Massive Restaurants’ Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra is the latest addition to JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai’s expansive F&B offering. Located on the fourth floor of the property, this premium dining venue focusses on molecular gastronomy, and gives a fresh perspective to Indian cuisine. Simply put, the restaurant serves ancient Indian recipes, but with a modern touch.
For appetisers, I had peppercorn pink malai prawn and braised lamb chops with chutney glaze. The malai prawn was cooked to perfection and well-blended in mild flavours. The braised lamb was succulent, and the chutney glaze gave a good punch to the dish. Other appetiser options are chicken tikka; wagyu pathar kebab, radish and walnut chutney; and chilli, ginger salmon roast with gur keri chutney.
I would also recommend the mushroom chai, a warm and comforting soup which is light on the stomach. If you are up for some snacks, then there is a deconstructed samosa and dahi vada (doughnut dipped in curd) among others.
My main course included scallops moilee with gunpowder mash — the gravy was rich and featured an interesting mix of spices. You can also try out Rajasthani mutton curry and radhuni tootfish with pui saag for mains. Adding to my dining experience, were a range of side dishes such as nizami haleem, mutton pickle and Multan moth dal.
Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra spoils you for choice with its dessert collection. The highlight of my meal was the jalebi caviar — the dish seemed like a work of art, and the sweet flavour lingered in my mouth for a while. I also tried makhan malai, shakkarpara leaf and ashen kulfi, each of which reflected the diverse food culture of India.
Verdict: Indian molecular gastronomy is at its finest at Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra.
Hours: 6pm to 11:30pm
Price: Upwards of Dhs 245/₹4,685
Contact: Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay Dubai, United Arab Emirates 121000
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Ravi Lalwani
