On Wednesday evening, when the iconic Taj Palace threw open the doors of the `Golden Dragon', its Sichuan restaurant, the new guests and old patrons alike were in for a pleasant surprise.
Without much fuss, the Ratan Tata-owned hotel reopened the restaurant in a contemporary new look on the eve of the 26/11 terror attacks.
A noble and royal Golden Dragon with a soothing water feature welcomed guests into the restaurant. The decor sported traditional symbols that clung to the oriental trend which is key to the menu and services of the restaurant.
Bookings were full on the opening night as guests walked in as a gesture of solidarity with victims of the tragic events of last year, when gunmen burned down parts of the heritage hotel including the restaurant.
Dragon-patterned panels adorn the walls, while rice paper and etched glass work are spread over the restaurant space. White porcelain on ivory lacquer furniture pieces sit in the 36-year-old eatery, India's first which caters to the authentic Sichuan palate.
The focal point of the Golden Dragon was and is its live kitchen, which enhances the dining experience as patrons watch the chefs in action.
Golden Dragon is understood to have introduced over 50 new dishes on the reopening.
"The newly introduced menu is the perfect blend of perennial favourite and a sumptuous array of delectable food designed to please any gastronomic palate. The delicacies include a wide array on dimsums, Beijing-Peking Duck and the Chef s special Song of the Dragon," the Taj said.
"The meal is perfectly complimented with a variety of exotic tea from around the world," it added.
The sea-facing Taj will, however, reopen the Harbor Bar and Japanese restaurant Wasabi only on December 1.
An international collaboration of designers like James Park Associates, Rockwell Group Design, Lissoni and BAMO are racing against time to usher guests into the two hangouts in a new avatar.
The Harbor Bar, India's first licensed bar since 1933, will have a new international menu. "The all new international tapa s menu includes innovative dishes such as Guacamole Pani Puri s, Crab Samosa and Paya Crockets. This creative dining experience is complimented by the large selection of single malts and wines," the Taj said.
The discovery of two historic windows in the Bar allow a raised seating area to connect directly with the harbour, which develops a dialogue with the vivacity of Apollo Bunder Road from the intimacy of a classic bar setting.
The award-winning Wasabi will also come up with an array of Japanese delicacies, delicious sakes and mouth- watering sushi s.
Wasabi's sushi counter and teppanyaki kitchen will serve as focal points of activity, even as guests can enjoy an intimate experience with a personal chef and exclusive sushi preparation.
"The introduction of several new dishes including Enoki Tempura and Shimaji Mushroom add to the extensive menu. The variety of Whisky forms the perfect accompaniment to this exotic dining experience," the hotel said.
Restoration work in the rooms, ballrooms and suites is on in full swing. Taj plans to reopen the heritage wing in early 2010. PTI
