A Taste of Royalty: Begam Brings Mughal Grandeur to Noida
When I first set foot in Begam (Defence Colony) this past February, I immediately knew it was destined to become my go-to spot for all those special occasions when I’m in the mood for some indulgence. Fast forward to July 2024, and I was over the moon to hear that Begam had opened a new location in Noida, just a quick 15-minute drive from my home.
Begam has always been a beloved gem in Delhi, known for its blend of Turkish and Mediterranean flavors and its unapologetically fierce feminist vibe; a celebration of strong, independent women, beautifully expressed through exquisite cuisine. From the fiery Dahi Gulab Kebab to the playfully named ‘Love Your Love’ & ‘The Popcorn Lady’ cocktails, Begam’s menu is as bold and confident as the spirit of girlhood that it celebrates.
The Noida branch is an opulent experience spread across 5000 square feet, radiating pure glamour. From the moment you walk in, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere that makes you feel like royalty. The decor is stunning, the service impeccable, and the dishes? They’re a revelation. Just like the Delhi outlet, the restaurant is a lavish ode to Mughal and Rajasthani royalty, with intricate arches, hanging chandeliers, and rich fabrics creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Begam fuses its historical charm with contemporary luxury, making it a space that’s both familiar and refreshingly new.
Upon entering, we were immediately transported to the Mughal Era, thanks to the intricate artisanal decor. We started our culinary journey with ‘Love Your Love,’ a delightful gin-based cocktail infused with Kaffir Lime and Strawberry chunks. Next, we tried the ‘Spicy Mango Margarita,’ a tantalizing tequila concoction featuring Mango and Jalapeno. Our drinks were perfectly paired with Mushroom Asparagus Dimsums, served with chili oil and a wasabi green chili dip, as well as a classic Arrabiata pasta.
One of the highlights was ‘The Pink Lady Sour,’ a gin-based drink mixed with homemade Maraschino liqueur, adorned with dragonfruit chunks, and garnished with a rose clip that lit up for added drama. We also enjoyed the ‘Popcorn Lady,’ a whimsical drink made with Bacardi white rum infused with salted caramel popcorn, Kahlua, and fresh cream. For our teetotaler readers, the Orange and Kokum cooler is a must-try.