Eat Like A Quebecois

Chez Nini
79 and 80, Meherchand Market, Behind India Habitat Centre
Tel: 49050665/ 9311125344
Meal for two: Rs 3,000

ersonal attention, delectable food and a great ambience—Chez Nini, the latest restaurant on the block in Delhi’s up-and-coming Meherchand market, has brought more to the table than just a new cuisine. Owner and chef Nira or Nini (that’s how she prefers to be called) has plated up five-star quality French Canadian food, served with unobtrusive personal care.

For starters, the poutine (Rs 325)—a bowl of French fries with a lovely cheese gravy—is highly recommended. The bacon dates (Rs 375) too were a delight. An odd combo, one would think, but a taste of the melt-in-the-mouth dish would dispel all doubts, leaving one marvelling at the idea of pairing ingredients from the extremeties of the gastronomic spectrum.

The star of the main course is the pork belly (Rs 690), a succulent piece of belly roasted to perfection. Another must-try is the duck confit (Rs 675) and the fish pinwheel (Rs 550).
In keeping with its cosy, warm ambience, the restaurant currently seats just over 40 people. The hostess, Rashmi, takes you through the entire menu. The dessert section has ample to choose from and it’s worth saving some room for. The red velvet cupcakes (Rs 80) are divine, as is the chocolate caramel tart (Rs 250), enjoyed slowly with a cup of espresso (Rs 110). You can take home some dessert and freshly baked breads, such as the olive bread (Rs 200) and the bordinsky (Rs 225). Chez Nini awaits a liquor license; while alcohol would complement the food, Nini has excelled in making sure no diner feels its absence.