Saudi Tourism Authority Brings The Saudi Table To Delhi: An Immersive Culinary Experience Curated By Chef Kunal Kapur

The Saudi Tourism Authority, through its consumer brand ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’, brought The Saudi Table to One8 Commune, Golf Course Road, and we had the chance to experience it firsthand. This limited-edition culinary residency unfolded as a beautifully curated journey led by Chef Kunal Kapur, whose mastery of flavours and nuanced understanding of cross-cultural cuisine has made him one of India’s foremost culinary voices. It began as a showcase of Saudi gastronomy and quickly became an immersive exploration of the evolving food culture.

Before stepping into the experience, we kept thinking about how deeply connected India and Saudi Arabia have been for centuries. Their coasts and ports have shared maritime trade routes, ingredients, and culinary ideas. Spices travelled, grains travelled, and so did knowledge, creating subtle bonds between the cuisines of both regions. The Saudi Table drew from this very history, presenting a menu that honoured traditional Saudi food while still embracing its confident, contemporary identity.

As we moved through the space, we first encountered the grazing table, lush, colourful, and beautifully layered. They were filled with fresh salads and mezze featuring Gulf-grown za’atar, pomegranate molasses, Madinah dates, saffron, and herbs that carried bold regional character. The small plates stood out for street and home-cooked favourites from grilled halloumi wrapped in aubergine to stuffed chicken wings, spiced lamb kofta scented with Za’atar and sumac, and a fragrant seafood pilaf. Everything was meant to be shared, echoing the communal spirit of Saudi dining.

The larger plates felt ceremonial. Kabsa, Mansaf Lamb, and saffron rice with sultanas were served in a way that captured Saudi Arabia’s festive traditions. And then came the desserts: rose-and-pistachio panna cotta, delicate date-and-almond confections, and warm Kunafa. Each dish pleased the palate and left a fragrant memory behind.

What we appreciated most was that the residency wasn’t just about taste. The entire setup at One8 Commune was crafted to reflect Saudi dining culture, which is unhurried, communal, and deeply layered. All of us sat, stood, and mingled freely as we explored the menu. It was a complete gateway to understanding Saudi Arabia as a multidimensional destination, where centuries of trade, migration, and cultural exchange – particularly with India – have shaped its cuisine, markets, and hospitality.

Through every flavour, from the tang of pomegranate in the tabbouleh to the aroma of saffron in festive rice, we were reminded that Saudi cuisine carries history in every ingredient. Meals here are expressions of connection, generosity, and identity. The residency also highlighted diversity found across regions like the Hijaz coast and inland trade cities.

The curated menu will be available to consumers from December 12-17, 2025. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, urban traveller, or curious diner, you are invited to explore the curated menu, witness the art of communal Saudi dining, and engage with an experience that is as much about cultural discovery as it is about exceptional gastronomy.