THE RUNWAY PROJECT

DELHI: The Bandra Project, The Runway Project and The Market Project is discerning diners' restaurant of choice in Mumbai so when Ramit Mittal, CEO, Gourmet Investments Ltd opened The Runway Project By The Pizza Express in Select CityWalk Mall Delhi, I had to check out the diner with large display windows exhibiting designerwear. Launched with a vision of paying homage to Fashion, diners feel a stylish vibe as they peruse the menu packed with dishes like 'Runway Roast', 'Pantone Shade Card' and 'Wardrobe Malfunction' — coined and crafted by master chef Vicky Ratnani!

When I entered the diner this afternoon, I was surprised by the number of shoppers and fashionistas. As the manager seated me at a table, I took in the stylish ambience and fell in love with the Retro tracks. And, while waiting for a friend to join me for luncheon, I perused the menu and ordered 'Size 0': the house-cured watermelon salad released a bouquet of flavors and textures with roasted brocolli, goji berries, pumpkin seeds, charred leek and feta. It was refreshing and paved the way for small plates.

For the entrée, my foodie friend chose 'Runway Roast' i.e. twenty-four hour brined, slow roasted organic chicken while I was lured by 'Red Carpet' i.e. grilled Norwegian salmon. Honestly, I don't know how to compare the presentation, freshness and flavor of the salmon to others I've had. It was one of those classic dishes that define a good meal as there's so much effort involved in crafting it! No, I'm not saying this because I'm a sea-foodie!! My friend mentioned the spring chicken had an old-world charm — wholesome and flavourful. After much camaraderie and Instagram moments, we ended the meal on a sweet note with 'Coco'. Inspired by Coco Chanel, the white milk chocolate sphere was served with edible pearls and a hint of gold dust! Why white chocolate, I wondered? "Coco Chanel loved black, white and gold" explained the waitstaff. "That explains the white chocolate and gold dusting" we mused. ''Yes, and when you close your eyes with sheer pleasure… there's the black!''

The last thought as I left what's poised to be the hottest restaurant in town is that master chef Vicky Ratnani takes immense pride in food preparation and presentation. There is an assortment of appealing, fashionably named salads, pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, burgers and small plates at The Runway Project: an expectation met and surpassed. Thank you, Kedhar Gawde for introducing me to this stylish restaurant; you know I'll be back! Bon Appetite!! [25.2.2018]

— JASMEEN DUGAL