The story of ‘The Spice Lab’ is very interesting, in other words, it means the magic that can be created from different spices. The outlet was started about a year back with the idea of serving healthy food and is one of the first few eateries at Baani Square, South City 2, Gurgaon. The use of olive oil is prominent in all the dishes, no butter or desi ghee is used anywhere. The ambiance is simple and the place has both indoor and outdoor seating arrangements from around 40 odd people. ‘The Spice Lab’ serves North Indian delicacies only and has interesting symbols on the menu like the Kids friendly icon for non-spicy food. There is even a section on the menu for people looking for low cholesterol food items.
Here is some of the food we tried:-
Masala Shikanji – Indian Appetizer with the goodness of roasted Cumin seeds, black salt, Lime and mint. No doubt the drink was exceptional. 8/10
Nimbu Paani – Simple drink made from lime and sugar. The drink is made in water rather than any fizz based drink. 7.5/10
Panner Malai Tikka -The best were the soft Paneer Malai Tikka, the paneer was marinated well in subtle flavors and was so succulent that it just melted in the mouth. 9/10
Banasari Sheekh – The Banarasi Sheekh was not dry unlike at other places and was very delicious. 8/10
Veg Galauti Kebab – Another super hit item was the Veg Galauti Kebab, the kebab was made from unbelievable Indian Vegetables. The Kebab is served over flavorful Ulte Tawe ki Paratha. Amazing in texture, combination and taste. 9/10
Dahi Ke Kebab – The Dahi Ke Kebab were encapsulated in bread coating and then deep fried. The taste was good. 7/10
Tandoori Stuffed Mushroom – The Tandoori Mushrooms were spicy. All the appetizers are served with green chutney and onions. 7.5/10
Subz Diwani Handi – The Sabz Diwani Handi is similar to mixed vegetable curry except that, it was made in olive oil along with Spinach based gravy. Super it taste. 8/10
Dal Spice Lab (Dal Makhani) – Dal Makhani made without a pinch of butter or desi ghee and without a hint of synthetic coloring. The taste of the Dal was great. 8/10
Panner Butter Masala – Panner Butter Masala with soft Paneer cubes and tomato based tangy gravy. 8/10
Methi Mattar Malai – Amazing taste of Methi Mattar Malai, probably the best I have every tried. The gravy was creamy and the taste of the Methi was so subtle. 9.5/10
Bread Basket – Tried the Whole Wheat Roomali, Lachha Paratha and the Tandoori Roti. All the rotis had minimalistic use of White Flour or Maida. The breads are dipped in Olive oil.
Chocolate Gulab Jamun – Homemade Gulab Jamun fried in Olive Oil with a ball of Hershey’s chocolate at the center. 8/10
Kesari Kheer – This Saffron based Kheer reminded me of Home. Every sip was so flavorful. Perfect dessert not too sweet topped with almonds. 8.5/10
The portion sizes live upto the prices. ‘The Spice Lab’ is trying to introduce a balanced healthy diet in our lives away from the greasy plates and heavy filling portions. Hats off to the management for such a bold move. Also the use of olive oil doesn’t alter the taste and it’s hard to make out if not explicitly told.
The Scorecard:-
Food/Taste – 8/10
Service – 8/10
Value for Money – 8/10
Ambiance – 8/10
Quantity/Quality – 8/10
Overall Rating – 4/5
Must Have: Paneer Malai Tikka, Veg Galauti Kebab, Masala Shikanji, Methi Mattar Malai, Kesari Kheer
A healthy alternative!
