The pioneering brand from ITC’s signature culinary repertoire that’s taken Chennai by storm, opened at ITC Royal BengalKolkata on Tuesday.
Avartana (meaning mysticism, rhythm and magic in Sanskrit) has redefined food from the southern Indian peninsula, and would easily make waves in Kolkata, as well, vouches Gaurav Soneja, general manager, ITC Royal Bengal. “Synonymous with outstanding food and beverage offerings, ITC Hotels is delighted to bring Avartana to Kolkata. A modernist interpretation of an authentic Indian cuisine, this one-of-a-kind redefined culinary experience is a magical alternative to southern Indian culinary mosaics. Here the edible canvas of illusion is featured in surprising avatars created from its core philosophy,” says Soneja.
The iconic brand has set new benchmarks since it forayed into the Tamil Nadu capital, opening in the ITC Grand Chola in 2017. The celebrated restaurant features in Asia’s 100 Best Restaurants 2021-22. In the Kolkata star property, Avartana is open from 7pm to 11pm for dinner every day. For reservations, one can call 033 44464646.
Like the name suggests, the dishes at the 62-cover Avartana are an expression of magical art, each featuring unique modernist iterations while firmly being rooted to traditional flavours and ingredients of the Southern peninsula. “ITC Hotels’ experienced and talented team mindfully selects the choicest of fresh ingredients and seasonal produce, to craft inventive recipes that blend flavours from across the southern peninsula with techniques from across the globe,” an ITC Royal Bengal spokesperson explains. “Avartana here has one of the largest kitchens in India for a specialty restaurant,” she adds.
Indeed, the robust flavours of the signature dishes, spread across a variety of menus, have a strong 21st century haute cuisine connection. You know instantly, as you taste each of these specially curated menus – Maya, Bela, Anika, Tara and Jiia. (No a la carte menu here, but the above named experiences would have to want to return with friends and family). The five menus, four of which have different vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and the fifth is a premium seafood experience, are sure to bowl you over.
“This is the finest fine-dining experience,” you mutter to yourself, as you go through the aesthetically heightened experience inside the restaurant themed on the banana leaf. Each dish is a sight to behold, and relish. Served intensely thought-out platter, each item stands out and it’s difficult to pick out one from the other. But do try the lamb brain fritter, tossed with freshly ground black pepper, brown butter, scallion and topped with semolina (rava dosa) and dusted with beetroot powder. Or if you are a vegetarian, a must-have is the spiced aubergine – wrapped in edible charred eggplant sheet, spiced aubergine and sago are served with some tempered coconut and puffed rice crispies. You are supposed to mix and savour it.
Prelude this with an alluring selection of mocktails and cocktails infused with Indian spices in fresh flavours and unique tastes that famously pair with each of the menus. Do go for the Pickle Jar, made of raw mangoes and coriander with red chilli (served in a pickle jar).
These and much, much more. The gastronomic journey of progressive South Indian delight starts from the crockery and cutlery, from the rustic earthenware in folksy shades, the beautiful stone containers, inspired by the Mahabalipuram carvings and the exquisite bamboo holders et al, complementing the ornate steel cutlery and contemporary glassware.
There are two private dining sections as well, accommodating as many as 10 guests, with a choice of a bespoke meal that enhances the exclusive experience.
Pocket pinch: Maya (7 courses) Rs 2,250-plus;
Bela (9 courses) Rs 2,750-plus;
Jia (11 courses) Rs 3,250-plus;
Anika (13 courses) Rs 3,750-plus; and
Tara (13 courses) Rs 4,750-plus