Elegance and Excellence: Dining at Coriander, Conrad Pune - INDIA

Yesterday, I visited Coriander at Conrad Pune for lunch, and the experience was nothing short of delightful. Nestled within the luxurious Conrad Pune, Coriander exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern elegance and traditional charm. The interiors are tastefully designed with a palette of warm tones, enhanced by subtle lighting that created an inviting atmosphere.

The furniture and furnishings spoke of understated luxury, combining comfort with style. Plush seating arrangements, complemented by refined table settings, provided a perfect backdrop for a sophisticated dining experience. The ambiance was serene yet vibrant, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. With 160 covers, Coriander ensures ample space between tables, offering sufficient privacy for all guests.

At Coriander, the culinary experience was extraordinary. The kitchen, helmed by the highly skilled Executive Chef Pradeep Rao, showcased meticulous attention to detail and a passion for gastronomy in every dish. Outlet Chef Kranti Malay, Sous Chef Santanu Nayak, Jr. Sous Chef Gouranga Mitra, and Chef Gaurav Puri contributed to an exceptional dining journey.

The buffet menu offered a diverse array of flavours, each prepared with the finest ingredients and a flair for innovation. From appetizers to desserts, the presentation was impeccable, and the taste was a harmonious blend of tradition and creativity. The chefs’ expertise ensured that each plate was a masterpiece, delighting the palate and leaving diners craving more.

The buffet spread at Coriander was vast, but I chose to indulge mainly in their exquisite salads today. I sampled a few and savoured each one's unique and tantalizing flavours.

The raw papaya salad was a vibrant blend of crisp textures and tangy flavours, with a refreshing zesty freshness. The balance of sweet and spicy notes made it a delightful start to the meal.

Next, the roasted pumpkin and feta salad offered creamy, tangy feta with subtly sweet, caramelized pumpkin. Crunchy seeds and light vinaigrette provided a perfect balance of flavours and textures.

The tomato and bocconcini salad showcased ripe tomatoes and creamy bocconcini, elevated by high-quality olive oil and fresh basil. Each bite celebrated freshness and simplicity.

The beetroot and quinoa salad featured earthy beets and nutty quinoa, brightened by citrus and herbs. The complex flavours lingered on the palate, creating a satisfying experience.

The chicken and mixed vegetable salad was hearty and wholesome, with tender chicken and crisp vegetables. A light dressing enhanced the natural flavours, making it refreshing and balanced.

The steamed fish and greens dish was delicate and perfectly cooked, with flaky fish and lightly sautéed greens. Subtle seasoning added to the dish's sophistication.

Then, the mix seafood salad was a delightful medley of succulent seafood and fresh vegetables. A zesty dressing highlighted the natural sweetness of the seafood.

The pork sausage and broccoli salad combined savoury sausages with the slightly bitter crunch of broccoli. A light mustard dressing added a tangy note that tied everything together.

The spinach ricotta cannelloni was rich and comforting, with tender pasta enveloping creamy spinach and ricotta. A tangy tomato sauce and parmesan completed the indulgent experience.

The fondant potatoes with beurre noisette were decadent, with soft, melt-in-the-mouth potatoes and nutty brown butter adding luxurious depth.

The roasted chicken with porcini was sophisticated, with succulent chicken infused with earthy porcini flavours. A delicate sauce brought all the elements together harmoniously.

The seafood cacciucco was a rustic stew brimming with perfectly cooked seafood in a rich, aromatic broth. The flavours of the sea and robust tomato base created a comforting dish.

The vegetable pizza beautifully prepared by Chef Alisha James was a celebration of fresh produce on a crispy crust, with a blend of sweet bell peppers, umami mushrooms, and tangy tomato sauce topped with melted cheese.

Finally, the stir-fried veggies with garlic were simple yet flavourful, with crisp vegetables and fragrant garlic enhancing their natural sweetness. A delightful side to any meal.

A standout highlight, not from the regular buffet, was the Edamame Dim Sums and Avocado Sushi, masterfully created by Chef Saarthak, which were truly remarkable. The Edamame Dim Sums were a perfect blend of delicate wrappers encasing a velvety, yet subtly crunchy filling of edamame, perfectly seasoned to bring out the natural umami of the beans. Each bite was an explosion of flavour, enhanced by the harmonious balance of textures.

The Avocado Sushi was a culinary masterpiece, featuring impeccably fresh avocado slices that were creamy and buttery, laid over perfectly seasoned sushi rice. The rice had a slight vinegary tang, which complemented the rich avocado beautifully. The sushi was artfully rolled with precision, showcasing Chef Saarthak's expertise in Japanese cuisine. Both dishes were a testament to his skill and creativity, offering a gourmet experience that was both innovative and deeply satisfying.

The scrumptious meal concluded with the most famous Italian Dessert. Yes! The Tiramisu I tasted at Coriander was absolutely out of this world, characterized by immense quality and richness.

The delicate layers of mascarpone cream were incredibly smooth and velvety, melting effortlessly on the tongue. Each layer was meticulously crafted, showcasing a remarkable attention to detail and a deep understanding of the classic Italian dessert.

The dusting of cocoa powder on top added a delightful bitterness that contrasted beautifully with the creamy layers beneath, enhancing the overall depth of flavour. The subtle hint of liqueur infused within the dessert provided a sophisticated edge, elevating the tiramisu to new heights of culinary excellence.

Every component of the tiramisu was in perfect harmony, creating a symphony of flavours and textures that was truly unforgettable. The presentation was equally impressive, with an elegant and refined appearance that reflected the care and skill involved in its creation.

Chef Saarthak's tiramisu at Coriander was not just a dessert; it was an extraordinary experience that epitomized perfection. Each bite transported me to a realm of pure bliss, making it a memorable highlight of an already exquisite meal.

While the expertly crafted creations by the chefs delighted the palate, the attentive and gracious service provided by the dining room personnel elevated the entire experience, adding a refined touch to an already exceptional culinary journey.

Shikey’s warm and welcoming demeanour immediately made us feel at home, creating an inviting atmosphere that carried throughout the evening. Each member of the service team demonstrated a profound understanding of the menu, providing insightful recommendations that perfectly complemented our tastes and preferences. Varad, Yash, Rugwed, Nishant, Harsh, Vaibhav, and Purushotam seamlessly coordinated to deliver a level of service that was both efficient and personal.

Their attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the dining experience, from the timely refills of our glasses to the beautifully presented dishes. The team’s ability to anticipate our needs before we even expressed them was truly remarkable. They struck the perfect balance between professionalism and genuine friendliness, making us feel like honoured guests.

What stood out most was their unwavering commitment to excellence. It was clear that the team took great pride in their work, striving to exceed expectations at every turn. This collective dedication not only elevated our meal but also created a lasting impression that we will cherish.

Later, while working on the Pro Review of the outlet, I chose to rest and relax @ the PSB Cafe. Worth mentioning here that I was served a meticulously crafted Cappuccino, masterfully prepared by Mansi. Accompanying this aromatic delight were the Seven Seeds Multigrain Cookies, an artisanal creation by the Bakery Department. The cookies, with their complex, nutty flavour profile and delicate crunch, were a perfect complement to the rich, velvety texture of the cappuccino. Outstanding indeed – a harmonious pairing that exemplifies the café's commitment to quality and culinary excellence. Thanks to Naro and Rupali too for their excellent hospitality.

For those seeking a culinary journey that combines exquisite food with top-notch service in an elegant setting, Coriander at Conrad Pune is a destination not to be missed.

I wholeheartedly encourage diners to visit Conrad and indulge in the magnificent offerings at Coriander. Here, each meal is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of flavour and sophistication. The culinary team at Coriander crafts each dish with passion and precision, using the finest ingredients to create a symphony of tastes that will delight your palate.

Dining at Coriander is not just about eating; it is about creating memories that you will cherish till eternity. The elegant setting, the exquisite cuisine, and the outstanding service all come together to make each visit a truly unforgettable experience. So, come and immerse yourself in the unparalleled dining journey that awaits you at Coriander. It is a destination where every meal is a moment to be savoured, and every visit is a story to be told.

By Manav Kaushik

(DWF) - Don’t Waste Food