In the heart of San Francisco, ROOH stands as a culinary gem, weaving a tapestry of flavors that captivate the senses.
ROOH is not just a restaurant; it’s a gastronomic journey through the diverse and rich landscape of Indian cuisine. The menu is a symphony of flavors, carefully curated to offer a modern twist to classic Indian dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of Indian cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, ROOH promises a unique culinary adventure.
The journey at ROOH extends beyond the plate. Crafted in the form of a wheel, its captivating cocktail menu revolves around the six tastes, or rasas, of Ayurveda—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent.
I started out my evening sipping on a Nizami Sharbat cocktail, falling into the astringent category. It offered a sophisticated medley of flavors with the smoky depth of mezcal, the bitter complexity of amaro, and a citrusy kick from lime. It had a harmonious blend of sweet-sour notes with the combination of raspberry-hibiscus syrup and chipotle sour.
Later, I had a Truffled Negroni, categorized as bitter. It showcased a balanced interplay of flavors with the classic combination of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. It was elevated by a velvety richness from goat cheese and a luxurious depth from truffle oil. It resulted in a smooth cocktail that was quite too easy to drink!
The mixology team at ROOH takes pride in concocting innovative drinks that complement the bold flavors of the cuisine. From creative interpretations of classic cocktails to signature blends inspired by regional ingredients, their cocktail menu is a testament to their commitment of providing a holistic dining experience.
To Start:
Avocado Yogurt Cornett with Raspberry Chat Masala – This light bite featured a delightful juxtaposition of creamy avocado yogurt encased in a crisp cornett. Raspberries provided vibrant sweetness and the chat masala added nuanced warmth. Overall, it offered a harmonious blend of velvety, crunchy, sweet, and subtly spiced textures and flavors.
Asparagus Pepper Fry Tart with Curry Leaves Podi and Alyssum Flower – A symphony of flavors and textures were nestled in a tart crust. It was elevated by the aromatic earthiness of curry leaves podi and adorned with delicate notes of floral sweetness from the alyssum flower.
Green Pea and Goat Cheese Kulcha topped with Black Perigord Truffle – It’s a delectable harmony of velvety goat cheese and vibrant green peas within a soft, pillowy kulcha. It’s elevated by a generous shaving of black truffle, adding earthy richness. This dish offers a luxurious blend of creamy, savory, and umami textures and flavors. Each time I visit ROOH I have to order a kulcha, they are too good!
BBQ Baked Oyster with Amul Cheese Fondue, Tobiko, and Chili Garlic – A sensory delight unfolded tableside as hot water cascaded beneath the plate, where dry ice resided, enveloping the dish in a captivating smoky effect. On the palate, a symphony of oceanic richness and smokiness was accentuated by the luxurious creaminess of Amul cheese fondue. The popping texture of tobiko, coupled with a tantalizing heat from chili garlic contributed to a seamless fusion of savory, creamy, briny, and spicy flavors.
Small Plates:
Black Sheep Keema Masala (Plant-based Lamb), Green Peas, Potato Mousse and Sali. Accompanied by Brioche – It offered a rich and flavorful experience with a medley of textures, combining the hearty essence of green peas, velvety potato mousse, and the satisfying crunch of sali. The brioche was decadent and complimented the dish nicely.
Tandoori Octopus with Uni Mousse, Purple Corn Thecha, Wakame, and Tobiko – It presented a culinary symphony, blending the tender smokiness of tandoori octopus with the luxurious creaminess of uni mousse. It’s accompanied by the vibrant and spicy notes of purple corn thecha and the umami richness of wakame.
Large Plates:
Tandoori Artichoke: Marinated with Tandoori Spices and Cranberry. Stuffed with Spicy Minced Soy, Grilled and Served with Poppy Seed and Coconut based Gravy – This dish is vibrant and beautifully presented. It offers a harmonious blend of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Paneer Pinwheel with Red Pepper Makhani, Butter Powder, and Cranberry Jam – This is always a dish I have to order when at ROOH. It’s a delightful fusion of creamy, spiced, and fruity nuances.
Beef Shortrib with Madras Curry, Baby Carrot and Turnip, Confit Potato, and Bone Marrow Kurchan – This dish is elegantly presented and the beef short rib boasts a buttery texture. It’s a culinary masterpiece infused with the bold flavors of Madras curry, accompanied by tender baby carrot and turnip, confit potato richness, and a decadent bone marrow kurchan.
African Tiger Prawn Ghee Roast – Tender Coconut Malai Curry, Uni Kadambuttu, and Green Garlic Chutney – The African Tiger Prawn was both tender and succulent and it was bathed in a luscious ghee roast. It was accompanied by a velvety tender coconut malai curry, the pillowy texture of uni kadambuttu, and a burst of freshness from green garlic chutney.
Desserts:
Cashew Praline Cake featuring Cashew Cake, Phirni Mousse, Thandai Ice Cream, and Rice Wafer – This was a decadent delight featuring a luscious cashew cake layered with the creamy essence of phirni mousse. It was topped with the aromatic chill of thandai ice cream. The rice wafer added a delicate crunch.
Carrot Halwa and Celeriac Panna Cotta (Vegan Seasonal Dessert) featuring Tapioca and Sweet Basil Seed Kheer – This dessert combines the comforting warmth of Carrot Halwa and the silky smoothness of Celeriac Panna Cotta. It’s accompanied by a delightful Tapioca and sweet basil seed kheer. It features a blend of rich, creamy textures and a symphony of sweet and aromatic flavors.
Beyond the tantalizing aromas and exquisite flavors, ROOH SF boasts an ambiance that effortlessly combines modern sophistication with the warmth of Indian hospitality. The restaurant’s design is a thoughtful fusion of contemporary aesthetics and traditional Indian elements, creating an inviting space that appeals to both the eyes and the soul.
ROOH SF is more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration of flavors, a tribute to tradition, and an exploration of culinary artistry. From the meticulously crafted dishes to the inviting ambiance, every aspect of ROOH reflects a dedication to providing a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or a solo culinary adventure, ROOH SF invites you to savor the essence of India in the heart of the city.
