If you have ever wondered where luxury, exclusivity and world-class cuisine collide, there is a perfect venue – D’Monde Members Club in the heart of Lutyens New Delhi. Recently making its grand debut as the first private club in India by an international brand, D’MONDE promises to be more than just a place, it is an experience. The club offers a rare blend of opulence and understated elegance, and I had the opportunity to immerse myself in its world for an evening.
As soon as I entered the club, I was stunned by the sophisticated tranquility of the space. D’Monde, inspired by the French word “du monde”, meaning ‘of the world’, evokes a sense of cultured taste and refined luxury. The interiors exude a minimalist aesthetic with rich materials, soft natural tones and an artistic design that feels both timeless and modern. There’s something refreshing about the approach here – one that’s based on history but elevated by contemporary design sensibilities.
I was immediately overwhelmed with a feeling of peace. The layout of the club is designed to transport you to a state of tranquility, whether you’re visiting the spa, or fitness center, or simply relaxing by the beautiful swimming pool. It is clear that every corner of this club is dedicated to wellness, indulgence and sophistication.
After a brief tour of the tranquil spots, I headed towards the restaurant which overlooks the pool. As I walked through the outdoor seating area, I couldn’t help but admire how it seamlessly blends luxury with nature-filled greenery and the sound of water created a serene environment, perfect for a delicious meal. Absolutely appropriate.
That evening I went to dinner with some friends. Naturally, we started with drinks… because no evening is complete without a cocktail or two. I chose Rosa Portugalo, a tequila-based drink that left a lasting impression. This is a cocktail that made me forget all about my usual Picante and Palmola. The balance of flavors in the Rosa Portugalo was fresh, tangy and just the right amount. My friend had the old one and he loved it too.
As we sipped our drinks, we perused the menu, which was a playground for gourmands. Led by an Italian chef, D’MONDE offers a culinary experience that promises to take you around the world. Options range from Italian and Continental to Indian, with each dish bringing a modern twist to a classic favorite. We started with a selection of continental starters—ceviche, duck prosciutto and arancini with mushroom truffle.
Let me tell you: the ceviche was amazing! The seabass was perfectly marinated in coconut water lemon leche de tigre, and the dish was garnished with delicate cream drizzles and finely chopped onions. The balance of freshness and acidity made it one of the standout dishes of the evening. If you go to D’Monde, the ceviche is my top recommendation as a must try.
The Shrimp and Amaranth Salad was another favorite. The prawns were perfectly cooked, juicy and tender, while the amaranth seeds and edamame added to their crispiness. With crisp asparagus, cucumber and a spicy dressing, this was a refreshing starter that I would happily order again.
Then we headed to the main course, where I had to try the Tagliolini Lobster. This dish won my heart. The lobster was juicy, and the tangy tomato sauce added depth of flavor. It was comfort food full of elegant twists, yet not overwhelming. New Zealand Lamb Chops followed, and although I’m not usually a fan of lamb, I could see how lovers of this dish would like it.
I couldn’t resist sampling some Indian dishes. The biryani was good, though not exceptional, while the Gucchi Mushroom stood out with its earthy flavor and delicate texture. That said, it was the Continental and Italian cuisine that really caught my attention. The meal ended with some delicious desserts.
One of the things that really stood out during my visit was the hospitality. From the time we were greeted at the door to being seated, the staff was nothing short of exceptional. The servers were knowledgeable, making great recommendations and attending to our needs promptly. It’s clear that D’MONDE takes pride in creating not only a luxurious environment, but a truly welcoming one. I can’t wait to return and learn more about what this extraordinary club has to offer.
