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ABU DHABI / GULF TIME
When restaurants are as celebrated as Pincode, a new chapter is always just around the corner. Sure enough, Chef Kunal Kapur and his team have secured a prime spot at The Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island, for round two after Dubai. They deliver something truly special to the capital — a bold yet heartfelt take on India’s unknown flavours, designed for the city’s cosmopolitan pulse.
Think of India, think of the UAE. Two lands, two stories… but one heart. These two places might seem far apart, yet they’re woven from similar threads. The sizzle of street food in Mumbai resonates with the aroma of grills in Abu Dhabi; it’s more than just food—it’s emotion, it’s celebration.
Chef Kunal, whose name has become synonymous with bringing Indian food to the global stage, has crafted a menu that speaks to the soul of India while pushing familiar boundaries. Inspired by his travels around the world and secrets passed down through generations, the menu is designed to surprise. Expect a carefully balanced use of spices, ground in-house just like in traditional Indian kitchens, along with elegant presentation and distinct flavours in dishes that showcase the labour-intensive art of Indian cooking. The Dal Makhni, for instance, takes 12 hours to prepare, while the Pincode Signature Biryani reflects Chef Kunal’s, ingredient-forward approach. Adding to the staples, playful dishes like the Spiral Chaat, a fresh take on classic street food, and Saag Burrata bring richness and warmth to the table.
In Abu Dhabi, Chef Kunal is taking traditional recipes to new heights, putting the spotlight on fresh, ingredient-driven dishes, and giving classic favorites a creative, modern twist that truly delights. Here, dining goes beyond just a meal—it’s an experience, with each space crafted to create layers of sensory moments.
Take, for example, the kothay momo—a tribute to the flavours of India’s Northeast, where the dumplings are pan-seared to a delicate crisp and paired with a bold, spicy curry chutney. This is no ordinary momo; it’s a taste of a region where every bite is vibrant, earthy, and deeply comforting. Or the Sindhi Dal Pakwan, an ode to a classic Sindhi breakfast. These are not just a burst of flavours, but a burst of textures—a soft, richly spiced dal layered with the crunch of crisp pakwan, topped with fresh, tangy onions. This captures the essence of mornings in Sindhi homes, where simple, soulful ingredients come together to create something truly special. With these dishes and more, Pincode arrives in Abu Dhabi, where Chef Kunal breathes new life into India’s most loved flavours.
Each mocktail in this menu is like “old wine in a new bottle”—a familiar taste with a fresh approach, bringing a touch of home to a foreign land. It isn’t just about flavours; it’s a window into regions only familiar to those who know India beyond the usual. The Nubra mocktail, for instance, goes beyond Ladakh’s rugged beauty to celebrate its apricots, a quiet treasure of the region, muddled with basil in a way that only a local’s touch could imagine.
In Madurai Bloom, the rose-scented gulkand evokes the fragrant air of Madurai, paying homage to a place where flowers are not just a decoration—they’re woven into the very fabric of daily life. The Varanasi Ghaat mocktail channels the pulse of the ghats, capturing the thrill of street food with its tangy tamarind and crisp watermelon, flavours that mirror the city’s lively chaos and deep spirituality.
Each mocktail is like a postcard from an India often unseen, unfiltered, and truly authentic. It’s refreshingly inventive, spotlighting regional ingredients that bring a burst of India’s diverse flavours to your glass.
Want another example of attention to detail? As you enter Pincode, you’re greeted by an ambiance that’s both cozy and enchanting, highlighted by a stunning veil installation at the very entrance that ignites curiosity and beckons guests to explore further. This thoughtful element adds layers to the setting, inviting you to peel back its stories and secrets.
Masterfully conceived by Chetana Vij and Vikram Sharma from IDAG, the design team has expertly woven together elements of traditional Indian craftsmanship, like intricate woodwork
and artisanal details, with bold, global influences.
The restaurant’s vibrant palette—think saffron yellows, indigo blues, ruby reds, and emerald greens—reflects the essence of India, while neutral tones ensure a sophisticated and welcoming vibe.
In a world where art and hospitality are increasingly intertwined, Pincode has forged a labyrinth of cultural decadence through its curated materials and shades. The atmosphere is both vivid and grounded, with sunny yellows that flood the room with invigorating energy. In contrast, a pastel palette of blush pinks,and soft mints, breathes visual poetry into the space.
The magic continues with thoughtfully curated accessories and artifacts, each piece a storyteller in its own right, inviting guests to connect with their roots while enjoying the richness of a multicultural experience. This is not just dining; it’s a celebration of history, innovation, and a journey of the senses.
Opening a new chapter in Abu Dhabi is an exciting milestone for us: Chef Kunal Kapur
Pincode is celebrity chef Kunal Kapur’s culinary ode to India’s diverse flavours, drawing inspiration from handwritten postcards.
The walls of the Abu Dhabi Pincode are full of handmade crafts and decorative pieces that are hand-picked from all corners of India to give it that authentic feel. “Opening a new chapter in Abu Dhabi is an exciting milestone for us, and it beautifully symbolises the deep cultural and culinary ties between the UAE and India.”
“Both nations share a profound appreciation for heritage, flavors, and the art of bringing people together through food. This venture is not just about serving dishes but creating an experience that celebrates the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine, while embracing the cosmopolitan spirit of Abu Dhabi. It’s a step forward in our culinary journey, and I’m thrilled to share this passion with a city that values tradition and innovation in equal measure,” said Chef Kunal Kapur, who was in the UAE capital during the launch of Pincode in Abu Dhabi.
By Arunima Mishra