Review: Dinner with a side of drama at Dramique

There is a sense of anticipation in the air; a feeling of something magical about to take place. As the server places a refreshing cocktail on our table and discreetly moves away, the curtains on the stage part and the flashing blue and green lights reveal a saxophone player who proceeds to play a soft melody. He serenades the guests, only to leave and let another performer take centre stage. Wearing exotic outfits, the pair of dancers sway gently to the rhythm of music even as the guests continue to sip on spirited cocktails and dine on delicious food. The soft notes of the night build into a rousing crescendo as the performances pulsate with energy and zest.

Welcome to Dramique – Delhi’s latest hotspot where culinary finesse and theatrical journey come together to create an experience which is at once unique and sensory. The storytelling on the stage is matched by the fine-dine experience. Taking inspiration from global icons like Lío Ibiza and The Theatre Dubai, Dramique has been conceptualised by Creative Director Samir Sehgal, who wanted to introduce Delhi’s discerning crowd to a new genre. “Dramique is our ode to indulgence, where every night is a spectacle and every guest is part of the story,” he says.

The drama doesn’t limit itself to the stage but extends seamlessly to the décor as well. If you are able to tear your eyes away from the ceiling which pulsates with changing colours and lights – even transforming into a night sky full of twinkling stars at one point – you will notice other details such as the jewel-toned textures, mirrored panels and sculptural lighting. The intimate setting allows for 97-150 indoors.

On the night I dined there, the space was abuzz with the soft hum of a spectacle about to unfold in front of my eyes. As the lights dimmed and I glanced at the spirited cocktail menu which looked like a blend of bold Asian-inspired flavours with a global twist, it seemed as if each cocktail had been designed to tell a story. Vivek, the mixologist, confirmed the same. “My time in Thailand taught me the art of balance and creativity behind the bar – lessons that shape every drink I craft here. Each cocktail is designed to tell a story, spark a conversation, and set the mood for the night,” he said.

Sipping on The Herbal Yank, a herbaceous and fresh vodka-based creation with celery, basil and mint, I watched mesmerised as dancers in shimmering golden gowns and feathered wings swayed in unison to the beats of the energetic music.

The food menu beckoned with its blend of contemporary European cuisine with subtle Asian influences and the Chicken Shukne – delicious little nuggets of chicken mince and Thai herbs – turned out to be the perfect example of it. The Sesame Scallion Lamb with Chinese spices and veggies was a play on textures and flavours – bold, savoury and crunchy. The sweet and delicate crabstick, cucumber and avocado California Rolls followed next, while the Prawn and Lobster Hargao made for another delicious mouthful.

For my second drink, I tried the Fungus Among Us, an earthy and umami drink of shiitake-infused bourbon which had sweet and bitter notes to balance the flavours. The 24 Hrs Herb Brined Chicken was my choice from the mains, the lime leek sauce adding the much-needed sass to the otherwise lacklustre roast chicken. While the San Sebastian cheesecake with chocolate sauce did not really live up to my expectations, the gorgeous pair of dancers on roller skates brought the night to a memorable finish with their awe-inspiring moves. The stage is certainly set for Dramique to take over Delhi!  

Address: Ground Floor, The Grand, Vasant Kunj, Delhi
Timings: Friday and Saturday, 10 pm onwards
Number for reservations: 9811333823/9811333923
Meal for two: Rs 10,000 + + (with alcohol) and Rs 7,500 + + (without alcohol)  

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