Travel has always shaped the way India eats. Its highways, railway platforms and roadside kitchens tell stories that linger long after the journey ends. At Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata, that spirit of movement and memory finds a vivid culinary expression at YAYAvar, where a newly launched menu celebrates the romance of the road and the diversity of Indian flavours.
Conceived as an ode to wanderlust and storytelling, YAYAvar draws inspiration from the lived experiences of its chefs, many of whom have travelled extensively across India’s bustling highways and regional towns. Their encounters with street side dhabas, family run eateries and local kitchens now unfold across a menu designed in thoughtful chapters. Each section captures a distinct culinary mood, moving seamlessly from robust Indian comfort dishes to globally loved classics.
The vegetarian offerings echo the warmth of roadside kitchens. Dhaba Wali Hing Dhaniya Aloo presents potatoes tossed with asafoetida and coriander seeds, simple yet deeply aromatic. Jalandhar Ki Kadai Sabzi delivers bold spice through kadai masala, while Chukandar Badam Ke Kebab pairs beetroot and nuts with fragrant spices for a dish that feels rooted yet inventive.
Comfort driven staples continue with Haryanvi Tadka Wali Dal, a soulful blend of toor and masoor lentils tempered with garlic, chilli and ginger. The Lucknawi Dahi Kebab, crisp on the outside and luxuriously creamy within, offers a refined nod to Awadhi traditions.
Non vegetarian selections traverse the country with equal confidence. Chettinad Prawn Masala channels the assertive spice blends of Tamil Nadu, while Tangra Chilli Chicken pays homage to Kolkata’s Indo Chinese culinary heritage. Slow cooked classics such as Bengali Kosha Mangsho reveal tender goat meat enveloped in deeply caramelised onion gravy, and Kashmiri Mutton Rogan Josh arrives rich with yoghurt and the vibrant hue of Kashmiri chillies and ratan jot. Fish in Hot Garlic Sauce adds a punchy seafood option for those seeking bold flavours.
Balancing the regional narratives are global comfort plates crafted with precision. Caesar Salad is available in vegetarian, chicken and prawn variations. Vegetable Lasagne with pesto and asparagus offers familiar indulgence, while Herbed Grilled Chicken with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables delivers understated elegance for guests who prefer timeless favourites.
Desserts conclude the journey on a sweet and nostalgic note. The Sizzling Chocolate Brownie paired with vanilla ice cream remains a crowd favourite. YAYAvar presents its own interpretation of Gulab Jamun alongside classic Mishti Doi, while Belgian Chocolate Pastry and Blueberry Cheesecake cater to contemporary cravings.
With this refreshed menu, YAYAvar reaffirms its identity as a culinary traveller, inviting diners to experience flavours shaped by movement, memory and regional pride. Each plate reflects a place, a pause on the road, a conversation shared over food. The result is a dining experience that feels warm, vibrant and deeply satisfying, encouraging guests to explore India’s vast culinary landscape one dish at a time.