ATM {A Ta Maison} is perhaps one of the most popular places in the city, given its beautifully-plated food, well mixed cocktails and the whole exclusivity factor. This time, it's back with a brand new menu put together by head chef Ashay Dhopatkar. This season's menu is all about organic and local produce sourced from farmers at Manesar and Chattarpur, and the aim is to ultimately not use any imported ingredients.
Whilst you work on your contacts to book a meal for yourself here, here's giving you a quick look-see into what went down when the LBB team visited the "hidden" restaurant in Sunder Nagar.
Cocktail TalesIf you've been to PCO or ATM before, you know it's criminal to leave without sipping on at least two of their cocktails. We tried a bunch. Of these, we're definitely going to go back for the French 75 {sparkling wine and gin}, Cucumber Smash {gin and cucumber}, Elderflower Spitzer, Berryles and Mango Bellini. Had a long day and looking for something stronger? Try the bourbon-heavy Mint Julep.
You can always have a tete-a-tete with mixologist Rahul Chetri if you're seeking a recommendation.
Getting StartedThe hogging began with the appearance of the chicken liver parfait; a perfectly rectangular liver pate served with a side of salad with pickles and crouton-like bread. This followed by a refreshing chilled pea and mint soup, cauliflower Bavaroise {this one's super foamy and light; perfect for the summer}, Panned Goat Cheese with beetroot and port puree, and, one of our personal favourites, the Petite Sandwich of Goat's Cheese Mousseline with beetroot dust and apple cinnamon compote.
The ShowstoppersWe were pretty full after the appetisers, but only because we ate so many. The portions otherwise are pretty small, ideal as a means to pave the way for the main course {we'd suggest keeping the starters vegetarian heavy and the main course meaty}. Highlights include the Red Snapper Brandade with Coleman's Veloute and slow cooked pork, Komatsuna Wrapped Chicken Riviera with duck fat roasties {so surprisingly meaty and flavourful, this one} and the tenderloin {small chunks of tenderloin meat with aerated pomme puree, sauted kale and white truffle}.
Vegetarians can opt for the truffled cauliflower risotto with candied walnuts and pistachio crumbs.
Happy EndingsWe know you guys have a separate stomach for dessert,2 so make sure you order some even if you're feeling a little puffed up. We were lucky to bump into Patisserie Royale's chef, Neha Lakhani here who fed us a refreshingly light Mango Millefeuille but if you're more of a chocolate person, stick to ATM's Rocher of Bitter Chocolate with salted caramel and roasted hazelnuts- a classic choice.
#LBBTipKeep an eye out for ATM's hot chocolate and other desserts made using Royce' chocolates. And just in case you're looking for a new hairdo or a blow-dry, get there sooner and check into their salon on the terrace {yes, you can pre-game with some cocktails as your stylist works on your tresses}.
Where: 21, Sunder Nagar Market
Nearest Metro Station: Pragati Maidan
Contact: +91 9821868288
Price: INR 3,000 for two {approx.}
Timings: 11am - 1am
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All images courtesy: Sarang Gupta