How long would you wait in line for your favorite restaurant? An hour? A couple of hours? While we understand nobody likes waiting in queues for a meal, and prefer sitting instantly and be brought their food promptly, there are a few places in the capital which are so popular that you have to be prepared for the long wait.
In an industry which witnesses new multiple options for belly-filling almost every month, an undeterred dedication towards United Coffee House – where people are willing to stand in queues – calls for applause. So when I visited this popular hotspot in the inner circle of Connaught Place, I understood why it has managed to stir a devoted cult of devotees.
Right from the moustachioed darwaan at the entrance to its artwork – including the chandeliers, beautiful high ceiling, tapestries on the wall - spacing and the soothing music played here, every detail sets the mood of the guests and also gives them a point of interest. Since I had gone back to the restaurant after many years, I knew a lot would have changed. As I had expected, the menu had expanded in these many years.
I went for lunch and was keen on trying some of my favourites from the signatures section. The staff was very courteous and patient while I skimmed through the extensive menu card and within a few minutes my food arrived. I started with Bharwan Khumb Ke Soole from their vegetarian appetisers. Bharwa Khumb Ke Soole was the ideal way to begin my meal. Easy to slice, the dish looked light and tasted incredible – thanks to the right flavours.
The next dish that grabbed my attention as much as my thought was Navratna Korma. Those who haven’t tried it before might feel preparing it calls for time and yes too much of effort. Having dreaded making it all this while, the chef made the royal-sounding food item look so simple. “It is all about preparing a dish which is prepared of the nine jewels- which could either be an assortment of nine veggies or nine garnishing ingredients,” the helper grinned. The spectacular vegetarian dish, which is quite convincingly referred to as the labour of love, made for a rewarding experience! Best at satisfying one’s Indian craving, the dish showed just how much care the chef took while preparing it.
Since I hadn’t heard the name Pithore before, I decided for a small serving. Much like any Rajasthani dish, this besan-and-curd preparation stood out from all that was offered to me by now. Whether it was the texture, the look or the taste, the dish with its thick gravy was a delectable case in point.
From the Jain specialties, Qasr-e-Pukhtan is a must have. Made of paneer, carrot and cauliflower, this Mughlai dish went well with Khurmi Naan. Those who aren’t keen on opting for the Amritsari Kulcha also have stuffed paranthas to choose from.
The high note in the menu is the impressive variety of desserts that the restaurant offers. The Apple Pie Tatin was tempting to look at. Digging into the warm dessert won’t leave you dissatisfied. Baked Alaska in its soothing classic texture with a hint of ice-cream is another sweet kick which you should opt for.
Our Opinion: When someone come to CP for the first time and asks where to eat, the first place you can send them is United Coffee House.
Address: E-15, Inner Circle, Near Adidas Showroom, CP, New Delhi
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