If you’ve ever wondered where luxury, exclusivity, and world-class dining collide, there’s a perfect destination – D’MONDE Members Club in the heart of Lutyens New Delhi. Recently making its grand debut as India’s first private club by an international brand, D’MONDE is more than just a place, it’s an experience. The club offers a rare blend of opulence and understated elegance, and I had the chance to immerse myself in its world for an evening.
When I entered the club, I was struck by the sophisticated serenity of the place. D’MONDE, inspired by the French word “Du Monde”, meaning ‘of the world’, evokes a sense of cultivated taste and refined luxury. The interiors exude a minimalist aesthetic, with rich materials, soft natural tones, and an artistic design that feels both timeless and modern. There is something refreshing about the approach here – one that is rooted in history but elevated by contemporary design sensibilities.
I was immediately struck by a sense of peace. The layout of the club is designed to transport you to a state of calm, whether you are going to the spa, or the fitness center, or just relaxing in the beautiful swimming pool. It is clear that every corner of this club is dedicated to well-being, indulgence, and refinement.
After a short tour of the quiet spots, I reached the restaurant, which overlooks the pool. As I walked through the outdoor seating area, I couldn’t help but notice how it effortlessly created a serene environment with the nature-loving greenery and the sound of the water, perfect for a leisurely meal.
That evening I went out to dinner with some friends. Naturally, we started with drinks… because no fun evening is complete without a cocktail or two. I opted for the Rosa Portugalo, a tequila-based drink that left a lasting impression. This is a cocktail that made me forget all about my usual picante and palmola. The balance of flavors in the Rosa Portugal was spot on—refreshing, tangy, and just the right amount of kick. My friend had the old fashioned and loved it too.
As we sipped our drinks, we perused the menu, which was a playground for gourmands. With an Italian chef at the helm, D’MONDE offers a culinary experience that promises to transport you around the world. Options range from Italian and Continental to Indian, with each dish giving classic favorites a modern twist. We started with a selection of continental starters – Ceviche, Duck Prosciutto, and Arancini with Mushroom Truffle.
Let me tell you: the ceviche was amazing! The seabass was well marinated in a coconut water lime leche de tigre, and the dish was garnished with a delicate cream drop and finely chopped onion. The balance of freshness and acidity made this one of the best dishes of the evening. If you visit D’MONDE, Ceviche is my top recommendation.
Shrimp and amaranth salad was another favorite. The prawns were cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, while the amaranth seeds and edamame added their crunch. Paired with crisp asparagus, cucumber, and a zesty dressing, it was a refreshing starter that I would happily order again.
Then we went to the main place, where I had to try the Tagliolini Lobster. This dish won my heart. The lobster was succulent, and the tangy tomato sauce added the perfect depth of flavor. It was comfort food with an elegant twist rich, but not heavy. New Zealand lamb chops followed, and while I’m not usually a fan of lamb, I could see how lovers of this dish would enjoy it.
I couldn’t resist sampling some Indian dishes. The biryani was good, though not exceptional, while the Gucci mushroom stood out with its earthy flavor and delicate texture. That said, it was the continental and Italian dishes that really stole the show for me. The meal ended with some drool-worthy desserts.
One of the things that really stood out during my visit was the hospitality. From the moment we were greeted at the door to the moment we were seated, the staff was nothing short of exceptional. The servers were knowledgeable, offering great suggestions and attending to our needs promptly. It’s clear that D’MONDE prides itself on creating not just a luxurious environment but a truly welcoming environment. I can’t wait to return and explore more of what this extraordinary club has to offer.