Relish Rajasthani Thali at Natraj in Jaipur
Famous for its Dal Batti Churma and royal wonders, Jaipur is a city of food and fortresses. Most tourists (whether national or international) visiting this Pink City tour Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jala Mahal and similar attractions and then land up at a restaurant for an authentic Rajasthani Thali. After all, you can’t be in the largest city of Rajasthan and not taste its traditional cuisine. My quench for Rajasthani cuisine was met, at Natraj restaurant in Ashok Nagar near Raj Mandir Cinema. Natraj serves a medley of Rajasthani Thalis, covering Ghewar, Mawa Kachori, Mirchi Bada, Rajasthani Subji, Missi Roti, Feeni, Chauguni Ke Laddu, Moong Thal and so on.
A Thali is a great way to taste different flavours out of a single plate. Natraj is an unpretentious eatery set up in an old-world setting, featuring a menu of regional Indian vegetarian courses. In a traditional Rajasthani Thali, you will typically get served generous proportions of provincial gourmet preparations. Including the regional favourites, and each course gets served, with a wodge of fresh clarified butter. On the side, you get a variety of bread, curries, veggies, pickles and a glass of buttermilk.
The royal heritage of Jaipur has positively led to the evolution of exquisite Rajasthani dishes. Rajasthan, in particular, seems to be globally famous for its culinary contributions. And what better place to taste the city’s authentic food than at one of its oldest restaurants. I was here with a few friends, and we ended up ordering an assortment of Thalis. I pretty much tasted way too many dishes. The service was slow, though!
It took waitstaff over 30-minutes to even start serving us food. The interiors, however, kept us engaged! Natraj has a traditionally decorated space with chandeliers and quilted sofa seating. One of the best Thalis to taste at Natraj is their Royal Thali, priced at INR 520+ Taxes. It features a delectable arrangement of dishes such as Paneer Masala/Kadhai, stuffed tomato, Dahi Vada, veg Korma, Kadi Pakora, Veg Pulao, Dal Makhani, Rasmalai and so on. If visiting Jaipur for the first time, opt for a Thali with Daal Baati Churma and local dishes.
