Tête-à-Tea With Sachin Pabreja: In Conversation With Restaurateur Priykant Gautam On His New & Upcoming Dining Venture Omny Kitchen with Chef Vicky Ratnani

Priykant Gautam, an ingenious restaurateur and founder of major dining destinations like PLAKA, is renowned for revamping much of modern India’s culinary landscape. Having worked with some of the most celebrated chefs in the industry—Ajay Chopra, Vicky Ratnani, Hari Nayak, and Harpal Sokhi—Gautam is now set to unveil his much-anticipated new dining concept. OMNY Kitchen, helmed by Chef Vicky Ratnani, is slated to make a splash across multiple locations in 2024.

Gautam's star-studded ventures herald a new chapter in the Indian culinary scene. Join me as I discuss the journey, passion, and inspiration behind OMNY Kitchen with the brilliant restaurateur and true entrepreneurial visionary, Priykant Gautam.

1: What inspired the concept behind Omny Kitchen, and how does it differentiate itself from your previous ventures?

Priykant Gautam: Omny Kitchen is inspired by Chef Vicky Ratnani’s global footprints, reflecting his experiences and collaborations with some of the most celebrated figures in the culinary world. This concept brings together world-class coffee curation, exceptional mixology, and amazing desserts, all crafted to celebrate diverse global flavors. Unlike our previous ventures, which focused on specific cuisines, Omny Kitchen aims to offer a unique, omni-channel dining experience. With its innovative approach and exceptional offerings, Omny Kitchen is poised to become one of the most celebrated dining expriences, coming soon to captivate and inspire food enthusiasts everywhere.

2. How has Chef Vicky Ratnani's culinary style influenced the menu at Omny Kitchen?

Priykant Gautam: Chef Vicky Ratnani’s style, known for its adventurous spirit and global influences, is at the heart of Omny Kitchen's menu. His approach to blending traditional techniques with modern flavors is reflected in our dishes, which offer a fusion of tastes that push culinary boundaries while maintaining authenticity. Chef Vicky has poured his heart into crafting a menu that not only showcases his culinary expertise but also tells a story of his global journey and passion for food. Each dish is a testament to his dedication and creativity, designed to provide a memorable dining experience.

3. Who do you envision as the primary clientele for Omny Kitchen, and what experience do you aim to provide them?

Priykant Gautam: Our primary clientele includes food enthusiasts and curious diners who appreciate diverse and high-quality cuisine. At Omny Kitchen, we provide an immersive dining experience designed for explorers' taste buds. Our food is crafted to delight and challenge the palate, with every dish infused with an explosion of diverse flavors rather than monotonous tastes. We focus on engaging the senses and creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy exceptional hospitality and discover new, extravagant flavors in every bite.

4. Can you share your experience collaborating with Chef Hari and the vision for his restaurant?

Priykant Gautam: Collaborating with Chef Hari promises an extraordinary dining experience that’s both unique and unforgettable. His approach will transform traditional flavors with innovative techniques, offering a fresh perspective on classic cravings. This collaboration introduces an exclusive culinary journey in North India, where every dish and drink showcases a new level of extravagance and creativity. Expect an unparalleled experience where each bite reveals something truly special, making it an exciting debut in India’s dining scene.

5. What sustainable practices are implemented in Omny Kitchen to promote eco-friendly dining?

Priykant Gautam: At Omny Kitchen, sustainability is a core value. We are implementing practices such as sourcing local and organic ingredients, minimizing waste through efficient kitchen operations, and using eco-friendly packaging. Our goal is to ensure that our environmental impact is minimal while still delivering a top-notch dining experience.

6. Are there plans to expand Omny Kitchen's concept to other locations or introduce new culinary experiences?

Priykant Gautam: We are certainly considering expanding Omny Kitchen to new locations as we continue to build our brand. We plan to bring our unique dining experience to Mumbai, Hyderabad, and other prominent cities soon. Additionally, we are exploring new culinary experiences and partnerships to keep our offerings fresh and exciting. Expansion will be guided by our commitment to maintaining quality and innovation.

7. How do you see the current culinary trends influencing the menu at Omny Kitchen?

Priykant Gautam: Current culinary trends, such as the emphasis on fusion cuisine and sustainable dining, heavily influence our menu. Chef Vicky Ratnani will also introduce fine delights from Sindhi cuisine, adding unique flavors to our offerings. We incorporate these trends by experimenting with global flavors and prioritizing environmentally responsible practices. This approach allows us to stay relevant and offer dishes that resonate with contemporary diners while celebrating diverse culinary traditions.

8. In what ways do you plan to engage with the local community through Omny Kitchen and your other restaurants?

Priykant Gautam: Community engagement is a priority for us. We plan to host local events, collaborate with regional artisans, and support community initiatives through Omny Kitchen. Additionally, we are committed to creating opportunities for local talent to showcase their skills and contribute to our vibrant dining scene.

9. What personal touch do you bring to Omny Kitchen that reflects your culinary philosophy and vision?

Priykant Gautam: My personal touch at Omny Kitchen reflects a passion for global exploration and culinary innovation. I strive to infuse each dish with a story and a sense of adventure while ensuring that every guest feels warmly welcomed. My vision is to create a dining experience that not only satisfies but also inspires and connects with people on a deeper level.

10. How has the legacy and concept of Vividh Bharti? Did the popular entertainment radio service, influence the programming and atmosphere at your new restaurants?

Priykant Gautam: The legacy of Vividh Bharti, with its tradition of celebrating Indian culture and heritage, greatly influences our new restaurants. We honor this by creating a vibrant celebration of Indian heritage, offering a food museum experience for Indian food lovers. Our menu is deeply rooted in traditional Indian flavors, focusing on authenticity rather than fusion. Under the leadership of Chef Ajay Chopra, we collaborate with regional chefs to showcase untouched, genuine Indian cuisine. This commitment to authenticity and cultural richness shapes both our programming and the atmosphere at our restaurants.

In closing, Priykant Gautam's unwavering passion for innovation and his deep collaboration with culinary legends promise to leave an indelible mark on India's dining landscape. As OMNY Kitchen gears up for its grand debut, it’s clear that Gautam’s vision is not just about creating new dining experiences, but about redefining the future of culinary artistry in India.