A Culinary Canvas
Fairmont Mumbai has unveiled Samaa, an exclusive evening-only restaurant gracing its poolside. This new culinary venture joins the hotel's established
dining repertoire, which includes the all-day eatery The Merchants, the charming Indo-French tea lounge Madeleine de Proust, the Sichuan and Cantonese-focused Orin, and the sophisticated craft cocktail bar, The Hedonist. Samaa distinguishes itself by building its menu around the concept of mezze, live charcoal grills, and an unwavering commitment to ingredient-led cooking. The establishment offers a comprehensive exploration of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions, presenting a rich tapestry of flavours designed for sharing and enjoyment. Situated on the third floor of the hotel, Samaa accommodates 70 guests, featuring seating arrangements that extend to the poolside and intimate cabanas for more private dining experiences. The restaurant's open-air design intentionally draws attention to the serene pool and the vast expanse of the sky – a reflection of its name, which translates to 'sky' in Arabic. As daylight fades, the ambiance transforms through carefully curated mood lighting and a selection of ambient music, creating a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for transitioning from dusk into the late evening hours.
Flavors of the Levant
At the culinary helm of Samaa is Chef de Cuisine Nitin Parulekar, whose philosophy emphasizes the purity of taste and the excellence of ingredients. His approach at Samaa is dedicated to crafting dishes that authentically represent Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary heritage, ensuring each creation is both traditional and delightful. To achieve this authenticity, key ingredients such as the vibrant Aleppo pepper and the creamy akawi cheese are meticulously sourced and imported. The menu thoughtfully commences with a selection of cold mezze. The Lebanese crudités present a refreshing, seasonal assortment of raw vegetables like cucumber, tomato, carrots, and radish, inviting guests to partake in the Levantine tradition of beginning meals with crisp, fresh elements. Hummus is offered in two distinct interpretations: one elevated with slow-cooked, shredded crispy lamb, adding a rich texture and depth, and another complemented by popcorn shrimp, where the delicate crunch of tempura prawns provides a delightful textural and sweet contrast to the smooth dip. A classic Smoked moutabal, a staple from the Levant, features expertly charred eggplant blended with hung curd, finished with a burst of pomegranate for a lively acidity. Muhammara, a specialty originating from Aleppo, is a complex blend of roasted red Aleppo peppers, nuts, garlic, and aromatic spices, offering a deeper, more nuanced flavour profile that beautifully balances the lighter dips.
Hot Mezze & Grills
Beyond the cold starters, Samaa's menu extends to a concise yet comforting selection of shorba soups, drawing inspiration from West Asian culinary traditions, alongside salads that traverse the region's diverse geography with dishes like Fattoush and Tabbouleh. A standout is the Jarjeer salad, a popular Middle Eastern choice that masterfully combines peppery rocket leaves with crumbly feta, the sweet tang of pomegranate molasses, crunchy walnuts, and the unique Shankleesh cheese, enhanced with whipped feta and a hint of red pepper. The hot mezze further diversifies the offering with items like Sigara boregi, reimagined here with a savory filling of halloumi and akawi cheese, served alongside a piquant harissa labneh. Batata harra, a Lebanese potato dish, is prepared with a kick of Aleppo pepper and presented with tender, crunchy asparagus and a creamy tahini sauce. Innovation shines through in the Mushroom baklava, which adopts the characteristic layered pastry technique of its sweet counterpart but transforms it into a savory delight, encasing a rich filling of wild mushroom cream, akawi cheese, and truffle oil within crisp pastry sheets. Coastal Middle Eastern influences are evident in the Spiced squid, seasoned with sumac and cumin, while prawns glazed with chilli molasses hint at the vibrant flavours of the Gulf region. The charcoal grill section features Sheesh taouk and kebab Istanbuli, alongside Pirzola lamb chops, all paying homage to traditional Turkish grilling methods. A classic chicken shawarma, a nod to beloved Levantine street food, is served with soft saaj bread, pickles, fries, and toum. For seafood enthusiasts, the grills include samak al faham, a Middle Eastern charcoal-grilled fish delicately seasoned with coriander, lemon, and chili, and rubian meshawi, featuring tiger prawns marinated in a flavorful blend of ginger, garlic, turmeric, and citrus. Guests can also opt for a mixed grill platter, consolidating these exquisite grilled elements for a communal dining experience.
Refreshments & Ambiance
The beverage program at Samaa is thoughtfully designed to complement the culinary offerings without overshadowing them. The selection places a strong emphasis on non-alcoholic options, which form the foundation of the drinks menu. These include a variety of fruit-forward coolers, indulgent frappes, satisfying shakes, and invigorating smoothies, alongside a range of refreshing iced teas. Complementing these are dedicated tea options, featuring a curated list that spans from delicate Japanese Sencha to the rich, nuanced flavours of second flush Darjeeling tea. While there isn't a specific cocktail menu, guests are welcome to enjoy straight pours of various spirits. Samaa cultivates a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an enjoyable evening. The alfresco setting, combined with the allure of grills, the option of hookah, and a menu brimming with healthy small plates, creates a complete and inviting dining experience under the open sky.
