A Pan-Asian lunch that brings Thailand, China and Japan to one table

The midday rush often leaves little room for leisurely dining, but OKO at The LaLiT New Delhi is attempting to change that with Oriental Express, a specially curated lunch experience that celebrates the distinct culinary traditions of Thailand, China and Japan without compromising on speed or sophistication.

Available daily from noon to 3 pm, the set lunch offers guests a choice of Thai, Chinese or Japanese menus, each available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Rather than blending Asian cuisines into a single spread, each menu preserves its own identity, allowing diners to explore authentic flavours in a structured three-course meal.

The experience begins with Tom Yum Siam, OKO’s signature citrus and lemongrass mocktail that refreshes the palate before the meal unfolds.

The Thai menu opens with a crisp Som Tam Salad, followed by the restaurant’s fragrant Thai Green Curry served with jasmine rice. Rich with coconut, herbs and balanced spice, the curry offers comforting flavours without overwhelming the palate.

The Chinese selection focuses on delicate textures and comforting classics. A vibrant Kimchi Salad precedes an assortment of handmade dumplings, including Crystal Vegetable Dumplings and Mushroom Cream Cheese Dumplings for vegetarians, while non-vegetarian diners can enjoy Chicken Shao Mai and Prawn Har Gao. Each is steamed to preserve its natural flavours and freshness.

The Japanese menu rounds off the culinary journey with the light Whispering Greens Spinach Salad, followed by a hearty Udon Donburi Bowl featuring Japanese golden curry and thick udon noodles. Guests can choose between seasonal vegetables or crispy panko-fried chicken topped with a half-fried egg for a wholesome finish.

Every meal concludes with a scoop of Litchi Ice Cream, offering a light and refreshing end to the dining experience.

“Oriental Express was created for guests looking for a refined Pan-Asian meal that fits comfortably into a busy day. We wanted to offer authentic flavours while keeping the experience relaxed, balanced and efficient,” said the culinary team at OKO.

Unlike conventional lunch buffets, Oriental Express focuses on curated portions and carefully selected signature dishes that highlight the essence of each cuisine. The format allows diners to savour regional flavours without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

“Each menu has been designed to preserve the individuality of Thai, Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Every dish reflects traditional flavours and techniques while delivering the quality and presentation that define the OKO dining experience,” the team added.

Whether it’s a business lunch, a casual meeting or a relaxed afternoon meal, Oriental Express succeeds in striking the balance between authenticity and convenience. In a city where lunch often becomes an afterthought, OKO offers a menu that turns the hour into a memorable culinary escape.