Mumbai: Dubai’s beloved restaurant, Pincode by Kunal Kapur, is making waves as it opens its doors in Abu Dhabi, located in The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. Known for presenting Indian flavours with a regional flair, Pincode reimagines traditional Indian street food with touches of luxury and Middle Eastern influence. Named after the nostalgic era when families passed down recipes in handwritten letters and diaries, the restaurant serves as a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of India.
Kapur’s vision for Pincode goes beyond food; it’s about creating a memorable experience for each guest. His attention to detail—from the spices to the decor—is what makes this restaurant a true gem in Abu Dhabi’s dining scene. Each dish not only offers authenticity but also sparks nostalgia, connecting diners to the flavours of India in every bite.
With plans to expand Pincode to new locations, Kunal Kapur continues to bring his culinary journey to the world, one Pincode at a time. Whether you’re seeking comfort food or adventurous flavours, Pincode by Kunal Kapur in Abu Dhabi offers a dining experience that’s both delicious and deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Immersive dining experience inspired by Indian artistry
The restaurant’s design brings together India’s artistic heritage and global modernity. A striking veil installation at the entrance greets guests, inviting them into a warmly lit and intimate space.
With saffron yellows, deep indigos, vibrant rubies, and lush emeralds, the colour palette mirrors India’s vibrancy while earthy neutrals add an elegant charm. Crafted with intricate woodwork and artisanal details, Pincode’s aesthetic pays homage to India’s diaspora and celebrates the heart of its culinary tradition.
Pincode’s ambience thoughtfully marries tradition and modernity. The random flooring combined with distressed, printed tiles gives the space depth and warmth, while historic photos of Delhi punctuate the walls, highlighting the city’s rich heritage.
From Noida to Dubai, and now Abu Dhabi
Kunal Kapur’s culinary journey began with his first restaurant, Quarter Plate, an Indian Tapas and Bar in Noida, India. Following its success, he ventured into Dubai with Pincode, where it quickly became a favourite.
Expanding to New Delhi and now Abu Dhabi, each new location maintains Kapur’s dedication to evoking nostalgia while serving unforgettable flavours. By borrowing inspiration from India’s iconic culinary landscapes, Pincode offers diners an experience as rich and memorable as the treasured family recipes that inspired it.
The story behind the name, ‘Pincode’
Kunal Kapur began his culinary career with the Taj Group of Hotels in 2000 and later moved on to work with The Leela Group. Over the years, he developed numerous restaurant concepts, including Patiala by Kunal Kapur in Dubai in 2016 and Namak in Abu Dhabi in 2018.
The name Pincode, launched in January 2023, carries a heartfelt story linked to Kapur’s grandmother. She played an important role in his life, and as a young woman, she would send letters to her family scattered across India, carefully noting the correct pin code on each envelope to ensure safe delivery to their villages. Naming the restaurant Pincode was, for Kunal Kapur, a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother’s legacy.
Menu based on Pincodes
The menu at Pincode celebrates diverse culinary traditions, with each pincode carrying a unique story close to Chef Kapur’s heart. The pincode 261203 brings the rich, royal flavours of Mahmudabad’s Shami Kebabs from Uttar Pradesh, while 673121 showcases the fragrant Coastal Chicken Curry from Kalpetta, Kerala.
The bustling streets of Old Delhi (110006) come alive with the famous Gadbad Falooda, and 400004 introduces the vibrant taste of Mumbai’s street food culture through Girgaon’s Bunny Baji.
On the Pincode menu, a standout treat is the Saffron Almond Kulfi on a stick, evoking Chef Kunal Kapur’s cherished memories of carefree summers spent on the lively streets of Delhi with friends and family. Another signature dish, the Pressure-Cooker Chicken, reflects Kapur’s love for simple, yet flavourful cooking.
His personal favourites also include Dhokla Chaat, Lamb Seekh Tawa Masala, and, above all, a comforting bowl of Khichdi with Nimbu Achaar.
Pincode Abu Dhabi
Address: The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Timings: 12:30 pm – 12 am
Cost for two: ₹2,000-2,500 (Exclusive of taxes)
Dubai’s beloved Pincode by Kunal Kapur has made its way to Abu Dhabi, bringing a distinct fusion of traditional Indian flavours and contemporary Middle Eastern influences. Each dish on the menu is crafted to deliver a sensory experience that pays tribute to India’s rich culinary landscape. The restaurant’s decor featuring rich hues and intricate Indian-inspired designs offer diners a welcoming and elegant ambiance. Food & Drink Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
