Partly as a result of last year's Commonwealth Games, Delhi has seen a fresh crop of venues pop up, jostling for your hard-earned cash at the weekend, each promising cuisine, drinks and the crowd you deserve. So which of the city's destinations are ruling the roost right now? Here's our pick of four you can't afford to miss.
ShiroBeloved of Mumbaikars and Bangaloreans, if you've ever been to another Shiro you'll know that the food is among the best oriental cuisine you'll find in India. The recently opened Delhi branch still has the delicious dumplings and wide variety of pan-asian dishes we love to get the night started, but it's also pitching itself as a pretty grand spot for clubbing. Its layered table seating starts with a minimum table spend of Rs 20,000 on the first floor, with the buy-in increasing as you go up. Apart from elite company, the top layer - heaven - gives you the best view of the DJ booth, which emerges from behind two giant sliding doors.
Samrat Hotel, Chanakyapuri. Tel: +9111 2687 6310
LapIn the same hotel as Shiro is what remains Delhi's most exclusive venue for late dancing, Lap, a members-only lounge. It's worth pulling a few strings though, because behind the tall and heavy doors you'll find a luxurious space that oozes class and intimacy. Expect to find rock stars visiting town popping in for a quick drink - but unless you want a quiet drink, don't get there before 1am, when the party crowd turns up.
Samrat Hotel, Chanakyapuri. Tel: +9111 26110606
Ai / Love HotelOnce you've tucked into some high-end Asian cuisine at Arjun Rampal's Ai restaurant (we recommend the black miso cod, served on a rock) and sampled their fine wines, it's high time for some al fresco drinking and dancing. Ai's neighbouring Love Hotel has all of the above, and often enough Japanese customers to confirm their association with Tokyo cool isn't just a gimmick.
MGF Metropolitan Mall, District Center, Saket . Tel: +91 11 40668888
AgniTaking its cues from its fiery name, Agni is ablaze with oranges and yellows - but the vibe is a little more laidback than most. Expect funky background beats rather than dancefloor fillers, and a selection of great drinks to lull you into a chilled out night with friends. Expect a quick drink to turn into a long session once you start customizing your cocktails.
The Park Hotel, 15 Parliament Street, Connaught Place. Tel: +91 11 23743000 theparkhotels.com