The passion project of Rajan and Deepika Sethi, Ikk Panjab now opens its doors at Chandigarh after a successful launch at Connaught Place in Delhi in January this year. Ikk Panjab is more than just a restaurant—it’s a heartfelt celebration of Punjab’s rich culture, deep history, and unbreakable spirit. Bringing the flavors and soul of Punjab to Chandigarh, it invites you to experience its vibrant culinary and cultural magic like never before. Inspired by the stories of a Punjab – a state that once flourished as the cradle of empires and the meeting ground of diverse traditions, Ikk Panjab pays homage to a legacy fractured by partition but united in spirit through its timeless cuisine and traditions.
The essence of Ikk Panjab lies in its storytelling. It celebrates the vibrant culture of a land blessed by the five rivers—Ravi, Jhelum, Chenab, Sutlej, and Beas—where food was more than sustenance; it was a way of life, an expression of love, and a reflection of an unbroken lineage of flavors. At its heart lies the poignant story of migration and resilience, shaped by the experiences of a generation who carried their heritage across borders, rebuilding lives while keeping the soul of Punjab alive in every bite and memory.
“After witnessing the overwhelming love and success that Ikk Panjab received in Delhi-NCR, we felt that it was time to bring this experience closer, to the heart of Punjab. Chandigarh, being a city that beautifully preserves Punjabi culture and traditions, felt like the perfect choice. The people here have a deep connection to their roots, and we wanted to create a space where they can relive the rich flavours and warmth of Punjab. Opening in Chandigarh is not just an expansion for us, rather, it feels like a homecoming.” – Rajan Sethi- Founder Ikk Panjab
The Cuisine: A Tapestry of Time and Tradition
The menu at Ikk Panjab is a window into the culinary treasures of a land united by its shared history and passion for food. It reimagines and preserves recipes that have traveled through time—from royal courts and bustling city streets to humble village kitchens and community langars. Each dish tells a story, echoing the diversity and depth of Panjab’s gastronomic heritage.
Highlights include the regal Gosht Beliram, named after a celebrated chef in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s court, and the rustic Atta Chicken from Kotkapura, baked in a dough shell for earthy perfection. The Karachi Koyla Kadhai brings the bold flavors of West Panjab, while the soulful Lahori Chikkad Cholle captures the essence of the streets. Desserts like Tarn Taran da Jaleba, with its golden sweetness, evoke memories of traditional feasts and familial warmth.
From hearty staples like Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti to street-food-inspired delights such as Butter Chicken Samosas and Amritsari Fish, the menu is crafted to honor the culinary secrets passed down through generations. It is a celebration of flavors that transcend time and borders, preserving the rich heritage of a land once united.
The Interiors: A Glimpse into ‘Colonel Sahab ka Ghar’
The interiors of Ikk Panjab breathe life into a story of nostalgia and warmth, conceptualized as the home of a well-traveled, retired Colonel. This ‘Colonel Sahab ka Ghar’ is a blend of tradition and modernity, where every corner carries the imprint of a life lived fully and a legacy deeply rooted in Panjab’s culture.
From vintage family heirlooms to eclectic artifacts collected from around the world, each element of the design tells a story. The space is a seamless blend of vibrant textures, sophisticated décor, and earthy colors, evoking the feel of a Punjabi household where history and hospitality go hand in hand. Whether it is the warmth of an heirloom carpet or the charm of a carefully chosen piece of memorabilia, the interiors aim to envelop guests in an atmosphere of comfort, elegance, and belonging. The Chandigarh outlet further enhances this experience with locally-inspired Phulkari textiles, which infuse the space with vibrant colors and intricate patterns, while Gurmukhi scripts subtly adorn various surfaces, paying homage to the region’s rich cultural and linguistic heritage. This blend of traditional Punjabi craftsmanship with the refined elegance of colonial design creates a distinctive, welcoming ambiance that celebrates both the past and the present.
The Visionaries behind Ikk Panjab
At the helm of Ikk Panjab are Rajan and Deepika Sethi, a dynamic duo whose shared vision and passion have brought this remarkable concept to life. Rajan, with an MBA in International Business from Macquarie University, has always been a dreamer and a trailblazer in the hospitality industry. His entrepreneurial journey began with the founding of Bright Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. in 2007, creating experiential dining concepts that have redefined the culinary landscape.
Deepika, an alumna of Jesus and Mary College, Delhi, is the driving force behind the operations and execution at Ikk Panjab. Known for her strategic acumen and empathetic leadership, she has been the emotional anchor and eternal troubleshooter for the team. Together, Rajan and Deepika have created a space that reflects their love for culture, community, and excellence in hospitality.
Vernika Awal is seasoned consultant, thought leader and independent journalist in the food, beverage and hospitality industry. She writes a weekly column, ‘Delectable Delhi’, every Thursday on The Morning Standard and The New Indian Express. Additionally, she is a contributor to The Sunday Eye by The Indian Express, Mint Lounge, Travel+Leisure and The Goya Journal, among others. In 2016, Awal conceptualised Delectable Punjab—a project that sought to bring to the fore untold stories from the land, and how they have shaped the region’s socio-economic and geopolitical ethos. Through this work, Awal is today the head of brand for Bright Hospitality’s ‘Ikk Panjab’, and is leading the redesign of the restaurant’s reinvention journey.
An Invitation to Relive the Glory of Panjab
Ikk Panjab is more than a restaurant—it is a tribute to a land, its people, and its enduring legacy. It invites diners to embark on a journey that transcends borders and eras, immersing them in the stories, flavors, and traditions of a Panjab long gone but never forgotten. Through its thoughtfully curated menu, evocative interiors, and heartfelt storytelling, Ikk Panjab offers an experience that nourishes both the soul and the senses.
