An Appetite, Inflated.

It had been my utter longing to express one of my élite gourmet experiences, which had occurred a few times earlier, before I ultimately got a chance to describe it here in writing.

This night outing was not special. The occasion was.

"Ramadan Kareem" is a phase, when the best serve is expected, if you are in the vicinity of 'Jama Masjid'.

A bustling zone till wee hours, particularly the eateries, the charm of 'Purani Dilli' is astounding during the festive days of "Ramzan".

Reaching our destination at around 11 pm, the beginning at The Fish Point with crunchy Chicken Pakode, was a zesty joy. The mint chutney served along was interestingly piquant.

After fairly snack-smacked, we walked into the legendary - Karim’s. Predictably packed due to the festivity, we someway managed to seize a seat. Since, dinner was not on our mind, we proposed on grabbing a few juicy bites. Our sumptuous pleasure started with indulging Shami Kebab, succulent Seekh Kebab & peppery Chicken Burra – all of which we consumed to the flavor. It has always been a gastronomical gratification at this joint.

Savoring the taste, it was time to relish some greasy delight – Buttery Chicken. And Aslam’s Chicken was the place to be at. Serving the grilled chicken immersed in plentiful butter – is their style to upsurge the delectability quotient. The assisting roomali rotis with the bowlful of fatty happiness intensified the lubricating tenderness of the dish.

Our belly was almost clogged but not our craving.

A short walk around the buzzing Urdu Bazaar Road, sufficed. While making a little corner in the tummy for the ‘dinner’, we spent time in shop-hopping and picked up – Seviyan (the long ones, commonly known as ‘vermicelli’, used for the sweetening ‘meethi kheer’)

Al Jawahar was put to test for making our epicurean finale, a finger licking good experience. We found a well-ventilated corner and ordered Jahangiri Qorma with fresh tandoori khameeri rotis. And the portion was incredible – the chicken was well cooked served in mildly curried gravy. We had a quick bite, intuiting our dessert – Phirni - served in a burnt clay bowl. Topped with grated dryfruits, it was savory with almost a perfect saccharinity.

Close to 3 am, we were at the brink of a glutton overdose. Feeling contented, it was time to head homewards, just to return on another bursting stint of gourmand drive!

Tab tak ke liye,

Khuda Hafiz!