Ishaara, leading an ingredient-forward philosophy, invites you to savor Kesariya Shades of Saffron - a special saffron-inspired menu crafted with care by the culinary team at Ishaara. Available for a limited time, this exclusive menu celebrates the heritage and versatility of saffron, weaving together flavors from Kashmir, Persia, and beyond.
“Saffron, the name itself evokes centuries of tradition, luxury, and a deep connection to culinary culture,” shares Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, “with Kesariya Shades of Saffron, we wanted to honor this beautiful spice by exploring its many dimensions—beginning with its journey from farm to plate to the unique nuances it lends to both savory and sweet dishes.”
This exquisite menu is inspired by a transformative journey undertaken by Prashant Issar, Director, Bellona Hospitality & Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal custodian
of cuisine at Ishaara to Kashmir during the saffron harvest season. Immersing themselves in the traditions surrounding this gourmet spice, the team explored one of the most beautiful culinary regions in the world.
“Saffron is derived from the delicate stigma of the Crocus sativus flower, which blooms for only a few weeks in autumn. Each flower is hand-picked at dawn and carefully handled to harvest just three strands of saffron, making it one of the most expensive spices in the world,” explains Rushina.
As someone with roots in a Kashmiri family, I was deeply inspired to bring saffron to the forefront and infuse this menu with the nostalgia and authenticity of traditional Kashmiri flavors,” says Prashant Issar, Director, Bellona Hospitality Services. “Witnessing the journey of saffron from plant to plate and observing the dedication of Kashmiri farmers during the harvest was truly awe-inspiring. It gave us a profound appreciation for saffron’s significance and inspired us to craft a menu that honors its remarkable history and versatility,” he adds.
Their journey also allowed the team to source premium-quality saffron and regional ingredients from local suppliers such as Noush by Basu Kesar and recipes from the kitchens of Nadis in Kashmir.
Speaking about the association with Ishaara, Afan Basu, Chief Farmer, at NOUSH by Basu Kesar, says, ”For us saffron farmers, saffron is more than just an ingredient. Every thread of Mongra saffron embodies the story of a rich generations-old legacy.
Kesariya Shades of Saffron with Ishaara has given us a platform to not only showcase the exquisite quality of Indian Saffron from Kashmir, but also share the story of Saffron and honor the farmer community that has nurtured this tradition with so much energy and passion year on year."
The specially curated menu showcases saffron in all its glory—enhancing savory dishes, adding depth to desserts, and lending a luxurious touch to beverages. Some standout creations include:
Complementing these dishes are signature breads like Kashmiri Saffron Sheermal and beverages such as Saffron Qahwa, ensuring a complete saffron-infused experience.
This saffron-forward menu is not just a feast for the senses but also a reflection of Ishaara’s ethos of celebrating ingredients and regional traditions. With its saffron-forward focus, is a celebration of tradition, creativity, and our commitment to ingredient-led innovation.
Immerse yourself in the golden allure of saffron with this extraordinary menu, available for a limited period, across all Ishaara outlets in India.
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