Food festivals are a great way to explore different cuisines from around the world without leaving the city. They offer a unique opportunity to taste authentic dishes prepared by skilled chefs, often at a fraction of the cost of dining at a traditional restaurant. A great place in Delhi to experience these food festivals is MKT, The Chanakya. This upscale restaurant regularly hosts themed food festivals, offering a wide variety of cuisines from Japanese and Thai to Chinese, European, Mexican and Indian coastal specialties. I personally eagerly await all the festivals hosted by MKT and each one impresses me with the selection of dishes and delicious flavours.
Sake Soiree Pop-up at MKT, The Chanakya:
At MKT, The Chanakya, the thrill of global flavours is brought alive by the culinary prowess of Chef Rinki Saha and Head Mixologist Sanjay Rawat. The menus they craft promise to impress and delight. This September 2024, they invite you to immerse yourself in the enchanting Sake Soiree pop-up, a celebration of Japanese traditions. This special event transforms the restaurant into a slice of Japan, with an Izakaya-inspired menu paired beautifully with artisanal Sake cocktails. I tried the menu and loved it.
A highlight is the Salmon Tartare, a delicate combination of Tobiko, Fujiko and Dashi soy that creates a harmonious blend of flavours. For sashimi lovers, the New Age Hamachi Sashimi is an exceptional treat. This dish presents a bold fusion of the heat of jalapeño, the crunch of bubu arare and the cool tang of wasabi foam, all paired with a tangy buttermilk garnish that is sure to captivate. Vegetarians will also enjoy the Avocado and Kyuri Tartare and the Tofu Carpaccio, each of which offers a fresh perspective on Japanese cuisine.
Pairing these dishes with expertly crafted sake cocktails makes the dining experience even better. I had the Shichimi cocktail, which was a refreshing mix of Hakutsuru Junmai and citrus-infused vermouth, providing an interesting citrus note. But if you like your cocktails sweeter, go for the Chuhai cocktail. It serves as a pleasant finale to your meal, blending Junmai with floral essences and luscious berries into a luxurious delight.
Apart from the Sake Soiree, MKT, Chanakya has also amazed me in the past with events like the “Street Food Carnival”. This vibrant celebration featured a selection of international street food favourites that captured the essence of bustling markets around the world. The menu included dishes like cheesy Italian Arancini di Riso, crispy Japanese Karaage and fluffy Bao buns stuffed with Szechwan vegetables or braised Belgian pork belly. Each dish was crafted to highlight the unique flavours and techniques that make street food so beloved.
MKT, The Chanakya is known not only for its tempting food festivals but also for its wide range of international cuisines including Japanese, Thai, Chinese, European, Mexican and Indian coastal specialties. The restaurant has a sleek, modern design and an inviting ambiance that enhances your dining experience. And their hospitality is exceptional. You feel welcomed and valued as a diner. With thoughtfully crafted menus and a wide selection of wines and cocktails, MKT, The Chanakya is the perfect place for anyone looking to enjoy authentic global flavours.
