Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality Opens Waarsa

Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality (ABNAH), the hospitality arm of the Aditya Birla Group, has launched Waarsa, a premium casual dining restaurant specializing in Awadhi cuisine. Located within the historic National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) at Nariman Point, Mumbai, Waarsa aims to showcase the rich culinary traditions of Awadh.

The name Waarsa, meaning "inheritance," reflects the restaurant’s mission to bring the legacy of Awadhi cuisine to the forefront through its flavors, aromas, and traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations. The restaurant is led by culinary director Rahul Akerkar and masterchef Mukhtar Qureshi, who bring their expertise to create an authentic dining experience rooted in the royal and home kitchens of Awadh.

Udai Pinnali, CEO of ABNAH said, "We are honoured to introduce Waarsa at the prestigious NCPA, a venue renowned for showcasing traditional and contemporary arts over the decades. Waarsa stands as our tribute to a cuisine that is shaped as much by the regal kitchens as by the warmth of traditional Awadhi homes. Chef Rahul Akerkar and Chef Mukhtar Qureshi have collaborated to build a culinary experience that is both authentically rooted in Awadh and thoughtfully adapted to contemporary tastes."

Rahul Akerkar added, "We've crafted every detail of Waarsa to reflect the essence of Awadh in a way that is both understated and elegant. To create this, we immersed ourselves in the diverse culinary landscapes of Lucknow, Benares, Kolkata, and beyond, deeply engaging with the history and nuances of this remarkable cuisine."

Mukhtar Qureshi, a member of the renowned Qureshi family known for their Awadhi culinary heritage said, "For me, Waarsa represents a deeply personal journey. The menu reflects my childhood memories of home-cooked meals and the rich stories from my family, while incorporating the culinary voice I've cultivated over the years. It honors the authenticity of Awadhi cuisine and its historical roots, but also introduces subtle modern touches to offer a lighter and more contemporary dining experience."

Waarsa's opening adds to ABNAH’s growing portfolio of innovative dining concepts, showcasing their commitment to delivering unique culinary experiences across India.