Latest news with #KabirAzhar
Khaleej Times
29-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
This restaurant brings authentic Calcutta biryani to Dubai
The traditionally protein-and-rice dish was reportedly brought to India by the Mughals. Later, when the last king of Awadh, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, was exiled to Kolkata, he brought with him Awadhi delicacies, including the flavour-packed biryani to the city. When times were tough and mutton scarce, he introduced a potato into the mix. The result, a nostalgia-inducing new meal. However, this version was kept for the elite up until Abdul Rahim, who had deserted the British Army, found himself looking for a way to earn money in 1929. When he got a whiff of the potato-ensemble, he knew he had a winner. And so, Aminia was born. 'We were the first to commercially sell this biryani,' explains Kabir Azhar, a great-great grandson of the founder. And it's these same subtle flavours that the chain – now known across India for its kathi rolls as much as for its biryani – has brought to Dubai. The two branches of Aminia in Dubai (in Karama and Dubai Production City) serve up legacy on the walls – which are decorated with old menus and paintings of scenes from the Indian city on the banks of the River Hooghly; photographs of famous patrons such as the cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar; and little-known facts such the nugget that Kolkata's New Market branch still uses coal fire stoves. 'We have our own spice mix for the biryani,' says Kabir, adding that the recipe hasn't been changed in decades. It is, he confesses, different from its Awadhi cousin, 'it's lighter, with lesser spice'. 'The food was adapted for the taste buds of the region; they prefer the sweeter notes. And when the restaurant officially opened a brick-and-motor store in 1947, we had a lot of Britishers coming in there. So, we also have some dishes that cater to their preferences such as the Aminia special curry. It's a very light stew with an egg, some veggies, tomato, onion, potato, and meat. They would eat this with chapatis (or flat bread) for breakfast,' he adds. While the chain has been gaining popularity across India, the family also hungered for an international station. 'My father used to travel a lot to Dubai. It was his dream to have an international outlet. And Dubai is actually the easiest and best place to open a restaurant: there's a lot of Indians, which means people already familiar with the brand; there is ease of doing business there; and the flavour profiles are not too alien for the Arab crowd.' In the UAE, Kabir and his brother, Asher Ather, have revamped the menu a bit. It's not just rich in heirloom recipes but also in new offerings such as the dum biryani and chicken tikka butter masala. 'We also added a big kebab menu because we know that kebabs and grills are really popular in this part of the world,' adds Kabir. Now that the brand has landed in the region, the brothers are keen to expand. 'Dubai is kind of a gateway to the entire Middle East. So, yeah, that's the long-term plan. But for now, we are learning what people want here and getting the flavours right.' Want to taste a recipe that's been around for generations? Or just craving that spiced up potato, rice and meat combo? Head to Aminia for that original flavour.
Gulf Today
21-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Free Iftar food packs for delivery riders
Ramadan has been a source of sharing the blessing of the Holy Month as more individuals and establishments are playing their roles to carry out different kinds of charity works. As part of its Ramadan initiative to recognising the relentless efforts of bike riders, Aminia, an Indian restaurant, is rolling out a heartfelt Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to support these essential workers during the Holy Month. Throughout Ramadan, from 5pm to 6:30pm daily, delivery riders can visit Aminia Restaurant in Al Karama to pick up their complimentary Iftar food packs — a small token of gratitude for their dedication. Each box will contain a sumptuous, freshly prepared meal, designed to provide the hydration and sustenance they need to continue their demanding shifts. The restaurant hopes to distribute at least 1,000 Iftar boxes during the month, with the capacity to accommodate more riders if needed. Speaking on the initiative, Kabir Azhar and Asher Azhar, Directors of Aminia, emphasised that Ramadan is one of the busiest times of the year for the food industry, with delivery riders often struggling to find time to break their fast as they work to ensure timely meal deliveries for others. They highlighted that this initiative aims to provide riders with a moment of relief and a nourishing meal, acknowledging their hard work and dedication throughout Ramadan. The initiative is deeply rooted in Aminia's 95-year-old legacy of giving back to the community. In India, Aminia Restaurants have long upheld Ramadan traditions through charitable drives. Now, with its presence in Dubai, the brand is committed to continuing its philanthropic journey, merging its core values with the region's rich cultural heritage to create a positive social impact. Separately, in the spirit of togetherness and generosity, a mall hosted an exclusive Iftar gathering at Pasha Sarayi, welcoming esteemed members of the media, VIP guests, and top influencers to celebrate Ramadan. The evening was a delightful fusion of traditional flavours, meaningful conversations, and heartfelt connections, embodying the true essence of Ramadan. Beyond the celebration, Mercato Mall in Dubai remains committed to the spirit of giving. This Ramadan, the mall is once again joining hands with Emirates Red Crescent and Dubai Islamic Affairs to launch 'Share Your Blessings' — a month-long charity initiative dedicated to supporting those in need. Shoppers are encouraged to donate essential items, including toys, books, daily necessities, and non-perishable food. To make contributions seamless, donation boxes will be conveniently placed at Mercato's main entrance, ensuring easy access for visitors throughout the Holy Month.
