Battled scarred heritage, nurturing pride and tradition, ancient Aravallis, Sun-kissed golden sand dunes, marvelous forts & palaces that can only be described as the architectural wonders, such a land of Kings is a standing testimony to the history of Imperial India. The cuisine from the land too has earned zillion admirers across the globe. Rajasthan, a kingdom well-endowed with richness of art, culture & history has a long standing tradition of welcoming every guests stating “PADHARO MHAARE DESH”. And the same thought is well-translated into reality by Maharaja Bhog. Styled in an opulent Marwar fashion with illuminated pillars and mirrored ceilings having a gold & beige theme sketched across the property, the fine-dine spoke volumes about imperial grandeur through its ambience.

The staff was incredibly courteous, friendly and patient. If there is a way to show the warm hospitality of India and the welcoming personality of Rajasthan, then it is here where one can live the experience. The philosophy of “Atithi Devo Bhava” is deep rooted in the restaurant’s code of conduct and which is why all the guests are hosted warmly with great care. The legacy is not just limited to the hospitality but also it is reflected through the recipes which are crafted with great care.

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Upon my arrival, I was warmly welcomed by the Manager – RewaSinghJi and his waiting staff, who explained the menu in detail. When I expressed to capture the warm hospitality of this place in lenses, they tirelessly expedited the process. Once you place yourself, a guy comes with Brass pitcher and basin to help you wash your hands in a princely manner and another offers a napkin to mop your hands dry. After this ritual of pampering you with comforts at your fingertips, a wait staff arrives with a bowl of coins and a ceramic cow – similar to a piggybank. As part of Gowseva* you may pick one coin and put it through.

The journey of savoring Rajasthani culinary commenced on a delectable note where first they served Kesar sharbat as a welcome drink. And then it started with 3 snacks – Potli Kachori, Veg Handva Dhokla & the special Pizza Papdi Chat. Of the served starters, the one I couldnt ressist just not once but twice and thrice, was the fingerlickilicious Papdi Chaat.

Rajasthani Curries can be spicy yet tangy and can be categorized into Dal & Kadhi. The one I savored to the tee was Teekhi Dal & Rajasthani Kadhi which were a part of the menu that day. Indian breads mostly known as Rotis, Parathas, Puris have a long-serving relation with the Rajputanas. The cuisine was complemented with the 3 types of breads i.e. Paneer Veg Parantha, Mithi Roti i.e. Jowri Roti complemented with sweet curd& sweetboondi.

I must confess that Rajasthani Kadhi was simply scrumptiously-fantabulous. Enticingly piquant veggies like Tiranga Rasgulla ki Sabzi, Palak Rajma, Aloo Patal Bhaaji , Kanda Pitla were accompanied with papad & chutenty, choonda alongwith Dahi-Raita.

While the rice platter comprised of 2 variety i.e. Khichdi & Steam rice, the Thali also consisted of lip smacking Corn Ka Halwa & Shrikhand. The Manager – RewaSinghJi shared a fact that the menu changes everyday which mean 30 different menus for a month. Well, that’s quite amazing.

There’s one thing I feel it would be unjust on my part to share is the essence. It was delicious lip-smacking, scrumptious but what made it so special is the essence of warmth about the home-made feel that lingered while relishing the Thali. And only a blessed few succeed in discovering the warmth of home-made recipes being away from home!

Trust me, this time I was touched by the warmth of the cuisine, culture & courteousness. So don’t wait any further, head straight to Maharaja Bhog and enjoy these authentic vegetarian thali and get your taste buds tingling!

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