Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna’s restaurant, Bungalow, located in New York City, has been awarded the Michelin 2024 Bib Gourmand, a prestigious honor for offering “good quality food at a good value.” The restaurant has also earned a spot in The New York Times’ list of the top 14 eateries in NYC for 2024.
Khanna, who opened Bungalow on March 28, chose the date to honor his late sister, Radhika Khanna, who would have turned 50. She passed away on February 28, 2020, at 48, after battling multiple organ failure due to Lupus and a rare disease, HUS.
The Michelin Guide praised the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, describing it as a warm and elegant space adorned with pale pink walls and colorful murals. Guests can enjoy a diverse array of cocktails before delving into the restaurant’s contemporary Indian cuisine, which is influenced by the culinary traditions of India’s 28 states.
In The New York Times, Priya Krishna lauded Khanna for his creativity in reinventing traditional Indian dishes, noting how his ambitious approach demonstrates the evolution of Indian food in the U.S. Khanna, described as personable, regularly greets diners in the intimate setting of Bungalow, creating a sense of connection.
Khanna’s culinary journey began in 2010 with the opening of Junoon, another acclaimed New York restaurant, which earned a Michelin star in its first year. Over the years, he has hosted high-profile events for political and cultural leaders such as former President Barack Obama and Pope Francis. Additionally, he serves as a goodwill ambassador for the Smile Foundation, promoting nutrition initiatives in India.
Apart from his restaurant career, Khanna’s influence extends into the world of film. He directed the critically acclaimed documentary “Kitchens of Gratitude” and authored several books, including “Utsav: A Culinary Epic of Indian Festivals” and “Barkat.” His directorial debut, “The Last Color,” received global attention for its poignant storytelling.
Khanna’s involvement in charitable causes, such as the Feed India initiative during the 2020 pandemic, and his support for diverse cultural narratives in film, continues to solidify his legacy as a multi-faceted force in both the culinary and entertainment industries.
