A Culinary Journey at Zarqash: Chef Rohit Ghai’s Indian Fine Dining Experience

Introduction to a Culinary Vision

India may not yet have Michelin-starred restaurants officially, but the country is steadily gaining recognition for its exceptional culinary talent, particularly among Indian-origin chefs in the UK and West Asia. One notable figure in this movement is Chef Rohit Ghai, who has made waves with his restaurants abroad and is now bringing his expertise back to India with the launch of Zarqash at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore.

The Man Behind the Magic: Chef Rohit Ghai

Chef Rohit Ghai’s credentials speak volumes. His previous venture, Jamavar, earned a Michelin star under his direction, and he is known for a portfolio that includes successful establishments such as Vatavaran, Kutir, and Manthan in London, along with restaurants in Dubai, Morocco, and Muscat. Zarqash marks his first foray into the Indian culinary landscape, combining his international experience with local flavors.

A Plush Setting

Located on the fourth floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Zarqash offers a luxurious dining environment, previously home to the Indian restaurant Riwaz. The heart of Zarqash is its open kitchen, where diners can watch the energetic staff as they prepare exquisite dishes. The ambiance exudes elegance, perfectly complementing the meticulously crafted menu.

A Taste of Modern India

Rohit Ghai aims to redefine modern Indian cuisine without compromising on authenticity. “Zarqash is a contemporary, forward-thinking Indian fine dining restaurant,” he states. The restaurant features a signature six-course tasting menu that showcases seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. This thoughtfully curated experience offers an array of options for meat lovers, vegetarians, and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Highlights from the Menu

Khaman Dhokla Apple

One of the standout dishes at Zarqash is the Khaman Dhokla Apple, a fresh take on a beloved Gujarati snack. A disk of fluffy dhokla is beautifully plated alongside coconut shavings, crisp apple slices, mustards leaves, and chutney swirls. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is nothing short of delightful.

Duck Seekh Kebab

Next on the menu is the Duck Seekh Kebab, a dish that features mildly spiced, savory duck meat skewered and grilled to perfection in a tandoor. It’s served with a refreshing pineapple kachumber and pickled onions, enhancing the overall dining experience with its bold flavors.

Tandoori Morel Mushrooms

The Tandoori Morel Mushrooms dish features sought-after morels stuffed with creamy cheese, served with a tart berry chutney. This dish combines rich earthy notes with freshness—a true testament to Chef Ghai’s culinary skill.

Craft Cocktails with Indian Inspiration

Zarqash’s cocktail menu pays homage to Indian flavors with creative concoctions like Pochampally Sun, Mysore Glow, and Benarasi Resham. Signature ingredients such as rose cordial, tamarind, and curry leaf add a unique twist, elevating the overall dining experience.

Biryani and Beyond

Among the must-try dishes are the clay pot biryanis, particularly the Mutton Biryani, which is delicately cooked with succulent meat, aromatic basmati rice, potatoes, and plums. Another mention-worthy option is the Mushroom and Truffle Pulao, featuring wild mushrooms and goji berries, resulting in an earthy, nutty flavor profile.

Main Course Treasures

For the main course, the Chicken Tikka Masala and Lucknowi Fish curry are highly recommended. These dishes bring a contemporary spin while maintaining traditional flavors that diners know and love.

The Show-stopping Raan Sikandari

No meal at Zarqash is complete without indulging in the Raan Sikandari, a decadent slow-cooked leg of milk-fed goat topped with gold leaf, served in a sumptuous pili-gravy. This dish is designed to leave a lasting impression, encapsulating the essence of fine dining at Zarqash.

Pricing and Availability

Dinner for two at Zarqash costs approximately ₹5,000. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, welcoming guests to embark on a remarkable culinary journey. For reservations, contact The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore at 9741035124.

By uniting traditional Indian recipes with modern culinary techniques, Chef Rohit Ghai’s Zarqash promises to be a memorable dining experience for locals and visitors alike. The combination of a luxurious setting, innovative dishes, and a commitment to authenticity creates a culinary journey worth indulging in.