Lucknow has always conjured up images of kebabs and immaculate hospitality. The predominance of Awadhi food over the Northern part of India is due to one of India’s most famous gastronome, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. A man whose love for food spawned an entire cuisine known for its delicate, subtle flavours. The courts of Nawab Wajid Ali have seen many a culinary spectacle. But witnessing those authentic flavours in the bustle of Delhi’s metropolis is rare indeed. The Oudh at The Ashok takes you back a few centuries with it’s extravagant ambiance. The Oudh is a walk back into the history pages with a wall picture of the Nawabs looking down on you. From the silver cutlery to the minutely hand crafted murals on the walls, The Oudh takes you back to the courts of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. Even with the world fizzing by rapidly, The Oudh retains it’s old world charm with a Bar area for diners along with menus for guest. The live ghazals complete the authentic touch to the Awadhi ambience. The Oudh operates with a buffet for Lunch along with a lavish spread for Dinner.
We start off with a Kala Noor which acts as a digestive to kick start the meal with cumin seeds in it. A selection platter of Kebabs is on the way next. The Galawati impresses with it’s silken soft texture while the Hara Bhara Kebab with it’s subtle flavours piques our interest. But it’s the Tohfa E Noor which blows our mind again stressing on the fact that Awadhi vegetarian food has got some exemplary flavours.
The mains are a tale of Awadhi curries and Dum Biryani. We have a creamy royal Murgh Rihana(Chicken) and Oudhi Korma(Mutton) along with a selection of breads and sweet flaky Sheermal with the distinct flavours for saffron. The Nishatganj Ki Jhalfarezi and Dal Oudhi are our accompaniments in the vegetarian section. The Teh Biryani is something that we have been waiting for a long time. The explosion of aromas the moment the Dum is broken is exquisite. The rich, royal flavours of Awadh are truly represented in this one meal with the heat of Black Pepper shining through.
We finish off our meal with some piping hot Gulaab Jamun, soft fluffy Rasmalai and a decadent Kulfi Faluda. The Oudh is your one stop destination for all cravings Nawabi. You can visit them on Facebook.
