If you’ve ever wondered where luxury, exclusivity and world-class cuisine meet, there is a perfect destination: D’MONDE Members’ Club in the heart of New Delhi at Lutyens. Recently making its grand debut as India’s first private club by an international brand, D’MONDE promises to be more than just a place, it’s an experience. The club offers a rare blend of opulence and understated elegance, and I had the opportunity to immerse myself in its world for an evening.

Upon entering the club, I was taken aback by the sophisticated serenity of the space. D’MONDE, inspired by the French term “Du Monde”, meaning “of the world”, evokes a feeling of cultivated taste and refined luxury. The interiors exude minimalist beauty, with rich materials, soft natural tones and artful design that is both timeless and modern. There is something refreshing about the approach here – one rooted in history but enhanced by contemporary design sensibilities.

I was immediately struck by the feeling of tranquility. The club’s layout is designed to transport you to a state of calm, whether you’re heading to the spa, fitness center, or simply relaxing by the beautiful pool. It is clear that every corner of this club is dedicated to well-being, indulgence and refinement.

After a brief tour of the serene spaces, I head to the restaurant overlooking the pool. Walking through the outdoor seating area, I couldn’t help but admire how it effortlessly combines luxury with lush greenery and the sound of the water creates a calming atmosphere, perfect for an indulgent meal.

I joined friends for dinner that evening. Of course, we started with a drink… because no gourmet evening is complete without a cocktail or two. I opted for the Rosa Portugalo, a tequila-based drink that left a lasting impression on me. It’s a cocktail that made me forget my usual Picante and Pamola. The balance of flavors in the Rosa Portugalo was perfectly refreshing, tangy and just the right amount of heat. My friend had Old Fashioned and loved it too.

While sipping our drinks, we browsed the menu which was a foodie’s playground. With an Italian chef at the helm, D’MONDE offers a culinary experience that promises to transport you across the world. Options range from Italian to Continental to Indian, with each dish bringing a modern twist to classic dishes. We started with a selection of continental starters – Ceviche, Duck Prosciutto and Mushroom Truffle Arancini.

Let me tell you: the Ceviche was incredible! The sea bass was perfectly marinated in leche de tigre with coconut water and lime, and the dish was garnished with delicate drops of cream and thinly sliced ​​onions. The balance between freshness and acidity made it one of the star dishes of the evening. If you visit D’MONDE, the Ceviche is a must-have recommendation.

The shrimp and amaranth salad was another favorite. The shrimp was cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, while the amaranth seeds and edamame added their crunch. Accompanied by crisp asparagus, cucumber and a tangy vinaigrette, it was a refreshing starter that I would happily order again.

We then moved on to the main course, where I had to try the Lobster Tagliolini. This dish has won my heart. The lobster was succulent and the tangy tomato sauce added the perfect depth of flavor. It was comfort food with an elegant twist, rich, but not overwhelming. New Zealand lamb chops followed, and while I’m not usually a fan of lamb, I could see how fans of this dish would find it good.

I couldn’t resist trying some Indian dishes. The Biryani was good, but not extraordinary, while the Mushroom Gucchi stood out for its earthy flavors and delicate texture. That said, it was the continental and Italian dishes that really stole the show for me. The meal ended with drool-worthy desserts.

One of the things that really stood out to me during my visit was the hospitality. From the moment we were greeted at the door to the moment we were seated, the staff were nothing short of exceptional. The servers were knowledgeable, offering excellent suggestions and responding quickly to our needs. It’s clear that D’MONDE prides itself on creating not only a luxurious environment, but a truly welcoming environment. I can’t wait to return and explore more of what this exceptional club has to offer.