Bangalore has a new reason to rethink Indian dining with the launch of Zarqash at The Ritz-Carlton, marking Michelin-starred Chef Rohit Ghai’s much-awaited debut in India. The restaurant presents a bold approach to Indian cuisine, combining heritage flavors with modern techniques and a storytelling-driven menu that invites diners to explore every bite.
Chef Ghai, internationally recognized for his progressive take on Indian food, brings a fresh perspective that honors tradition while introducing unexpected twists. His restaurant Jamavar won a Michelin star just 10 months after opening. Today, he owns multiple restaurants in Dubai and London.
Reuben Kataria, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, said, “It is an honor to bring Zarqash to life under the mentorship of Chef Rohit Ghai. His food is soulful, heartfelt, and deeply rooted in Indian traditions, yet presented with a contemporary artistry that sets new benchmarks for dining in Bangalore. We believe Zarqash will become a landmark for guests seeking both comfort and culinary adventure.”
Zarqash’s menu draws inspiration from North-West Indian traditions and is built around the idea of ‘embellished with gold,’ reflecting richness in flavor and elegance in presentation. Guests can begin with playful small plates like Khaman Dhokla Apple, a creative take on the Gujarati classic, Lamb Shami Kebab with Churchur Paratha and Bone Marrow, and Amritsari Fish with Harissa and Turnip Pickle. The Charred Salmon Tikka with Mooli balances smokiness with freshness, while vegetarian offerings like Edamame and Asparagus Seekh and Tandoori Morels with Broccoli showcase Chef Ghai’s inventive approach to plant-focused dishes.
Main courses revisit Indian classics with depth and creativity. Signature dishes include Murgh Kala Masala slow-cooked with burnt spices and bone marrow, Lucknowi Fish Salan layered with yogurt and brown onion richness, and Lamb Shank Nihari braised with Kashmiri chili and purple potato chokha. Vegetarian options like Cauliflower Steak Makhani and Palak Paneer demonstrate careful technique, while the Raan Sikandari, a slow-cooked kid goat finished with gold leaf, makes for a memorable centerpiece.
Desserts include a Trio of Classics: gulab jamun, shrikhand, and besan ladoo. A tasting menu is also available, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian journeys that highlight local ingredients through contemporary methods.
Chef Rohit Ghai said, “Bringing my culinary journey back to India has always been a dream, and I couldn’t have imagined a better home for this debut than The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore. Finding the right partner mattered deeply to me, one that resonates with my belief in quality, style, and true luxury, and I found that alignment here in abundance. I’m truly excited to welcome guests and share with them a modern yet soulful interpretation of Indian cuisine, crafted to be both memorable and meaningful.”
Zarqash’s beverage program mirrors the menu’s inventive approach. Signature cocktails take inspiration from India’s silk routes, offering combinations like Benarasi Resham with smoky mezcal, tamarind, and passion fruit; Kanchipuram Weave combining coffee, whisky, and chocolate; and Mysore Glow with saffron and mushroom-laced whisky. Other highlights include Patola Prism, Chanderi Charm, Baluchari Tales, Pochampally Sun, and Muga Twilight, alongside classic cocktails, global wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks crafted to complement the dishes.
The culinary team behind Zarqash brings further experience to the table. Chef Saurabh Tyagi, Director of Culinary, combines nearly two decades of expertise with knowledge of Indian traditions and contemporary trends. Chef Anshul Desai, mentored by Ghai, brings experience from Rivayat in Marrakech. Antara Goswami, with experience at Gaggan Bangkok and other acclaimed establishments, serves as Restaurant Manager. Rupesh Karbhari, the hotel’s first-ever sommelier, has 18 years of experience in luxury hotels and cruise lines. Together, they focus on delivering consistency and a seamless experience for every guest.
With bold flavors, modern techniques, and a skilled team, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore and Chef Ghai are introducing a dining experience that reinterprets traditional dishes without losing their essence, offering guests a chance to see Indian cuisine in a contemporary light.
