An indulgent staycation at The Leela Ambience Gurugram

While most people think of a staycation as an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, you’d be surprised to know that some hidden gems of luxury and opulence are tucked away right in the heart of Delhi NCR! Welcome to The Leela Ambience Gurugram, where staycations are redefined. As soon as you step into the grand lobby, you’re embraced by an atmosphere of luxury that feels as warm as it is elegant. With its palatial architecture, sophisticated interiors, and top-notch service, TLAG promises to make your stay . Picture yourself lounging by a pristine pool, savoring gourmet delights, or indulging in the ultimate pampering session at the spa. Read on as I dive headfirst into a day of lavish indulgence at this urban sanctuary is crafted to make you feel like royalty.

A lavish feast at Diya

Staying true to the motto- ‘the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach’, we begun our staycation with a specially curated feast at Diya, a vibrant Indian restaurant designed by the renowned Hersch Bedner Associates. With its plush seating and vibrant interiors, the restaurant offers an intimate and exclusive dining experience. The Maharaja Room, a private dining space accommodating up to 12 guests, adds to the allure.

Thanks to the culinary genius of their sous chef, Mr. Athar Ali, we embarked on a flavorful journey starting with delicate Indian appetizers like the melt-in-your-mouth Dahi ka Kebab, crispy Amritsari Singhara Fry, and the show-stopping Tandoori Jhinga. These delecate starters were followed by a hearty bowl of Awadhi delight, Murgh Malihabad Korma, paired with the signature Dal Diya and aromatic, spice-laden rice dishes inspired by the flavors of South India. To complete the feast, Taftan—an exquisite bread infused with the rich notes of saffron and cardamom, was the perfect accompaniment.

Diya’s team takes their dessert game very seriously, so be sure to save some room for their special meetha section, which practically begs you to say, “Kuch meetha ho jaye?” Just as we finished their renowned Balai Ka Tukda—a Lucknowi specialty featuring three layers of bread soaked in milk and nuts—we were surprised with the Halwa Bhandar, a decadent platter showcasing three of their signature halwas, alongside a refreshing tricolor kulfi.

Unwinding at The Spa

Don’t you think that sometimes, all we need is a little pampering to escape the stresses of life? Whether it’s a relaxing massage or a beauty treatment, taking time for ourselves can do wonders for our mental and emotional well-being. I recently had my moment of bliss at The Spa offerings at The Leela Ambience Gurugram, and it was pure heaven.

Designed with world-class amenities, the full-service Spa at The Leela Ambience Gurugram, facing the lush Rajokri greens, features 11 elegantly appointed therapy rooms, a sauna, a steam room, and cozy relaxation nooks. Each session begins with a detailed health consultation and skin analysis, allowing therapists to tailor treatments to your unique needs. For the ultimate pampering, I opted for their 4-Hands Signature Therapy. This experience envelops you in bliss as two skilled therapists synchronize their moves, blending pressure and pacing to enhance circulation and induce deep relaxation.

P.S: Don’t forget to sip on their special jasmine tea post your session!

Wine’O clock at Zanotta

After a much-needed nap, it was time for a wine-pairing dinner at The Leela Ambience Gurugram’s italian haven- Zanotta. Designed by the renowned Hersch Bedner Associates, the restaurant, perched at the 6th floor, offers a dazzling view of Gurugram’s cityscape and exudes romance with its elegant ambiance and formal seating for up to 80 guests, including cozy semi-private dining sections.

We had the pleasure of indulging in a meticulously curated three-course menu by the talented Italian chef, Daniele Di Sacco, paired with some of the finest wines that elevated each gourmet delicacy to new heights. The experience began with Burrata Su Caponata Di Verdure, a delightful pairing with the beloved Cinzano Prosecco. The creamy burrata was pure bliss, melting perfectly over a refreshing cold salsa of tomato, basil, eggplant, zucchini, and olives—a true harmony of flavors.

Next came the second course- Minestrone Di Verdure, a hearty vegetable soup paired with Sensi Pinot Grigio. The wine’s nose offered refreshing aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white flowers, with subtle notes of pear and minerals, complementing the soup’s earthy goodness beautifully.

To cleanse the palate, a refreshing Peach Melba sorbet was served before the main course, Penne Alla Norma arrived. This exquisite dish featured penne pasta tossed with fried eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese, perfectly paired with Sensi Collezione Montepulciano D’Abruzzo, enhancing the flavors with every bite. Yet, the highlight was yet to come. We concluded our meal with the iconic Italian Tiramisu—ladyfingers soaked in aromatic coffee, layered with a luscious spread of mascarpone cream, and served elegantly in a cup!

P.S: Mark your calendars as Rubicon Bar & Cigar Lounge, one of Delhi’s finest bars nestled in The Leela Ambience Gurugram will be bringing to you the fusion of creativity and flavour by ZLB23 ; the bar at The Leela Palace Bengaluru recognised as The Best Bar in India at Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 and the only Indian bar in Asia’s Top 50. Join for an exclusive night of Kyoto-inspired cocktails and refined elegance.

When: 27th & 28th August, 2024

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