A Journey Through The Heart Of The North – Loya

Rupali Dean

Loya scores tops for its décor that spells ‘evocative of a magnificent past’. The imposing arches, attractive niches, elaborate motifs, stone jalis and more, purified perfectly with ordinary and matured textures and sandy beige milieus add a dash of elegance and complement the majestic inviting entrance leading into a colourful welcome lounge.

The distinct bar courtyard, carved with natural rocks and boulders and highlighted with a magnificent waterfall, is indicative of the natural springs in the Himalayas. The Heart of the North theme runs in Loya’s Cocktail philosophy as well via Concord, Trialling, Genuineness, Devotion, and Essence.

The array of Indian cuisine captures the culinary heritage through the heart of the North. The emphasis in every dish is key ingredients; the dishes provoke the real savour of every expected element. I would definitely recommend to kick off with the Dal Ki Chaat, served with chilli oil and garlic nibs, finished on the table.

The crowning glory is the ‘Dum Nalli’, slow cooked and fairly melts in waves on the tongue and the gol parantha accompanying just adds to the whole experience. The piece de resistance for me is the Kangra khoidiya Gosht a succulent lamb specialty from Himachal made with hand ground charred walnut ink. The dessert menu is a whirlwind of flavours.

I would suggest share your desserts as all are gratifying running the gamut from Kulfi pop to Gud Ke Maan (Chef’s grandmother’s recipe for badaam kheer); as for me, after a delicious meal the Badana Pearls was a fitting and soothing ending. Just when you think Indian cuisine is getting too predictable, Loya’s magnificence takes you on a refreshing journey that is unpredictable and memorable.

And did I mention, Loya has its own music album an artistic creation of Shreyas Patkar, is a feisty rejig of admired folk music from the Indian Subcontinent telling the story of the alluring North. All this with a service that is so earnest and observant, that it can be defined as nothing short of notable.

LOYA is a splendid feast, which clues you on an immersive voyage across the flamboyant north. From the crags of the Himalayas to the level terrain of Punjab, to snow-laden Kashmir, Loya is a union of savour, craving and inspiration, all finishing beautifully on your plate.