As part of its landmark 60th anniversary celebrations, The Oberoi, New Delhi, has unveiled an exclusive culinary experience titled “Ode to the Icon – A Tribute Menu” at its Indian restaurant, Dhilli. Curated by globally renowned Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia MBE, the menu pays homage to the hotel’s rich dining legacy.
A Culinary Homecoming for Chef Vineet Bhatia
The menu is poignant for chef Bhatia, who began his culinary journey at The Oberoi, New Delhi in the late 1980s. Revisiting his formative years, he reimagines dishes inspired by the hotel’s iconic former restaurants — from the beloved Café Espresso to Palms and Kandahar. Highlights include ‘La Rochelle’ Sea Bass with mango-coconut curry, Palm’s Crisp Chicken with daal makhni, and an indulgent Gulab Jamun Misu, nodding to nostalgic coffee breaks at Palms. Mentored by Bhatia and helmed by sous chef Dibyendu Roy, the restaurant captures the flavours of iconic neighbourhoods from Chandni Chowk to CR Park.
“Life, in its beautiful unpredictability, has gifted me this unimaginable opportunity to honour 60 years of The Oberoi, New Delhi,” said chef Bhatia. “This menu is a celebration of memories, flavours, and timeless hospitality.” Located on the site once occupied by Café Espresso—the capital’s first 24-hour coffee shop—Dhilli today is a contemporary celebration of Delhi’s diverse culinary landscape. Palms was known for its honest, soul food, served with no frills and lots of flavour. On the lower lobby level, Kandahar specialised in North Indian and Frontier home-style food accompanied by live ghazals. Chinese food and rooftop views could be enjoyed from Taipan, while fine French cuisine and live jazz were a fashionable choice at La Rochelle – where 360o now is.
A Year of Legacy, Luxury, and Global Flavours
Abhishek Panshikar, vice-president and general manager, The Oberoi, New Delhi, said, “We are delighted to celebrate this milestone with a menu that not only looks back at our legacy but also signals our ongoing commitment to culinary excellence.”
The tribute menu is part of a larger series of year-long events, including collaborations with designer Tarun Tahiliani. Coming months will see partnerships with international culinary stars like Ricardo Chaneton of Hong Kong’s MONO, an AMADEO by Oberoi pop-up, and festive experiences across Diwali and New Year. Founded in 1965, The Oberoi, New Delhi continues to set benchmarks in luxury hospitality with its signature blend of timeless elegance, modern amenities, and award-winning service. Ranked among the Top 10 Hotels in India by Condé Nast Traveler (2024), the hotel is a flagship of the Oberoi Group’s global footprint.
