During my recent visit to Punjab Province Restaurant within Hotel Hyatt Regency, Amritsar, I had the pleasure of experiencing a slice of Kerala right in the heart of Amritsar. The occasion was the Malabar Food Festival held at Punjab Province, the multi-cuisine restaurant within Hyatt Regency Amritsar. This festival was a gastronomic delight, curated by Chef Unni from Hyatt Trivandrum, who specially flew in to bring authentic Malabar cuisine to the food aficionados of Amritsar.
The Ambience
As I stepped into Punjab Province, I was warmly greeted by my host Annie . The atmosphere was perfectly blended elegance with comfort. The restaurant's decor, with its subtle lighting and stylish furnishings, created a welcoming environment that set the stage for the culinary adventure that lay ahead. The Malabar Food Festival had transformed the space into a mini Kerala, complete with traditional decor elements that evoked the serene backwaters and lush landscapes of the state. This attention to detail in the ambience enhanced the overall dining experience, making it feel like a true celebration of Malabar's rich culinary heritage.
My Culinary Experience
The highlight of the evening, without a doubt, was the food. Chef Unni's expertise and passion for Malabar cuisine were evident in every dish that was served. The menu was a thoughtful selection of traditional Malabar dishes, each with its unique blend of spices and flavors that are characteristic of the region.
The starters included an array of dishes that immediately transported me to the coastal shores of Kerala. From the succulent lamb marinated in a blend of spices and roasted to perfection, to the fish served on banana leaves and cooked with a delicate blend of spices, each appetizer was a testament to the richness of Malabar cuisine.
The main course was an equally delightful experience, with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The Malabar biryani, with its fragrant rice and tender meat, was a standout dish. The use of authentic spices and the perfect cooking technique resulted in a biryani that was flavorful and comforting. The assortment of curries, including the traditional fish curry made with kokum and coconut milk, offered a perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavors.
The Service
The service at Punjab Province was impeccable as ever. The staff was attentive, friendly, and well-informed, which added to the overall dining experience. They were more than happy to share insights about the dishes, the ingredients used, and the preparation methods, which made the meal not just a feast for the palate but also a learning experience about Malabar cuisine.
My Overall Experience
The Malabar Food Festival at Hyatt Regency Amritsar was an unforgettable experience. It was a celebration of flavors, aromas, and the rich culinary heritage of Kerala. Chef Unni and the team at Punjab Province did an exceptional job of bringing a taste of Malabar to Amritsar, making it a memorable evening for all who attended.
As I left the restaurant, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to have experienced such an exquisite blend of cultures and cuisines. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. The Malabar Food Festival at Hyatt Regency Amritsar was not just a meal; it was a journey—a delicious, aromatic, and utterly delightful journey that I would love to embark on again.
Chef Unni's Malabar Food Festival is here till 17 March 2024 . Cheers 🥂
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