The Gulmohar Bar & Curry House: A Culinary Oasis in the Heart of the City

Pune, December 2023 – The Gulmohar Bar & Curry House in Pune, co-founded by Harsh Agarwal, Umang Bhimrajka and Ronak Sahani, marks a gentle shift in the city's culinary scene, focusing on the familiar and comforting. Nestled in the heart of the city, this 6000 sq. ft. establishment aims to be a home away from home, blending traditional Indian cuisine with playful modern touches. While the culinary world often leans towards reinvention, The Gulmohar seeks to preserve and celebrate culinary heritage, offering a welcoming space with a seating capacity of 150 and an additional 30 on its upcoming terrace. It's a place where the essence of familiar Indian flavors is maintained, yet gently interwoven with creative elements for a comforting and enjoyable dining experience.

The Gulmohar Bar & Curry House, reflecting the beauty of nature and Indian culture, is designed as an urban oasis. Its design, inspired by lush foliage, the terracotta facade on the building acts as a natural cooling system to the building by cutting the harsh south sunlight, along with a palette of Indian stones and raw cement, creating a tranquil and earthy ambiance. This setting includes a cozy indoor area, a quaint cafe space and a small terrace for hosting various events, emphasizing its character as a hidden gem in Pune.

The culinary direction under the guidance of Chef Shailendra Kekade, who has been the brains behind many award-winning restaurants and bars has designed the menu with familiar Indian flavours and global culinary practices. Chef Sheetal, now the head chef at The Gulmohar Bar & Curry House, has been a vital part of Harsh and Umang's culinary team for over four years, with his skills sharpened under the tutelage of Chef Shailendra Kekade. The menu at The Gulmohar offers an array of dishes that cater to diverse palates, including Chole Hommus, Sheesh Touk and the traditional Jodhpuri Gulabjamun ki kadhi. The cocktail menu puts a spin on classics, featuring inventive creations like the Masala Chai Sour, a twist on the whiskey sour with homemade masala Chai syrup. The menu caters to diverse tastes and dining preferences, ensuring an enjoyable experience at any hour.

The menu at The Gulmohar encompasses a variety of sections, featuring Tapas with modern takes on Indian street food, Gulmohar Lites focusing on lighter options like Kheema on Toast, a Regional Indian section exploring dishes from various Indian states, and a Favorites section including beloved classics like Butter Chicken and Paneer Tikka. The Curry House Extravaganza section showcases international curries, reflecting the global journey of Indian cuisine.

In the words of Chef Shailendra Kekade, “The Gulmohar is more than just a restaurant; it's a place where simplicity and unpretentiousness are at the core of our culinary philosophy. We offer a space where guests can enjoy great food and an excellent bar in a casual, home-like environment. Our menu includes traditional starters, kebabs, and biryanis, alongside an innovative Indian tapas section for those lighter eating moments."

"In envisioning The Gulmohar, our goal was to create more than just a restaurant; we aimed to craft a space that resonates with comfort and ease, akin to a second home," says Harsh Agarwal, co-founder of The Gulmohar Bar & Curry House. "Whether it's for a casual meal, a business meeting, or a moment of relaxation, we have designed The Gulmohar to be an everyday oasis in the city. Our ambition is to weave a culinary narrative that not only traverses the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine but also embraces and celebrates global flavors."

"The Gulmohar is our hidden gem, a secret garden nestled within Pune. We are deeply committed to the ethos of 'Atithi Devo Bhav' (The guest is God), ensuring a warm, welcoming experience for all our guests. Our focus is on simplicity and elegance, providing a setting where everyone can savor great food and drinks, feeling right at home. It's this unique blend of hospitality and culinary excellence that makes The Gulmohar a destination not just for dining but for creating memorable experiences."

Umang Bhimrajka

The Gulmohar Curry House & Bar is recognized not only for its unique culinary experiences but also for its welcoming, accessible nature. The Gulmohar embodies an earthen elegance, offering quality dining at reasonable prices. An average meal for two is priced around 1400 INR, making it a go-to destination for various diners, from young professionals to culinary enthusiasts.

Ultimately, The Gulmohar Curry House & Bar is not just a dining venue; it's a destination that offers an amalgamation of flavors, cultures, and hospitality. It invites Pune's residents and visitors to explore great Indian food in a contemporary setting, marking it as a unique and alluring addition to the city's culinary landscape.

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