Gurgaon, the millennial mecca of India, has turn out to be synonymous with high-rises, company tradition, and a unending stream of worldwide chains. Whereas this has introduced a world of flavours to town, there is a sure starvation that hasn’t been fairly satiated – the eager for one thing rooted in custom, but undeniably fashionable. Enter The Brook, the newest providing from the Sidecar group, recognized for his or her modern takes on Indian delicacies.
For years, Gurgaon’s meals scene has been dominated by fusion. However currently, there’s been a refreshing shift in the direction of a extra considerate strategy. It isn’t nearly throwing collectively random substances from totally different components of the globe; it is about highlighting the wealthy tapestry of Indian flavours and reinterpreting them for a recent palate. That is the place The Brook stands out.
Nestled within the coronary heart of Gurgaon, The Brook transcends the standard “gastropub” label. It is an ode to the Himalayas, drawing inspiration from the colourful cultures and cuisines of the area. Led by the ever-creative Yangdup Lama, The Brook guarantees an expertise that is each acquainted and thrilling.
(L-R) Shariq Husain Khan, Minakshi Singh, Yangdup Lama and Gautam Nijhawan. The core group of The Brook.
Strolling into The Brook, you are instantly hit with a sense of heat – there’s an earthy, rustic attraction to the interiors. You will not discover over-the-top decor or kitschy themes right here. As a substitute, it is refined. The wood accents, Himalayan-inspired textures, and pure lighting deliver a calmness that’s uncommon in most of Gurgaon’s high-energy hotspots. It looks like a sanctuary the place you possibly can escape town’s hustle, with out having to really go away.
However do not let the chilliness vibe idiot you into pondering it is laid-back all the way in which. There’s an power that pulses via the place, from the laughter-filled bar to the clinking of glasses as folks dive into their distinctive cocktails.
Drinks That Inform a Story
We have got to speak concerning the drinks first-after all, The Brook comes from the identical inventive minds behind Sidecar, a reputation synonymous with killer cocktails. The menu at The Brook does not simply serve drinks, it serves experiences. Every cocktail looks like a nod to Himalayan substances – whether or not it is the infusion of native herbs or a twist on conventional spirits, they have one thing that feels grounded and modern.
One drink that basically stood out to me was the ‘Tongba’, impressed by the fermented Himalayan millet wine. Historically provided as an indication of respect in areas like Sikkim and Darjeeling, The Brook’s model provides gentle rum, lime, and burnt sugar caramel for a recent twist on a basic drink that is deeply rooted in Himalayan traditions.
(L-R) Maggi Level and Tongba
Then there’s ‘Maggi Level’, a playful homage to the beloved roadside Maggi you discover within the mountains. This cocktail blends Tequila Silver, Himalayan honey, recent tomatoes, coriander, pea water, and, sure, Maggi masala. It is an sudden however genius combine that captures the center of the Himalayas in each sip.
Meals That Goes Past the Traditional Fusion
Meals-wise, The Brook is the place issues get actually attention-grabbing. It isn’t simply worldwide fusion with an Indian contact; they’ve gone deeper, enjoying with native flavours from the Himalayan belt. The menu focuses on regional flavours from Nepal, Uttarakhand and Kashmir. The outcome? Dishes which can be rooted in custom but really feel excitingly new.
Take the Wai Wai Sandekho, a Nepali noodle salad tossed with chillies, onions, and spices. Or the Beet-Arbi, the place taro is bathed in a beet-chili sauce and tempered with jakhiya seeds from Uttarakhand. Every dish affords a brand new tackle acquainted substances just like the crispy Nepali Fried Rooster served with dalle chutney or the wealthy, caramelised Tabak Maas, slow-cooked Kashmiri mutton ribs.
(L-R) Nepali Fried Rooster and Jhol Momo
Even consolation meals like Chow Chow – Darjeeling-style noodles – is a deal with, actually, even meat lovers may not miss this uncommon dish. Their Jhol Momo in its thick, spiced sauce looks like a hug in a bowl. For dessert, the creamy Amaranth Kheer topped with caramel popcorn provides a playful contact to the standard Himachali dish.
So, is The Brook value it? Completely! This is not simply one other fashionable restaurant; it is a vacation spot that celebrates the wealthy heritage of the Himalayas whereas presenting it in a contemporary, approachable means. Whether or not you are a seasoned foodie or just in search of a cushty area with scrumptious, modern meals, The Brook is bound to impress.
Simply bear in mind, while you go to The Brook, come ready to be stunned. The acquainted substances are elevated with sudden twists, and the general expertise is a pleasant exploration of custom assembly modernity. This can be a step in the precise route for Gurgaon’s meals scene – one which celebrates regional flavours with out sacrificing innovation.