SURAT, INDIA — Food enthusiasts in Surat are invited to embark on a rare gastronomic journey as The Surat Kitchen, located at Le Méridien Surat (Magdalla Circle, Dumas Road), hosts ‘PHIRA SAAL – A Taste of Kashmiri Pandit Cuisine’. Running from October 4 to October 10, 2026, this 7-day evening buffet festival offers a refined exploration of the distinct food heritage and culinary traditions of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Served daily from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the experience moves beyond the familiar Waazwan to showcase Saal—a celebration of home-style warmth, heritage recipes, slow-cooked preparations, and indigenous ingredients.
Curated by renowned Chef Rahul Wali, the special menu highlights the depth and simplicity of Kashmiri Pandit cooking, placing core staples such as lotus stem, leafy greens, fennel, dry ginger, asafoetida, and saffron at the heart of the table. Guests can begin their meal with a vibrant array of appetizers including Nadur Kebab (Lotus Stem), Buzith Chaaman (Paneer), Mushroom Kanti, Aloo Palak Tikki, Chaaman Kanti, Nadir Monjj, Talith Ola (Potatoes), Chaaman Pakore, and Nadir Churma.
The main course spread presents authentic heritage delicacies such as Chaaman Qaliya, Dum Aloo, Al Yakhni, Palak Haakh, Wozij Chaaman, and Choonth Wangun, paired with specialty rice offerings including Plain Rice, Sabuz Polav, Kong Baat, and Tahar. Traditional condiments like Mujj Chetin (Radish Raita), Doyn Chetin (Walnut Chutney), and Pudina Chetin (Dry Mint Chutney) add a refreshing finish to the savory main course.
To conclude the feast on a sweet note, the dessert lineup features regional delicacies including Kong Phirni, Apple Kheer, Chear Sooj Halwa (Apricot & Semolina), Shufta (Stewed Dry Fruits), Gaer Halwa (Water Chestnut), and Gulab Phirni. The dining experience is rounded off with aromatic, traditional Kashmiri beverages—Kahwa and Kong Kahwa.
Event Details:
- Event: PHIRA SAAL – A Taste of Kashmiri Pandit Cuisine
- Venue: The Surat Kitchen, Le Méridien Surat, Magdalla Circle, Dumas Road, Surat, Gujarat 395007
- Dates: October 4 – October 10, 2026
- Timings: Dinner Buffet | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Pricing: ₹1,649 + applicable taxes per person
- Reservations & Inquiries: +91 89800 01602
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