Louve’s setting is every bit as impressive as its address. The space is sprawling yet balanced, divided seamlessly between indoor and outdoor areas, with the high ceilings lending an unmistakable sense of luxury. Classic black-and-white marble floors, arched windows, and refined lighting elements lend the space a distinctly European, modern-classical character. A 14-foot bespoke chandelier adorned with birds and butterflies is the focal point, while a glass bowl fountain framed by greenery adds a sense of positive calm. Founded by hospitality entrepreneur Shikha Begwani, Louve positions itself not merely as a restaurant, but as a destination designed for long, unhurried indulgence.
Food: Fancy, Yet Hearty and Comforting
At the helm is Chef Selim, whose résumé includes Michelin-starred Mikla in Istanbul and Cipriani in both Istanbul and Dubai. The food is undeniably fancy—think deconstructed lobster salad with excellent produce and an ace dressing that makes every bite worthwhile. Elevated bar bites like cheese balls with gorgonzola and basil sit comfortably alongside well-executed comfort classics. Even the parmesan risotto and pizza shine, proving that Louve isn’t chasing aesthetics alone; flavour clearly leads the way. Standout dishes include the braised duck served with parmesan risotto, cooked to absolute perfection, and pistachio-crusted lamb chops that hit all the right notes.
Drinks: Balanced and Refreshing
Cocktails here deserve special mention. They’re refreshing, nuanced, and—most importantly—extremely well balanced. Nothing feels overworked or gimmicky, making them easy to enjoy whether you’re starting the evening or settling in for the long haul. The bar program, curated by UAE-based head mixologist Vasile Dorofeev, is titled Cocktails from Memory—an evocative concept that invites guests to choose drinks based on emotion rather than ingredients.
Desserts: A Mixed Finish
The Belgian raspberry chocolate dessert that I tried looks pretty on the place, but it has room for improvement in terms of texture and taste. Given the consistency elsewhere, this feels like a small gap rather than a pattern—and one that can easily be refined. The dessert menu as a whole sounds promising. It’s worth saving space to explore more on a return visit, especially the tiramisu.
Service: Impeccable and Refreshingly Professional
Exceptional service is becoming rare, which makes Louve’s all the more impressive. The staff is extremely well trained, attentive without hovering, and clearly understands the rhythm of fine dining. It elevates the entire experience and ties everything together beautifully. I especially like that the service is intuitive—mindful about when to change the plates for the next sharing course, or replacing a napkin that accidentally slips to the floor are the kind of details that may be overlooked at most other restaurants, but not at Louve.
In A Nutshell
Louve feels like a confident addition to Delhi’s luxury dining landscape—one that understands refinement, values technique, and prioritises experience over spectacle. With its stellar address, polished service, and thoughtful European menu, it sets the stage for a new era of understated grandeur in the capital.
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.5/5
Address: Louve, 1, Humayun Road, New Delhi-110003, India.
Timings: 12pm to 12am.
Phone: +91 9355339394 or +91 9355999394.
