A European setting, a table of bold flavours, and a refreshing take on Bengal’s produce – this lunch felt like a breath of fresh air. Chef Dhruv Oberoi, who was in town from Delhi, crafted a menu entirely around Bengal’s palate and memory for a weekend residency. The collaboration came together via a food research collective focused on raising awareness about heritage Indian produce and agricultural science. Over months of conversations with the collective’s founder, Tanushree Bhowmik, Chef Dhruv’s menu showcased Bengal’s finest seasonal produce.
On the menuBurrata in jamun: Fresh burrata, aam aada dressing, air baguette (chef’s take on phuchka)
Mustard bhetki arancini: Bhetki rolled in cheere, lebu aioli
Tadgola tartare: Iced tadgola, coconut kasundi, rice cracker
Taal gur crème caramel: Served with Kanakchur rice, fresh dates

Confit duck cutlet with kul molasses was a standout on the menu. Local seasonal produce – aam aada, taal gur, cheere, tadgola – was interpreted through European techniques to highlight these ingredients

Aam ada cheese tart with Himsagar mangoes; (below) the Adda platter
Food is a living entity shaped by nature. Produce is someone’s livelihood, not a novelty. Chefs need to be agile to work with it
– Tanushree Bhowmik

Chef Dhruv garnishes a negroni which spotlights the paan pata
The aim was to create a seasonal, ingredient-forward menu rooted in everyday Bengali produce, reimagined through European techniques
– Chef Dhruv Oberoi