Gymkhana, the acclaimed Indian restaurant from London boasting two Michelin stars, is gearing up for its grand opening in Las Vegas, ready to deliver a unique culinary experience to the vibrant Strip. Set to debut on December 3 at the Aria casino-resort, the new location promises to infuse the spirit of its London counterpart while introducing enticing new dishes tailored for the festive atmosphere of Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas outpost will feature 170 seats, allowing for a lively atmosphere where guests can enjoy an array of well-known dishes, such as tandoori lamb chops, venison keema naan, and pork cheek curry. For the first time, Gymkhana will serve beef, showcasing a new short rib pepper fry and a wagyu keema naan, along with an exclusive Goan lobster curry, available only in Las Vegas. To elevate the dining experience, Gymkhana will also introduce its first punch bowls for cocktail service.
Pavan Pardasani, who recently stepped in as global CEO for Gymkhana’s parent company, JKS Restaurants, aims to dispel the notion of fine dining being overly formal. He emphasizes that Gymkhana is designed to be an inclusive space where diners feel free to enjoy Indian cuisine in a relaxed and communal style. “You don’t need to love Indian food to love Gymkhana,” he asserts, highlighting that the restaurant is about creating memorable culinary experiences rather than adhering to rigid dining expectations.
While the London location is housed in an intimate Mayfair townhouse, the Vegas branch will maintain a cozy yet expansive feel, incorporating elements that reflect the original’s warmth and conviviality, such as rich green hues, dark wood, and plush seating that evoke a private club ambiance.
Pardasani, who has deep ties to Las Vegas, believes the city embodies the diverse spirit of America, making it an ideal location for showcasing Indian cuisine. He envisions Gymkhana not merely as a dining destination but as a catalyst for cultural exchange, encouraging diners to take their newfound appreciation for Indian food back to their local communities. He hopes this venture will inspire more Indian restaurants to flourish across the nation, thereby elevating the recognition of Indian cuisine as an integral part of America’s culinary landscape.
The opening of Gymkhana in Las Vegas aligns with JKS’s broader expansion efforts in the U.S., which include the launch of another ambitious Indian restaurant, Ambassadors Clubhouse, in New York City. Founded by the Sethi siblings, JKS Restaurants celebrates a range of culinary traditions, and Pardasani’s leadership aims to continue this legacy while highlighting the richness of Indian culture.
As Gymkhana prepares to welcome guests, it remains committed to the essence of family-style dining, encouraging patrons to share dishes and create communal connections. “Indian cuisine is food for everyone,” Pardasani says, emphasizing the importance of savoring multiple flavors that harmoniously blend on the plate. With its opening, Gymkhana is not just bringing food to the table; it aims to foster a greater appreciation for Indian cooking and its communal spirit.