When you think Hyderabad, you think Nizam and by extension you think biryani. To satiate that palate yet give a new twist to the old, Viva at Vivanta by Taj, Begumpet, has launched the Jeelani Diaries, a unique pairing of Nizami food with cocktails.

The four course menu is prepared by Chef Jeelani, who spent the better part of his childhood in the Nizam’s kitchen along with his father who was an assistant in the royal kitchens. With typical specialities like the Dum biriyani almost considered ‘ghar ka khana’  (homemade food) for the chef who has always been preparing and specialising in the Hyderabadi-Nizam cuisine, the spread is promising.

Besides the chef, what makes the Jeelani Diaries even more of a mouthful is the careful cocktail pairing. Served with the starters, each comes with a choice of two cocktails that complement and enhance the flavours.

For instance, the menu opens with a selection of signature favourites such as the kale chane ke kebab that comes with a serving of falak or pudina while the aloo shikampoor is teamed with mild firangi nariyal or vodka shikanji.

The idea is sip on the drink while you eat, so make sure you don’t down yours before you finish off your kebabs; the elaborate pairing that has gone into the process to improve the flavour will be lost.

Besides a colourful array on your platter, the chefs have ensured a colourful array of the cocktails as well.

Other authentic dishes find their way to the menu, including Bhagara Baigan, Charra Aloo Choti Methi and Jungli Murghi ka Salan. But make sure you end your meal with their rather interesting choice of desserts —  Palak ka halwa, Mirchi ka halwa and Gosht ka halwa.The Jeelani Diaries is open for lunch and dinner at Viva from 12:30 to 3 pm, and 7:30 to 11 pm.

For reservations, contact 040 6725 3642.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Cities> Hyderabad / by Express Features – Hyderabad / April 11th, 2014