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Awadhi cuisine, known to be one of the most refined, rich and royal cuisines of India, has seen an immense revival in the last 50 years of India’s history—and the man most credited this to is the legendary Chef Imtiaz Qureshi, followed by his son, Chef Ishtiyaque Qureshi. The legacy of Padmashri Imtiaz Qureshi is well-known, and a year since his passing, Chef Ishtiyaque Qureshi continues to be a flagbearer for the refined dum pukht style of cooking Awadhi favourites.
A glimpse of this rich Awadhi culinary legacy was clearly visible at the Jashn-e-Lucknow pop-up by Chef Ishtiyaque Qureshi at JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity, from February 19th to 23rd, 2025. The spread on offer included popular gems like Kakori and Galawati Kebabs along with Dum Gosht Biryani, Raan Qureshi and Zaffrani Malai Phirni. What’s more, the event also introduced diners to a number of lesser-known Awadhi dishes like Murgh Narangi Korma, Taftan bread and Zaituni Pulav. Slurrp spoke to Chef Ishtiyaque Qureshi and Executive Chef Anuraag Narsingani of JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity to learn more about this glorious Awadhi event.
Honouring A Legacy Through An Awadhi Pop-Up Menu
The collaboration between JW Marriott and the Qureshi family is a tribute to India’s rich culinary heritage. “Marriott’s association with Lucknow’s legendary Qureshi family celebrates India’s rich culinary heritage. The collaboration honours generations of Awadhi cuisine mastery, bringing authentic flavours to a global audience,” says Executive Chef Anuraag Narsingani.
For Chef Ishtiyaque, this event was more than just a showcase of exquisite dishes—it was a heartfelt homage to his father’s legacy. “Since his passing, I feel his presence with me every day—guiding, judging, and blessing me in all that I do. His love for food continues to inspire me, and I carry his legacy forward in every dish I create.”
The menu at Jashn-e-Lucknow was a well-curated journey into the heart of Awadhi cuisine. “At K3 – New Delhi’s Food Theatre, we brought traditional Awadhi flavours to the table with some of the region’s most iconic dishes,” shares Chef Ishtiyaque. Diners indulged in signature dishes such as Qureshi’s Dum Pukht Biryani, Dum Gosht Kareli ki Nihari, Gosht Galawati Kebab, Dal-e-Khaas, Subz Galawati, Subz Shami, Dum Subz Biryani, Zafrani Malai Phirni, and Kali Gajar ka Halwa, all paired with freshly baked Taftaan and Bah Khummach rotis.
A Taste of Royalty With Dum Pukht Biryani & More
With Dum Pukht Biryani gaining renewed popularity after its mention in a recent Bollywood film, Chef Ishtiyaque reflected on how his family has shaped its prominence. “It was my legendary father who revived the Dum Pukht cuisine, and I am proud to follow in his footsteps, continuing his legacy just as he would have wanted.”
Beyond biryani, the Dum Pukht method was showcased in other dishes such as Kareli ki Nihari, Dal-e-Khaas, Kaliya, Qoarmas, and Salan. The slow-cooking technique, where dishes are cooked on a low flame with tightly sealed lids to retain moisture and enhance flavours, is a hallmark of the Qureshi culinary tradition.
What sets the Qureshi family apart is their dedication to not just taste, but the philosophy behind food. “I follow the principles of Tehjeeb and Tasheer. Tehjeeb refers to the meticulous method and manner of cooking, ensuring that every dish is prepared with precision to bring out the best flavours,” explains Chef Ishtiyaque. “Tasheer is the understanding of how food impacts the body and mind, making sure each dish not only delights the palate but also nourishes and balances the body’s well-being.”
The JW Marriott Experience: Beyond Jash-e-Lucknow
The setting for this regal feast was K3, JW Marriott’s signature restaurant renowned for its grand buffets and thematic dining experiences. “K3 at JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity is a vibrant food theatre, offering an immersive dining experience with diverse global flavours. Our buffets and curated menus celebrate authenticity, seasonality, and innovation, ensuring an exceptional culinary journey,” explains Executive Chef Anuraag Narsingani.
The response from diners was nothing short of overwhelming. “The response from diners at K3 has been fantastic, with guests thoroughly enjoying the authentic taste and flavours of Lucknowi cuisine,” shares Chef Ishtiyaque. “The team at the property has been incredibly supportive, making this collaboration a truly great experience.”
Kakori House And A Taste Of Lucknow: Qureshi Family Heritage
While Awadhi cuisine is often associated with royalty, Chef Ishtiyaque has made it accessible to a larger audience through his restaurant, Kakori House. “My journey with Kakori House has been truly fulfilling, as it allows me to share the authentic, consistent flavours of Dum Pukht cuisine with the masses. I proudly call it Qureshi’s Dum Pukht as a tribute to my legendary father and the legacy he left behind.”
For those planning a visit to Lucknow, he recommends trying Galawati Kebab (veg and non-veg), Kareli ki Nihari, Sheermal, Zafrani Malai Phirni, Haleem, Qormas, Shami Kebab (veg, chicken, mutton), Makai Seekh, and Shahi Tukda at Kakori House.
For Chef Ishtiyaque, carrying forward his father’s culinary legacy is a deeply personal mission. “I continue to honour my father’s legacy by preserving the authenticity of Dum Pukht cuisine while evolving it for modern times. His love for food guides me daily, and I’m dedicated to sharing this rich heritage with more people.”
As for future ventures, expansion is on the horizon. “Looking ahead, I plan to expand further, ensuring that Qureshi’s Dum Pukht remains a lasting tribute to his vision.”
While Jashn-e-Lucknow was an unparalleled culinary celebration, food lovers can look forward to many more experiences at K3. “Beyond pop-up menus, K3 offers lavish buffets, Sunday brunches, live kitchen experiences, and seasonal culinary celebrations. Themed nights, chef’s specials, and immersive food festivals further elevate the restaurant’s dynamic offerings,” reveals Chef Narsingani.
In the coming months, guests can look forward to an authentic South Indian promotion, visiting Michelin-starred chefs, refreshing summer specials, and elevated upmarket brunches—each promising an exceptional dining experience.
