Always keen to try a delicious theme dining experience, Indian Accent sounded intriguing – and knowing its close proximity to the award-winning Indian restaurant Namak by Kunal Kapur – of which we could not sing praises enough – we hoped that at least some of the culinary genius would rub off, or, indeed, inspire Indian Accent.

And we were pleasantly surprised!

Indian Accent is presented at the all-day dining venue, Urban Kitchen, every Tuesday evening – and while it is a relaxed atmosphere, the quality of the cuisine is at a very high level.

While remaining authentic, and also representing a more international portrait of Indian cuisine, less dependent on fiery chili and spices, Indian Accent offers a wonderful journey for the palate.

The venue is bright and spacious – and all due precautions are in place. There is a combination of buffet and live cooking station, and a touchless system is in place. A personal attendant will accompany you as you approach the buffet, and not only carry your plate and handle all utensils, but also explain each dish with welcome expertise.

The “street food” section presents a vibrant and fun take on some of India’s favorite market stall creations – naturally at a five-star level of preparation.

Absolutely a firework display for the taste buds, the playful combinations of textures and flavors are a wonderful way to start the meal!

The appetizers proper begin with two dishes that I recognize from Namak – they were so delicious that my taste memory is still fresh!

Chicken the main ingredient for one, with coriander and other magical herbs; and tasty prawns for the other – both are masterpieces that elevate the dining experience!

The mains are varied, and there’s something for everyone. Most important, every dish is prepared with top ingredients and an attention to detail that matches the level of refinement of the Dusit Thani.

For instance, a cube of grilled paneer cheese…

… or a simple basket of freshly-baked nan bread:

Accompanied by your choice of rice or bread, the mains are delicious!

Fish molly, lamb gohst, chicken curry, as well as vegetarian specialties will cover your table – it is a buffet, after all! Choose what you want, taste whatever you like.

This style of shared eating is wonderful with family and groups of friends, and looking across the spacious restaurant, it was lovely to see people out and enjoying themselves – we are social beings, and we can survive isolation for brief periods of time, but for the very soul to feel alive, we need each other, we need other people – and I felt that an event such as Indian Accent was a lot more than simply “eating out”; it was a liberation of sorts, a recovery of our public lives and social ties.

And then came dessert!

International sweets, as well as traditional Indian delights… just look at this adorable morsel just waiting to jump into your mouth!

And it wasn’t alone!

Soon a whole family of different Indian treats assembled for our degustation.

Overall, it was not only a delightful evening at Indian Accent, with delicious varieties of gourmet level dishes, but it was also a celebration of going out for dinner – with appreciation for the care that the good people at the Dusit Thani have taken to make sure we can return to our social lifestyles while at the same time taking all necessary precautions.

Welcome to the new normal, and welcome back to lovely evenings out with friends and family.