Masala Library Review

Masala Library is the latest big name on Dubai’s fine dining scene. The concept comes from Jiggs Kalra - one of India’s most prominent food columnists and gastronomes, known affectionately as the Czar of Indian cuisine.

The restaurant is located in a cavernous space vacated by Rang Mahal on the fourth floor of JW Marriott Marquis Hotel. Its contemporary stylings stretch across the whole restaurant - from the striking decor to a menu that puts a new spin on traditional dishes.

To get a real taste of what Masala Library has to offer, we opt for the signature 12-course menu that comes with a carefully curated grape pairing.

Bite size delight

What’s obvious from the off is that the dishes are going to be small. Considering we have a dozen of them to get through, this isn’t such a bad thing.

A majority of the menu - or ‘menus’, considering there are meat and a non-meat options - is set. But across appetisers and mains, you have a few different options to choose from.

Amuse-bouche consumed, we head off on our culinary journey.

Modern flair

We kick-off with a deconstructed samosa. As the name suggests, it doesn’t look anything like a regular samosa. The ingredients arrive on a rectangular piece of pastry and we’re assured by our waiter that yes, it will taste just like the real thing. He’s right, of course. It tastes delicious and sets the tone for what’s to follow.

See, while the menu is full of traditional dishes from India and Sri Lanka, there’s a contemporary twist on them at Masala Library that makes them feel fresh.

Take the charcoal bhaji for instance. Masala Library takes the much loved onion bhaji, dips it into charcoal and then deep fries it to perfection. The result? A tastier version we never knew we needed in our lives.