When it comes to Indian restaurants in Dubai, we’re spoilt for choice. But even if we narrow it down to Indian restaurants inspired by celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, we’re still faced with a dilemma.
Over at Al Nasr Leisureland, there’s plenty of fun to be had at Khazana, where you can enjoy some truly delicious dishes in a restaurant full of bamboo cane finishes and creeping foliage. Too rugged and outdoorsy for you? What about a place where you can select a smattering of Chinese creations on a menu predominantly littered with Kapoor’s Indian delights? If you’re looking for plush, crimson-cushioned comfort, muted atmospheric lighting and spangly flourishes, the aptly named Options would appear to be your only choice.
We took our seats as the DJ bounced a few eastern vibes among the soft furnishings. After cracking curled papads into acutely fresh mint and chilli dips, my friend took delivery of a plate of jhinga jalali that proudly displayed its perky, moist and tasty prawns next to a mound of smoky onion relish. But the show-stealer arrived in a torrent of orange flames, as the magnificent raan buzkazi blazed into fire with a splash of rum. The inferno abated to reveal ridiculously tender, spice-drilled hunks of silky lamb in a thick, rich and dark sauce. It was sensational, and the portion was substantial enough to keep both of us enthralled while the main courses were prepared.
As the last few scraps of our starters were replaced by our mains, the seamless changeover of dishes was a credit to the waiters, who were supremely efficient and helpful throughout. Indeed, my friend couldn’t have thanked them enough for bringing him the splendid murgh makhani, which bathed delicate nuggets of chicken in a creamy butter and tomato sauce that exploded with flavour. Meanwhile, I was combining hot and spicy chunks of the incendiary chicken cafreal with a striking sumac and chickpea pulao, together with soft, clammy sheets of onion kulcha. Wonderful. Options suitably lived up to its name with its dessert selection, which included a few of the usual sub-continental suspects alongside a bunch of tempting international favourites. I plumped for the chocolate mudpie cake – a decadently calorific combination of cocoa solids – whereas my companion chose the beautifully presented mango chocolate cheesecake, which surely delivered a sugary kick.
We couldn’t find fault with either dessert, but there was hardly anything negative to say about the entire meal. Perhaps the DJ plays a shade too loudly, and the decor is a touch over the top? Or maybe the fare is too similar to the offerings up the road at Khazana? But when the food is this good, it really doesn’t matter which Sanjeev Kapoor restaurant you choose – you simply can’t lose.
The bill (for two)
2x mineral waterDhs20
Papad basketDhs10
Jhinga jalaliDhs75
Raan buzkaziDhs75
Murgh makhaniDhs45
Chicken cafrealDhs45
Steamed riceDhs25
Sumac & chickpeas pulaoDhs30
Onion kulchaDhs12
Butter naanDhs10
Chocolate mudpie cakeDhs30
Mango chocolate cheesecakeDhs35
Total (including service)Dhs412
Options,Dubai Convention Centre Tower, Dubai World Trade Centre (04 329 3293). Open12 noon-3pm, 7pm-12 midnight daily. All major credit cards accepted.
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