Dropping by for dessert at L’Orient was an impromptu thought while walking the dimly lit streets of Pondicherry. My travel partner and I needed a small sweet to cap off the rather uninspiring dinner we just finished. This luxury hotel property was looked at for a potential respite along our 3 week itinerary, but somehow fell to the wayside. For the sake of research and our sweet tooth’s, we were on a mission to see what we may have missed.

First glances of the exterior and menu (posted at the door), begged us to continue on to the open air courtyard dining area. We were immediately seated in one of the few remaining open tables. The street out front was deserted, but inside, this property was packed. From the looks of the crowd these were hotel guests that didn’t venture far from the property. And why would they? The first class menu even had me thinking there might be room in my stomach for another entree, in addition to dessert.

Chocolate mousse and gajar halwa were ordered and received in little time. Presentation is what you would expect here. Crisp white linen tablecloths with flatware fit for a maharaja. Our desserts were presented on fine china actually made in India. And the taste…my gosh, the taste. My sweet carrots were surrounded by a delicate pistachio cream sauce which, ever so perfectly, melded in my mouth.

Although the stagnant air in the courtyard left us drenched in our own moisture, views of the French architecture set amidst trees, other diners and immaculately dressed servers were nice distractions. No detail was too small including the bill arriving in a small covered basket. Note to self: return soon for a proper full course meal at L’Orient.