Ziya by Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia now open at The Oberoi, Gurgaon

In Gurgaon, a new culinary destination has emerged, destined to impress gourmet enthusiasts. Ziya, a restaurant that promises to be as radiant as its name, meaning ‘ to shine’, has opened its doors at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, under the mentorship of the illustrious Michelin-starred Chef Vineet Bhatia MBE. As the first chef of Indian origin to receive a Michelin star for Indian cuisine, his influence in the culinary world is profound. With a legacy of reimagining Indian cuisine on the global stage, Chef Bhatia brings his signature modern twist to India’s diverse culinary traditions, offering a dining experience that is as innovative as it is rooted in heritage.

A Culinary Maestro at the Helm

Chef Vineet Bhatia is no stranger to accolades. His journey from The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development to becoming a global ambassador of modern Indian cuisine is nothing short of inspirational. With successful ventures in London, Switzerland, and the Middle East, and appearances as a judge on Netflix’s *The Final Table* and *Master Chef India*, Chef Bhatia’s culinary repertoire is extensive. His collaboration with The Oberoi, Gurgaon, further solidifies his role in shaping India’s gastronomic landscape.

Ziya at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, is not Chef Bhatia’s first venture with the Oberoi group. His mentorship extends to Ziya at The Oberoi, Mumbai, and Dhilli at The Oberoi, New Delhi, each establishment reflecting his passion for reinventing Indian cuisine with a contemporary flair. In Ziya, Gurgaon, diners can expect an exploration of India’s rich and varied culinary traditions, from the fragrant curries of Kashmir to the fiery flavours of Kerala, all masterfully reimagined.

Design as experience 

Stepping into Ziya is akin to entering a realm where traditional elegance meets modern sophistication. Designed by Architecture Discipline, the restaurant’s interior is a visual symphony of high ceilings, reflective steel, and glass elements that mirror the hotel’s architectural ethos. The entrance, adorned with a dramatic fire-fused glass installation against an old timber pattern, sets the stage for an evening of culinary discovery.

At the heart of the dining space, a monumental communal table stands as a testament to craftsmanship, surrounded by nested arched pods that offer an intimate dining experience. The caramelised glass table tops, brass supports, and hand-formed glass sconces, paired with art-deco-inspired chandeliers, create an atmosphere that is both timeless and avant-garde. The design of Ziya is not just about aesthetics; it is an integral part of the dining experience, where every element—from the architecture to the tableware—has been carefully curated to enhance the flavours and presentation of the dishes.

Aloo Toffee and other delightful things

At Ziya, the menu is a celebration of India’s culinary diversity, crafted with Chef Bhatia’s innovative touch. The a la carte offerings range from palate pleasers and starters to main courses, heritage bowls, and desserts, each dish telling a story of India’s rich gastronomic heritage. Ingredients are seasonal, locally sourced, and of the highest quality, with an emphasis on sustainability and organic produce. The culinary journey at Ziya is not just about food; it is about experiencing the artistry of a chef who has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of Indian cuisine.

Signature dishes include the intriguing Aloo Toffee, a playful take on a classic, and the Ghee Roast Lamb, a dish that combines traditional Indian spices with modern cooking techniques. The Pan Grilled Sambhar Fish offers a delicate balance of flavours, while the Curry Leaf Tofu is a testament to Chef Bhatia’s ability to transform humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces. For those with a sweet tooth, the Kulfi Falooda Cheesecake and The Ziya Hug provide a perfect ending to the meal, blending traditional Indian desserts with contemporary flair.

Elevating the Dining Experience

No dining experience is complete without a well-crafted cocktail or a soothing cup of tea, and Ziya does not disappoint. The cocktail menu is a reflection of the restaurant’s philosophy, drawing inspiration from indigenous ingredients to create unique concoctions. The Paan Royale, Swarnam Sour, and Royal Botanica are just a few of the signature drinks that elevate the dining experience, offering a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

For tea aficionados, Ziya offers a unique tea service featuring Newby blends such as Valley of Roses and Chanda, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the dining experience.

A Vision of Excellence

Speaking about the new venture, Chef Vineet Bhatia remarked, “Ziya at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, is a celebration of India’s diverse culinary landscape, reimagined with modern techniques and contemporary flair. We aim to offer our guests an unforgettable dining experience that pays homage to tradition while embracing innovation.”

Abhishek Panshikar, Vice President & General Manager of The Oberoi, Gurgaon, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with Chef Vineet Bhatia on this exciting project. We anticipate that Ziya will become a favourite among gourmet enthusiasts in the country. With its striking design, exceptional menus, and renowned Oberoi service, Ziya promises to be a distinguished addition to India’s culinary landscape.”

As Ziya at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, welcomes its first guests, it is set to become a beacon of modern Indian dining, where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or someone looking to explore the diverse flavours of India, Ziya offers an experience that is as memorable as it is delicious. With Chef Vineet Bhatia at the helm, diners can expect nothing less than culinary brilliance, served with a side of splendour.