A Visit To La Soirée By Priyansh Agarwal, Kolkata’s New Dining Destination Designed By Gauri Khan

How about dining in the atmosphere of the French Riviera while being in the City Of Joy? Located just a few minutes away from Rabindra Sadan Metro, Kolkata, La Soirée has quickly become a new destination for food lovers in the city. 

Image Credit: Saborni Saha

La Soirée Brings In A European Atmosphere With Curated Food

Image Credit: Saborni Saha

Walking into La Soirée is like stepping into a dream where every detail has been thoughtfully designed to transport you to a different world. The space is adorned with statement chandeliers, warm lighting, and a blend of maroon and brown tones, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for an evening out. Gauri Khan’s impeccable taste is evident in every corner, with French-inspired design elements like the intricate filigree patterns, photo frames featuring the Eiffel Tower, and elegant wall treatments. The warm lighting casts a soft, inviting glow over the space, ensuring a perfect backdrop for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.

Slurrp got the chance to have a few words with Gauri Khan about the interior design of the restaurant.

Slurrp: ⁠How did you plan this interior for La Soirée Kolkata? How long did it take to complete? Any hindrance you faced for this?

Gauri Khan: La Soirée was designed to be luxurious but cosy. We wanted a timeless, layered story that evoked an old-world evening soirée. It took eight months to execute the detail and craftsmanship. As with most projects, coordinating custom elements and site conditions is challenging, but thoughtful collaboration and a clear vision helped us overcome these obstacles.

Slurrp: What was the first thought that came to your mind when you started working on the interior?

Gauri Khan: The first thought was emotion. I wanted the space to feel warm, romantic, and immersive—the kind of place where time slows down the moment you step in. It was important that the interiors didn’t feel loud, but instead drew you in subtly, allowing the mood to unfold gradually.

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Slurrp: ⁠ ⁠A few specifications you would love to mention about La Soirée Kolkata's interior?

Gauri Khan: The interiors are defined by rich tones, layered textures, and refined detailing. We worked with a deep, moody palette balanced with softer finishes to create depth and elegance. There is a strong emphasis on symmetry and proportion, ensuring that every element feels intentional and harmonious. The overall design is understated yet luxurious, allowing the space to feel both sophisticated and welcoming.

Slurrp: The lamps are also customised along with the walls at La Soirée. Tell us a bit more about the chandeliers, the pattern you followed for the whole design.

Gauri Khan: Lighting played a pivotal role in shaping the atmosphere of La Soirée. The chandeliers were designed as statement elements—ornate yet elegant—adding a sense of drama without overwhelming the space. We followed a cohesive pattern where the lighting complements the architectural details and wall treatments, creating a seamless visual rhythm throughout. The idea was to let the lights enhance the mood, casting a warm glow that elevates the overall dining experience.

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As the evening goes on, a lovely playlist of old Bollywood, jazz, and commercial songs makes the mood even better, and it's easy to lose track of time. While you're there for a casual meal or a special occasion, the atmosphere makes for a truly unforgettable experience. But the food is what really stands out. 

Chef Samantha Chakraborty carefully chose the dishes on the menu. La Soirée serves food from around the world, including Asian, Western, and fusion dishes. Sushi, dim sum, and Indian favourites like Taar Korma and Mathania Ambi Paneer Tikka are all on the menu, so there is something for everyone.

As Slurrp got into a conversation with the owner, Priyansh Agarwal, he shared his vision, the thoughts he had while developing this place.

Slurrp: So, the first thought that brought this place to life? What were you thinking while before you thought of creating this place?

Priyansh: When I was studying in the UK, you know, after a year, I came back to Kolkata. So, my friends told me to meet them. So, then, I was not a party freak earlier. And then, you know, after going to places and seeing the unreal crowd outside and seeing the demand, the food and people, I thought of trying something new in terms of food, ambience and drinks as well.

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The food options you have everything over here? Yeah, we serve a diversified menu. Uh, when people you know are coming in, so they are not going out. They will come in, and order something because we have the usual pasta, pizza, and some common items as well, where people have not eaten, like the Sops like Teppanyaki, the only restaurant serving Teppanyaki, and gluten-free products and sushi. We have options for everyone.

Slurrp: What's the vision you had in mind while starting this restaurant?

Priyansh: Gauri has her expertise for creating mindblowing interior designs. So we didn't brief anything in particular. We wanted the French theme for the ambience. Like, you see the wallpapers of the French Riviera and also the lamps that she's created? Uh, has the same wallpaper, and also, you know, the photo frames of the Eiffel Tower and French cafe? And the vibe. What she's greeted won't give you a European vibe.

And also, talking about the comfort, we have not compromised on the comfort. Even if a person with a back problem, we have cared for them also. Sit upright. We have facilities for wheelchairs as well. So, you can say this place is suitable for everyone, from a child to a 90-year-old. We have a separate place for a party night and a separate smoking zone as well. And during the lunch hour, the non-busy hour days, we have separate sections for those who want to enjoy good food in a calm ambience.

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Slurrp: Another thing we would like to ask, looking at this place, this comes under a Posh restaurant and a sophisticated one in the city. So, how did you, uh, think of that price range over here?

Priyansh: So, when people heard that Gauri Khan has collaborated with us for the interior, they were under the impression that prices would skyrocket. But it's not. The experience we are providing here is no less than five-star. However, we didn't want the prices to be very high since it's my first Standalone. Given this atmosphere, the decor, and the experience you have compared to the ambience, it is pocket-friendly.

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Slurrp: What's your vision for the upcoming years?

Priyansh: We want to open the next branch in Mumbai as well, since Gauri Khan has done the design.

Slurrp: Are you thinking of anything new, seasonal addition to the menu?

Priyansh: Winter is a season for strawberries. So we are planning to have some discovery deserts. We have our in-house bakery for desserts. We don't. We are not outsourcing it. Bakery and confectionery are in-house. For birthdays and anniversaries, we do give a complimentary cake to everyone.

Foods At La Soirée: Culinary Fusion of Global Flavours and Local Ingredients

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At La Soirée, there are many options on the menu for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, including some vegan and signature dishes.

You can start the meal with Hummus & Harissa Dip with khakra, nachos, and dehydrated beetroot chips, or Stuffed Olives with dill leaves and paprika. The Green Salad with Micro Greens and the Watermelon and Feta Salad are great for starting the day. For a creamy treat, try the Burrata with tempura kale and sesame dressing.

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From soups like Cream of Broccoli and Lemon Coriander Soup, to the Vegan Bao with plant-based protein, you can also enjoy Chilli Crab with garlic and water chestnut. Rolls like the Caterpillar Roll and the Truffle Togarasi Maki can also be great options for sushi fans.

Small bites like Palak Baigan ki Chat and Spicy Tuna on Japanese Cucumber are also on the menu. For seafood lovers, the Grilled Gondhoraj Bhetki Steak and Malvani Tandoori Pomfret are good options. For a hearty main dish, try the Bharwan Gucchi Pulao or the Taar Korma. For pizzas and pastas, the Tartufo Sourdough Pizza and the Sun-dried Tomato, Olive, and Ricotta Tortellini are both delicious.

To end the meal on a sweet note, savour rich desserts like Serradura or Mi-cuit au Chocolat.

What Did Among La Soirée's Food and Drinks Slurrp Love?

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Every dish at La Soirée tells a story, and Slurrp had the pleasure of experiencing this firsthand. The meal began with the Cheese Platter, a carefully curated selection of artisanal cheeses. The Smoked Burrata Salad followed, with its creamy burrata paired with fresh greens, offering a delicate smoky flavour that tantalised the taste buds.

The Southern Buttermilk Fried Chicken was another highlight. Golden and crispy on the outside, the chicken was juicy and flavourful on the inside. The Crispy Assorted Mushrooms came, with a satisfying crunch that complemented the mushrooms' earthy flavours.

For sushi lovers, La Soirée’s Rainbow Cado Sushi with wasabi (you'll keep drooling for more) is a must-try. Fresh avocado slices layered with vibrant vegetables, while the Yasai Maki provided a clean and balanced flavour profile, keeping the purity of traditional Japanese flavours.

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Slurrp had the pleasure of trying La Soirée's unique cocktails, including Kohinoor, an elegant blend of thyme-infused rosé wine and gin, followed by a refined, floral, and crisp taste with earthy thyme notes. 

Next, Darpan is a bold and reflective cocktail, where clean vodka pairs with tangy orange pickle brine and cooling peppermint tea, balancing sharp spice with smooth herbal freshness. As Supratim from the brewery section mentioned, “The name "Darpan" came to mind because of the clear, peaceful colour of the drink. It’s like a mirror that reflects the essence of the cocktail—just like a mirror reflects your face.” 

He further continued, “The cocktail is inspired by the taste of childhood, particularly the flavours of orange and peppermint. It has a refreshing, nostalgic mouthfeel, reminiscent of old-school peppermint candies, like Polo mints. We don’t use regular orange flavour; instead, we use a European pickling method for the orange. We pickle the orange with white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and a blend of hot spices like coriander seeds.”

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Masala Chai Cocktail won among the three with its unique fusion of gin and tequila with spiced masala chai, fresh lime, and Red Bull, following an aromatic flavour with a zesty, fizzy finish. 

About this drink, Supratim stated, “At La Soirée, we have a number of curated drinks prepared in the house. We have thought of unique cocktails. For example, we have our special Masala chai cocktail. It's a curated drink by me as well. The basic concept behind our signature high-ABV cocktail is to offer a unique twist on a classic long drink. The cocktail is crafted with 60 ml of gin, blended with approximately 120 ml of cold brew Masala tea, infused with a blend of aromatic Indian spices like star anise and cinnamon. We add a touch of sweetness and top it off with a splash of Red Bull.”

For mocktails there’s a huge variety as well. “We have a few options on our menu. One is based on lychee, and another is made with passion fruit and pineapple. They’re not your typical basic mocktails; they’re packed with unique flavours. We have a few signature drinks as well, like Single Mingle, Golden Key, Glow Up, and Blush and Burn. Another standout is our Globe, which is a refreshing lychee and basil mocktail. It’s a simple mix, but the flavours of the lychee and basil come through beautifully.” Supratim took time to describe all the signature drinks at La Soirée.

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One of the highlights is the fresh watermelon juice with passion fruit and a dash of coffee lip starch—it’s quite a unique combination. In the “Golden Key,” we combine fresh pineapple juice with lemongrass cordial and a hint of chilli butter. It’s a new addition, and the spiciness from the chilli butter really brings something exciting to the drink.”, he continued.

The Mathania Ambi Paneer Tikka was a treat for spice lovers, with its tangy and smoky flavour profile, while the Chapli Kebab offered a juicy and tender texture that melted in the mouth, complemented by robust spices. Moving on to the mains, the Bok Choy Chicken Stir-fry was a light and savoury dish that combined stir-fried chicken with bok choy, while the Sun-dried Tomato, Olive & Ricotta Tortellini turned out to be a creamy delight.

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The best part about this place is that you won’t get disappointed when asking for a mind-boggling pizza. The Neapolitan Sourdough Pizza, with its truffle flavours and rich cheese, was a filling, delicious, and so yummy that you may end up gobbling a few more pieces. The Bharwan Guchii Pulao, cooked with stuffed morels, creamy cheese and herbs, brought out an earthy taste while the accompaniment of mutton made the dish simply unforgettable.

Though the stomach was filled with so much delicious food, there’s always a little room left for desserts. Slurrp indulged in Serradura, a light Portuguese dessert layered with whipped cream and biscuit crumbs. Next came the Mi-cuit au Chocolat, a decadent chocolate dessert with a molten center, leaving the evening on a sweeter note.

• Address: 234/3A Acharya Jagdish Chandra Bose Road, French Motors Building, Kolkata – 700020
• Opening Hours: Tuesday - Thursday and Sunday 12 pm to 12 am | Friday and Saturday - 12 pm to 2 am (Monday off; extended lounge hours on weekends)