Zoom Down To NH 44 For Meals From Across India

NH44’s menu covers the best of regional cuisines from every place that falls on the longest highway of India by the same name, running all the way from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.

Paneer Lavang Latta, Palak Kofta, Maharaja Patiala Sword Kebab

Chilli Guava Mocktail

The interiors are colourful, inspired by dhabas and truck art that are so reminiscent of Indian highways. What I really liked was that unlike most of the restaurants in the area, NH44 is big on space and privacy. There is also a separate seating area for larger gatherings. The brick walls are super edgy and the coloured glass windows filter and beautify the natural light.

Every region has a separate category on the menu, with the choicest of dishes from these states. From Kashmiri kehwa to rasam, vada pav, idli and dosa to butter chicken and nihari, it’s the best of India under one roof.

The first to come to our table was the vegetarian tandoori platter, which had everything us north Indians love. My absolute favourites were the spinach kebabs and stuffed tandoori potato. Their vada pav had a touch of south India, thanks to the generous sprinkle of grated coconut, and the stuffing of the vada was very similar to a masala dosa stuffing.

Non-vegetarians, do not miss the Maharaja Patiala Sword Kebab that comes flaming hot; literally! If that isn’t spicy enough for you, try out their signature Chilli Guava mocktail, a spicy and tangy summer slushy served in a chilli-rimmed margarita glass with fresh green chillies and coriander.

On to the standard south Indian food: The sambhar and chutneys were perfect, but the idlis were a little dry for me. Their crispy dosa is a must try, though.

While their classics like dal makhni and butter chicken are enough to blow your mind, I will highly recommend Paneer Lavang Latta; cottage cheese stuffed with dry fruits served with a brilliant tomato gravy. The Palak Kofta stuffed with mushroom and served in a rich, creamy, tomato gravy with a strong kick of garlic came a close second. Non vegetarians can count on the smashing Nihari with Lachha Parantha that’ll make you forget all of your life’s problems; I’m taking my friend’s word for it.

DO NOT leave without trying out the Beetroot Halwa. Made with grated beetroot, milk and absolutely no cream, it tastes very much like gajar ka halwa, only healthier. Gil-E-Bahisht, their signature dessert, is a cool summer-friendly dessert made with phirni and kalakand. However, they were a little too sweet for my taste.

This post first appeared on Sequins and Sangria here.