TAVA gives a tantalising taste of India
Published:Thursday | December 12, 2024 | 12:10 AMKrysta Anderson/Staff Reporter
A fusion of fresh herbs and spices so refreshingly flavourful that it evokes mouthwatering euphoria. That’s what happens when you bite into the tantalising taste of India with TAVA.
“From the moment you walk through our doors, the rich aromas hit you and the vibe greets you, inviting you to sit back, relax and enjoy the epicurean experience. If you’re a fan of Indian food or trying for the first time, we commit to a memorable journey from start to finish,” owner of TAVA, Nanda Dukharan, told Food.
Stealing the savoury spotlight at the Progressive Shopping Centre in Barbican, St Andrew, more popularly known as the new location hub for gastronomy, are exciting dishes like the TAVA house curry, lamb shank mughlai, and the tandoori platter. With comfort meeting discovery with each bite, persons who are seeking a safe approach to unfamiliar names will be delighted by the creamy butter or the chicken tikka masala.
In the sipping department, signature and unique to TAVA are the sweet notes of mango maharani margherita and the spiced guava mojito.
According to Dukharan, ‘tava’, pronounced ‘tawah’, is a traditional pan used to cook tons of Indian food, including roti. “Indian food is deeply personal to me. I have childhood memories tied to so many dishes. My connection to Indian food is rooted in family and tradition,” she shared.
The tava, by extension, holds a special meaning in her heart, as it symbolises authenticity, warmth, and, most importantly, ‘home and family’. These are the qualities she wanted to reflect in this restaurant. “Food is a powerful way to connect and share with people. It was important to show the depth of Indian cuisine in a space where it can be celebrated.”
Opening its doors this past week, the restaurant strikes an exquisite balance between restaurant classics and hidden gems. It was important that the signature dishes appeal to everyone who walks through the doors, including meat lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and guests with dietary restrictions.
“Every guest I have taken the time to speak to has expressed how incredible their meals and the experience has been. It’s been rewarding to see them enjoy it for the first time,” she said adding, “Also, I wanted to design a space that was regal and still culturally resonant. Peacocks are the national bird of India. The deep green, copper and gold accents are synonymous with luxury and richness, [just] as the dishes that TAVA serves. The ambiance of the space adds to the service and dishes.”