Dining at Indikaya is not just about food—it’s about stepping into the mind of one of India’s most revered culinary legends, Chef Hemant Oberoi. He is best known for elevating Indian fine dining globally and for his decades-long legacy with the Taj Group. Oberoi now brings his signature storytelling through food to Dubai in an experience that’s as personal as it is unforgettable.
Narrative-Driven Dishes, Crafted with Heart
I realised this wouldn’t be a traditional tasting from the first bite. Every dish on the menu came with a story—Chef Hemant Oberoi’s story. He guided us through the evening, sharing memories and moments that inspired each creation. His Hathodi Chaat, for instance, was born out of a grand Indian wedding he once catered, its explosive flavours and presentation echoing the drama of that celebration. Later, Chocolate Shawarma, a playfully reimagined dessert through his eyes, combine theatrical flair with nostalgic sweetness.
I had the joy of indulging in three masterfully crafted courses — each more enchanting than the last. From the inventive starters that stirred nostalgia to the mains that masterfully blended heritage and modern flair, and a dessert finale that dazzled with both presentation and taste, every dish told a story. What followed was more than just a meal; it was a sensory journey through Chef Oberoi’s culinary imagination. Here’s a look at this extraordinary experience.
Nostalgic Starters, Reimagined with Innovation
The evening started with my favourite food, chaat. And Indikaya did not disappoint! I began with Kurmani Ki Aloo Tikki, a dish that brought together the earthy comfort of potato with the delicate sweetness of dried apricot (kurmani). Then came the Hathodi Chaat, not just a dish but an experience, inspired by a traditional wedding ceremony where it was designed to be shared. Chef Hemant Oberoi wanted it to be playful and communal—smashed open with a wooden hammer, revealing a vibrant mix of crunchy, tangy, and creamy flavours.
Next came the Bhuni Makai Ka Shorba, and it completely redefined what I thought corn could be. Served as a comforting soup, it combined velvety warmth with the crunch of crispy corn kernels, gentle spice, and the surprise of popcorn—nostalgic yet innovative. Then there were Prawns on the Rocks served sizzling on hot stones, and the aroma alone was enough to make mouths water. To conclude the starters, the Matka Kebab—a smoked lamb kebab presented in an earthen clay pot—offered deep, slow-cooked intensity that was rich, bold, and utterly comforting. These starters weren’t just appetisers but the prologue to a story told through taste, theatre, and tradition.
Redefining Tradition, One Main Course At A Time
The main course at Indikaya was nothing short of a symphony—each dish a bold statement, a moment of nostalgia, and a masterclass in flavour.
Chonka Greens Evolution was a visual delight and a textural wonder. Romanesco, asparagus, snow peas, edamame, and broccolini sat like jewels atop a cloud of buttery mashed potatoes. The vegetables were perfectly blanched, retaining their bite and vibrance. It was clean, comforting, and beautifully plated—a garden on a plate.
Then came the Hari Mirchi & Pudina Chicken Pulao, a revelation. This course wasn’t just a rice dish—it was a contender to the famous biryani. Fragrant, herby, and subtly spicy, the chicken was tender, the mint and green chilli added layers of brightness and depth, and the rice had that perfect pull-apart texture.
Finally, the Dal–Da Gosht arrived in a nostalgic tin of Dalda, which immediately sparked childhood memories for many. Inside was a deeply satisfying lamb and lentil curry, slow-cooked to perfection. The lamb melted on the tongue, the lentils added body, and the rich, spiced gravy was pure comfort. This trio wasn’t just a meal—it was a cultural tapestry woven with memory, flavour, and a chef’s deep reverence for tradition.
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The Perfect Finale To A Perfect Meal
The Chocolate Shawarma was the highlight of the evening, an unforgettable dessert that left everyone in awe. Served tableside, this extravagant creation featured dark and milk chocolate layered over a rotisserie, melting slowly and adding drama to the experience. The warm chocolate was carefully sliced and paired with scoops of homemade rose petal ice cream, offering a refreshing floral note to balance the rich chocolate. A drizzle of sabayon sauce completed the dish, creating a perfect harmony of flavours. It was not just a dessert but a spectacular finale of an extraordinary meal.
I can confidently say that Indikaya offers one of the city’s most immersive and narrative-rich culinary experiences. Chef Hemant Oberoi doesn’t just serve food—he shares stories, memories, and moments, one exquisite course at a time.
Where: Shangri-La Hotel Level 2 – Dubai
When: 12 pm to 11:30 pm daily
Cost for two: AED575 with beverages
Must try: Kurmani Ki Aloo Tikki, Bhuni Makai Ka Shorba, Hari Mirchi & Pudina Chicken Pulao and Chocolate Shawarma
Cover Image Courtesy: shaun.fernandes_photography/ Instagram
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