Diva at Italian Institute of Culture — Restaurant in New Delhi

I’ve taken out some time to write a review for the place that I’ve adored for the years that I stayed in New Delhi.

Diva Cafe introduced me to Real Italian Food around 5 years ago when I joined an Italian class at IIC.

Since then I developed some passion for Italian cuisine and further I had a reason to learn how to cook too.

And my love for the food landed me in Italy.

This place was my first choice every time I was in South Delhi, willing to take my friends out for lunch, dinner or just for a Hot Chocolate or a Tiramisù on a regular day.

Their Tiramisù was and still is my personal favourite.

Chef Ritu Dalmia set some really high standard for other Italian Restaurants in New Delhi. That’s what makes it a ‘Diva’. Literally that’s what makes it stand out.

This place is super clam, relaxing, although the interior is beautiful no doubt, but I preferred to sit outside.

The staff is super professional at the same time very kind.

Overall the whole experience is...

We had lunch outside at this small cafe restaurant at the Italian Embassy through our friend in Delhi who is a member there. We ordered Orange and Fennel Salad with Almond slivers and Thyme, Fresh Tagliolini pasta tossed with Prawn, Calamari and Zucchini and Chicken slow cooked with Marjoram, fresh Orange Juice, Garlic and White Wine, served with Greens and Roasted Potatoes. We also paired it with italian red wine by glass. Everything was nice and fresh and very tasty. We finished strong with coffee and tiramisu which was very indulging. Unfortunately it was just the two of us otherwise we would have tried their pizzas which looked amazing :)

I was very surprised to see some really authentic Italian dishes on the menu like bucatini cacio e pepe which I have only seen in Italy and not in Italian restaurants in India so was...

Divas has always been one of my favorite restaurants and I was really excited about trying out the Italian Institute of Culture branch. While the food was good, the service was terrible. Despite the place not being packed, it took more than 20 mins to even get a menu and more than 45 mins to get a glass of water. Almost 30 mins after placing the order, we were told the ingredients weren't available and we'd have to order something else. Since this particular outlet is for members only, it seemed like the staff weren't interested in catering to guests who weren't members. Even though the pasta was great, i wouldn't...