This Delhi-Based Bistro Is More Than Just Your Average Fusion Indian Restaurant

It's easy to get lost in a sea of Indian restaurants that promise epic Butter Chickens and Dal Makhanis across Delhi in the name of desi culinary experiences. So our apprehension to try yet another fusion Indian restaurant after many popular eateries have come and gone was pretty obvious. But it wasn't long till we were proven wrong at Delhi's newest casual fusion dining experience at Staple nestled in Greater Kailash II that promises a lot more than the Butter Chickens and Dal Makhanis of the world. Upon entering, you're greeted by warm interiors and natural light (if you're going for lunch) but nothing too overpowering and gaudy like the popular "family" restaurants in Delhi offer. The offerings of the restaurant though do not interfere with the clean contemporary interiors at all and we guess that it was intentional. Staple offers a menu that takes beloved Indian dishes and reimagines them with a contemporary twist. But don't be deceived by the fusion fun for it to be gimmicks and no game because the flavours are packed in layers for you to unearth with each bite.

The guacamole served with spiced papad is your elevated version of the guacamole and nachos which already was an elevated version of the simple yet satisfying - chip and dip. The tanginess from the coarse garlic chutney served on top of the guac is so simple and close to home, that we almost asked ourselves - why didn't we ever think of this before? It's perfect with drinks or as is and even though it is meant to be for the table, we suggest you don't share it with anyone but have it yourself.

The Guacamole Papad and Methi Malai Kali Mirch Chicken Tikka

The Pork Chorizo Kulcha is a prime example of how this establishment promises a dining experience that excites the palate and challenges culinary conventions. The restaurant substitutes the usual fillings with a generous portion of spicy pork chorizo sourced locally from Goa and stringy mozzarella cheese. The chorizo's robust, smoky taste is complemented by the kulcha's soft, pillowy texture. If we're being honest, we think about this stuffed bread from time to time and wonder if it's doing alright.

An assortment of their famous kulchas with other starters

Next on the menu was the Pulled Pork Bao, a soft, steamed bun popular in Chinese cuisine, filled with succulent pulled pork that has been slow-cooked to perfection in a blend of Indian spices with a hint of notes from the City of Joy. A crossover between the local burgers like vada pao, the traditional style burgers and a bao, that nobody saw coming.

Speaking of vada bao, sorry, pao, and burgers, Staple has a version that makes for the perfect snack for a table of one to as many. The Kathal Vada Pao and SFC Slider offer their unique impressions of the popular street food snack and where they have replaced the traditional potato fritter with one made with a luscious jackfruit filling for the former and a batter fried chicken patty sandwiched between mini buns and slaw for the latter.

Kathal Vada Pao, Pulled Pork Bao and the SFC Sliders

The Pyaaz Kachori Chaat is a dish that exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to reinventing classic Indian snacks. Pyaaz kachori, a type of stuffed pastry topped with spiced onions, is served in a deconstructed form. The kachori is broken into pieces and topped with an array of chutneys, yoghurt, and sev. This dish is a riot of flavours and textures but ensures it's a party on the palette.

The Pyaaz Kachori Chaat

If you still have room for desserts, Staple has a small but satisfying menu to satiate your sweet tooth. Their homemade ice creams are fresh and can be paired easily with their decadent Kalakand Khurchan, a crumbled milk cake with nuts served on a sizzler and dollops of ghee or their Kheer with Seabuckthorn compote, that adds a freshness to a nostalgic serving of the Indian rice pudding.

Don't expect smoke shows and theatrics because that isn't something you'll get. An explosion of flavours though, you will get a whole lot of it at the Staple.