Imperial’s 1911 Brasserie has some very big shoes to fill – this place is known for offering a blend of elegance and tradition, and now it’s added a fresh, surprising autumnal twist. So, with its new autumn menu, 1911 doesn’t just do European classics or Indian-inspired dishes. Instead, it’s bringing them together that’s unexpected. This isn’t just your average fusion; It’s a menu that takes risks, and for the most part, they pay off.
Recipes that will make you think twice
Let’s start with the regal Caesar salad. When you think “Caesar salad,” you’re probably envisioning a pile of romaine with croutons and a generous dusting of Parmesan. But here we get a salad that trades the traditional croutons for chickpeas and adds grilled achari paneer to the mix. A saffron garam masala dressing pulls it all together with a hit of spice that feels right at home in a classic salad.
Another is the Imperial Cheese and Sago Burger. It’s not just a veggie burger—it’s an experiment in texture, flavor, and proportion. With a patty wide enough for a hand workout, it’s topped with sago pearls and cheese, giving it a creamy-crunchy vibe unlike anything you’d find in a regular burger. It’s filling, flavorful, and has enough spice to remind you where you are: the heart of Delhi.
And then there’s the imperial schnitzel—a nod to European tradition, sure, but with a desi twist. Breaded chicken breast comes with lemon, cranberry sauce, and a hint of anchovy. Although it may not scream “India,” the complexity of flavors somehow feels more vibrant than your typical schnitzel experience.
Going all in on Indian inspirations
For those who want an indulgent Indian meal, Palak Badami Kofta is one to try. Think spinach and cottage cheese dumplings in a saffron and almond sauce—it’s like comfort food. The kebab and tikki sampler is another winner here, with a vegetarian platter that celebrates everything from beetroot and paneer to corn and cashew patties. Served with three chutneys, this is the kind of appetizer that never gets old halfway through.
Imperial’s bold play on fusion
But what really stands out in this lineup? Dishes like the Indian triple decker sandwich (chicken tikka, masala omelet, and mint chutney) and rock lobster Malabar curry are crowd-pleasers. The sandwich plays it safe but still satisfies, and the lobster curry brings some coastal Indian flavors that feel right at home in a high-end brasserie setting.
Kaladi paneer quesadilla might raise a few eyebrows – a traditionally Mexican favorite made with Kaladi cheese from Jammu? This fusion is fine, in a way that makes you stop and think, “Why didn’t I try this before?”
Worth the trip?
1911’s new autumn menu is a bold move. It is full of recipes that push the boundaries. If you’re in the mood for something unique – something that combines Imperial grandeur with Indian heart and European sensibility – it’s worth a try. Just don’t expect the classics to stay classic.