Gaggan, Asia’s No. 1 restaurant, and INJA, the Indian-Japanese fusion restaurant in Delhi, created culinary magic for the lucky 60 who managed to get a seat for this very unique pop-up. The unapologetic Gaggan and the coy Adwait showcased their food beautifully.

A big shout-out to Panchali, who was the warmest host, this pop-up would have been incomplete without her hospitality.

Cocktails by INJA were a conversation starter, and then it was the food that did all the talking, each dish created while keeping the Indian flavours intact.

The yogurt explosion had a burst of flavours as it went from our palm to our mouth. I really enjoyed the fact that I could use my hands to enjoy my food I am a big believer that your hands add flavour to the food.

Frankly, I was very apprehensive about the Charcoal 65 since I live in the city that invented the Chicken 65, but OMG, this one was even better than the original in terms of flavours! The Paturi was another favourite of mine, with minimal spices, the fresh fish and cooking techniques elevated the flavours beautifully. The claypot rice was, for me, the perfect finish to the main course, I loved the subtle flavours and the socarrat, and if I were at home, I would have scraped it out till the claypot cried!

And like every meal that ends on a sweet note, this one did too. Between the mochi and the monaka, I personally liked the mochi  and the finish was truly Gaggan style: “lick it up,” and we all did!