Lounges, pubs and bars are synonymous with Gurgaon now. For the vegetarian takers, options may be few, but with the surge of the ‘Go Green’ concept, there is always something new to venture out for. To narrow down your search for a place that serves perfectly prepared, vegetarian, authentic regional cuisine, Manbhavan is our find this time. Located on the third floor Ambience Mall, Gurgaon, Manbhavan Gurgaon is a premium thali restaurant, serving a blend of Rajasthani, Gujarati and North Indian cuisines, served in a thali.
As I moved towards the place, the entrance already spoke of the theme and the cuisine. The ostentatiousness of Rajasthan and Gujarat reeked through the display and the interiors. Well lit, with carved pillars and murals on the yellow painted walls, alternating blue and red glass panels separating the sitting areas, Manbhavan radiates gloriousness. What caught my eye was the corner wall that was dotted with picture frames of the royals, adding to the fascination the restaurants attracts.
Been graciously welcomed by the staff of Manbhavan, Mr. Kuldeep Shukla, who manages the restaurant, guided us with patience, through the experience. As we got seated, the neat, orderly display of the cutlery was impressive…. but wait until I tell you what ensued thereafter. A waiter brought to us, a surahi with water poured out for us to wash hands…. charming! We were served ‘Jal Jeera’ as the welcome drink, which served as the perfect energy boost catalyst on a warm afternoon.
And so, began the spate of dishes being served to us in the thali. Starting with the Gujarati Farsan (snacks), we were served Ring Dhokla and Palak Bhajiya with Mint Chutney, Lehsun Chutney, a Gujarati meal fixture and Mirchi Thesa (a green chillies condiment)….. that served the purpose of being truly appetising! Then came the Special of the Day, Dahi Vada, soft and blended smoothly into the distinctively sweet and salty yoghurt.
The Thali is a superlative concoction of Gujarati dishes crossed with Rajasthani and North Indian flavours, and vice versa, making for an interesting array. The portions were generously served to us, the comprisal serving being- Paneer Corn (Staple corn of Rajasthani meals and the spot of sweet adding Gujarati flavour), Rajasthani spices mixed North Indian Alu Dum , Parwal Masala, Chawli Dahiwala, Dal Fry, Rajasthani Kadhi, the sweet Gujarati Kadhi, Jeera Rice, Khoba Roti, Bajra Roti topped with Jaggery and Ghee, Khichdi, staple to North India and Salad. The applaudable bit of it is the extreme differences in the cuisines, being so easily blended into a delectable spread.
Now, what is a Thali without dessert? My devouring the thali was a pre-requisite to the line up of sweets that were to follow. Gulab Jamun, the Rajasthani Besan Chakki and Fruit salad, distinct from each other….but who’s complaining? With a sweet tooth as strong as mine, it was the perfect end to a perfect meal.
P.S- They have takeaway boxes as well!… And offer home delivery!
While I (still reeling under the effect) work on getting my appetite back for round two, you must visit this newly opened restaurant for it’s sheer authenticity, quality, flavours, cleanliness and top notch hospitality!
My verdict…. Thumbs Up!
Thali Cost: INR 550 Unlimited!
Where: R-310A, 3RD Floor, Ambience Mall, Gurgaon
Call: 9971347410, 9711870268
