The St. Regis Mumbai has a new gastronomic experience that promises to be refreshingly unique and innovative. It recently relaunched its restaurant Sette Mara, which is touted as the city’s first Levantine restaurant and lounge. The Levant, which includes modern-day Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and neighbouring regions, is a hub of diverse culinary influences. Under the guidance of Egyptian Chef Ahmed Farhat, Sette Mara aims to celebrate the fabric of traditions across these regions. We recently had the chance to dine at the restaurant and enjoy some of its new signature offerings. Read our full review below:
Photo credit: Sette Mara
Our meal started on a warm and nutritious note with two soups. Levantine Pumpkin Soup It was a smooth broth enriched with goat cheese and hazelnut. lentil soupWith orange peel and truffle oil, it became an unexpected delight. The vegetarian option had tiny pieces of water chestnut which added a wonderful flavour. With soft pita and drooling muhammara, we also enjoyed the vibrant refreshment House Fattoush Salad,
Photo credit: Sette Mara
Levantine Chicken Shawarma Next, what looked like tiny filled pita pockets. Shawarma can be tricky to serve in a fine dining setting. We were glad to find that Sette Mara’s delicate variation managed to deliver its deliciousness without any of the mess. But if there’s one dish you can’t miss, it’s this Zhoug and Truffle Oil Khachapuri,
Photo credit: Sette Mara
Sette Mara has an exciting cocktail program that reflects the Levantine’s core flavor profiles. Expertly crafted concoctions made with ingredients like pistachio, dates, sumac, and even za’atar syrup can be expected. If you’re looking for relaxing options to sip during your meal, we highly recommend Sette Mara Ark (cognac, arrack, demerara syrup, bitters) and Pearl of the Mediterranean (gin, chamomile, cherry liqueur and lemon).
Photo credit: Sette Mara
The menu consists of three items Signature PlattersEach celebrates the richness of different regions: farm (vegetables, cheese and mushrooms), ocean (seafood) and land (chicken and lamb). We opted for the latter and relished succulent pieces of grilled meat infused with the aroma of kebab spices. Ingredients of the thali – Chicken Adana, India Spicy Lamb, Lamb Shish and Chicken Taouk – They are served on a small grill which spreads the delicious smoky aroma from the kitchen to the table. You can also choose to enjoy some of the grilled dishes separately. If you do, don’t forget the spicy and juicy Shish Tawook.
Photo credit: Sette Mara
Our last delicious expedition in the Levant was to Sette Mara Vegetable TajineThe nuttiness of the vegetables and couscous shone through in its simplicity. The savory dishes we tasted during our meal were undeniably wholesome. Any inclination toward sophistication was cleverly underplayed, allowing the natural freshness of the ingredients to shine through. But the sweet dishes that followed could never be described as simple. While the dessert section continued to celebrate its Levant roots, its methods were more regal.
Photo credit: Sette Mara
Umm Ali – a combination of buttery croissant pieces, rose milk and nuts – evokes a sense of indulgence. At first glance, it’s derived from the dramatic element of the cream being poured and burning on the table, right in front of your eyes. But then you start eating it and are overwhelmed by the richness of its layers. Sette Mara Mahallabia This is also a dessert that deserves a second try. Eat the Saffron Mahalabia, Mixed Nuts Halwa and Pistachio Ice Cream all in one bite and enjoy the royal blend of flavours.
Where: Level 9M, The St. Regis, 462, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai.
