Indian food is steadily earning recognition worldwide, with the United States finally beginning to appreciate the depth and diversity it offers beyond chai tea and naan bread. This growing appreciation owes much to Indian chefs who have passionately championed regional cuisines and showcased the culinary wealth of India. One of the pioneers in this movement is Chef Vikas Khanna, whose New York-based restaurant recently earned a spot on The New York Times’ list of the 50 best restaurants.
Khanna’s latest venture, Bungalow, has been a resounding success, winning accolades from both patrons and critics for its authentic approach to Indian dining. The restaurant features lesser-known Indian dishes that Khanna grew up enjoying in his hometown of Amritsar. Bungalow, in partnership with Bombay House Hospitality—the team behind GupShup, Chote Miya, and Ammi—brings alive the golden age of India’s elite social clubs.
The restaurant derives its name and inspiration from the colonial-era single-story residences that became social hubs for India’s upper class. These bungalows were not just architectural marvels blending European and Indian aesthetics but also the epicenter of a unique dining culture that reflected sophistication and exclusivity. By reimagining this era, Bungalow serves as a tribute to India’s rich heritage and culinary traditions.
Unapologetically Indian, the restaurant’s menu mirrors its heritage. For Khanna, this is not just a business venture but a deeply personal one. Throughout his career in the United States, he has spoken candidly about the racism he encountered and the challenges of introducing American audiences to Indian cuisine beyond the stereotypical fare. Bungalow represents an opportunity for Khanna to bring his vision of Indian dining to life, showcasing the intricacies of the dishes he holds close to his heart.
The restaurant’s opening also had a sentimental undertone. It was launched on what would have been the 50th birthday of Khanna’s late sister, Radhika. “Bungalow is more than just a restaurant; it’s a homage to my roots and a tribute to my sister,” Khanna has shared, emphasizing the emotional and cultural connections that underpin the venture.
Bungalow’s inclusion in America’s 50 Best Restaurants is a significant milestone, marking a pivotal moment for Indian gastronomy on the global stage. This recognition celebrates the innovative vision behind the restaurant and underscores a broader transformation in the perception of Indian cuisine internationally.
Gone are the days when Indian food in the U.S. was relegated to curry houses and casual dining. Bungalow exemplifies the sophistication, depth, and artistry that Indian culinary traditions offer. It challenges preconceived notions, presenting Indian food as a refined, complex, and dynamic cuisine worthy of global acclaim.
Chef Khanna’s journey reflects the larger story of Indian food’s ascent in the global culinary hierarchy. His efforts have paved the way for a more nuanced understanding of the diverse and rich traditions that define Indian gastronomy. Through Bungalow, Khanna continues to introduce diners to the flavors, stories, and history that make Indian food an unparalleled experience.
Bungalow’s success not only affirms its quality but also signifies a broader acceptance of Indian cuisine as a global contender. As Khanna continues to break barriers, he redefines what it means to celebrate Indian food in a foreign land. With this recognition, Bungalow has cemented its place as a transformative force in the global culinary narrative, a symbol of Indian food’s rightful place on the world stage.
