12.07.2017 I was Treated and Hosted by the incredible Chef Gita of Geet Indian Restaurant in Brooklyn ('Geet' in Hindi means "Melodious Poem"), who is making you think twice when it comes to Indian Food.
Gone are the days where you get the usual plain Curry, Rice and Roti, think innovative, out of the box and above all, Molecular Gastronomy. I was so warmly welcomed, it felt as if we had known each other for years, and she was welcoming me into her âhomeâ
Gita Jivan is described as âthe first Indian woman to open and own an establishment of this calibre in South Africa, sheâs also an astute business mind â and her many awards acknowledge the quality of her cuisine as well as her entrepreneurial instinct. Gita is also a poet, a mother, a daughter and a traveller who loves yoga... But to call her a chef is a painful understatement; Gita is a culinary magicianâ After the experience we had, I can safely say I agree.Â
The decor is elegant and classy, with ample space for Approximately 200 guests in the main dining area. The Whisky room is quite intriguing, and can seat up to 25 guests. Adorned with silk drapes, with soft cushions and pillows, lit with lamps it is a great spot for a bunch of friends to have a special occasion. If you want something more corporate, there is a Kanu Fine Dining Room with a wall-to-wall Glass Wine Rack, or for the hot summer nights you can always sit outside on the terrace overlooking Brooklyn.
It was an exclusive dinner pairing between Geet and Saronsberg Wines, and all who attended definitely got their monies worth.
On arrival, we were given the Saronsberg Brut MCC to get the evening started, with an Amuse Bouche comprising of a Butter Chicken Ravioli. Who would have thought of that⊠yes Chef Gita did. Our first course that was presented to us was a âJewel of the Southâ which was Lemon and Coriander scented Seafood Soup with Honey Coriander Naan to compliment it. Visually appealing, great smell, and for a clear soup it was so full of flavor, as for the Naan, that freshly made smell just made you even more hungry, and it was so delicious. Our first course was paired with the âEarth in Motion 2017â, which I quite liked. Light and easy on the tongue.
The main course was Kapi Lamb Chopâs with Coorg Coffee, Wild Mushrooms glazed and served with Carrot and Green Thoran (a stir-fry garnished with coconut), Coconut Cashew Khichdi, and Goats Cheese Samosa and a Wild Mushroom Naan. How is that for a combination? I did find the lamb a bit fatty, as I am use to the edges being âbraaiedâ crispy, which I prefer but the rest of the dish was not short of flavor, and not forgetting the added touch of a fennel meringue. Definitely something different and tantalizing on the palate. This was however paired with two varieties of wines, The Voignier 2016 and the Seismic Rooi 2014, I personally preferred the Voignier, as the Seismic I found a bit harsh.
Ending off this amazing event was probably one of the best Homemade Ice Creams I have ever had. I would have happily sat in a corner with a bow full of it and not shared a mouthful. It was a Coconut Meringue Madness. A Coconut Milk Panna Cotta, with a Passion Fruit Centre, surrounded by a scoop of Salted Cookie Ice Cream, and shards of crumbs, Meringue and Strawberries. Absolutely mind blowing taste and just so gorgeous. This final course was paired with a 6.3 Straw Wine 2008. It was a bit too sweet for me but nonetheless a fantastic pairing of food, wine, MANY laughs, and great new friendships formed. Such fascinating people and amazing hospitality from Gita and her staff surrounded me on the evening.
Thank you once again for hosting me, and welcoming me so warmly. I look forward to coming back, and tasting more amazing food experiences.
If you are looking for something new to try, keep an eye on Geetâs Facebook, as there are many more Food and Wine pairing evenings happening in the near future.
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