Delhi’s culinary scene always has something new brewing. This month all eyes are on The Lodhi, New Delhi, with their upcoming exclusive pop-up with Goa’s Cavatina, a hidden gem for contemporary Goan food. The pop up will highlight Goa’s local cuisine refashioned for the modern palate, with hints of its Portuguese influence.
The exclusive pop-up with a sit-down set menu is on for the rest of the month, starting tomorrow at The Lodhi, by one of India’s most celebrated restaurants, Cavatina. The restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Avinash Martins who has been awarded as one of ‘India’s Top 30 Chefs’ in 2022 by Culinary Culture. He has also worked with Michelin Star chefs across the globe.
At Cavatina, he recreates local flavours in a never-before way through his inventive approach that balances contemporary sensibilities and traditional roots. With his approach, Chef Martins offers a refreshing take on age-old recipes using locally sourced ingredients. Speaking about the restaurant Chef Martins said, ” The story of Cavatina is about the land. The land summarizes its people, its culture and its heritage. The menu is a story that celebrates farmers, toddy tappers, fishermen, stone carvers, basket weavers and potters. The menu is also seasonal. While the ethos of the cuisine is very much local, the flair is global!”
Photo Courtesy: The Lodhi
With his Indo-Portuguese heritage, the idea developed with his desire to keep Goan cuisine intact. Striking the right balance between contemporary sensibilities and traditional roots, Chef Martins offers a refreshing take on age-old recipes.
“The cuisine of Goa is a reflection of its diverse heritage and history. It has been influenced by four hundred years of Portuguese rule and also by the varied other cultures that it came into contact with over the centuries: Arab, French, Malabar, Malaysian. No other cuisine in India can claim such contrasting influences. This unique amalgamation of native and global traditions makes Goa a jewel for the gastronomic traveller,” adds the Chef.
Photo Courtesy: The LodhiPhoto Courtesy: The LodhiPhoto Courtesy: The Lodhi
What to expect at the pop-up
Chef Martins has curated an exquisite Tapas menu as well as a seven-course culinary journeythat transports diners to Goa. The signature menu boasts of a Goan feast that includes the Pao De Queso (cheese stuffed pao), Mushroom Bisque, Tender Coconut & Water Chestnut Crudo, and Dehydrated Koyloleo Cannoli with Veg Caldin. And for those who love seafood, the Seafood Bisque, Prawn & Water Chestnut Crudo, and Squid Caldeirada, remain a must-try!
For the main course, you can expect to find Goan special dishes like Banana Leaf Wrapped Seabass, Stuffed Chicken Roulade, Duck Cabidel, Cashew Jalapeño Koji Mushroom Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice, Smoked Eggplant Mousse with Mango Pickle Aioli, amongst others. And finally, end on a sweet note as you relish Cashew Chikki Topped with Vanilla Crème.
The bread course is one of Chef Martin’s favourites. “The whole menu is experience and story-based. The bread course definitely is one of my favourites as it symbolises the origin of the Paõ and how it has a connection with every Goan. We serve Kalchi Kodi(leftover curry from last night) which again, for any Goan, is a zero waste and sustainable practice,” says the Chef.
Pop-up Venue: Elan, The Lodhi, New Delhi
Pop-up Dates: 15th to 23rd July 2022 (Lunch and Dinner)
