La Maison Des Delicies: First Look

“Mangez bien, riez souvent, aimez beaucoup”
Translation: “Eat well, laugh often, love abundantly”
- French saying

Wondering why have I suddenly starting speaking French? Well let’s just say I had my share of France without having actually visited the premise, and no, it’s not by watching the latest Bollywood sensation Queen. The City of Joy finally has its small French haven called La Maison Des Delices.

Located on the quiet corner of Purna Das Road and Hindustan Park, and primarily a Bistro, one would expect a small café-like experience primarily dominated with varied forms of French desserts. However, there is much more than what meets the eye, especially with a name like that.

The Ambiance

They say hard work bears the sweetest of fruits, similar is the experience of locating Delices. One needs to either toil locating this Narnia or have a hard time pronouncing the name while seeking directions from passer-by’s. It’s a different ball game altogether once you find it and although it looks like a small cosy little café joint on the outside, there’s more to watch out for.

The food quote outside Delicies is an inviting proposition on its own

What intrigues a first timer like me is the cute little signboard right outside the door with a Food Quote written with a colourful chalk. Walking into Delicies is like opening a present, with every layer garnering one surprise after another.

One is welcomed with a small coffee shop like ambience at first- the wrought iron chairs and tables, a small counter with confectionery delight and walls adorning 3D paintings- but turn left and be amazed at the space behind the closed doors. The chequered floor, the sofas, the tall portraits and a show kitchen, is what makes eating at Delices an experience in itself.

The Menu

Primarily a Bistro, i.e. a small restaurant serving moderately priced simple meals in a modest setting, La Maison Des Delices lives up to its purpose. The menu is elaborate, ensuring the patron is spoilt for choice.

You have a breakfast spread comprising of a regular spread of Baked Beans on Toast (Rs 110), Pancakes with Maple Syrup (Rs 125), they even serve the traditional Salad Aux Lardons, i.e. a classic French breakfast made with poached eggs nestled in tender greens and flavourful bacon (Rs 150). The Entrée’s and Main Course comprise of a variety of Classic French delights like Croque Monsieur, Fricasse De Poulet , Cannelloni Florentine , etc.

Another interesting thing about the café is that you can ask for dishes that are not in the menu and they will customise them for you. Set up by the ex-chef of the The Taj Bengal cake shop, Chiradeep Pal, the quality of food is the primary concern at Delices. The café is co-owned by Mr. Partha Sarathi Bose.

The Food

Delices has something for strict dieters. Chef Pal brought out The Delices Salad Pizza Parmigiana (Rs 310). The crust made completely with wheat and brown sugar is baked crispy and khaakra like topped with tossed vegetables and grilled chicken soaked in lime juice, herbed spices and a minor drizzle of egg less mayonnaise.

The Delicies special Salad Pizza Parmiginia

TimesCity recommends the Croque Monsieur – a grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich with Bechamel Sauce (Rs 190). We also recommend the Delices Signature Fricasse De Poulet (Rs 380), an original French comfort food comprising of simmered chicken with vegetables in a rich silky sauce, halfway between a sauté and a stew. The after effect of tasting this dish is an experience that cannot be expressed in words.

Just Desserts

Desserts are always synonymous to attaining Nirvana and if the desserts have a French connection, how can one not fall in love? TimesCity suggests you try the Lemongrass Crème Brulee (Rs 140) – a classic French dessert with lemon grass flavored custard topped with a contrasting layer of sweet caramel that stole hearts.
We also recommend the Bailey’s Parafit (Rs 225) – walnut brownie nuggets topped with Bavarian cream dipped in Baileys coffee liquor. Have this, and we promise addiction.