I'm rating 5 star because of the novelty of this experience in Pune, where there's no other place offering a tasting menu and a personalized experience like this. That itself brings this place to a new standard of fine-dine. Three of us visited for dinner, and enjoyed a 6 course menu, with the dishes being an introductory tart and aloo tikki, a wonderful plum and kaffir lime soup, a kale and barley salad with the kale being paper crispy, a dumpling of peas or prawn with coriander sauce, a main of lamb patty and a lichee/rambutan with ice powder palate cleanser, and finally a fantastic pumpkin puree dessert which was the best dish and a fitting finale.
Ashutosh the friendly affable bearer of each course explains each dish in detail, and this experience really is in a very personalized setting, with yours being the only dining party. Some of the dishes were better in presentation than taste (lamb patty with okra in particular did not land for me including its theme of rainy childhood memories), but the novelty of this experience really makes up for any dishes you find not upto the 'fine dine' experience this is. Chef Amit is a well travelled and michelin star restaurant experienced chef, and its great he has thought of this concept in Pune!
Not to take anything away from thee experience, my personal constructive feedback to them would be to reduce the white lights (I know they want to spotlight the food but it takes away the cozyness of the setting) , and have slightly softer lighting, and have a smaller table, (maybe a round one) in case the dining party is just 2 or 3, so one person isnt sitting far away from the others.. The music is a bit repetetive and does not add anything to the experience. The lack of wine pairing is also something we missed, and I believe they will be starting that soon once they get the license.
They can accomodate upto 14 at a time in each of the two rooms they have for this dining experience, so its recommended for a family setting.
All in all we were glad we went because it was a chance to enjoy something new in Pune in terms of dining. So I would...
Read moreAragma, nestled in the heart of Pune, is a culinary gem that beckons connoisseurs of fine dining and lovers of authentic, flavourful cuisine.
The experience begins with a menu adorned with your name, a subtle yet charming detail that instantly makes you feel like an honoured guest. The welcoming drink further enhances this feeling, as the attentive and skilled team ensures you are comfortably settled at your table.
The journey begins with a refreshing welcome drink, a delightful prelude to the culinary adventure that awaits. Aragma prides itself on using natural ingredients, and this commitment is evident in every dish.
The Raw Red Snapper with Green Tomato Sausage is a revelation. The freshness of the snapper combined with the zesty notes of the green tomato sausage creates a symphony of flavours that dance on the palate. It's a dish that effortlessly balances innovation with simplicity.
The Cauliflower Raisins, a unique addition to the meal, showcase the chef's creativity. The unexpected combination of cauliflower and raisins is a delightful surprise, demonstrating Aragma's commitment to pushing culinary boundaries. The Chicken with Stoneflower elevates the dining experience to new heights. The incorporation of pearl millet in the dish is a subtle nod to the rich tapestry of Indian culinary heritage, expertly woven into a modern context.
The finale of the culinary symphony is the Coriander with Gondhoraj Lemon, a masterpiece dessert that leaves a lasting impression. The infusion of gondhoraj lemon with coriander is a stroke of genius, offering a refreshing and palate-cleansing conclusion to the meal. The use of mango ginger adds a touch of complexity, tying together the entire dining experience with finesse.
In summary, Aragma is more than a restaurant; it's an exploration of culinary artistry and a celebration of India's diverse food culture. The chef's meticulous attention to detail, commitment to natural ingredients, and inventive combinations make Aragma a must-visit for those seeking a gastronomic journey that seamlessly blends tradition...
Read moreCulinary Revelation in Pune
Indulging in a seven-course dining extravaganza in the heart of Pune was an experience beyond words. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere exuded a captivating charm that set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The meticulous attention to detail was apparent as each dish unfolded before me, accompanied by explanations that ignited my culinary curiosity.
The symphony of flavors commenced with the plum and Kaffir lime infusion of the first course, a harmonious blend that hinted at the culinary journey ahead. The second course showcased prawns and coriander, a tantalizing marriage of succulent seafood and aromatic herbaceous notes that danced on my palate.
The third course, a celebration of barley and kale, was a revelation. The kale, artfully prepared to maintain its crunch, burst forth with flavors that spoke of careful craftsmanship. The fourth course, featuring lamb and apricot, defied description, transcending my taste buds to a realm of culinary delight I had never encountered before.
Just when I thought the experience couldn't be more divine, the fifth course arrived – a lychee and banana fusion with the refreshing touch of rambutan, serving as a delightful palate cleanser. The sixth course was a masterful rendition of pumpkin and spices, akin to savoring a Tiramisu with a surprising crunch twist. The interplay of textures and flavors was nothing short of a gustatory revelation.
My heartfelt gratitude goes to the entire team for orchestrating this culinary masterpiece. As the evening concluded, my stomach was contently full, and my senses were left in awe. The encounter left me questioning whether I had truly understood the essence of food until that moment. This dining experience wasn't just a meal; it was an awakening, a journey that redefined my relationship with flavors...
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