Now, authentic Malabari food in Lucknow

Team L&M

Ishaara restaurant has introduced ‘Whispers of Malabar, a specially curated pop-up menu at Ishaara, Phoenix Palassio, Lucknow, as an ode to Kerala’s culinary soul. This unique initiative highlights the lesser-known gastronomic treasures of the Malabar region, offering a deeply sensory experience that honours the land’s culinary traditions. The limited-time pop-up began on August 6, 2025 and features some interesting dishes curated by Home Chef Rekha Raghavan from ChefPin.

To amplify its mission of celebrating regional food legacies, Ishaara has collaborated with ChefPin, a platform that champions India’s finest home chefs. Through this partnership, Ishaara taps into authentic, community-rooted recipes, allowing guests to engage with the food in its most heartfelt form.

Ishaara journeys into North Kerala

This immersive menu is a journey into the ancestral kitchens of North Kerala, steeped in the legacy of tharavadu (ancestral homes). It brings together generational cooking techniques, hyperlocal ingredients, and rich narratives. From seafood specialities and toddy shop-inspired delicacies to temple-style vegetarian offerings and the opulence of a traditional sadya, every dish resonates with heritage and memory.

The experience is designed not just to satisfy the palate, but to awaken curiosity and cultural connection. Authentic Kerala-style plating, brass lamps, hanging lanterns, and ambient sounds come together to evoke the festive warmth of the region.

“Whispers of Malabar is a step to connect our guests with the culturally rich cuisine of Malabar,” says Prashant Issar, Managing Director, Bellona Hospitality. “The recipes bring stories of tradition and the land they come from. It’s a tribute to Malabar’s culinary legacy and a reflection of Ishaara’s ongoing exploration of India’s micro-cuisines.”

With Whispers of Malabar, Ishaara continues its journey of showcasing India’s layered food history, one region at a time—reminding diners that behind every dish lies a story, a community, and a way of life.