Musaafer, the Michelin-starred Indian fine dining restaurant from founders Mithu and Shammi Malik, debuts its second location in the historic Hope Building in New York City’s TriBeCa neighborhood. Having opened in Houston in 2020, Musaafer is the embodiment of the 100-day cultural odyssey undertaken by Corporate Executive Chef Mayank Istwal to gather stories and ancient techniques from across India. The restaurant spotlights the diverse culinary landscape of the subcontinent and weaves these elements together to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of flavors across India, and challenge perceptions of Indian fine dining.
“When we first imagined bringing Musaafer to New York City, we were excited to introduce our artistry to new audiences,” says Mithu Malik, CEO and Managing Partner. “The name Musaafer was taken from the Hindi and Urdu word for ‘traveler,’ and we can think of no better place to take the next step than here, where the city’s energy and shared appreciation for memorable experiences will match and enhance the essence of Musaafer.”
Musaafer New York spans three distinctive concepts across over 10,000 square feet and two levels – a main dining room, Saaqi, a subterranean bar concept, and an adventurous Chef’s Studio experience. The first level boasts a dining room and multiple private and semi-private dining rooms, each ensconced in an opulent setting that combines modern elegance with traditional Indian decor. Seasonal, carefully detailed a la carte menus showcase the expanse of the Musaafer experience alongside creative desserts and a singular cocktail program.
New York City Menu highlights include a reference to a New York City classic with the Nihari Birria Taco made with slow-cooked pulled lamb shank, Indian cheddar, red onion, and bone marrow consommé; Chaanp with lamb chops, coriander, chili, crème fresh, and beetroot dust; Khasi Black Sesame Cod with Khasi black sesame, white miso, ginger congee, bok choy, crispy shallot, and golden garlic – and more. In tune with the seasonality and ever-evolving dining landscape in New York City, Musaafer New York’s menu will continue to evolve alongside it.
Musaafer New York will also serve some of its most beloved dishes from Houston, including Lychee Ceviche with cured lychee, yuzu coconut sauce, homemade tooti frooti, and crispy corn; Mithu’s Coriander Shrimp with coconut, cilantro, shallots, turmeric, curry leaf, copra pav; Beef Vindaloo with American wagyu sirloin, shallots, vindaloo sauce, roasted sesame and onion dressing, and beef chili fried rice; and the Butter Chicken Experience where the iconic dish is served in two uniquely distinct ways: in the traditional creamy, tomato-based curry, and a luxurious green curry made with tomatillos.
“At Musaafer, we strive to reinvent what Indian cuisine can be. India is vast and multicultural, and our menu reflects and honors that diversity,” says Mayank Istwal. “Every dish tells its own story, and throughout my journey, I have met everyone from generational home cooks to professional chefs and artisans, and I bring their stories to you. Musaafer is indebted to that history, and we are dedicated to spotlighting the playfulness of Indian cuisine through our blend of tradition and modernity.”
Musaafer will also present an expansive cocktail and beverage program where invention and quality take the spotlight. Signature highlights include the award-winning The Truffle Master made with Milagro Blanco fat washed with truffle oil, Lapsang Souchong tea cordial, Amontillado sherry, Imitation Tonka mist, and magic jelly; Bombay Velvet with Hendrick’s gin, lillet blanc, kewra flower water, lime, and basil, served in a bespoke teacup; and Paan Negroi with 20 Tanqueray Rangpur, Ketel One Vodka and Campari sous vide with paan, cocchi torino. Musaafer also features a dedicated Gin & Tonic menu alongside classic cocktails, wines and more.
The creative vision for Musaafer was undertaken in collaboration with Delhi-based Chromed Studio. Upon entry, guests are instantly transported to and embraced by India. The design calls upon vintage Indian architecture and iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal to deconstruct and reimagine its essence. Indian patterns are seen across the walls, while curated antique pieces create a sophisticated, immersive experience. Upon entry, guests are greeted by towering marble walls and carved, patterned glass inspired by the Hawa Mahal, an ornate arrangement of windows and balconies from which noblewomen used to sit and observe the outside world. At the reception desk, a brass desk that recalls Indian cooking vessels and a raw silk lamp shade depicts an intricate, traditional hunting scene designed specifically for Musaafer New York. Throughout the restaurant, intricate design details can be found in every corner, from hand-painted wall panels to mother-of-pearl inlays and lotus flower chandeliers.
Musaafer’s showstopper is an all-mirror, semi-private dining area named Sheesh Mahal, The Palace of Mirrors. These traditional rooms are known for their intricate mirror work, and at Musaafer New York, thousands of tiny, reflective hand-cut pieces of mirrors are arranged in intricate patterns and against angular, edgy architecture to refract the bounty of light. The grand space is unlike anything else in the New York City dining landscape, magnifying the beauty of the surrounding space.
“The overarching philosophy behind Musaafer is one of authenticity. Within one dining experience, guests are provided a glimpse into India itself – from the design they see on the walls and floors, to the design they see on their plates,” says Shammi Malik, Concept Director. “Musaafer is a respite designed for all, a place to savor and celebrate Indian heritage.”
Musaafer is located at 131 Duane Street, inside the revitalized Hope Building.
