Dubai’s fine dining scene takes a luxurious turn this festive season as Kinara by Vikas Khanna at JA Lake View Hotelpartners with Parisian chocolatier Forrey & Galland to present “Diwali by Design,” a five-day gastronomic celebration that reimagines India’s Festival of Lights through the delicate art of chocolate. Taking place from October 17th to 21st, this unique experience brings together the worlds of haute cuisine and artisanal confectionery in a collaboration that celebrates culture, craftsmanship, and the joy of giving.
Renowned for its contemporary take on Indian cuisine, Kinara transforms into a luminous haven of golden hues, flickering lamps, and fragrant marigolds — a setting that evokes the warmth and splendour of Diwali. Under the creative direction of Chef Vikas Khanna and Chef Ashish, the menu is co-created with Forrey & Galland’s master chocolatier, weaving fine French artistry into India’s vibrant palette of flavours. Priced at AED 350 per person, each course becomes an edible ode to light, joy, and togetherness.
Guests are welcomed with a sequence of inventive dishes that highlight the synergy between chocolate and spice. Starters include a Spiced Pumpkin & Cocoa Nib Cappuccino crowned with curry leaf oil, and Textures of Sabudana, where sago pearls and crisp patties deliver comfort with a modern flourish. Main courses such as Palak Methi Gosht, Murgh Makhani, and Saag Paneer carry forward the narrative — familiar, soulful flavours reinterpreted with contemporary precision and visual artistry.
Desserts serve as the crescendo of the evening. Forrey & Galland’s signature Masala Chocolate Mousse leads the finale, accompanied by the indulgent Moong Dal Halwa with Nut Crumble and a reimagined Carrot Cake with Vanilla Cream. Each sweet creation celebrates the universal language of chocolate while honouring the spirit of Indian tradition — comforting, festive, and symbolic of shared happiness.
Adding a ceremonial touch, diners are treated to a daily rotation of handcrafted sweets and chocolates, each inspired by the day’s significance. On Dhanteras, prosperity takes form through Chocolate Gold Bars filled with Dates Ganache; Chhoti Diwali brings Rangoli Chocolates with Soan Papdi fillings; and Diwali night itself dazzles with Saffron Marigold-Infused creations. The journey continues with Pistachio Praline Chocolates on Govardhan Puja and Printed Peacock Cumin Cookies on Bhai Dooj — each moment a thoughtful intersection of symbolism and taste.
Founded in Paris in 1912, Forrey & Galland brings over a century of French confectionery tradition to Dubai, harmonizing with Kinara’s Indian heritage to craft a multisensory dining story. Together, the two brands express a shared reverence for artistry, storytelling, and the beauty of ritual — creating a Diwali experience that is as elegant as it is heartfelt.
“Diwali by Design” at Kinara by Vikas Khanna invites guests to celebrate the festival in its most refined form — one where light, flavour, and memory intertwine in every course. Reservations are available from October 17th to 21st, between 6:30 PM and 10:30 PM. To book, email restaurant.reservation@jaresorts.com.
