Restaurant India News: Nara Thai Launches First North India Restaurant in Gurugram

Nara Thai India, operated by Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality, has opened its first North India outlet in Gurugram. The brand, considered one of Bangkok’s most recognised Thai dining institutions and noted by the Michelin Guide, continues its global expansion with this launch. Nara Thai now operates 35 restaurants across Asia and the Middle East, and this opening contributes to the wider group’s network of more than 66 outlets, marking the 67th milestone in Nara’s international journey.

Established in Bangkok in 2003 by Narawadee Srikarnchana (Yuki) and Sirisopa Chulasewok (Jean), the brand has built its reputation on interpreting Thai culinary traditions for a contemporary audience. It has gained attention across markets for its focus on traditional recipes, shared plates, premium ingredients and the hospitality standards associated with Thai dining. The Gurugram outlet is the 33rd global location and aligns with Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality’s strategy of bringing established international restaurant concepts to India.

The food programme highlights the essential balance of sweet, sour, spicy, salty and umami flavours. This is supported by a beverage menu that incorporates Thai pantry elements into cocktails, along with non-alcoholic drinks and house-made boba teas. The Gurugram menu features well-known dishes including Tom Yum Soup, Som Tam, Pad Thai and Massaman Curry, along with India-specific additions. The restaurant also offers an extensive vegetarian selection and dedicated Jain-friendly preparations.

Nara Thai imports sauces, pastes and core ingredients from its Bangkok operations. The India culinary team is trained directly by Nara’s Bangkok chefs, and the group’s global executive chef, Chef JC, continues to travel to India to supervise quality and ensure consistency across outlets. The brand is positioned as a high-frequency premium dining option suitable for daily meals, business dining and celebrations.

The interiors for the Gurugram restaurant follow the updated global design direction first introduced at Nara Worli in Mumbai. Designed by Thai interior designer Nitipattara Yensup, the space integrates Thai cultural influences with a modern Indian urban sensibility. The aesthetic includes rattan details, a blue-and-white palette, soft lighting, cane textures, patterned flooring and gold tile highlights. With seating for over 80 guests, including a private dining room, the outlet is structured to support both individual and group dining.

The launch is a key development for Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality as it continues to expand its portfolio of global restaurant brands in India. The company sees strong demand for international dining formats that maintain authenticity while being flexible to Indian preferences.

Nara Thai co-founders Narawadee Srikarnchana (Yuki) and Sirisopa Chulasewok (Jean) said, “Nara was created from the culinary wisdom passed down through generations in our families, traditions that reflect the heart of Thai culture and the comfort of home. From the very beginning, our vision has been to share these treasured flavours with the world through dishes crafted with exceptional ingredients, age old recipes and the warmth that defines Thai hospitality. Bringing Nara to North India is a deeply meaningful moment for us. We recognise the diversity and depth of the Indian palate, and for the first time, we have introduced extensive vegetarian selections and Jain friendly preparations that stay true to the balance, authenticity and care that guide our cuisine. These additions reflect our commitment to ensuring that every guest can experience the true spirit of Nara without compromise. We are delighted to welcome diners in Gurugram to embark on a journey of Thai flavours that feels comforting, elegant and sincerely rooted in our heritage. It is our hope that every visit to Nara offers the same warmth, generosity and cultural pride that inspired us to create it.”

Udai Pinnali, CEO of Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality, added, “Bringing Nara Thai to Gurugram is an important milestone for Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality, as we introduce one of the world’s most respected Thai dining institutions to North India. The city’s diners are increasingly seeking experiences that combine global credibility with cultural depth, and Nara Thai stands at the intersection of authenticity and warm intuitive service. Our deep connect with our consumer shows that consumers today value provenance, culinary integrity and a sense of connection to the cultures they explore through food. Nara Thai reflects these priorities in a way that feels both timeless and contemporary. Our close collaboration with the Nara team, and the trust the founders have placed in us, has enabled us to create an experience that remains true to the global brand while being sensitively adapted for the Indian market. This opening represents our commitment to shaping the future of authentic dining in the region. With Nara Thai, we are not only strengthening our portfolio but also bringing a distinctly new age perspective to Gurugram’s evolving culinary landscape.”