Step into Diya at The Leela Ambience Gurugram, and you’re immediately swept away into a world where luxury meets authentic Indian heritage, reimagined for the modern gourmand. With interiors designed by the internationally acclaimed Hersch Bedner Associates, Diya is a visual feast. Rich jewel tones, plush textures, and an inviting warmth set the tone for an intimate dining experience that speaks of understated elegance and timeless appeal. I was floored almost instantly.
It’s truly the kind of space that feels both sophisticated and welcoming; a curated balance of contemporary design and classic Indian craftsmanship. There’s a certain exclusivity in the air. Only 80 guests at any given time, and for those who seek a truly private affair, the Maharaja Room beckons. A secluded sanctuary, it accommodates up to 12 guests in unparalleled privacy—a perfect choice for those looking to celebrate in style.
Now, let’s talk about the food, because Diya doesn’t just meet expectations, it redefines them beautifully.
At the heart of Diya’s menu is Northwest Frontier cuisine, elevated through a lens of refined artistry. Each dish is an ode to India’s rich culinary tapestry, but there’s an elevated finesse here that’s distinctly Diya. The Tandoori Jhinga—charred just right, with a smoky sweetness could easily be the star of the show. Yet, the Nihari, paired with impossibly soft garlic naan, steals the spotlight in its own right. Every bite of it felt like a nod to old-world charm, balanced beautifully with the contemporary freshness of Diya Signature Dal. It’s rich, deeply comforting, yet impeccably refined. The final comfort lay in their Butter Chicken, which, let’s be honest, is hard to crack. Diya does it impeccably well. The smoky richness and the beautiful fabric of the gravy were a silken, sordid affair.
I sampled the Kebab Platter, where the Seekh Kebab melts in your mouth, and the Fish Kebab stands as a revelation. Tender, smoky, flaky and perfectly spiced, it’s a showcase of the craft of their kitchen. And let’s not forget the Biryani, a delicate dance of fragrant rice and spice, light yet deeply satisfying. Diya’s ability to marry tradition with modernity is riveting.
As for the cocktails, Diya doesn’t just serve drinks—they serve stories. ‘Forest Bloom’ is a heady, floral experience that captures the lushness of India’s landscape in a glass. But the ‘Sunset Sherbet’? A personal favourite, it was refreshing, vibrant, and a little bit tangy; it’s as if you’re drinking the very essence of twilight. This is not just mixology; it’s a carefully curated journey through India’s diverse regions, with each sip echoing the spirit of the land. I’d also recommend the Silken Smoke.
The perfect finale to this indulgence? Shahi Kulfi Falooda. Think of it as an indulgence that transcends dessert. Creamy, silky kulfi swirled with delicate rose syrup and crunchy falooda; it’s the kind of indulgence that lingers in your memory. A childlike joy, served with refinement.
There’s something magical about the way Diya’s open kitchen allows you to witness the artistry of its chefs at work, while traditional live music hums in the background. It’s a celebration of all the senses, blending the old with the new in a symphony of flavour, texture, and sound.
Whether you’re a lover of fine dining, a seeker of Indian culinary heritage, or someone who simply enjoys the finer things in life, Diya at The Leela Ambience Gurugram is an experience that promises to stay with you long after dinner has concluded.
Images: The Leela Ambience Gurugram
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