Introduction to Waarsa
Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality (ABNAH) has launched Waarsa, a premium casual dining restaurant that specializes in Awadhi cuisine. Located in the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) at Nariman Point, Mumbai, Waarsa aims to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Awadh.
Culinary Heritage and Signature Dishes
Waarsa features dishes crafted by Chef Rahul Akerkar, Culinary Director at ABNAH, and MasterChef Mukhtar Qureshi. The restaurant offers a culinary journey through Awadhi history. Signature dishes include Raan-e-Mukhtar, a slow-cooked goat leg, and Daal Q-Man, which features kid goat in black masoor dal. These dishes exemplify the art of slow cooking, a hallmark of Awadhi cuisine.
The menu boasts over 30 varieties of kebabs and 13 types of bread, positioning Waarsa as a top destination for authentic Awadhi flavors. Vegetarian options are also prominent, with dishes like Bhindi Kali Mirchi and Lauki Aur Chana Dal Shikampuri, showcasing local ingredients and traditional recipes.
Chef Insights
Chef Rahul Akerkar emphasizes the attention to detail at Waarsa. “We’ve crafted every aspect to reflect the essence of Awadh in an understated yet elegant manner. We immersed ourselves in the diverse culinary landscapes of Lucknow, Benares, Kolkata, and beyond, exploring the history and nuances of this remarkable cuisine,” he states.
Innovative Cocktails and Event Space
In addition to the food, Waarsa offers house-crafted cocktails inspired by Awadhi spices, such as The Emperor’s Rose and Gin Gilori. Alongside Waarsa, ABNAH has also introduced Bay 21, a banquet space within NCPA, designed for events and social gatherings.
A Personal Journey in Cooking
MasterChef Mukhtar Qureshi describes Waarsa as a personal journey. “The menu reflects my childhood memories of home-cooked meals and family stories. It honors the authenticity of Awadhi cuisine while introducing subtle modern touches for a lighter, contemporary dining experience,” he explains.
Conclusion
With its focus on authentic flavors and innovative dining, Waarsa is set to become a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich culinary traditions of Awadh in Mumbai.
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