Introduction
The saying that we eat with our eyes first’ holds more truth than we think. The visual presentation of a dish plays a vital role in shaping our perception of taste and profoundly impacts our overall enjoyment of a meal.
Multiple research studies published in food journals over the years have revealed that there is a direct co-relation between participants rating dishes with artistic presentations as more flavorful and desirable compared to identical dishes with simple or haphazard plating.
The way food is presented on the plate indeed conveys a powerful message to consumers. When food is presented in an attractive and visually appealing manner, it communicates the care and attention to detail that the chef has dedicated to the dish.
The Art of Presenting Food at Juju
The name of the restaurant signifies “magic”, and the food philosophy is to serve food that can surprise guests as there are many familiar names on Juju’s food menu, but the preparation and presentation of each dish is unique and different.
At Juju Restaurant, the art of presenting Indian cuisine takes center stage and each dish is transformed into a visual masterpiece that tantalizes the senses. Our chefs skillfully combine traditional elements with modern techniques to create what is called “the reimagined Indian experience.”
Visual presentation at Juju is not just limited to clean & modern plating, and it goes well beyond mere aesthetics. To elevate and the involve all the five senses in the dining experience of guests – colors, textures, garnishes, aroma of the dish as well as the décor of the restaurant play a critical role.
Plating Techniques
Plating techniques play a crucial role in presenting Indian cuisine at Juju. These techniques involve the arrangement, placement, and overall composition of different elements on the plate to create visually striking presentations that are both appealing and harmonious.
Colors
Colors have a profound impact on our visual perception of food. Different colors can evoke specific emotions and affect our appetite and enjoyment of a dish. Chefs at Juju incorporate vibrant and contrasting colors to create visually dynamic and appealing plates.
Textures
Texture is another essential element of visual appeal. The interplay of smooth, crunchy, creamy, or crispy textures adds visual interest and creates a more engaging dining experience. At Juju, for instance, we incorporate a variety of textures in our dishes, like broccoli florets in the first picture from left gets a touch of malai and punch from a wasabi cream, the tender coconut rasmali has the crunchy nuts on top and the delicate dahi kebabs have a papad on the side to add layers of visual and sensory intrigue.
Garnishes
Garnishes serve as artistic accents and at juju they are used for enhancing flavors, creating balance, and provide a finishing touch to the presentation. One can find the use of such as edible flowers, microgreens, or delicate herb sprigs not just in food but also in our innovative cocktails.
Décor
In addition to all the visual presentation of the food on the plate, the surroundings play an equally important role in engaging multiple senses beyond taste, such as sight and touch. At Juju, the indoor space is designed as a seamless, open area without any partitions or columns to give the feeling of openness. The unique, amoeba-shaped windows allow ample sunlight during the day, while the calming clay-colored walls and sturdy cement blocks surrounding the bar create a sense of solidity. The dining experience takes place on natural stone tables, adorned with handcrafted vases and fresh flowers sourced from the restaurant’s garden. As the day transitions into night, warm lighting illuminates the space, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere, transforming the restaurant and bar into a lively party venue.
Conclusion
At Juju Restaurant, the presentation of food is not merely about aesthetics but also about creating an immersive sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression. Come and indulge in the visual feast, where every dish tells a story, and every plate is a work of art.