Dhaba Estd.1986, Delhi by Azure Hospitality is all set to land itself at Delhi’s posh new Aerocity. The award-winning deliciousness carries forward the thirty years of legacy as it stamps another one at Delhi’s most favourite leisure destinations, The Walk, Aerocity. At Dhaba Estd. 1986, one not only experiences fabulous authentic Indian food but from the moment you enter till the time of your exit, the ambience recreates unparalleled highway eatery nostalgia. Given a shot of new age fun and kitschy interiors with the legendary classics on the menu along with some nouveau beauties – Dhaba is set to recreate the same magic again – but with more full-on Punjabi flair. In conversation with Vineet Kochar, Head of Operations, Dhaba Estd. 1986, Delhi.
Please tell us about the journey of Dhaba, how it started?
Dhaba is Delhi’s iconic Punjabi highway eatery that carries over thirty years’ legacy from The Claridges. The journey of Dhaba in retail standalone format started in 2013 when we decided to expand the Dhaba experience beyond the boundaries of The Claridges. We wanted to create an authentic North-Indian brand to add colour to the lives of people around us through our kitschy interiors that’ll help bring in more of the younger crowd. We wanted to make people know that the consumption of desi ghee and butter is actually healthy. (smiles)
How is Aerocity as a hub?
Aerocity as a hub has very positive vibes. Here, the brand mix is very wisely chosen and caters to all age groups. Aerocity is a pure amalgamation of taste, space and vibes. It has no parking issues, which has been a major concern in Delhi and Gurgaon. I think it’s ‘the hub’ of Delhi/NCR.
How is Dhaba at Aerocity different from other outlets of Dhaba?
All our outlets are a little different from each other but what remains common is the highway truck kitschy vibe and use of quirky slogans across to maintain a consistent Punjabi vibe. Over the years, we have incorporated vintage Bollywood poster art, and Dhoodh Wala mini pop-ups live counters at some venues. We are blessed with outdoor seating at the Aerocity outlet and I guess that is one of the USPs of the space.
What is the food philosophy at Dhaba?
Here the food menu is inspired from the highways of India and the eccentric by-lanes of old towns famous for their unique age-old recipes. In addition to the age-old classics, the new menu experiments with modern flavours showcasing highway specials, not only from Punjab but from all over the country. The essence and soul of Dhaba is Punjabi food, however, a whole new range of regional dishes are now available for indulgence.
Tell us about the signature food dishes.
Our signature dish has been the Balti Meat along with Daal Dhaba and Dhabe Di Roti. Balti Meat recipe is more than 30 years old. It gets its authentic flavours from homemade garam masala using Peepli spice. The shank portion of the meat is used with curry cuts. Dhabe Di Roti goes well with the curry, and our Khameeri Roti is a favourite amongst the guests. The Daal Dhaba is our another signature dish that will surely tantalize your taste buds as you enjoy the highway food journey with us.
How does it feel to launch the tenth outlet of Dhaba?
It feels great to have come so far in a short span of 5 years when we proudly celebrate the opening of the 10th outlet. The love from customers keeps us going and you see it every day with the energy of the team. It’s a crazy unstoppable journey.
Any expansion plans?
We wish to take the brand to Mumbai next, and we are already working on more outlets in Punjab. We hope to have 20 outlets across the country by 2020.
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