Atharv Vairagade
3/5
### Hotel Name: Hotel De Mercy
Location:
Hotel De Mercy is situated in the quaint town of Umred, known for its proximity to natural attractions like the Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary. This makes the hotel a convenient choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The hotel is easily accessible and located close to the main town, offering a peaceful environment with minimal noise from the bustling streets.
### Ambiance:
The hotel offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with simple yet tasteful interiors. The dining area, in particular, exudes a warm, homely vibe, with comfortable seating and a mix of traditional and modern decor. The soft lighting creates an inviting space perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers.
### Dining Experience
1. Restaurant Overview:
Hotel De Mercy features an on-site restaurant that is highly praised for its quality and variety of food. The restaurant specializes in local Maharashtrian cuisine, but also offers a selection of Indian and international dishes to cater to a wide range of tastes. The dining area is clean and well-maintained, with attentive staff ensuring that all diners feel comfortable.
2. Local Maharashtrian Cuisine:
The hotel's restaurant takes great pride in offering authentic local dishes. Some of the standout Maharashtrian dishes include:
- Zunka Bhakar: A simple yet flavorful dish made with gram flour, served with traditional flatbread.
- Misal Pav: A spicy curry made from sprouted moth beans, topped with crunchy farsan and served with soft bread rolls.
- Pithla Bhakri: A signature dish of Maharashtra, made from besan (gram flour) and served with traditional bhakri.
The kitchen uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the chef is skilled at balancing the bold flavors typical of Maharashtrian cuisine. For guests looking to explore the local food culture, the restaurant provides an excellent introduction.
3. Indian and International Dishes:
In addition to local cuisine, the hotel also offers a range of North Indian, South Indian, and international dishes. Some popular options include:
- Butter Chicken: A rich, creamy curry that pairs well with freshly made naan bread or rice.
- Paneer Tikka: Grilled cubes of cottage cheese marinated in spices, served with tangy chutney.
- Chinese Dishes: For guests craving international flavors, the hotel offers a variety of Chinese-inspired dishes like Hakka Noodles and Manchurian.
4. Breakfast:
The breakfast at Hotel De Mercy is a delightful spread of both local and continental offerings. Traditional Maharashtrian breakfast items such as Poha and Sabudana Khichdi are available, along with staples like parathas and idlis. For those who prefer a lighter start to the day, fresh fruits, cereals, and eggs made to order are also available.
5. Signature Dishes:
- Mutton Thali: A must-try, the Mutton Thali is one of the most popular items on the menu. It features tender, slow-cooked mutton curry, served with bhakri, rice, and accompaniments like pickles and chutneys.
- Kombdi Vade: A traditional dish from the Konkan region, this consists of spiced chicken curry served with vade, a type of fried bread made from rice and lentils.
- Tandoori Delights: The restaurant's tandoori items, including chicken and paneer, are well-marinated and perfectly cooked in the traditional clay oven, giving them a smoky, flavorful finish.
6. Desserts:
Hotel De Mercy offers a selection of local desserts, with Puran Poli (a sweet flatbread stuffed with jaggery and lentils) and Shrikhand (a creamy, sweetened yogurt dessert) being particularly popular. For those with a more international palate, options like Gulab Jamun and Ice Cream are also available.
### Service & Staff:
The service at Hotel De Mercy is highly praised. The restaurant staff are polite, attentive,