Chinar: Discover Kashmir’s authentic cuisine and cultural heritage in Delhi

Located in the vibrant streets of Delhi’s Lajpat Nagar, Chinar Restaurant is your gateway to authentic Kashmiri cuisine.

Opened in May 2024 by Shah Faisal and Mohammad Arif Khan, proud natives of the breath-taking Kupwara district in northern Kashmir, this restaurant is dedicated to showcasing the true flavours and cultural heritage of Kashmir.

At Chinar, diners are not just served a meal; they embark on a culinary journey that captures the spirit and richness of Kashmiri traditions.

Authentic flavours

Upon entering Chinar, guests are enveloped by the warm, aromatic embrace of Kehwa, a traditional Kashmiri tea that instantly sets the mood for an authentic experience. The restaurant’s interiors reflect Kashmiri culture, adorned with vibrant carpets that evoke the essence of the region.

Faisal and Khan’s vision was clear: to fill a gap they observed during their visits to Delhi, where authentic Kashmiri food was hard to come by. “We wanted to create a place that feels like home for Kashmiris while introducing others to the richness of our cuisine,” Khan told Patriot.

All chefs at Chinar hail from Kashmir, ensuring that the culinary traditions are preserved and celebrated.

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Culinary excellence

The menu at Chinar is a delightful exploration of Kashmiri flavours, featuring an extensive range of dishes that cater to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The offerings begin with starters, including Paneer Tikka, Tandoori Chicken, and barbecues served with vibrant chutneys, which serve as a perfect introduction to the main courses that follow.

Two standout dishes that embody the heart of Kashmiri cuisine are Tabak Maaz and Rogan Josh. The Tabak Maaz, a deep fried delicacy made from sheep ribs, presents a stunning contrast of textures. Its crunchy outer layer gives way to a tender, melt-in-the-mouth interior that leaves diners craving more.

On the other hand, Rogan Josh is a celebration of comforting flavours, featuring tender meat simmered in a vibrant curry. Infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, this dish is a feast for the senses. The harmonious blend of onions, garlic, and ginger enhances the meat’s natural taste, making it a quintessential representation of Kashmiri comfort food.

Other notable dishes from the wazwan menu include Goshtaba (meatballs cooked in a creamy yogurt gravy), Daniwal Korma (a rich mutton curry), and Rista (meatballs in a spicy red gravy). The Yakhni (a yogurt based mutton dish) adds to the culinary richness that diners can experience at Chinar.

Chinar attracts customers from across India, drawn by the promise of authentic Kashmiri cuisine crafted by chefs who have mastered traditional techniques. Khan said, “We have customers from different parts of India who come here to enjoy our food. It’s gratifying to see people appreciate the flavours of our homeland.” Chinar is also listed on Zomato and other delivery platforms, making it easy for patrons to enjoy their favourite dishes at home.

A serene experience

Chinar takes pride in serving its dishes in traditional copper utensils, a nod to the rich culinary heritage of Kashmir. Every meal begins with a Tash Naer ritual, where hands are washed in a ceremonial manner, reflecting the deep-rooted customs of the region. The attentive staff, trained to deliver warm hospitality, contributes to an experience that feels intimate and welcoming.

As you indulge in your meal, the ambience of the restaurant envelops you in the essence of Kashmir. The gentle strains of Kashmiri Sufi music playing in the background create a serene atmosphere, enhancing the dining experience and allowing guests to escape the chaos of the city.

Faisal and Khan are eager to share the flavours of Kashmir with a broader audience. “We want to bring our food to every corner of Delhi, creating a sense of community for Kashmiri families and students,” Khan said.

Patriot was invited by the Chinar Restaurant for a review. However, this is not a paid piece