Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably heard of NAAR by now. The restaurant has earned a place on some of the most coveted Indian and international culinary lists, putting it firmly on the global food map. It has broken records, made headlines and been the talk of the town for quite some time. Whether you're planning a little getaway with friends, a weekend with your partner or simply need some time away on your own, NAAR and Kasauli make for the perfect combination. Think exceptional food, good drinks, crisp mountain air and beautiful scenery. Honestly, it's hard to think of a better way to spend a winter weekend.
Crafted and led by Chef Prateek Sadhu, NAAR is situated within the 25-acre Amaya property in Darwa, around 45 minutes from Kasauli. This makes it a great opportunity to explore the property while also spending time discovering Kasauli and its beautiful surrounding hills. The restaurant offers a culinary journey through the Himalayas, with a menu that celebrates regional ingredients, reimagines traditional cooking techniques and embraces a thoughtful farm-to-table approach.
NAAR works with six seasonal menus, each inspired by the changing landscape and ingredients available across the Himalayan region. With just 16 seats, reservations are essential, so make sure dinner is booked before you plan the rest of your weekend.
For the best experience, try to book your table around sunset. Not only will you get to enjoy the beautiful mountain views as the sun goes down, but you'll also get to experience the restaurant as it transitions into a lovely dinner setting.
The price is ₹7,500 per person for the tasting menu (ranging around ₹6,500 to ₹7,500 base price depending on the season) and some famous dishes include Lamb Neck, River Trout, Morel Yakhini. Mostly depending on what season you visit you will find a different menu
Amaya, the 25-acre property that houses the restaurant, is an excellent option for those looking to stay close to the experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful mountain views, it offers the perfect setting to slow down, unwind and make the most of your time in the hills.
While you're planning your trip around NAAR, there's plenty to explore in Kasauli as well. You can opt for heritage walks, visit local temples, explore Mall Road and its shopping streets, or sample some of the town's local food. Make sure to stop by the popular Narendra Sweet House for its much-loved bun samosas and bun gulab jamun. The iconic Christ Church is also worth exploring, and you can round off your second day with another beautiful sunset at Sunset Point.
All in all, this makes for a rather lovely weekend getaway in the hills. Whether you need a break from your usual routine, some quality time with your favourite people or simply a change of scenery, Kasauli offers the perfect excuse to slow down, enjoy good food and reconnect with nature. And even if you don't think you need a break, it's always nice to have one.