PEAKLIFE

By PEAKLIFE

In the vibrant culinary landscape of New York City, Chef Vikas Khanna has achieved another remarkable milestone with his restaurant, The Bungalow, winning the prestigious Michelin 2024 Bib Gourmand Award. Just 260 days after its opening in March 2024, the restaurant has already captured the hearts of food enthusiasts and critics alike.

The Michelin Bib Gourmand Award is a prestigious recognition in the culinary world that celebrates restaurants offering exceptional food at affordable prices. Named after Bibendum, the Michelin Man mascot, this award differs from the traditional Michelin Star by focusing on value and accessibility. It highlights hidden culinary gems like neighborhood bistros, local cafes, and street food vendors that provide high-quality, multi-course meals at modest rates. Restaurants earning this distinction are recognized for their ability to deliver delicious, memorable dining experiences without the hefty price tag of fine dining establishments.

Sharing the news on Instagram, Khanna posted a picture with the Tricolour and expressed an emotional connection to the award that transcends mere professional recognition. “While I’ve previously received the Michelin Star eight times, today felt different,” he wrote. “It felt like a tribute, like a promise to my land and to my people. To my sister.”

“This is just the beginning. We will work harder & harder everyday to give our guests an experience that will be a testament to Indian hospitality,” he added on Instagram.

Located in the heart of New York City, The Bungalow has quickly become a favorite among food lovers. The restaurant stands out by reimagining traditional Indian cuisine. Inspired by colonial-era clubhouses, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience that celebrates India’s diverse culinary traditions. Signature dishes like ‘Kiss of Kashmir’ and Hyderabadi biryani showcase the restaurant’s innovative approach to familiar flavours.

Khanna sees this as just the beginning. “This achievement is a collective effort,” he said, emphasizing the restaurant’s commitment to sharing Indian hospitality and culture through food.

“We know that somewhere, you’ve wished for this moment, and for that, we thank you for being our well-wisher and cheerleader,” he said.