AMS discovered a true celebration of Indian cuisine on a visit to Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra.

As we entered Masala Library at the Fairmont Doha, we were warmly greeted by the manager, whose gracious welcome set the tone for the evening ahead. Immediately, we were struck by the opulence of the surroundings – an ambience that blended luxury with a refined sense of style. The restaurant’s interior is a masterclass in design, with every detail meticulously curated to create an environment that felt both grand and inviting.

Elegant Surroundings

The walls are adorned with exquisite artwork, each piece adding a splash of vibrant colour that contrasted beautifully with the sleek, modern furnishings. Rich copper panels provided a dramatic backdrop, while the ivory-hued seating areas offered a touch of softness, making the space feel as comfortable as it is sophisticated. Above us, crystal chandeliers glittered like stars, their light reflecting off the polished surfaces and casting a warm, golden glow throughout the room.

As we were led to our table by the window, we couldn’t help but admire the stunning views over the city’s skyline, which added yet another layer of splendour. The entire atmosphere oozed opulence, enveloping us in a cocoon of luxury.

Artistic Starters

Our dining experience began with a refreshing welcome drink of apple, grenadine and sparkling water, a perfect prelude to the feast that awaited us. As we sipped, the crisp bubbles and sweet notes danced on our palates, setting the stage for what was to come.

The meal commenced with an assortment of delicate poppadoms, their satisfying crunch paving the way for the starters. The Peri Peri Mango Puchkas arrived like miniature treasures, encased in striking black and gold puris. Each bite burst with the bright, tangy sweetness of mango pearls, a playful contrast to the fiery undertones of peri peri, creating flavours that tantalised the senses. Next, the Vannamei garlic prawns graced our table, their oceanic essence beautifully captured in the dish. The prawns, plump and succulent, were bathed in a tangy garlic marinade. The accompanying sea asparagus added a crisp texture, while the samudri jhag – a frothy, ocean-inspired foam – brought the dish to life with its light, ethereal presence.

Following this, the Murgh Tikka arrived, gleaming under the light with its delicate silver leaves. Each tender piece of chicken had been marinated in a rich malai marinade, infused with the heady warmth of cardamom. The tikka was a revelation – each bite offered a smoky depth, balanced by the creamy richness of the marinade, while the silver leaves added an unexpected touch of luxury.

As our evening progressed, we had the opportunity to meet Chef Angad and Marketing Manager Ayse, who shared the rich history of Masala Library. Until 2019, the restaurant was helmed by the renowned Indian chef Jiggs Kalra, known for popularising modern Indian cuisine. Though he passed away in 2019, his innovative spirit and dedication to excellence continue to shape the eatery’s offerings, ensuring that his legacy lives on in every meticulously crafted dish.

The Star Of The Show

As the mains arrived, we were immediately struck by the stunning visual presentation, each dish a work of art. The hand-pulled butter chicken stole the spotlight, its tender pieces of meat swimming in a rich tomato makhani gravy. The sauce, velvety and deeply spiced, was the embodiment of comfort – like a warm embrace on a cool evening. It was a masterclass in balance, with the spices perfectly marrying heat and sweetness, each spoonful leaving a lingering warmth that invited another.

Equally impressive was the modernist malai paneer, where soft, creamy cubes of paneer rested atop a mixed vegetable korma. The paneer film that draped over the dish was delicate and almost translucent, adding a modern twist to this classic. The korma itself was a medley of textures and flavours, with the spices harmonising into a gentle melody that lingered on the palate. Aromatic Biryani

The Awadhi dum parda subz biryani was the final act in this trio of main courses – a fragrant dish that arrived under a thin, doughy veil, sealing in the aromas until the very last moment. As the lid was lifted, the heady scent of basmati rice and spices wafted into the air, a perfume as intoxicating as it was appetising. Each grain of rice was infused with the essence of cardamom and saffron, with the vegetables providing bursts of colour and flavour.

The meal was accompanied by garlic naan and kulcha bread, their pillowy softness the perfect vessels for mopping up the luxurious gravies. The four cheese and basil kulcha was a standout, its rich, melty interior adding a delightful indulgence to the meal.

Sweet Finale

As we reached the end of our culinary journey, the dessert – a simple yet decadent gulab – arrived. The syrup-soaked gulab was a sweet, fragrant finale, each bite reminiscent of rose gardens in full bloom.

Throughout the evening, the service was prompt and attentive, with each dish arriving at the perfect moment, allowing us to fully savour the intricate layers of spices and flavours that Masala Library is so renowned for. The experience was a true celebration of Indian cuisine, where tradition and innovation coexisted in perfect harmony. This restaurant is ideal for those seeking a memorable experience, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in an evening surrounded by exquisite surroundings and exceptional culinary artistry. ✤

GO: CALL 4030 7200 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.