Begam Review: A Hyped Experience That Missed the Mark

When I first stumbled upon Begam Restaurant in Defence Colony through Instagram reels and Zomato, I was captivated by its chic ambiance and the promise of an enchanting Sufi Night. Located in one of Delhi’s poshest neighborhoods, the restaurant seemed to have it all—high-end vibes, great location, and a mix of seating for families and young couples. Naturally, I decided to give it a try. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t live up to the expectations.

Ambiance and Location

One thing Begam gets right is its ambiance. The interiors are stylish and well-designed, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The layout is thoughtfully divided into sections for families, couples, and those looking to enjoy the bar and dance area. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic date or a night out with friends.

The location is another plus point. Nestled in Defence Colony, it’s easily accessible, though the area tends to get crowded. Thankfully, the valet parking option makes things more convenient.

The Sufi Night Disappointment

A major reason for my visit was their advertised Sufi Night, scheduled to begin at 8 PM. However, the event didn’t start until 10 PM—a significant delay that left many patrons, including me, frustrated. Such discrepancies between advertisements and actual events can sour the overall experience, and this was no exception.

The Food and Drinks

Now, let’s talk about the food—arguably the most important part of any dining experience.

We started with the Dahi Kebab (₹525 with taxes) and the Lamb Adana (₹825 plus taxes). Unfortunately, both dishes were disappointing. The Dahi Kebab was overly fried, while the Lamb Adana lacked flavor and was served in small portions. The menu promised sweet chili sauce, capsicum, and onion accompaniments, but these were conspicuously absent. When we asked, the server claimed the ingredients were inside the kebab—a statement that was far from convincing.

On a brighter note, the cocktail we ordered was refreshing and well-prepared. It’s perhaps the only highlight of our dining experience.

Service and Vegetarian Options

The staff were polite and welcoming, which we appreciated. However, good service alone cannot compensate for underwhelming food and misleading advertisements.

For vegetarians, the menu offers limited options, sticking mostly to standard dishes. While these are clearly labeled, the variety is lacking, making it less appealing for those with specific dietary preferences.

Pricing and Value

The pricing at Begam is steep, with mostly dishes starting at ₹500 and above. Unfortunately, the quality and taste of the food do not justify these high prices. For what we paid, we expected a lot more in terms of flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Begam is a classic example of a hyped restaurant that falls short of delivering a truly memorable dining experience. While the ambiance and cocktails are okay, the overall experience leaves much to be desired. Misleading event promotions, average food, and high prices make it hard to recommend this restaurant.  

If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience in Delhi, there are many other options that offer better value and quality. Consider exploring some of the hidden gems in the city’s diverse culinary scene, where you’ll find authentic flavors, generous portions, and attentive service.

Suggestion to Begam: Improve consistency in your events and advertising. Honest communication with patrons goes a long way. Additionally, reevaluating pricing and enhancing food quality could transform occasional visitors into loyal customers.

As for us, We won’t be returning anytime soon.