Occupying a significant corner at the food court of the bustling shopping mall in Howrah, Hungry Sardar is the newest F&B outlet in Avani Mall. In the pursuit of serving authentic Punjabi delicacies, this 80-seater restaurant, spread over an area of 2,500sq ft, is something that the patrons will immediately fall in love with. Besides bright and quirky interiors designed by interior designer Sumedha Khemani, this restaurant is an exciting hangout for everybody who loves to chill and dine.
(l-r) Enliven your desi spirit as you go click-click with this beautiful truck installation, which is reflective of everything that Punjab is known for. This interesting chowki inside the ‘Panchayat’ area adds to the wow factor and is in perfect sync with the vibrancy of the place
“We are absolutely thrilled for the grand launch of Hungry Sardar. This restaurant is not just a place to eat, it’s a labour of love, a celebration of Punjab’s rich culinary traditions, and a journey that has been fuelled by our passion for this incredible cuisine. We’ve put our heart and soul into creating an unparalleled dining experience that reflects our deep love for Punjab and its flavours,” said Hardeep Singh, Rahul Khanna and Gunjan Modi, owners, Hungry Sardar.
Rahul Khanna, Hardeep Singh and Gunjan Modi, owners, Hungry Sardar
The grand launch had a star guest — actor Archana Puran Singh who dropped by to inaugurate the restaurant. “Having Archana Puran Singh with us was an absolute honour. Her presence elevates this occasion to new heights. We’re incredibly grateful for her gracious presence here tonight, and it’s a testament to the shared love for authentic Punjabi cuisine that we all have,” said Hardeep, Rahul and Gunjan in unison.
t2 caught up with Archana Puran Singh for a quick food chat: What according to you is the specialty of Punjabi cuisine?
There are some staples like Chole Bhature, Curry chawal, Rajma Chawal or different types of Paranthas. But honestly speaking, in our side in the north, when you taste the raw vegetables over there, it feels so much tastier. This is because the produce itself is very flavorful. So, the food that we make is inlaid with North Indian spices, besides our love and passion that we pour into the curations.
Tell us something about the food you are having.
I am sure Calcutta will really enjoy this very authentic cuisine here at Hungry Sardar. What I am eating right now is a much better version of the authentic Punjabi food. They are obviously trying to make the traditional kulcha evolve even more. So, I think I shall put on a kilo before I go (laughs).
What is comfort food for you?
Archana Puran Singh receives a grand welcome as she danced to the beats of bhangra with sheer joy and revelry
My go-to food is arhar dal and chawal. Pure bhaat daal. So, yes, it has a bit of a Bengali influence to it.
Tell us one Punjabi meal that you love to cook.
I do not like to cook. I like to eat. Yet, if I had to cook, I can make very good rajma chawal.
Keeping in mind the general richness of Punjabi cuisine, how do you think it can be made healthier?
There is richness in every Indian cuisine. Basically, the cuisine is very healthy. But one should not overdose on it. All our Indian foods provide a very balanced diet that’s all grown fresh and green that comes along with the local produce. Eventually the health factor is kept in check.