Borderless cuisine, gin infusions dominate the menu at Gurugram’s Glasshouse

Gurugram, New Delhi’s swanky cousin, has for several years made headlines for being counted among the hottest food and beverage destinations in the country. Probably why some of the biggest global chains and multi-cuisine restaurants helmed by reputed chefs choose the metropolis to set up shop. 

This time around–or let’s say once again, Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar has reposed faith in the city (after SAGA) with his newest offering, Glasshouse: World Grill and Bar. This creation by Moonshine Food Ventures occupies a pride of place in Gurugram’s upscale Worldmark. 

Unlike most restaurants in the city–that belt out loud music and have a flashy ambiance–Glasshouse’s design and decor serve as a breath of fresh air. It is a space that is swathed in greenery, just like its name reflects. 

Constructed with creased metal and glass, Glasshouse, designed by Gurugram-based architect firm Headlight Design, wanted to create a space that seamlessly blends the indoor with the outdoors. The restaurant has rose gold peaks and a whole lot of greenery, besides a retractable ceiling that adds to the ambience and gives one a true sense of dining in a glasshouse, either under the stars or basking in the warm glow of the summer sun. 

It's not just the tranquil environment that draws people–the food and beverage are carefully curated, offering a wide selection of cuisines and concoctions that are likely to appease diners of all age groups.  

Global tastes, Indian flavours 

Let's just say the menu will leave you utterly confused–especially because it’s so vast! One will possibly want to sample everything but have some mercy on your stomach and leave some room for your next visit (yes, this place deserves far more than just a single outing). 

We started with Cereal Prawns, a bar bite that is crunchy just like we’d expected. The prawns are tossed in butter garlic and coated with cereal, and the flavour of curry leaf adds the right tadka. It’s a great accompaniment with alcohol, one can go on and on munching on it. 

Next up was Muhammara with Grilled Chicken. Yet another light bite that is paired with pita bread–a dish that balances taste and health, and it’s quite hard not to indulge. Muhammara, the Middle Eastern spread, has a distinct taste of roasted red peppers, while the grills ensure you get your fill of protein. 

Another dish worth trying was the Betel Leaves Sambal Hae Bee that has a unique combination of ingredients–golden garlic, pickled ginger, roasted peanuts, and coconut with sauteed rice. 

It is creations like these that makes the restaurant stand out–not everyone can take risks with betel leaf, particularly since it can overpower other flavours. The balance here was a winner for us! 

The pizzas looked equally interesting (that's for next time)–but we jumped right into the dessert, because how can one leave without a sweet treat? 

The dessert, Mid Summer, had grilled pineapple, coconut, rum, and sable (classic butter shortbread)–the blend of crunchiness and creaminess in every bite was interesting. Also, the pairing of grilled pineapple with coconut offered a burst of flavours—it was a little tangy, a little sweet. 

Gin-ormous options 

When you are at Glasshouse, there’s really no reason for you not to be in high spirits (pun intended). Why may you ask? Well, because their gin infusions are a huge draw and will take your taste buds on a ride around the world. 

“We wanted our bar to be different from all the bars in the city. We wanted to craft a niche in one set of alcohol while serving others,” says Founder Vishal Anand. 

All the gin infusions are done in-house using fresh ingredients. “We have a dedicated gin alchemist in the team and the menu ranges from variations and infusions from across the globe,” Anand adds. 

For instance, there’s Funky Lanka–an infusion that will remind one of Sri Lanka and its flavours–a dominating lemongrass paired with a hint of ginger, and pineapple on top. One can sip it neat or add a dash of fizz with tonic water.

On the bar menu, the Indian representative was Pepper Tadka that beautifully brings alive the country’s flavours. The bottle reads: ‘With pepper’s punch and strawberry–basil’s brawl, a sight of bar fight’. Definitely a combination that raised our expectations and then lived up to it! 

Of course, one couldn’t stop at two. High Tea from the UK  had earl grey, peaches and plum–an English affair that one can't get enough of! 

For non-gin drinkers, there are multiple options, including cocktails like Green Apple Popsicle with vodka, green apple syrup, blue curacao, topped with fresh lime juice; South Pacific Rum with rum, pineapple juice, orange juice and grenadine and Golden Rush with bourbon whisky, orange juice, peach syrup, and fresh lemon juice. 

“Borderless cuisine is a perfect way to describe our thoughts—there’s something for every palate. We have tried to keep some comfort foods along with a few innovative dishes,” says Anand. 

Good food, impressive gin infusions and breathtaking decor–we suggest you head here to see it for yourself. 

Timings: 12 PM to 2 AM

Cost for two: Rs 2,200 + taxes