The denizens of Delhi NCR territories have a new destination for their culinary cravings at the latest restaurant Qissa opened recently at Le Meridien Gurgaon Delhi NCR. Helmed by Executive Chef Brijesh Kumar and Chef Farhat Qureshi, Qissa is about ‘Dehlvi Cuisine’, an evocative tribute to Delhi’s legendary culinary legacy. Located on the 12th floor, the view is a soothing panorama.
Delhi is no mere city—it is an ever-evolving mosaic, alive with the flavors, aromas, and culinary customs of those who have called it home. For centuries, shaped by waves of immigrants, conquerors, and dreamers from Persia, Central Asia, the Punjab, Awadh, Rajasthan, Bengal, Bihar and even further afield, washed up on Delhi’s ancient riverbanks, bringing with them the secrets of their kitchens. “Qissa,” meaning “story” or “tale,” hints at the narrative woven into every element of this dining experience.
Paneer Gulnaar
Kareli Ghosht Nihari
Gulab Jamun Kunafah Nest
The menu serves all the favorites of the Delhi palate, albeit with a twist, adapted to the current more health-conscious diner. Chef Brijesh shared, “Every dish is slow-cooked with tradition, hand-pounded spices, and soulful restraint. Inspired by the Saadgi-Khwaans, we serve food that’s rooted in simplicity, depth, and storytelling.” No electric mixies or microwaves in the kitchen. It is the grinding stone all the way.
The Indian Spirit Bar
Lobster Masala
Some of the dishes on the menu we recommend are Paneer Gulnar (Apricot-stuffed cottage cheese with cheese and mint, inspired by the royal kitchens of Kashmir), Barra Kebab and Raan-e-Qureshi (Age-old recipes marinated to perfection and cooked over live embers), Kareli Gosht Nihari (A slow-cooked marrow delicacy rich in depth and spice), Burrata Lahsooni Palak (An elegant fusion of creamy Italian cheese and garlic-spiked Indian saag), Adraki Murgh Chandi Shorba – A Mughal-Era Classic, Tandoori Chicken (Aslam-Style Butter Chicken), Galawati Subz Kebab and a lot more. Do not miss the Tandoori Malai Broccoli – it is truly remarkable. The finale desserts list is exciting with Mirchi Ka Halwa, Malai Gilori, Gulab Jamun Kunafa Nest, Sahi Sheermal and Mishti Doi Brulee – Sweet endings that balance tradition and modernity. Definitely get the ‘paan’ , which arrives with a lot of drama in a smoky peacock themed box,
Qissa e Chai
Jamun Highball
Paan-e-Bahaar
The Indian Spirit Bar is a treasure trove of all the acclaimed Indian alcohols and serves amazing cocktails and mocktails with an Indian twist. Check out the cocktail Qissa-e-Chai (Darjeeling masala chai meets aged Old Monk and Kahlua), or the Guntur Heat ( A bold tribute to Guntur chillies with Indian agave, jalapeño, coriander & citrus). Plus, playful favorites like Paloma and Gulabi Bubble, with a thoughtful non-alcoholic selection keeping up with the mindful drinking trend. Definitely worth a visit with the family. Or just go alone and let the food tell its stories.
