It’s Indian Independence Day on Monday, here are some great places and dishes to try in the capital to celebrate… 

Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor

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Did you know that Indian celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s cooking show Khana Khazana is broadcast in more than 120 countries, including right here in the UAE? To sample some of the food from this TV personality, head to his restaurant in the Nation Galleria Mall on the Corniche, because on August 14 and 15 the outlet will be offering a special patriotic set menu that includes a tricolour kebab platter, signature pesto butter chicken and a gulab jamun samosa for dessert. A la carte options will also be available.

Nation Galleria, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi, daily noon until 11.30pm, Dhs199 for the set menu. Tel: (02) 6664343. Taxi: Nation Galleria. sanjeevkapoor.com

Chhappan Bhog

chhappan-bhog

While most people visit this vegetarian Indian restaurant in Al Zahiyah for their chaat and dosa offerings, the outlet is also somewhat of an authority when it comes to Indian sweets. There’s a large display case in the restaurant that houses blocks of colourful barfi, rows of round laddoos and other obscure sweets you probably have never heard of before. In honour of August 15, the restaurant will be serving tiranga, which displays the three colours (saffron, white and green) of the flag. Made from cashew nuts and khoya (a type of thickened dairy paste), a kilogram should set you back around Dhs70 or so.

Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi, daily 9am to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6503666. Taxi: between Salam Street and Najda Street, near Adnoc.

Peppermill

peppermill

Celebrations in the subcontinent are synonymous with sharing sweets. In fact, when relaying good news (a wedding announcement, new job or even your birthday) you’re pretty much expected to not only pass on the details, but bring along some sweeties as well. That’s the sort of mindset What’s On can get behind. Case in point: while this restaurant isn’t offering a special set menu for the occasion, it will be handing out complimentary dessert to anyone dining at the space on August 15. Expect a flag-layered dish that sees green kiwi fruit topped with cardamom flavoured coconut rice and a cinnamon and star anise apricot compote.

Al Wahda Mall, Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi, daily 11am to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 6225586. Taxi: Al Wahda Mall. peppermill.me

Three more spots to try…

Where else to go for a posh curry in Abu Dhabi

1. Ushna

Ushna

While it’s worth a visit just to soak up the amazing views of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the food certainly does not disappoint. Awarded three black hats from What’s On, book a table at sunset for a romantic evening.

Souk At Qaryat Al Beri, Bain Al Jessrain, Abu Dhabi, Sat to Wed 12.30pm to 11.30pm, Thur and Fri 12.30pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 5581769. Taxi: Souk at Qaryat Al Beri. More info on Facebook.

2. Avasa

A la carte brunches in Abu Dhabi - Avasa

Garnishes of silver leaf make a regular appearance at this Saadiyat outlet. Traditionalists will find plenty of things to suit them on the menu and the food is of a good standard. For those looking for a serious meal, check out their Friday brunch.

The Collection, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, daily noon to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 6742221. Taxi: St Regis Saadiyat. More info on website.

3. Tamba

TAMBA-RESTAURANT-17

The newest upscale Indian restaurant to open in the city, this outlet takes traditional tastes and updates them for modern palates. Expect an elegant night out, with slick service from the knowledgeable staff.

World Trade Center Mall, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, Sun to Wed noon until 1am, Thur to Sat noon until 2am. Tel: (02) 3048219. Taxi: World Trade Center Mall. More info on Instagram.

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