Restaurant India News: Louve Opens in Lutyens’ Delhi with European Menu and Curated Cocktails

Louve on Humayun Road in Lutyens' Delhi. Positioned outside the capital’s high-density nightlife clusters, the European restaurant is targeting diners seeking a slower, experience-led format within one of Delhi’s most established residential zones.

Located amid diplomatic residences and tree-lined avenues, Louve leverages its address as part of its positioning. The property aligns with the architectural character of the area, reinforcing its European culinary direction and premium placement.

The interiors are structured around double-height ceilings, a central island anchored by a large chandelier and black-and-white marble flooring. Arched windows and muted wall finishes support the overall European design language. Artwork referencing traditional European settings complements the space. The bar section includes a glass-bowl fountain framed with greenery, creating a visual focal point while maintaining design consistency. Garden-facing gazebos extend the dining area outdoors, supporting longer meal durations rather than quick-turnover service.

The restaurant is founded by Shikha Begwani, also associated with Ophelia and Cosy Box. Louve reflects a detail-oriented approach, with scale taking a secondary role to execution. The kitchen is led by Chef Selim, with a menu grounded in French and Italian techniques. The culinary direction avoids reinterpretation-driven experimentation and instead focuses on structured flavours and classical execution.

The cocktail programme, titled "Cocktails from Memory," has been curated by UAE-based mixologist Vasile Dorofeev. The beverage list prioritises flavour composition and familiarity over elaborate presentation. Drinks are designed to complement the food offering while maintaining a restrained visual style.

The meal included a Burrata and Grapes salad, paired with Atara, a tequila-based cocktail presented with a clear appearance and layered citrus and mild spice notes. The Beetroot and Asparagus salad with citrus vinaigrette delivered a lighter profile, while Metis, another tequila-based cocktail, featured grapefruit notes and a smooth finish. The beverage programme reflects consistency in execution and measured formulation.

Among seafood selections, the John Dory Fillet stood out, served with potatoes and an edible fish-shaped garnish. The Gamberetti alla Griglia, featuring grilled oysters served in lobster bisque, offered a richer profile. The Citron Baby Chicken was comparatively mild in seasoning. The Pappardelle Duck Ragu, prepared with red wine reduction, delivered depth without excess heaviness.

From the main course selection, the Sous vide Lamb Loin was paired with black garlic cauliflower mash, offering balanced structure and controlled flavours. Dessert featured Belgian Ruby Chocolate served with macadamia nuts and vanilla gelato, maintaining the restaurant’s consistent flavour approach through to the final course.

With its European menu, curated cocktail list and location in Lutyens’ Delhi, Louve enters the capital’s premium dining market with a format centred on longer dining cycles and controlled execution. Its strategy positions it as an alternative to high-energy dining destinations, focusing instead on neighbourhood exclusivity and culinary discipline.