Shikar

Nestled within the plush interiors of Maxwell Reserve, Chef Jolly’s Shikar offers a contemporary take on Indian cuisine that retains all its comforting charm. The spices here carry a particular oomph without masking the natural taste of the produce. The purple aubergine ghee roast, for instance, balances the sweetness of the eggplant with coriander and ginger. While not every dish is a hit, the lamb shoulder sukka is exceptionally tender and falls right off the bone, while the venison kebab is well-seasoned with a mix of chilli and garlic. Then there is the undeniable shikari daal, slow-cooked for 48 hours and finished with a dollop of cream. The thick, full-bodied dish is a standout, especially when paired with butter naan. Combined with attentive service and cocktail recommendations from the Polo Club, the experience feels like an elegant blast from the past—fit for royalty yet surprisingly free from pretension.