In the middle of this scorching summer, finding a place that feels light, easy, and refreshing isn’t always simple. And while cafés seem to be popping up everywhere, all trying to stand out, a few places don’t really need to try that hard, just because it gets the basics right.
Nestled at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Kondapur, Le Café is a European sidewalk-themed deli that serves baked delights and desserts. It has built a steady following over time, not just out of nostalgia, but because of the clean and fussfree food.
Le Café has recently introduced a new menu that brings together influences from French, English, and Indian cuisines. The mix is fairly easygoing familiar dishes with a slight twist, informed Prince Kumar, Pastry Chef.
We started our tasting session with the Croissant Omelette- a dish that sums up the fusion quite nicely. A flaky, buttery croissant is paired with a masala omelette, served with fries and garlic butter. The dish is comforting without being too much, making it ideal for a leisurely brunch or a light meal.
Next, the pizzas deliver on their promises. The Pork Pepperoni Pizza is classic and reliable, featuring savoury slices of pork sausage, a tangy tomato base, and well-melted mozzarella. It’s simple, yet done right. In contrast, the Guntur Chicken Pizza adds a local twist. The spice from the Guntur-style chicken provides just the right amount of kick, balanced by the creaminess of the cheese, making it flavorful without being too much.
For something more indulgent, the Charcoal Storm burger leaves a lasting impression. With braised pulled lamb patty, smoked cheese, and a charcoal bun, offers a smokier flavour, it is indeed a irrestiable creation.
The cream roll takes you straight back to childhood, but with a more refined touch. Chef Kumar’s version pairs a crisp, flaky outer layer with a light hazelnut-infused cream that doesn’t feel overly sweet. The filling is soft and airy, almost melting as you bite into it, making it feel both familiar and a little more elevated.
On the other hand, the quinoa salad keeps things clean and nourishing. Made with black sprouted quinoa, pickled beetroot, and grilled vegetables with lemon dressing it leans into a high-protein, wholesome profile without feeling too heavy. The textures are well balanced, slightly nutty, fresh, and light making the dish an easy, no-fuss option, especially if you are looking for something healthier in this scorching weather.
Le Café’s desserts are light on the stomach yet refreshing. The Khubani Ka Semifreddo shines with its delicate apricot flavours and airy texture. It’s mildly sweet and gentle on the palate, making it a perfect way to end a meal in this weather.
The drinks hold their own character and fit seamlessly into the overall experience. The cappuccino is smooth and comforting – a well-balanced bitterness with creamy, airy notes, while the Callebaut Madagascar hot chocolate leans richer, with deep cocoa layered with a gentle hint of fruitiness.
The mocktails, on the other hand, are easy, refreshing companions, indeed perfect for lingering conversations. The Herbal Delight is light and clean, with orange juice, honey, and a touch of basil; the Sunset Splash brings in a mellow tropical sweetness with pineapple, honey, and lemongrass; and the Berry Basil Bliss rounds things off with soft strawberry notes, finished with a cherry on top.
A meal for two here would roughly come up to around INR 2,000, making it a fairly easy, no-fuss option for a laid-back outing.
Asmita.mukherjee@saffronsynergies.in
