Uncle's Delhi — Restaurant in New Delhi

There are few things I enjoy more than stumbling upon a new culinary gem in Delhi, a city whose gastronomic landscape is as dynamic as its history. My recent excursion led me to Uncle's, nestled in the heart of Basant Lok, Vasant Vihar – a locale that, for me, has always been a fascinating crucible where disparate cultures meet and stories, both old and new, converge.

Now, let's be clear, this isn't just any new eatery. Uncle's, I discovered, is a brainchild of Hungry & Thirsty Hospitality, a brand that, in its own words, "celebrates the essence of Indian warmth and tradition." And indeed, they seem to have quite the portfolio, from the "bold flavors and unapologetic energy" of Red to the "chic flair" of Miss Pinto, and even QSR ventures like Sassy Begum. But Uncle's, as Anupam Dutta, the founder, eloquently put it, is about "connection and nostalgia," a space that feels less like a restaurant and more like – well, your uncle's home.

Stepping into Uncle's, designed by 'The Brewhouse & Décor India,' one is immediately struck by its unassuming charm. The all-glass windows, adorned with quirky artwork, manage to be both minimalist and vibrant, allowing the city's pulse to remain just outside, while inside, a tranquil haven awaits. It's a space that comfortably accommodates around 52 souls, and the decor – replete with eccentric photographs and the kind of timeless music that wraps around you like a warm embrace – instantly fosters a sense of ease. It's the kind of place where conversations flow as freely as the drinks, and memories, both recent and distant, find a comfortable perch.

But what truly distinguishes Uncle's in Delhi’s ever-burgeoning café scene, which, by the way, is not just surviving but thriving, isn't just the delightful ambiance or even the complimentary Uncle Chips chaat (a clever nod to nostalgia, that). No, it's the sheer inventiveness of their food menu.

Seated in a cozy corner, a special eight-course menu was presented, promising a journey of flavors. I began, as any civilized person should, with a cocktail. Their signature Desi Andaz, a concoction of Indian Scotch and potli masala, was a delightful start, a subtle rebellion against the usual. What followed was an extravagant parade of dishes, each pushing the boundaries of culinary imagination.

Among the many highlights, a few truly stood out. The Tangy Noodle Salad, with its crispy noodles, fresh seasonal vegetables, and a vibrant tamarind dressing, was a symphony of textures and tastes. Then there was the rather whimsical Cheese - Cherry - Pineapple Cigar, a surprising combination that somehow worked, defying conventional wisdom. The Naanwich, a hearty creation of chunky soya rolled in sourdough naan with whipped ricotta and pickles, was a revelation – a testament to how humble ingredients can be elevated to something truly special. And for dessert, the Chipwich, a double chocolate chip cookie embracing Wayanad vanilla and Pondicherry chocolate chip ice cream, was pure, unadulterated bliss, a sweet memory in the making.

All in all, my time at Uncle's was, as they say, unforgettable. It's a place that transcends the mere act of dining, transforming it into an experience of comfort, connection, and culinary delight. Whether you're seeking solace from the city's ceaseless hum, a relaxed setting for a reunion with old friends, or an intimate spot for that special someone, Uncle's, I assure you, will welcome you with open arms and a menu that's anything but ordinary.

Have you discovered any hidden gems in Delhi's cafe...

Uncle’s is a lovely place to chitter with your friends, have a relaxing eve with wonderful refreshing drinks. The entire food menu is revolving around the concept of Chakna, the food that goes well with drinks, such an uncle concept, love it. They serve a complimentary chaat made from uncle chips, finely chopped tomato and onion which gives you a chatpata twist to go along with your glasses of fun.

The drinks we tried were the secret sharbat with pink samsara gin as base garnished with dried rose petals surely a recommend one of the menu if you like a hard drink, the froth on above acts as a sweetener balancing your sip. The recommended one from my side has to be the uncles highball a gin based cocktail on the sweeter side comes with the glass spiced from the outside giving you the choice to sip a spicy sip or enjoy your sweet drink. The draft beer is a must as starters I mean come on a cold beer has to be a perfect start. We did try the Desi Andaz with Jim Beam base and a more cinnamon flavour a wonderful drink that goes wonderfully well with smokes.

For food we had the hatke chiken tikka and hide and seekh platter, although the quality of food was above average but the quantity took a hit that could improve.

They have an indoor sitting with a fooseball table, a TV screen that broadcasts matches, a clean and maintained washroom, an outside seating with park facing windows and smoke friendly environment where we had a great time.

Overall if you consider the price paid it’s an overall good package. Would surely go again. Oh another hack, if you repeat the drinks the prices come down that’s why they have 3 prices...

We went there just to have a bite of a snack, but ended up ordering one after the other. The food was delicious, Indian but very different from what you will find in a regular Indian Restaurants. The ambience was nice, and the place was aesthetically pleasing. The service was top-notch with someone available to attend to you just by your gaze. Aftrr the onky snack we wanted to have woth our drink, we liked it so much that we wanted to order from the main course too. Since we were not sure what to order, the staff came to rescue and suggested us based on our taste. We had Dosa for the snacks (apart from Uncle Chips chakna that they give as complimentary), pork for the main course. We were full by then, but couldn't stop ourselves from ordering the pudding. I would love to be their repeat customer and will visit then the next time I...