Delhi’s culinary landscape is a tapestry of flavours that reflects India’s vast diversity. It is rooted in tradition yet always evolving. While the capital has harboured a love affair with South Indian cuisine, the relationship is usually confined to the predictable comfort of crisp dosa and fluffy idlis. Make no mistake, we do love to start our days with them; however, the Southern spice capital has a lot more to offer. Thus, bringing this vast diversity of Southern flavours to Delhi is Nadoo. The restaurant serves a sophisticated bridge to the culinary landscapes of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. A meticulously crafted homage, Nadoo showcases what is beyond Southern Indian cuisine.
Nadoo, New Delhi
The passion child of famed restaurateur Sahil Sambhi and the formidable Chef Shri Bala, Nadoo is a space of professional prowess and personal heart. In fact, the most sought-after Chef Shri Bala has famously appeared alongside Gordon Ramsay in Uncharted. The name “Nadoo” translates to “region” or “land”, drawing inspiration from ancient literature and history. Moreover, for Sambhi, it is a poignant tribute to his mother, while for Bala, a canvas to showcase her decades-long research into the culinary grandeur of the Southern states.
The space itself is as thoughtfully engineered as the menu. The purpose? To invite guests home, rooted and proud in its traditions, yet opening their eyes to possibilities. With warm lighting and meditative terracotta-brown walls, the interiors feature a cave-like ceiling and a copper-clad fountain. To combat the dry and sweltering summers, the restaurant utilises rammed Earth insulation, an eco-conscious technique that keeps the interiors naturally cool. With soothing acoustic jazz in the background, a live kitchen welcomes guests to witness the magic. Moreover, it features two distinct bars, one dedicated to the art of Billi Hu Kaapi and another to the mixology of cocktails.
Food rooted in tradition
The dining experience begins with a hearty welcoming plate of sabudana and rice papads, accompanied by a trio of chutneys and three distinct pickles. While, the menu gracefully balances the Southern Indian authenticity with creativity. From a small plates, the green chili chicken served with fluffy baos to round off the heat. If you are seeking an luxury indulgence, then the curry leaf lobster paired with delicate nool parotta is the way to go. Furthermore,while ordering the mains, spice lovers should gravitate towards the Pineapple Gassi, a comforting coconut base curry with Mangalore Buns which give off a sweet aroma of fermented banana. For meat lovers, the rich Mysuru Lamb Shanks and the Bengaluru Military Donne is a tough competitor.
Desserts and beverages
The beverage menu is certainly a masterclass in regional storytelling. The Kaapi bar celebrates the coffee rituals with various blends, including a robust Coorg coffee. Whereas, the cocktails feature 5-6 creations utilising hyper-local ingredients. A standout is the Malabar Drift, a Southern take on Picante featuring lacto-fermented raw mango brine, red rice, and Kerala’s fiery bird’s eye chili. However, if you are looking for the best of both worlds, Tequila-infused Madras Kaapi with a generous topping of coffee foam is a must-try.
To conclude the meal, Nadoo leans into a sophisticated European-fusion dessert style with Southern India’s classic. The Crispy Pongal Pouch is a bestseller for a reason, a flaky puff pastry stuffed with sweet pongal, dusted with ghee, and edible camphore. Yet, a personal favourite of this author, is their Pol Roti Tress Leches, a soft, melt in the mouth creation that offers layered flavours.
Beyond the plates, the service at Nadoo is nothing short of exception, with the staff being incredibly knowledgable about each ingredient and flavour profile. Don’t be shy to ask for that perfect drink to complement your dishes. Remember, despite being open for only a month, the restaurant is consistently packed so make your reservations ahead of time.
Key Information
📅 Monday to Sunday ( 12 PM to 4 PM, 7 PM to 11 PM)
💸 ₹ 3,000/- for two
🚇 Nearest metro is Greater Kailash (Magenta Line)
📍Ground Floor, Masjid Moth L.S.C, Greater Kailash 2, New Delhi
🎟️ Call +91 9217679217 or +91 9217499217. Reservations are mandatory.
