Hospitality

My knife is the secret sauce of my culinary magic

Published

2 years ago

July 4, 2024

Integrator Web-Editor

Integrator Media had an exclusive interview with Chef Kunal Kapur

What inspired the concept behind PINCODE, and how does it reflect the diversity of Indian cuisine?

We feel the best of Indian food is cooked & served in lanes & by lanes of streets in India. These streets or swad ki galiyan are best defined by their Pincodes. We simply picked some of these interesting Pincodes along with their dishes and brought them together to make the menu at Pincode. At Pincode we serve regional Indian food & celebrate the regional bounty our country has to offer.

Can you share a signature dish from PINCODE that every guest must try?

For the vegetarians I recommend Avocado Jhal Muri which is the classic Bengali or Odia Jhal Muri with a twist of Avocados, Aam Panna and Mustard oil. And for non vegetarians do try Kerala Fried Chicken it is simply irresistible. And of course finish off the meal with our home made Kulfi or Boondi Cheesecake.

How do you ensure the authenticity of flavors from different regions of India in your restaurant?

Over the years I have traveled my country and with every travel my endeavour has always been to unlearn a few things and learn a few things. One of the key things to keep the authenticity of any cuisine is in sourcing the right ingredients. Lucky for us that we are in Dubai where we get some of the best Indian produce.

What challenges did you face when bringing traditional Indian cuisine to a global city like Dubai?

Dubai is very open & very energetic market. People of UAE not just Dubai love Indian food so the concept of Indian cuisine is not alien. However the deeper we go with our regional dishes the more of explaining (while introducing new lesser known dishes) is required. So it takes time for people to understand and order dishes beyond the usual.

Who has been your biggest culinary influence, and how have they shaped your approach to cooking?

My travels and home cooks that I have eaten with on the way have really inspired me in the last couple of years in my style of cooking. For me cooking is now about using seasonal local produce, keeping it fresh & simple.

What was a pivotal moment in your career that helped define your path as a chef?

I think I was always someone who enjoyed creative arts. I was an average student academically and was more inclined to subjects that really open up your mind. My decision to go against the wishes of my family to become a banker was the pivotal moment that shaped my career so far.

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. How does PINCODE stand out in this competitive environment?

We are a regional indian restaurant where years of research has given us the edge to stand out with our menu where we offer local Indian flavours that may be lesser known but are sure to delight. We cook everything in-house and change our menus with season. So there is always something new to try and something new to appreciate.

What role do you believe Indian cuisine plays in the global culinary scene, and how does PINCODE contribute to this narrative?

Indian cuisine holds a significant place in the global culinary scene and its impact is profound, offering a window into the country’s vast cultural heritage through its food. Indian cuisine is much more than just a gastronomical delight; it’s a sensory journey that encapsulates the essence of India’s history, geography and spirituality.

With Pincode we try to give an experience to our patrons of the history and techniques behind Indian cooking, further deepening the appreciation for the cuisine. This educational approach helps demystify Indian cooking and encourages culinary experimentation.

Hospitality

ROHINI Celebrates Holi with Colourful, Contemporary Thandai Creations

Published

1 day ago

March 2, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

The festival of Holi is all about colour, music and good vibes, and Rohini at Mövenpick JLT is bringing that energy straight to your glass. From 2 to 8 March, the restaurant is serving Rang, Ras aur Thandai Holi, a limited-time beverage special inspired by the playful spirit of the festival, giving Dubai diners a fun way to celebrate through flavour.

Drawing on nostalgic flavours, the traditional thandai is deconstructed with a fresh, contemporary edge that fits naturally into Dubai’s modern dining scene. The seasonal drinks keep the familiarity guests love while introducing lighter, more current flavour combinations, giving guests the green energy this season calls for

The menu features two flavour profiles. One leans into classic Kesar Pista and Badam notes, while the other takes a more experimental direction with a Matcha Moringa twist for a clean, modern flavour. Served as cocktail and mocktail options, the drinks balance tradition with a playful upgrade, capturing the celebratory mood Holi is known for.

Rohini continues to stand out as a go-to destination for contemporary Indian dining in Dubai, with its Holi special bringing together familiar flavours and a nostalgic festive touch for guests to enjoy throughout the week.

Hospitality

EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF RAMADAN AT AL HABTOOR GRAND RESORT, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

Published

4 days ago

February 27, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

As the Holy Month of Ramadan begins, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection invites guests to experience the Grand Starlit Iftar at the picturesque Grand Garden Lawn. This refined journey of flavor and reflection offers a beautiful setting to gather with loved ones beneath a starlit sky and twinkling lights.

As the sun sets and the city’s pace slows, guests are invited to escape into a serene, open-air sanctuary. Surrounded by lush greenery and the soft, golden glow of lanterns, the evening begins with the soulful, rhythmic hum of live Oud tunes, setting a peaceful stage for reflection and connection.

The journey starts with the traditional breaking of the fast, featuring refreshing glasses of Jallab, Kamar Al Dein, Tamer Hindi, and Laban. This leads into a lavish Iftar buffet that celebrates both local heritage and global flair. Guests can explore an abundant spread of mezze and salads from creamy Hummus and Tabbouleh to crisp Cheese Sambousek, Meat Kibbeh, and Spinach Fatayer.

The heart of the feast offers a rich tapestry of flavors, featuring aromatic classics like Lamb Kofta, Chicken Shish Taouk, and succulent Ouzi. For those seeking a more international palate, the menu transitions seamlessly into dishes such as Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce and a live pasta station serving fresh Penne Arrabbiata. The air is further filled with the scent of tradition at the live cooking stations, where freshly prepared Saj (Cheese and Zaatar) and expert carvings are made to order.

The experience reaches a sweet crescendo with a decadent dessert selection. Whether it’s the warmth of Cheese Kunafa and Umm Ali, the crunch of Baklawa, or the modern indulgence of Chocolate Fudge and Passion Fruit Delight, there is a flavor for every craving.

As the night matures, the energy shifts into a relaxed Suhoor. In a setting designed for late-night conversations, guests can enjoy a curated à la carte menu of local delights. To round out the evening, a nearby shisha area offers a quiet space to unwind and soak in the calm of the night under the stars.

Event Details

Iftar
Time: Sunset to 9:00 pm

Suhoor
Price: À la carte
Time: 9:00 pm to 1:00 am

Dates: Daily throughout Ramadan
Location: Grand Garden Lawn, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection, JBR

Hospitality

RAMADAN AT MARRIOTT AL FORSAN, ABU DHABI

Published

4 days ago

February 27, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

Flavors of Ramadan: A Sensory Iftar to Remember

Step into the spirit of Ramadan with an unforgettable Iftar experience at Khayal, where tradition, passion, and togetherness come alive. Indulge in a lavish Iftar buffet featuring a carefully curated selection of traditional and international dishes, served in a warm and inviting ambiance inspired by the essence of the holy month.

Iftar Buffet:

Timing: From Sunset until 9:30 PM
Venue: Khayal, Marriott Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi

Early Bird Offer:

40% off for bookings made before 12th February 2026

Special Discounts:

30% off Iftar for in-house hotel guests
30% off for FAZAA cardholders
MoreCravings App: Buy One Get One Free

Serenity at Dawn: Suhoor & Group Ramadan Celebrations
A Peaceful Suhoor Indulgence & Memorable Group Gatherings

Enjoy a calm and comforting Suhoor experience at the Lobby Lounge, designed for those seeking nourishment and tranquility before dawn. Featuring a thoughtfully curated set menu, this Suhoor offering ensures a balanced and fulfilling start to your day.

Suhoor Set Menu:
Timing: 11:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Venue: Lobby Lounge, Marriott Al Forsan

For larger gatherings, celebrate the holy month together with Group Ramadan Packages, ideal for corporate Iftars and family reunions. Enjoy a delightful culinary journey paired with exceptional service in a festive atmosphere.

Group Ramadan Packages: