Mohali, April 22, 2025: Acclaimed Chef Kunal Kapur has unveiled the latest outpost of his celebrated restaurant, Pincode, in Mohali, marking a poignant return to his culinary roots. Nestled just a stone’s throw from IHM Chandigarh, where Kapur’s journey as a chef began 25 years ago, this opening is more than a professional milestone—it’s a deeply personal homecoming.
For Kapur, Pincode in Mohali represents not just another addition to his illustrious career but a tribute to the region that shaped him. “Opening Pincode in Punjab means more to me than words can fully capture,” shared Chef Kunal. “This region is where I found my calling. To now return with Pincode is not just special—it’s deeply personal.”
A Culinary Journey Through India’s Pincodes
At Pincode, the menu reads like a map of India, weaving together flavors and memories from across the country. From familiar Punjabi classics like smoky Tikkas, creamy Butter Chicken, and comforting dals to lesser-known regional gems, the offerings celebrate both nostalgia and innovation. Each dish tells a story—whether it’s the slow-cooked Dilli Ki Nihari steeped in Mughal tradition or the bold Mangalorean Mutton Sukka kissed with coconut and curry leaves.
Highlights from the menu include:
- Palak Salli Chaat: A delicate fusion of crispy spinach and fine aloo salli layered over sweet curd and chutneys.
- Beetroot Kanji Salad: A nod to North Indian fermentation traditions, paired with guacamole and arugula.
- Kalari Cheese Pop with Pineapple Rani: Jammu’s native cheese meets heirloom pineapple for a rustic yet indulgent treat.
- Amritsari Kulfa: A multi-textured dessert blending kulfi, phirni, falooda, and saffron syrup—a true Amritsari delight.
The drinks menu mirrors this storytelling ethos, with cocktails inspired by India’s diverse regions. From Nubra (whisky, fig, and cinnamon evoking Ladakh’s orchards) to Varanasi Ghaat (tequila, tamarind, and watermelon), each sip captures the essence of its namesake locale. Zero-proof mocktails like Jaan-e-Jamun and Paan Punch bring bold, flavorful twists to the table.
A Space That Feels Like Home
Beyond the food and drinks, Pincode’s design reflects Kapur’s vision of creating an emotional connection. The restaurant’s interiors evoke the warmth of a traditional Punjabi haveli, with rich textures and curated relics that tell stories of their own. Hand-painted murals by local Jaipur artists, vintage finds from Kolkata’s Absynthe store—including a 1930s Mullard radio—and Sabyasachi-inspired wallpapers lend the space a lived-in charm.
“It’s not just a restaurant,” explains Kapur. “It’s a memory map. It’s me coming home—not with fanfare, but with feeling.”
Why This Matters
With successful ventures already established in Delhi, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, Pincode’s arrival in Mohali marks a significant chapter in Chef Kunal Kapur’s journey. The restaurant promises to be a celebration of India’s rich culinary heritage while offering a deeply personal touch—a testament to Kapur’s enduring bond with his roots.
As diners step into Pincode, they’re invited to embark on a flavorful voyage through India’s pincodes, guided by the hands of one of the country’s most celebrated chefs. This isn’t just where Pincode opens next; this is where it begins again.
- Location: Mohali, Punjab
- Opening Date: April 25, 2025
