Gurugram, formerly known as Gurgaon, is known for its plush societies, wide roads jam-packed with traffic, and a home to the headquarters of some of India’s most sought-after firms. But everyone fails to mention its ever-booming culinary landscape that has been attracting gastronomes and food bloggers across Delhi-NCR, churning crores of economy every year.
Amid its bustling and diverse foodscape, Chef Vicky Ratnani, a culinary maverick, has opened the doors to his restaurant, Omny Kitchen. As described on the official website of the restaurants, it is where ‘global sophistication meets gastronomic artistry in a celebration of flavours from every corner of the world.’
Located in the Magnum Global Park, a destination synonymous with high-end food joints, Omny Kitchen is not just any other restaurant, it’s a reflection of the chef's decades of experience in the culinary world. “It’s a tribute to my working with 37 nationalities and circumventing seven times around the world. It reflects my journey from before 2008, when I used to be the executive staff of the largest ocean liner in the world, to learning through people, culture, and places, and how everything has influenced me and my style of cooking,” said Chef Ratnani with a hint of pride in his voice.
Foodies can rest assured that they will experience global flavours on their plates. From simple and traditional dishes to one-of-a-kind creations, Omny Kitchen has to be on every gastronome’s list who is always looking to taste something unique with familiar tones. “We are doing simple dishes, but with reimagination, we are working on pickling and fermentation, and we are using a lot of local produce."
Image Credit: Omny Kitchen
Omny Kitchen Paying Tribute To Chef Vicky Ratnani’s Sindhi Roots
How many times have you entered a lavish restaurant and spotted Sindhi kadhi or aloo tuk on the menu? This is where Omny Kitchen stands out. Not only does it pay homage to Chef Vicky Ratnani’s Sindhi Roots, but it also paves the way for heartwarming regional Indian dishes to reach a wide audience, giving tough competition to otherwise renowned global dishes.
There are a few Sindhi dishes featured on the menu - Sindhi Sai Bhaji, Koki, Dal Pakwan, Aloo Tuk, and a couple more. If you are surprised to read it, don’t worry, you are not alone. Chef Ratnani’s family had a similar reaction. But he believes in the proverb - one man’s meat is another man’s poison.
Image Credit: Omny Kitchen
For those who are unaware, Sindhi Sai Bhaji is a comforting dish prepared with 5-6 kinds of leafy greens, like methi, coriander, mint, spinach, etc., vegetables, chana dal, and everything is cooked. It is savoured with Bhuga Chawal (Sindhi-style rice preparation with onions). “We have reimagined the recipes, but the flavour remains intact. So if you would like, you can enjoy a Sindhi brunch or dinner with us,” Chef Vicky Ratnani added.
He also claimed that foodies cannot find Aloo Tuk better than Omny Kitchen. “Even if you keep it on the table for 2 hours, it will still be crispy,” he added while emphasising that everyone must try this one dish at the restaurant.
Image Credit: Omny Kitchen
Chef Vicky Ratnani’s Favourite Dishes At Omny Kitchen
If you are planning to visit Omny Kitchen and are a fan of seafood delicacies, Chef Vicky Ratnani insists on tasting ceviche (a Latin American cold dish in which fish or shellfish is served marinated in citrus juices). He has tweaked the recipe a bit, and it comes with a twist of jaljeera. “It’s summer, so the dish is perfect for this weather,” he added while talking about the dish.
Another is Aloo Tuk Bravas. Chef Vicky Ratnani said, “Sindhis love Aloo Tuk, and people in Spain enjoy Potato Bravas with brava sauce.” Chef has also spent some time in Jamaica, where his sister used to live, and he makes lip-smacking, authentic Jerk Chicken.
There is a section called World of Pots, featuring curries from far and near. You will witness delicacies like Duck Curry, Butter Chicken Romesco, Polynesian Curry, Spring Hopper, and more. You can keep turning the pages of the menu, your stomach will be full, but your heart will want to keep ordering one dish after another.
Image Credit: Omny Kitchen
One of the most interesting dishes you will find being served at Omny Kitchen is the Jammu Tavi Burger. Inspired by his trip to Vaishno Devi, an important pilgrimage centre for Hindus in Katra, Jammu, he combined his love for rajma and kalari kulcha (a street delight of Jammu) to prepare the burger pattice and layered it with mint chutney to prepare finger-licking good bun tikki.
Omny Kitchen is also one of the few restaurants in India that takes pride in sourcing the best ingredients from across the country. Chef Vicky Ratnani added, “Our mushrooms come from a farm in Mysore, wheat comes from Punjab, different kinds of cheese are sourced from different places in India, and pasta is made from Punjabi meat.”
You can be assured of the quality and taste of food at this newest food joint, and with the change in weather, you will also witness a few seasonal delights making an appearance on the specials board. Book your table now at Omny Kitchen to devour a satiating meal with rejuvenating drinks.
Image Credit: Omny Kitchen