Pincode by Kunal Kapur is a flagship restaurant led by the renowned Chef Kunal Kapur, celebrated for his role as a host and judge on MasterChef India. At Pincode, diners are treated to an exquisite, multi-sensory feast that traverses the vast culinary landscape of the Indian subcontinent. From the aromatic spices of the north to the tropical flavors of the south, and from the delectable dishes of the east to the hearty fare of the west, Pincode meticulously curates a tribute to the diversity of Indian cuisine.
The name of the restaurant draws inspiration from India’s postal system, where each area is represented by a distinct six-digit code. Much like the postal codes, each region of India offers a unique culinary treasure trove. The interior decor of Pincode mirrors this rich heritage, evocative of an ancestral home with its sumptuous hardwood furniture, portraits adorning the walls, and grand chandeliers that cast a warm glow. The intention is to encapsulate India’s vibrant food culture within a cozy, familial environment that makes guests feel right at home.
Embracing the Flavors: Starters and Street Foods
Upon entering, we were seated in a comfortable booth, although standalone tables were also available. Our culinary journey commenced with an amuse-bouche that set the tone for the delightful experience ahead: a petite gol gappa.
We began with the gol gappa platter—a familiar treat to many desis. These round, hollowed-out balls filled with spiced potato are paired with two varieties of flavored ‘waters’: spicy mint water and a unique passionfruit water. The gol gappa is meant to be enjoyed in a single bite, offering a burst of tangy, crunchy, and spicy flavors all at once.
Following the gol gappa, we sampled the signature potato spiral chaat. This dish elevates the street food favorite with an artistic twist. A spiral-cut potato on a stick is drizzled with sweet yogurt and a medley of chutneys, creating a unique flavor profile that excites the palate.
One of our favorite starters was the bhutte ke kebab, inspired by the flavors of Indore. These kebabs are crafted from freshly grated corn on the cob, resulting in a creamy, utterly delightful texture.
Another standout was the Amritsari fried fish. This dish features crispy, golden fish infused with carom seeds, reminiscent of Amritsar’s street food. It is served with a tangy tandoori dip and a refreshing house salad, making it a perfect blend of traditional flavors and modern presentation.
The Main Event: Exquisite Entrees
As we moved on to the main course, the paneer tikka masala took center stage. This dish features succulent chunks of paneer enveloped in a luscious, richly spiced onion and tomato gravy. The paneer was incredibly fresh, and the gravy was a divine accompaniment to the assortment of breads we sampled, including lacha paratha and garlic naan.
One of the most memorable dishes was the pressure cooker chicken. This signature entrée was artfully presented as the pressure cooker was gently opened at our table. Inside was a whole, bone-in chicken, tender and moreish, simmered in a delicately spiced gravy. The aroma alone was enough to make our mouths water, and the taste did not disappoint.
Equally impressive was the prawn coastal coconut curry. This dish showcased milder flavors, with a rich gravy infused with tamarind and coconut, complementing the pan-seared prawns beautifully. Each bite was a transportive journey to India’s coastal regions.
No Indian feast would be complete without a robust lamb curry. The dhaba-style lamb curry delivered on all fronts with its aromatic richness and tender meat, pairing perfectly with steamed rice. The flavors were complex, melding together in a way that only slow-cooked Indian curries can achieve.
Another standout was the saag burrata. This dish was unique, featuring a fresh burrata set in the center of garlic-tempered spinach and pickled onions. Our server skillfully cut and mixed the burrata tableside, creating a visually appealing and mouth-watering dish that was both lip-smacking and delicious.
Refreshing Indian-Themed Mocktails
During our meal, we enjoyed several mocktails that continued the Indian theme. The mango chili mojito offered a refreshing kick, while the shukanji lemonade provided a tangy kick. Other options like the passion fruit mojito added a tropical flair, each complementing the dishes perfectly.
Seasonal Specials: Summer Harvest Menu
From the Special Summer Menu, we opted for the avocado chokha with heirloom tomato salad. This dish was a creamy fusion of avocado, tart heirloom tomatoes, and aromatic Indian spices tossed in a chaat masala dressing. It was the perfect embodiment of seasonal freshness and Indian culinary innovation.
Other options on the Summer Harvest menu included saffron paneer tikka, a refined take on a classic where paneer is marinated in saffron and spices, then grilled to perfection. The mushroom galouti was a vegetarian delight, boasting mushrooms finely minced and fragrantly spiced, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience on a flaky varki paratha. Another refreshing option was the watermelon feta salad, providing a sweet and savory combination laced with herbs and spices that highlight the vibrancy of Indian summer flavors.
Sweet Indulgences: Desserts to Remember
No meal at Pincode would be complete without indulging in their fabulous desserts. We savored the jalebi and rabdi, a combination of crispy, syrup-soaked jalebis served with creamy rabdi. The juxtaposition of textures and sweetness was simply heavenly. Another unique offering was the boondi cheesecake, a decadent fusion dessert that marries traditional boondi, a fried pearl-like sweet, with the rich and creamy nature of cheesecake. This dessert was both innovative and nostalgic, providing a perfect end to our gastronomic journey.
Conclusion: A Homage to India’s Culinary Diversity
In conclusion, Pincode by Kunal Kapur is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of India’s boundless culinary diversity. With its meticulously curated menu and ambiance that invokes the warmth of an ancestral home, Pincode offers a dining experience that is both luxurious and comforting. Each dish tells a story of India’s rich food heritage, painstakingly crafted and beautifully presented to offer patrons an unforgettable journey through the subcontinent’s myriad flavors. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Indian cuisine or a newcomer intrigued by its complexities, Pincode promises an exquisite feast for all your senses.
Visit: Pincode by Kunal Kapur
Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai
+971-4-566-1424