Machan — Restaurant in New Delhi

Ambience: The Taj Mahal’s iconic 24-hour restaurant, Machan, sits at the lobby level and is quaintly themed on Indian wildlife. A machan, incidentally, is a temporary structure built atop a tree in a jungle to spot game. The restaurant is illustrated with images of game hunting, the Bengal tiger and other varieties of India fauna and flora.

Given its name, the interiors come as no surprise. Recreating the experience of a forest, inspired both by India and the world, the restaurant focuses on details like the painted walls masking a tiger, the erect pillars made of bamboo, crafted terracotta masks made by local artisans, and the colour coordinated forest green uniform of the staff.

What we ate for breakfast: From the grand Indian 'Nashta', we had the Chole bhatura, Idli sambhar podi chutney, Masala dosa sambhar coriander chutney.

From the Machan Breakfast Trails, we ordered the 'from the south of India and the Capital's Medley. What stood out from the rest was the Aloo Paratha. Not only was it cooked to perfection but it melted in my mouth in an instant. To wash it down, I had freshly squeezed watermelon juice and a latte.

From the Cereals, fruits and Yoghurt section, we had the Handcrafted muesli, a mixed bowl of seasonal fruits and mango yoghurt.

When it came to pancakes, I was blown away by the taste of Vegan pancakes that was served with fresh fruits and berries.

What we ate for dinner: With flavours both old and new on board, the menu celebrates the spirit of the jungle. Delving into ‘pre hunt’, we started off with Madras mulligatawny soup, Phu Chi Fa Bean soup, Titicaca Greens.

Moving on to the bonfire section, we were treated to what one would often find on a wildlife safari, Forest rocks, Anardana Paneer Tikka and Subz Shikampuri.We ordered the Tuscany and Margherita pizza along with the legendary Lacandon sandwich.

From the open fire copper pots, we ordered the Paneer Makhani, Shahi Paneer and chef's special Papad ki Sabzi (served with Gatte and wholegrain rotis) along with masala kulche and butter rotis. Risotto Sapore Della Foresta was quick to steal the limelight. Carnaroli rice is cooked with red wine, radicchio, asparagus and crispy vegetables including an instant food coma.

For desserts, we had special Tiramisu and ice cream sundae.

Staff: The team outshines the well thought out concept of the restaurant, with quirky dishes and even quirkier names.

Cost: INR 3,000-4,000 for two.

Bottom line: HIGHLY...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Machan, and I can confidently say that it was an exceptional culinary experience. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the ambiance, service, and, most importantly, the food.

Ambiance: Machan boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between modern elegance and comfort. The soft lighting, tasteful decor, and well-spaced tables create an intimate setting that's perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. Whether you're seated indoors or on the charming outdoor patio, you'll feel relaxed and at ease.

Service: The service at Machan is top-notch. The staff is incredibly attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about the menu. They were more than happy to provide recommendations and answer any questions about the dishes. The timing of each course was impeccable, ensuring a leisurely dining experience without feeling rushed.

Cuisine: Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the food. Machan offers a diverse menu that caters to various palates. From the appetizers to the desserts, each dish is a work of art. The flavors are inventive and bold, showcasing a blend of local and international influences. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite.

I started with the Appetizer, which was a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. For the main course, I opted for the [Main Course Name], and it exceeded all expectations. The presentation was impeccable, and the taste was nothing short of spectacular. The portion sizes were just right, leaving me comfortably satisfied.

To complete the experience, I indulged in a decadent Dessert. It was the perfect sweet ending to an already unforgettable meal.

Price: While Machan offers a fine dining experience, the prices are reasonable considering the quality of food, service, and ambiance. It's certainly a place worth splurging on for a special occasion, but you'll also find options that won't break the bank.

In conclusion, Machan is a culinary gem in the heart of the city. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking for an exceptional dining experience, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this restaurant a try. I can't wait to return and explore more of their menu. It's no surprise that it has become one of my new favorite...

Walking into Machaan at Taj is not just stepping into a fine-dining restaurant — it’s stepping into a philosophy of what hospitality in India can truly be.

From the very first moment, you feel that this is not about pomp or show, but about something far deeper — a rooted, homely luxury. It feels like ghee poured with love, like food cooked with a mother’s affection.

Unlike other hotels that force you to fit into a polished box, here there is no pressure to speak with an accent, no urge to imitate someone else’s culture. You are free to be yourself — speak in Hindi or any language really - order what your heart desires, and still feel like royalty. And yet, everything is polished, refined, world-class.

The interiors carry the soul of Delhi’s culture, not borrowed foreign grandeur. The luxury here is not the “maharaja on an elephant” kind, but the modern-day maharaja who arrives in a taxi and is celebrated just the same.

There is no rigidity of the menu. You can ask for a small starter platter, and they will craft it specially for you. You can mention a homely dish — even something as simple as bhindi or bharta — and they will gladly prepare it. Their message is clear: they are here to serve you happiness, not just meals.

And it’s not just what they serve, it’s how they serve it — with pyar. Something so rare today.

Machaan is not about dazzle; it’s about affection turned into service. It’s simple, sober, luxurious — the same way Ratan Tata himself dreamt of building hotels: not just five stars, but hotels built on love that are five stars.

That’s what you pay for here — not just a meal, but the experience of being...