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Who are celebrities when they are not faced by a camera? Who are they like while not in the shoes of a character, and what do their meals look like? But most importantly, if there’s something that makes them just like you, it is simply a dish they cannot resist. Celebrity Eats is a Slurrp special series where stars express their foodie versions. From their most memorable childhood memories to their go-to cheat meals, you can get the inside scoop on your favourite celebrity.
Yuvraj Singh is someone who needs no introduction. The all-rounder cricketer has made the country proud numerous times with his left-arm spin bowling and awestruck left-handed batting. Ask any cricket enthusiast about him, and they will narrate the tale of Yuvi hitting six sixes in an over against England in the T20 World Cup in 2007.
After his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2019, the sportsman turned into an entrepreneur. He owns FINO Tequila, an alcohol brand that was first launched in the US and promises to deliver a premium experience to alcohol enthusaists. He also hosts exclusive stays in his AirBnb in Goa. Keeping up with his entrepreneurship, Yuvraj Singh, with his partner Deepak Sahni, also launched KOCA (Kitchen of Celebratory Arts) in Gurugram on March 21, 2025. It is a pan-Asian restaurant under Glamosphere Hospitality, founded by Shobhit Aggarwal and Kapil Goel.
Speaking about the launch, Yuvraj Singh shared, "KOCA is more than just a restaurant—it’s a dream brought to life. My love for food has always been personal, and I wanted to create a space that reflects my journey and the flavours I cherish. From comforting childhood dishes to contemporary global creations, KOCA is all about celebrating food, flavours, and togetherness. I can’t wait for people to experience it.”
Boasting a seating capacity of 500 guests, KOCA is where you can enjoy your favourite dishes with a twist. Its menu features dishes like Vietnamese coffee, Hokkaido coffee, kadhi chawal risotto, yakitori, smokey cottage cheese tikka, seafood linguine, rajma avocado galouti, and more.
Beyond being a successful cricketer and an entrepreneur, Yuvraj Singh is a true blue foodie and desi at heart. In an exclusive chat with Slurrp, he opened up about his favourite dishes, his travel experiences and how they reflect in KOCA’s menu, childhood memories, and more.
What Are Your Plans For KOCA?
The plan is to get it just right here in Gurgaon first and make sure people walk out not just with a full tummy, but also happy and maybe even surprised. After that, who knows? We definitely want to take KOCA to other cities, maybe even other countries eventually. For me, it’s about keeping the experience real and personal, no matter how big we grow.
What Makes KOCA Different From Other Fine-Dining Restaurants In Gurgaon?
KOCA does not try too hard to be 'fine dining' in the traditional sense. It’s high-energy but also warm and welcoming. We’ve taken dishes that people grew up loving and added subtle twists, nothing gimmicky, just enough to surprise you. Everything from where we source ingredients to how we handle waste has been thought through. At the end of the day, people connect with authenticity, and that’s what KOCA is about.
What Are Your Favourite Cuisines And Dishes?
Travelling has been one of the perks of both cricket and now business. I have eaten my way through a lot of countries! I am a huge fan of Japanese food - there’s something about the simplicity, how every ingredient shines without too much fuss.
What Are Your All-Time Favourite Dishes?
I have always been someone who loves simple, home-cooked meals. No matter where in the world I am or how many different cuisines I’ve tried, I keep coming back to the basics, like kadhi chawal and rajma chawal. There’s something about that comforting, familiar taste that just feels like home. My mom used to make a fantastic kadhi chawal when I was growing up, and even today, it’s one of those meals that instantly puts me at ease.
Are There Any Food Memories From Childhood That Have Stayed With You?
There are plenty, but one that stands out is coming back from a long day of cricket practice, tired and hungry, and walking into the house to the smell of something simple cooking - maybe dal or sabzi. That feeling of comfort, of home—it’s unbeatable. Sometimes, after all the travelling, you want something uncomplicated and cooked with love.
Are There Any Food Experiences From Your Cricket Tour Days?
Absolutely! One of the best things about my cricketing career, besides the thrill of the game, was the chance to travel and explore so many different cuisines around the world. Every tour was an opportunity to experience something new, and food became a big part of that journey.
For me, these food adventures went way beyond the plate. They taught me that, like cricket, food has this incredible way of bringing people together, breaking barriers, and leaving you with lasting memories. Everywhere we went, we made it a point to try local flavours.
It was also a way to switch off after intense games. Sitting around a table, sharing something new—it broke the routine, kept things fresh, and helped the team bond in a way that went beyond cricket.
In The Indian Cricket Team, Who Is Your Favourite Person To Share A Meal With?
That’s easy - Sachin Paaji. He has a seriously fine taste when it comes to food, and he always knows where to find the best spots, no matter which city we’re in. Meals with him are about much more than the food—it’s about stories, good conversation, and just enjoying the moment. I’ve learned a lot from those dinners, not just about food, but about life.
Who Is A Better Cook Between You And Hazel?
Hazel, hands down! She has this knack for experimenting in the kitchen, and she’s especially good with healthy, creative recipes—gluten-free, vegan, all of that. I can handle basic stuff, maybe help out with chopping or tasting, but she’s the real boss when it comes to cooking.
Do You Follow Any Specific Diet To Stay Fit?
Over the years, I’ve figured out what works for me. I keep it mostly gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan now. It’s less about following trends and more about feeling good and staying light and energetic.
I believe in balance. I don’t believe in cutting out the joy from food. That’s why even at KOCA, we’ve made sure there are enough options for people who want to eat clean but still enjoy the experience.
Which Dishes From KOCA's Menu Would You Recommend Foodies Must Try?
That’s a tough one because I love everything on the menu! But if you’re visiting KOCA, I’d say definitely try the rajma avocado galouti - it’s our creative take on a classic, and it surprises a lot of people. Another favourite is the Methi Malai Broccoli - simple but full of flavour.
And if you’re looking for something a little comforting with a twist, the Kadhi Chawal Risotto is a must. It’s familiar, but with a bit of fun added to it.
At the end of the day, KOCA’s menu is all about celebrating good food without overcomplicating it.
