Congo Launches in Gurgaon: A Culinary and Cultural Escape Inspired by Africa’s Rainforests

Congo opens in city’s culinary landscape in Golf course road at Gurgaon. It’s an evocative restaurant and bar that promises to transport guests deep into the heart of the Congo Rainforest through bold flavours, immersive design, and untamed cultural energy. 

Restauranteurs Anurag Dania and Abhishek Mathur founded Congo with the goal of creating a place where the untamed essence of the wild coexists with the sophisticated sensibilities of contemporary hospitality. Backed by Former Cricketer Suresh Raina and a group of wealthy Delhi NCR investors, the brand is set to establish itself as a luxury hospitality landmark. Rich, earthy textures and swaying wooden ceilings allow the room, which was designed by architect Anurag Dania, to reflect the ebb and flow of the Congo River.

“We wanted to offer an immersive world that feels elemental yet sophisticated,” shared Anurag.

As a tribute to coziness and nostalgia, guests can savor meals like the Jhol Curry Malabari Chicken, which consists of succulent chicken stewed in a spicy, fragrant, and fiery coastal broth. Wrapped in pillowy bread, the Wild Mushroom and Truffle Kulcha offers a rich combination of earthy mushrooms and fragrant truffle oil, with a subtle hint of sumac that tantalizes the senses. A revelation, on the other hand, is the Lamb Rara Risotto, which combines the hearty, spiced flavor of lamb rara with the smooth, creamy texture of Italian risotto to produce a dish that is both hearty and reassuring. 

The cocktail program is no less expressive. Tusker’s Tonic cools with cucumber juice, gin, ginger beer, and a dash of black pepper, while the Gauteng Groove combines gin, pineapple juice, and Indian spices for a bright, herbaceous drink. Nairobi Nectar, a tropical concoction of rum, passionfruit, and African honey, offers a bright and flowery finish for those seeking something sweeter.

Congo is more than a restaurant—it’s a space where food, design, and culture intersect. “Congo is an expression of wild elegance and primal energy. We’re here to awaken the senses and change how people connect with food and space,” said Abhishek. “

Beyond the experience, Congo is driven by purpose. Future initiatives include launching a culinary training program for underprivileged youth, deepening its commitment to sustainable sourcing, and building a platform that honours both indigenous wisdom and contemporary creativity.