04/22/2026
“Passerine: The Songbird’s Flight — Curiosity, Spice & the Modern Indian Table”
Words of NYC:
Set in the heart of Manhattan, Passerine provided a vibrant and elegant backdrop for an evening centered on curiosity, spice, and the evolving language of the modern Indian table.
The reception set the tone beautifully, with bites including Paneer Tart with Mint & Caramelized Onion, Masala Uttapam with Cream Cheese & Kaffir Lime, Tuna Shisho Chaat with Avocado & Chives, and Lamb Taco with Red Onion Salsa, paired with Domaine José Dhondt Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagne, NV. It was an opening full of brightness, flavor, and conversation, as Confrères and Consoeurs gathered in anticipation of the meal ahead.
Dinner continued that journey with a series of memorable and beautifully composed courses. Tuna Tartlet with Spiced Tuna and Caviar alongside Murruku with avocado and trout roe, paired with Château Carbonnieux Blanc Bordeaux 2019, offered a striking and elegant start. A following course of Toast with Mushroom Jam and Prosciutto and Shrimp Koliwada with corn and potato salli, served with Dr. Konstantin Frank Rkatsiteli 2020 from the Finger Lakes, brought richness and personality with a wonderful sense of play and balance.
One of the evening’s standout moments came with the Monk Fish in Konkan Malwani curry with coconut, paired with Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc “The FMC” 2020 from Stellenbosch. This course captured the heart of the evening’s theme — layered spice, graceful technique, and a depth of flavor that lingered long after the plate was cleared.
The main courses, Ghee Roast Chicken with Saag, chili masala, and paratha and Beef Short Rib with Nihari and mushrooms, delivered warmth, richness, and extraordinary depth, beautifully accompanied by Château Haut-Brion Bordeaux 2004 served en Jeroboam. It was a pairing and presentation worthy of the occasion — generous, grand, and deeply memorable.
Dessert offered a soft and fragrant close to the evening with Pistachio Nimish, chai ice cream, and rose ice, a finish that felt both delicate and expressive, bringing the menu to a graceful and satisfying conclusion.
🥘🌮🍚📸: