Taj Palace, New Delhi’s contemporary Chinese restaurant, Spicy Duck, is basking in the glory of the August Moon Festival until September 22. We had a first-hand experience of the delectable spread, and we strongly recommend it to every Asian food connoisseur. By Priyanka Chakrabarti
It’s a balmy afternoon and I walk into the gorgeous Spicy Duck restaurant at Taj Palace, New Delhi to indulge in their August Moon Festival spread. A mid-autumn festival, August Moon is a jewel in the East Asian cultural diaspora. What does it celebrate? Let’s say, togetherness and thanksgiving! Dating back to the ancient Chinese Zhou Dynasty when the moon was worshiped in hope of a bountiful harvest – the spirit of this festival, today, is lovingly depicted at Spicy Duck’s culinary portrayal, thanks to Chef Valte and his team!
I am served a specially curated menu that features multiple classics, keeping in mind the auspiciousness of the festival. From a mouthwatering dim sum platter to a mildly spicy serving of braised duck soup, and from soft shell crab in dollops of chili bean sauce to crispy fried red snapper in black bean sauce, sliced duck in ginger hoisin sauce, assorted mushrooms (Hong Kong style), Hu fan noodles, and pineapple and peanut fried rice – this feast was a soulful one.
For dessert, I dig into a humble portion of a homemade Chinese moon cake, sweet papaya and white fungus soup, and lychee stuffed with red beans paste on a bed of caramel sauce.
Speaking on the occasion, Executive Chef Rajesh Wadhwa said, “As one of the capital’s pioneering culinary destinations, it is our constant endeavour to curate authentic dining experiences for our guests and patrons. The August Moon Festival at Spicy Duck is yet another extraordinary gastronomical celebration that carries forward our culinary legacy and showcases the decadent creations from our legendary kitchens.”
Dates: September 13 to 22, 2019
Venue: Spicy Duck, Taj Palace, 2 Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi 110021
Timings: Lunch (12:30 to 15:00) and Dinner (19:00 to 23:30)
Reservations: 011-26110202 / tphspicyduck.del@tajhotels.com
Price: A la carte
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