Chef Pankaj Singh Panwar
Executive Chef
The Westin Resort and Spa Himalaya|
What inspired the culinary mix of restaurants at the property?
The diverse culinary mix at our restaurants is inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the
Himalayas and Uttarakhand, catering to a wide range of visitors. Each cuisine reflects the
region’s history, flavors, and the preferences of our guests:
● Asian Cuisine: Influenced by the culinary traditions of neighboring countries like
Thailand and China, we incorporate fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking
methods to ensure authenticity.
● Western Cuisine: Designed to cater to international travelers and those seeking familiar
flavors, our Western offerings blend local ingredients with classic techniques to create a
well-rounded dining experience.
● Indian Cuisine: India’s culinary diversity is vast, and our restaurant showcases this
richness through a variety of spices, cooking techniques, and regional specialties that
appeal to both local and international guests.
● Regional Himalayan Cuisine: We highlight the unique flavors of the Himalayas using
ingredients like barley, buckwheat, goat meat, madua (finger millet), jangora (barnyard
millet), and local herbs. These dishes reflect the traditional foods of the area, offering an
immersive cultural experience.
By blending these distinct cuisines, we create a comprehensive and memorable dining
experience that celebrates the depth of the region’s culinary traditions.
What are the top specialties of the restaurant? Why are they considered signature dishes?
Our restaurant specializes in authentic Garhwali cuisine, offering dishes deeply rooted in local
traditions and ingredients:
1. Palak Kandali Ka Saag – A nutrient-rich dish made from spinach (palak) and stinging
nettle (kandali), both locally sourced. Its unique flavor and health benefits make it a
staple in Garhwali households.
2. Bhaddu Ki Dal – A slow-cooked lentil dish prepared in a special vessel called ‘bhaddu.’
The slow cooking process enhances its flavors, making it a hearty and comforting dish.
3. Ghat Dal Ka Paratha – A stuffed paratha made from horse gram (ghat dal), known for
its high protein content and earthy flavor. This dish is both nutritious and deeply
satisfying.
4. Swala – A traditional Garhwali snack, this deep-fried stuffed poori features potatoes and
jakhya seeds, offering a delightful crispy texture and rich flavors.
These dishes are signature items as they embody the essence of Garhwali cuisine, showcasing
indigenous ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
What are the spa and wellness food options?
We emphasize wellness by offering nutritious food options that align with our focus on
Himalayan millets and lentils, both rich in protein and fiber. Our spa and wellness menu
includes:
1. Millet Salad – A refreshing mix of Himalayan millets, fresh vegetables, and a light
lemon dressing, offering a nutritious yet satisfying option.
2. Lentil Soup – A comforting soup made with moong dal and masoor dal, seasoned with
Himalayan herbs and spices for a wholesome and protein-rich dish.
3. Millet and Vegetable Stir-Fry – A vibrant stir-fry featuring seasonal vegetables and
Himalayan millets, cooked with minimal oil and natural herbs.
4. Lentil and Millet Patties – A delicious blend of lentils and millets, lightly spiced and
pan-fried, served with a fresh salad or yogurt dip.
5. Millet Porridge – A nourishing breakfast made from Himalayan millets, cooked with
almond milk and sweetened with honey, topped with fresh fruits and nuts.
These wellness-focused dishes provide a balanced combination of nutrition and flavor,
supporting our guests’ well-being.
What are the distinctive features of the property compared to other luxury properties in Tehri Garhwal?
Our property stands out due to its commitment to authenticity, wellness, and cultural immersion.
Key differentiators include:
1. Authentic Garhwali Cuisine – Unlike other luxury properties, we highlight local flavors
with dishes like Palak Kandali Ka Saag, Bhaddu Ki Dal, and Ghat Dal Ka Paratha,
providing guests with a true taste of Uttarakhand.
2. Wellness-Focused Dining – Our menu incorporates Himalayan millets and lentils,
promoting health-conscious and sustainable eating.
3. Use of Local Ingredients – We source fresh ingredients from regional farmers, ensuring
quality while supporting the local economy.
4. Cultural Immersion – Our Garhwali Thali experience allows guests to engage with
traditional cuisine, enriching their stay.
5. Personalized Wellness Experience – Beyond food, our serene surroundings and holistic
approach to well-being make our property a standout destination for relaxation and
rejuvenation.
These features make our property a unique retreat, blending luxury with tradition.
How do your experiences shape the culinary offerings?
– Born and raised in Tehri Garhwal, I have an in-depth understanding of local ingredients and
cooking traditions. My international exposure over a decade has introduced me to global
culinary techniques, allowing for a refined fusion of flavors.
1. Expertise in Regional Ingredients – The team is adept at incorporating Himalayan
staples like stinging nettle, horse gram, and local herbs, ensuring authenticity in every
dish.
2. Modern Culinary Techniques – By integrating contemporary methods with traditional
recipes, Chef Pankaj and his team create dishes that are both comforting and innovative.
3. A Team of Local Talent – With 80% of the kitchen team hailing from Uttarakhand, the
restaurant’s menu is crafted with an intrinsic understanding of the region’s flavors and
traditions.
4. Global Recognition for Garhwali Cuisine – My vision is to elevate the region’s
culinary identity, introducing guests to Garhwali food while refining it for a global
audience.
What food trends do you foresee for leisure properties in the Himalayas?
1. Emphasis on Local and Sustainable Ingredients – Sourcing fresh produce from the
region not only enhances flavor but also supports sustainability and local farming
communities.
2. Wellness-Focused Dining – Health-conscious menus featuring millets, lentils, and
nutrient-rich superfoods will continue to gain popularity.
3. Catering to International Tastes – As the guest demographic diversifies, the inclusion
of high-quality Asian offerings, such as sushi, Japanese curry, Thai curry, robatayaki, and
teppanyaki, will cater to global palates while incorporating local ingredients.
4. Plant-Based and Whole Foods – A growing preference for plant-based dishes will drive
innovation in vegetarian and vegan Himalayan cuisine.
5. Interactive Dining Experiences – Chef-curated experiences, such as themed dinners and
tasting menus, will become increasingly sought after by guests looking for unique
culinary journeys.
Any plans for the near future?
We are continuously evolving to offer exciting and enriching culinary experiences. Our
upcoming initiatives include:
● Collaborations with Renowned Chefs – We plan to invite chefs from different regions
of India to bring fresh perspectives and flavors to our menu.
● Seasonal and Farm-to-Table Menus – Enhancing our focus on sustainability by
creating rotating seasonal menus based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
● Expanding Wellness Offerings – Introducing more nutritionally balanced dishes and
dietary customizations to align with guest preferences.
● Exclusive Dining Experiences – Hosting curated dining events, including traditional
Garhwali feasts, chef’s table experiences, and immersive cooking sessions for guests.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pankaj Singh Panwar
Executive Chef
The Westin Resort and Spa Himalaya
