The essence of home transcends borders, carrying with it the flavors of culture and the warmth of shared experiences. This sentiment is particularly strong within the South Asian diaspora, where culinary traditions act as a tether to one's roots. The Salon, nestled in the heart of New York, is a vibrant tribute to this shared sentiment, lovingly crafted by Ananya Chopra and Kritika Manchanda.
Inspired by their nostalgic memories of bustling Indian households, where delectable aromas mingled with animated conversations, Ananya and Kritika sought to recreate that sense of intimacy within the bustling metropolis. The Salon, a monthly supper club, beckons artists and kindred spirits to partake in not just a sumptuous four-course Indian meal but also in the age-old tradition of communal dining. This 'mehfil'-like dining experience is a modern reincarnation of the French salons that once flourished during the Early Modern Revolutionary era as historic hubs of cultural and intellectual exchange.
The Salon boasts a meticulous approach to every aspect of the dining experience with a thought-out curation of vintage dinnerware that blends with the rich tapestry of flavours drawn from treasured family recipes. This month they celebrated Awadhi cuisine with Banarasi aloo, Awadhi biryani, and the quintessential shahi tukda along with The Galawati Kebab and some rabdi. In the past The Salon has explored an array of delicacies across the subcontinent like Chicken Tehari with Mint Raita, Aloo gosht, Rawalpindi chana with paneer stuffed kulcha, Kulfi and Phool Bhaja- crispy squash blossoms Pakoras and more.
With an unwavering commitment to authenticity, The Salon sources its ingredients from trusted South Asian grocers and even shipping select spices and saffron directly from the homeland. Each dish tells a story of love and dedication, with garam masala prepared from a cherished family recipe, and essentials like ghee, butter, khoya, and paneer crafted from scratch, ensuring an unparalleled gastronomic experience.
Beyond the culinary journey, The Salon embodies a spirit of community, in an environment of cultural nourishment, where the flavours of the past dance harmoniously with the aspirations of the present. The Salon stands not merely as a dining destination but a melting pot of South Asian culture, and the timeless art of shared experiences.
Follow The Salon here.
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