Gurgaon, the millennial mecca of India, has turn into synonymous with high-rises, company tradition, and a endless stream of worldwide chains. Whereas this has introduced a world of flavours to the 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 most recent providing from the Sidecar workforce, identified for his or her modern takes on Indian delicacies.
For years, Gurgaon’s meals scene has been dominated by fusion. However these days, there’s been a refreshing shift in direction of a extra considerate strategy. It is not nearly throwing collectively random components from totally different elements of the globe; it is about highlighting the wealthy tapestry of Indian flavours and reinterpreting them for a up to date 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 workforce of The Brook.
Strolling into The Brook, you are instantly hit with a sense of heat – there’s an earthy, rustic allure to the interiors. You will not discover over-the-top decor or kitschy themes right here. As an alternative, it is delicate. The wood accents, Himalayan-inspired textures, and pure lighting carry a calmness that’s uncommon in most of Gurgaon’s high-energy hotspots. It looks like a sanctuary the place you possibly can escape the town’s hustle, with out having to truly go away.
However do not let the coolness vibe idiot you into considering it is laid-back all the way in which. There’s an vitality that pulses via the place, from the laughter-filled bar to the clinking of glasses as individuals dive into their distinctive cocktails.
Drinks That Inform a Story
We have 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 components – 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 supplied as an indication of respect in areas like Sikkim and Darjeeling, The Brook’s model provides mild rum, lime, and burnt sugar caramel for a contemporary twist on a traditional 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, contemporary tomatoes, coriander, pea water, and, sure, Maggi masala. It is an surprising however genius combine that captures the guts of the Himalayas in each sip.
Meals That Goes Past the Common Fusion
Meals-wise, The Brook is the place issues get actually fascinating. It is not simply worldwide fusion with an Indian contact; they’ve gone deeper, taking part in with native flavours from the Himalayan belt. The menu focuses on regional flavours from Nepal, Uttarakhand and Kashmir. The end result? Dishes which are 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 gives a brand new tackle acquainted components just like the crispy Nepali Fried Hen served with dalle chutney or the wealthy, caramelised Tabak Maas, slow-cooked Kashmiri mutton ribs.
(L-R) Nepali Fried Hen and Jhol Momo
Even consolation meals like Chow Chow – Darjeeling-style noodles – is a deal with, truthfully, 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 price it? Completely! This is not simply one other stylish 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 on the lookout for a cushty area with scrumptious, modern meals, The Brook is bound to impress.
Simply bear in mind, whenever you go to The Brook, come ready to be stunned. The acquainted components are elevated with surprising twists, and the general expertise is a pleasant exploration of custom assembly modernity. This can be a step in the correct path for Gurgaon’s meals scene – one which celebrates regional flavours with out sacrificing innovation.
