Not zingy dhaba-style food, but certainly the go-to for fine dining Indian with delicious cocktails.

Innovative champagne cocktails and satiating North West Indian food awaits you at a contemporary modern setting with a scenic outdoor terrace perfect for UAE winters.

An upscale favourite since 2002, Asha’s Dubai doesn’t feature zingy dhaba-style food, but refined dishes that retain authentic flavors; delicate enough for the amateurs, but spicy enough for the weathered North Indian palate.

The portions are size-able and menu has just had a sleek new upgrade, so we decided to check this old haunt out for new and exciting additions.

Appetizers

The charred Tandoori Broccoli is infused with delicate herbs and climbed to the top of our healthy but hearty list at first sight.

Every taster’s go-to benchmark, the Chicken Tikka shakes your taste buds alive with a garam masala spice rub and crispy skin. The fried Jhinga, a new addition, is great for seafood-lovers.

For the vegetarians, the Tandoori Paneer Tikka is an obvious favorite with soft, melt-in-your mouth paneer and delicate seasoning. Forget cheese and crackers with your wine, the paneer compliments red and white wine with grace.

When it comes to appetizers, you may want to watch the deep-fried items –an overload will weigh your stomach down and lull you into an inescapable food coma before the entrees touch the table.

Mains

The Murg Makhani and crunchy Bhindi Do Pyaza are oldies but goodies – classics that you don’t want to side-step. The rich dal makhani makes for a well-rounded meal with whatever sabzi you try.

If you’re one for flavored bread, try the fragrant and butter-y garlic naan.

Haven’t had enough? Try the Calicut Gosht Biryani, a Middle-Eastern reminiscent dish with home-style lamb.

Desserts & Beverages

The Gajar Halwa and Gulab Jamun are tried and tested choices and a welcome relief after having tried too many overpoweringly sweet Indian desserts in the UAE.

If you’re doing cocktails for the evening, they have a refreshing cucumber and lime concoction that’s right for both sultry summer evenings and chilly wintry nights.

Ambience and Service

A cool breeze flows through the backyard terrace setting where a couple of blokes chatted with beer in a serene setting.

The interiors with embellished center-pieces, soft lighting and beaded curtains to afford privacy creates a comfortable environment for a date or a reunion.

The management and staff are friendly, and gave us insightful recommendations about what to order.

A few notes:

• You may want to don your fancy pants if you’re heading to Asha’s even though the dress code is merely Smart Casual.
• Valet Parking is available, but they have a well-stocked bar, so you may want to catch an Uber or Careem in.
• Opt for outdoor seating if the weather’s cool enough, but ask ahead if there are going to be any loud musical shows at the mall.

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