. The “Scottadito” Lamb Chops with salmoriglio, served alongside parsnip purée, broccolini, and a perfectly executed potato pavé, are nothing short of spectacular. Cooked with finesse, the lamb is tender and flavourful, elevated by the bright, herbaceous salmoriglio. Every element on the plate plays its part, making this dish a clear winner of the evening. Dessert at Le Cirque is classic, comforting, and confidently executed. The Crème Brûlée arrives with that perfect crack—silky beneath, caramelised above, while the Tiramisu was an indulgent bonus, light yet deeply satisfying, and a fitting nod to Italian tradition.
Beyond the food, Le Cirque’s experience is further enriched by its dramatically reimagined wine programme. Temperature-controlled cellars, intimate tasting tables, and personalised sessions led by an in-house sommelier invite guests to explore rare vintages and celebrated international labels. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious enthusiast, the wine journey here feels immersive and thoughtfully curated. For the first time, Le Cirque also opens its doors for lunch, offering diners the opportunity to explore the à la carte menu in its entirety. Evenings, meanwhile, transform into a theatre of taste with five- and seven-course degustation menus designed to showcase the restaurant’s culinary artistry. Vegetarian and vegan options are seamlessly integrated, ensuring inclusivity without compromise.
In a city where new restaurants open almost daily, Le Cirque’s return stands apart. It doesn’t chase trends or theatrics for the sake of it. Instead, it offers something far rarer: consistency, craftsmanship, and soul. With its evolved menu, refined design, and immersive storytelling, Le Cirque at The Leela Palace New Delhi confidently reclaims its place as the finest Franco-Italian dining destination in the capital—where every meal feels like a celebration of legacy, elegance, and enduring excellence.
Images: Le Cirque
