If you’ve been wondering about this hidden cafe with a Parisian vibe and great-looking interiors that has popped up in New Delhi, we have you covered. A favourite of all instagrammers of late, Cafe de Flora is conveniently located right in the midst of the city, at Santushti Shopping Complex, away from the bustle of the city.
Once inside, it is easy to forget the weary city, as you take a walk in its little garden full of winter blooms, waiting for a seat (it’s busy with all of the ‘it’ crowd looking to become a patron!) We reached on a Saturday afternoon, right in time for brunch. And brunch we did.
The entry to the cafe makes for a perfect picture. Image courtesy: Cafe de Flora
Starting off with a couple of mocktails (they have a coffee bar, but no liquor license yet) mine was a peach fizz, while my friend opted for a mojito.
In typical Haussmann style of architecture, the cafe has chevron parquet flooring, delicate pastel green walls greenery and vines hung everywhere, elegant light fixtures, white furniture and an abundance of roses. The pictures on the walls reference the European aesthetics and increase the period feel of the place. French windows on all ends allow the place to be well-lit, almost like a morning room parlour out of a European novel.
To begin, we got a plate of prawns in an italian style tomato-based gravy and a citrusy chicken salad. Both the salad and prawns had generous portions, and was ideal to eat over brunch.
While the pizzas going around looked (and smelled) good, we opted instead for spaghetti in meat sauce, napolitana style. Another generous portion, it had a good amount of meat and sauce ratio to pasta, and made for a solid main course. It was served with a side of garlic bread, making us nostalgic for Big Chill, Delhi’s OG Italian comfort food place! Even though we opted for all-meat options, the menu had an extensive vegetarian menu as well.
An Italian eatery has to stand the test of its tiramisu, and Cafe de Flora didn’t disappoint. Served in a big cup with their initials printed with cocoa on top, the tiramisu was creamy and one could taste the mascarpone with coffee in every bite. Go while the winter is on, it is best when one has some time to idle away (or is stuck between Gurugram and Delhi and its lunchtime!)
Come for the pictures, but stay for the food, the sunshine and last but not the least, the heady smell of coffee with dessert.
