Daniel's Oriental Kitchen — Restaurant in Jaipur Municipal Corporation

Living outside Jaipur, one had heard fleeting stories of Chef Daniel. To Anuja and I however, he had acquired the status of an urban legend. Someone who had pioneered and led The Dragon House at the Radisson City Centre to cult stature. When he moved on from said establishment, the city waited with baited breath for his next move.

This, I am pleased to share, has manifested in the quaint and utterly delightful Daniel’s Oriental Kitchen. Tucked into the elevation of the Gopalbari area, this modest little eatery invites with its perfect blend of classic Oriental atmosphere and personable vibe. Only last evening we took our daughter Krisha for dinner; the fact that I’m finding writing this review as much of a compulsion as we found the food delectable, is itself proof of the pudding!

Red, black, gold with accents of white permeate the visual senses as the decor is replete with traditional oriental motifs, pieces of art. The space isn’t large, something I consider a significant plus – it lends to the atmosphere of intimacy. A large window on the road-side provides a wonderful glimpse of the road with cars passing, more importantly, of the lush foliage from the bungalows across the street. The opposite side also has a similar-sized glass section, a peek into the kitchen, where Daniel is himself, along with a chosen few, meticulously at work, a master in his studio of the culinary arts! There’s something indefinable and entirely magical and authentic about chef-owned restaurants that can’t possibly be infused in a ‘commercial’ setup.

We perused the menus and although I’d had a cursory look at home itself and promptly shut the app the moment the Kung Pao Chicken had been spotted (a long-term-firm favourite); naturally we were curious to see the rest of the offerings to order a selection. At this point we also realized one of Daniel’s Kitchen’s other special highlights – the waiting staff and their unobtrusive yet exceptionally attentive service. The irony across our country is usually an over-supply of servers and the tragic irony that despite the copious numbers, deplorable service. It is the diametric opposite here, reminding one of so many excellent eateries abroad. Just two servers, old-timers, staunchly loyal to Chef, deeply informed of the offerings.

Order placed, we got busy with Krisha and her colouring and activity books and before we realized, the staple dimsum-box had landed at our table. The chicken dimsums were perfection – thin outer layer, moist juicy filling, mildly spiced and packed full of flavor, even the greens easily distinguishable to sight and palette! Then the main event – Hakka Noodles, Steamed Rice, with Kung Pao Chicken and Wasabi Prawns. I’m going to place a strict limit on myself here else you’ll have a thesis to read. Suffice to say that in a long, long time, I have not sampled such a delectable Kung Pao. And the Wasabi Prawns is a triumph of flavor, texture, contrasts and fine balance.

During the meal itself, the service stayed vigilant, on point, with both gents refreshing drinks at precisely the right times, chatting with our daughter and being rather sweet, qualities they apparently extended to each diner in the small yet packed restaurant.

I felt a degree of culinary nirvana that had eluded me for a while and in my oriental-haze, I asked for Chef so we could thank him in-person. Daniel emerged from his domain and presented as a most humble, modest but incredibly passionate individual; most refreshing again – I don’t think I need to underscore how diva-esque chefs can be!

With the promise of Jumbo Prawns the next time and a genuine urge to immediately schedule the next meal, we exited Daniel’s Kitchen. I suppose one can get great food at many places. But an ambiance that combines a bygone era with a very mountain-like feel, the warmth of innately decent servers, and a chef who worships his work and is on a constant quest to evolve and enthral; Daniel’s is a hidden gem. Well done...

This restaurant earned 5 stars in every aspect. Presentation of the venue is immaculate. Everything is set out and prepared like a 5 star hotel. The vibe is calm and quiet. Very tastefully decorated. High quality furnitures and table settings.

Very professional mannered, Staff are ready and before you ask for anything they are waiting to offer it. All staff are calm and carrying out their work with pride and focus.

I ordered the Thai Green curry, steamed rice and fried ice cream. The curry was perfection, all the specific ingredients were there, cooked just right and flavours were balanced and spice was exactly right. Steamed rice was cooked perfect. as I went to ask about dessert, the menu was offered opened at the dessert page. It’s common for a fried Ice cream dish to be over frozen and the ice cream is hard Ice in the centre, but this one was perfectly creamy right through.

Each dish was served to me, facing the right direction, sooner then you would expect.

Overall the whole experience couldn’t have been...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Daniel’s Oriental Kitchen, and I must say it was an outstanding experience! From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel welcomed and comfortable. The service was excellent throughout the meal, and I never had to wait long for anything. The food was the real highlight of the visit. Every dish that I tried was prepared to perfection, and the flavours were just incredible. The fried rice and fried ice cream were especially delicious, and I highly recommend them to anyone visiting the restaurant. These dishes are a must-try and were some of the best I have ever had! Overall, I had a fantastic time at Daniels. The atmosphere was cozy and relaxing, and the quality of the food was top-notch. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an excellent dining experience with great food, service, and ambiance. Thank you to the staff and chefs for making my visit memorable and enjoyable! Best...