Tête-À-Tea With Sachin Pabreja: A Deep Dive Into Culinary Traditions And Innovation With Dinesh Arora On Qavalli’s Gourmet Legacy

Qavalli is more than just a restaurant—it’s a journey into the rich culinary and cultural heritage of North India. Rooted in the traditions of the Mughal era, it revives lost recipes, unparalleled hospitality, and the soul-stirring experience of live qawwali performances. In this interview with Dinesh Arora, the owner of brands like Qavalli and Chica shares his inspiration behind Qavalli, his dedication to preserving authenticity, and how the restaurant seamlessly blends time-honored flavors with contemporary dining.

 

Dinesh Arora: Qavalli is inspired by the opulent culinary heritage of North India, particularly the Mughal era, which was known for its rich, intricate flavors and traditional cooking techniques. The goal is to revive and celebrate age-old recipes that have been overshadowed by modern dining trends. Qavalli is a tribute to the art of slow cooking, aromatic spices, and regal hospitality, offering guests an authentic taste of history through thoughtfully curated dishes.

 

Dinesh Arora: Qavalli’s ambiance is meticulously crafted to evoke the charm of an Indian mehfil, where an immersive experience unfolds like a timeless dawat. The hand-painted arched ceilings, adorned with intricate patterns, and bespoke chandeliers radiate a timeless noor, immersing guests in an atmosphere reminiscent of royal gatherings. Every element, from the ornate decor to the warm lighting, reflects the rich virasat of Indian heritage, transporting diners to a bygone era of cultural refinement and heartfelt hospitality. Qavalli stands as a tribute to India’s enduring culinary and artistic legacy, offering an experience where tradition meets elegance.

 

Dinesh Arora: At Qavalli, each dish is a tribute to India’s rich culinary heritage, reviving forgotten flavors and time-honored techniques that once graced royal feasts. The menu is a reflection of the meticulous craftsmanship and deep-rooted traditions that define Indian hospitality. Among the Chef’s Specials, three standout dishes capture the very essence of Qavalli’s culinary philosophy:

 ● Haleem – A slow-cooked delicacy of mutton ribs, broken wheat, and lentils, simmered until it achieves a silky, velvety texture. This dish, dating back over a thousand years, is a testament to the patience and precision of traditional slow-cooking methods. Rich in flavor and steeped in history, it continues to be a cherished dish during grand feasts.

 ● Sikanderi Raan – Inspired by the legendary feast of King Porus, this dish features a whole leg of lamb marinated in Qavalli’s signature spice blend and slow-cooked in a clay pot until tender. The regal preparation, with its deep, aromatic flavors, is a nod to the grandeur of Indian royal banquets.

 ● Phool Ka Mussallam – A vegetarian marvel that elevates humble cauliflower into a dish fit for royalty. Marinated in a fragrant spiced yogurt blend and slow-roasted to perfection, it is adorned with shimmering silver varq and crunchy nuts. This dish embodies the essence of Mughal opulence, offering a delicate balance of textures and flavors.

 

From the Forgotten Breads section, Qavalli revives traditional breads that have long been overshadowed:

 

● Za’atar Naan – A beautiful confluence of Indian and Middle Eastern influences, this naan is infused with the aromatic essence of za’atar and baked in a tandoor, resulting in a crisp, flavorful bread that complements the rich gravies and kebabs on the menu.

● Zaffrani Baqarkhani – A rare Mughal era bread, subtly sweet and infused with saffron, traditionally served alongside slow-cooked meats. Its delicate texture and subtle fragrance make it an indulgent accompaniment, echoing the luxurious feasts of the past.

Each of these dishes encapsulates the soul of Qavalli and reflects the depth of Indian culinary traditions and the meticulous craftsmanship of the chefs.

Dinesh Arora: Live qawwali performances, held every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, elevate the dining experience by creating an immersive cultural atmosphere. The Qawwali music resonates with the essence of Indian mehfils, where poetry and camaraderie were celebrated. The blend of qawwali with flavorful dishes and drinks creates a multisensory journey, making each meal a spiritual and nostalgic experience.

 

Dinesh Arora: Qavalli’s Indian botanical bar draws inspiration from desi flavors, incorporating native herbs, spices, and floral essences into modern mixology. Signature cocktails, such as Tajdar, bring the subtle elegance of lotus and sandalwood, weaving in the delicate, earthy aromas of our heritage. On the other hand, Mallika Jaan is bold and vibrant, with the tangy richness of kokum and the kick of timur, capturing the essence of India in every sip. Each drink is a celebration of tradition and innovation, designed to take you on a flavorful journey while perfectly complementing our cuisine.

 

Dinesh Arora: Qavalli strikes a balance by staying true to authentic recipes while introducing contemporary presentation and subtle refinements. The menu is inspired by the Mughal era, with dishes that preserve slow cooking techniques, aromatic spice blends, and traditional preparation methods. At the same time, modern plating styles and ingredient pairings add a fresh twist, ensuring that heritage flavors remain relevant to today’s diners.

Dinesh Arora: “Mehmaan-nawazi” translates to hospitality, and at Qavalli, it is the foundation of the guest experience. From warm greetings at the entrance to attentive service at every table, the restaurant embodies the essence of Indian hospitality. The staff ensures that every guest feels like royalty, echoing the grandeur and generosity of traditional Indian hosts.

 

Dinesh Arora: Qavalli’s menu is a culinary time capsule, showcasing the evolution of North Indian cuisine. Each dish is carefully curated to represent different facets of India’s food history, from the smoky tandoors of Punjab to the slow-cooked dum preparations of Awadh. By reviving forgotten recipes and presenting them with authenticity, the restaurant allows guests to embark on a flavorful journey through India’s diverse and storied gastronomy.

Dinesh Arora: Qavalli aspires to be more than just a dining destination, it aims to be a cultural experience. Beyond savoring exquisite dishes, guests leave with a deeper appreciation for India’s culinary and artistic traditions. The combination of authentic flavors, evocative ambiance, and soulful music creates lasting memories, encouraging guests to reconnect with the richness of Indian heritage in a meaningful way.

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