Key Highlights
- Gymkhana, a two-Michelin-star Indian restaurant from London, is opening its first US location in Las Vegas.
- The new Gymkhana at Aria will bring family-style dining and a focus on vegetarian options to the Las Vegas scene.
- Founder Pavan Pardasani aims to change perceptions about Indian cuisine as being stuffy or formal, emphasizing its communal and diverse nature.
- This opening is part of JKS Restaurants’ broader expansion into America with other Indian restaurants like Ambassadors Clubhouse and Berenjak.
Introduction to Gymkhana’s Global Expansion
Gymkhana, the highly acclaimed two-Michelin-star Indian restaurant from London, is set to make its American debut in Las Vegas. This move marks a significant milestone for JKS Restaurants, which aims to bring the best of London’s culinary scene to the heart of the entertainment capital.
New Location and Dining Experience
The new Gymkhana at Aria on the Las Vegas Strip will feature 170 seats, offering a unique blend of traditional Indian cuisine with contemporary twists. The restaurant is designed to maintain the warmth and conviviality of its London counterpart while introducing new dishes and cocktails exclusive to the US market.
New Dishes and Cocktails
Among the menu highlights are short rib pepper fry, wagyu keema naan, and an exclusive Goan lobster curry. Cocktail service will include Gymkhana’s first punch bowls, adding a festive touch to the dining experience. Pavan Pardasani emphasizes that guests can enjoy their meals in a relaxed atmosphere, free from the constraints of formal dining expectations.
Changing Perceptions about Indian Cuisine
Pardasani, who recently joined JKS Restaurants as global CEO, sees this opening as an opportunity to introduce Indian food to a wider audience. “The truth of the matter is, you don’t need to love Indian food to love Gymkhana,” he states. The restaurant’s focus on family-style dining and vegetarian options aims to break down barriers and misconceptions about Indian cuisine.
“Typically in Indian culture, you don’t drink without eating,” Pardasani explains. “We want guests to understand that Indian cuisine is food for everyone and encourage them to share dishes.” This approach aligns with the restaurant’s mission to celebrate diversity and inclusivity within its culinary offerings.
JKS Restaurants’ Expansion Strategy
Gymkhana’s arrival in Las Vegas is part of JKS Restaurants’ broader strategy to expand into America. The company, known for its range of high-end dining experiences across various cuisines, plans to open another glamorous Indian restaurant, Ambassadors Clubhouse, in New York’s Flatiron neighborhood. JKS also operates Berenjak, a Persian restaurant with locations in London and Los Angeles.
“We’re excited about bringing these unique culinary experiences to America,” says Pardasani. “Our goal is not just to open top-tier restaurants but to change the cultural perception of Indian food.” This expansion reflects JKS’s belief in the diversity and richness of global cuisines, making them accessible and appealing to a broader audience.
With these new locations, Gymkhana aims to inspire others to pursue their passion for fine dining and bring authentic Indian cuisine to communities across America. As Pardasani notes, “Let’s break down the myths and barriers people might have about our food and make it part of the great cuisines available all over America.”
