Taste of India Expands with the Opening of Pincode in Abu Dhabi

November 9, 2024 – Abu Dhabi welcomes Pincode, the highly anticipated restaurant by celebrity chef Kunal Kapur, located at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. Following the great success of the first Pincode outlet at Dubai Hills, Chef Kunal Kapur’s second restaurant in the UAE brings a fresh approach to Indian cuisine, combining bold flavors, innovative presentations, and a beautifully crafted ambiance that reflects India’s diverse cultural heritage.

Chef Kunal Kapur, well-known for his efforts to elevate Indian cuisine globally, has meticulously curated a menu for Pincode that captures the rich essence of Indian flavors. Inspired by his extensive travels, personal experiences, and family recipes, Kapur’s menu at Pincode Abu Dhabi aims to present Indian cuisine in a way that is both familiar and innovative. Diners can expect a harmonious blend of spices, each ground in-house to capture the authenticity of a traditional Indian kitchen. Classic dishes like Dal Makhni, which takes 12 hours to prepare, demonstrate the chef’s commitment to traditional techniques, while modern twists on dishes like the Pincode Signature Biryani show his flair for creating ingredient-focused masterpieces. Unique creations such as Spiral Chaat—a playful reinvention of Indian street food—and Saag Burrata bring an inventive touch that will appeal to both Indian food enthusiasts and those new to the cuisine.

A Culinary Experience Beyond Food

Dining at Pincode is more than a meal—it’s an immersive journey through the flavors and textures of India. Chef Kunal’s philosophy is to make each meal memorable, with dishes designed to stimulate the senses and bring the story of Indian food to life. “Abu Dhabi is a city rich in culture and culinary diversity, making it an ideal location for Pincode. The local appreciation for world flavors resonates with our vision of showcasing Indian cuisine in an exciting, modern way,” said Chef Kunal Kapur. “We’re not just serving food; we’re telling the stories of India’s culinary heritage, bridging tradition with modern culinary trends to give our guests a fresh take on beloved flavors.”

Chef Kunal believes that each dish should tell its own story, one that reflects the unique regional diversity of Indian cuisine. Whether through a richly spiced biryani or a thoughtfully crafted dessert, each element on the menu celebrates India’s culinary legacy, using ingredients and methods that honor India’s distinct regional flavors and timeless traditions.

An Ambience That Captures the Spirit of India

The ambiance at Pincode Abu Dhabi is just as carefully designed as the food. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a welcoming, elegant atmosphere that weaves together India’s traditional aesthetics with contemporary design elements. From intricate woodwork to vibrant color schemes, Pincode’s design is a visual celebration of Indian culture. The team behind this striking interior design—Chetana Vij and Vikram Sharma of IDAG—have blended Indian craftsmanship with global design influences to create a space that feels both luxurious and intimate. A veil installation at the entrance captures the spirit of curiosity and discovery that defines Pincode, inviting guests to explore the restaurant and the flavors within. The design is warm and inviting, featuring a vibrant palette of saffron yellow, indigo blue, ruby red, and emerald green that reflects the lively spirit of Indian culture.

Chef Kunal describes the atmosphere as an extension of the menu itself. “At Pincode, the goal is to create an inviting space where guests feel connected to their heritage, as well as to the modern culinary world. Each design detail, from the art to the furnishings, embodies the rich cultural tapestry of India. Pincode is not only a place to enjoy exceptional food but also a venue for celebrating India’s enduring culinary traditions.”

Eclectic Decor and Thoughtful Design

The decor at Pincode Abu Dhabi reflects India’s vast and diverse heritage, filled with artifacts, accessories, and artworks that tell stories of Indian culture and history. The seating is plush and comfortable, with lighting that sets a relaxing tone, encouraging guests to unwind and enjoy their dining experience. Strategically placed artifacts pay homage to India’s craftsmanship, while modern touches bring a fresh perspective. The thoughtful balance between traditional Indian craftsmanship and a contemporary aesthetic ensures that Pincode appeals to a broad range of patrons, from those looking for a refined night out to families seeking a welcoming environment for a shared meal.

Chef Kunal’s Vision for Pincode

For Chef Kunal, opening Pincode in Abu Dhabi is an opportunity to share his passion for Indian food with a broader audience in a city that celebrates both tradition and innovation. “Our Abu Dhabi location allows us to bring Indian cuisine to a city that is a melting pot of cultures,” said Chef Kunal. “We hope that every meal at Pincode becomes a journey, a sensory experience that transports our guests to the heart of India. Each dish, from appetizers to dessert, has been crafted to highlight India’s culinary diversity and to offer guests a taste of home, as well as something new and exciting.”

About Pincode

Pincode by Kunal Kapur is the chef’s flagship restaurant brand, an establishment where the essence of India is celebrated in every dish. Chef Kunal, famous for his role as a judge on MasterChef India, uses Pincode as a platform to showcase the depth and variety of Indian cuisine. Each dish brings forward a unique aspect of Indian flavors, from the bold spices of North India to the vibrant tastes of the South, creating a complete culinary map of the Indian subcontinent.

Details for Guests:

• Timings: 10 am – 12 am on weekdays, 10 am – 1 am on weekends
• Location: Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai, and The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• Parking: Mall Parking Available
• Reservations: 045661424
• Socials: @pincode.uae
• Website: www.pincodebykunalkapur.com

Pincode is more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Indian flavors and a gathering place for food lovers of all backgrounds. With a menu and ambiance crafted to reflect India’s diversity and culinary heritage, Pincode is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the true taste of India in Abu Dhabi.