Restaurateur A. D. Singh knows how to create a neighbourhood restaurant, and he can spot a neighbourhood in need of one. Put the two together and you get the relocated Olive – Olive Beach – in Delhi’s swish Diplomatic Enclave that in a way exceeds the original in terms of location. The place oozes style and decadence with a generous shot of contemporary flair and literally charms the capital – with its signature pebbled white courtyard, candlelit alcoves and azure water body.

But Olive Beach is not just a pretty space, its stark white beauty bathed in subtle hues, provides a fine venue for Chef Giuliano Tassinari to showcase his stylish and avant-garde cuisine. He literally takes the ‘neighbourhood restaurant’ concept and runs with it, creating dishes like his signature grilled calamari with olive oil, gently warmed over the fire and paired with herbed tomatoes and baby greens.

Chef Giuliano is a celebrity of sorts owing to his appearance on several television and radio shows and to his official positions held on boards affiliated to the culinary world. As an executive chef, Giuliano has been affiliated to world famous entities dedicated to fine dining like Le Vieux Chêne restaurant in Fribourg, Switzerland; The Plaza Restaurant at Dakar, Senegal; Château Vaudreuil and Golf Saint-Raphael. As also, the Savarona – the largest private cruiser in the world, rented by none other than Ralph Lauren himself, where Prince Andrew, Sarah Fergusson and Naomi Campbell among others, all have had a chance to enjoy his superb culinary delights!

Fresh home-made ingredients are the trademark of all the dishes in his kitchen – be it a handmade pasta or the wide variety of cheese that he uses. He takes pains to ensure the visual charm of each perfectly created dish resulting in a work of art, fit for any palate. The restaurant’s creative interiors, chic yet friendly atmosphere and unobtrusively stylish service strike an interesting balance between style and robust meals. Whitewashed walls with a fresh country feel, adorned by colours of a Mediterranean palette interspersed with a definite rustic charm, warmed by the incandescence of wax candles, all tot up to the charming feel of the beachside café. And for those who would like to unwind, the bar’s extensive wine list perfectly complements the menu.