There’s a new buzz in Dubai’s DIFC, and no — it’s not just about finance. It’s about flavour. At Daftar, the latest Indian dining concept to land in the heart of the city’s commercial district, tradition meets contemporary luxury. And yes — it’s where you’ll find the now-famous VIP Kulcha, once served to none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.
🏢 Setting the Scene: Where Office Vibes Meet Culinary Warmth
Tucked inside Al Fattan Currency House, Daftar (which literally means “office” in Hindi and Urdu) doesn’t shy away from its namesake. The restaurant’s exterior blends seamlessly with the high-powered corporate landscape — so much so, you might double-check if you’re actually in the right place.
But step inside, and you’re transported.
Rich wood flooring, emerald and ruby-toned sofas, low lighting, and a soft hum of ambient music create an atmosphere that’s far from boardroom. It’s cozy yet polished — equally suited for deal-making power lunches or intimate dinners after hours.
👨🍳 A Chef with a Story — and a Mission
At the helm is Chef Sagar Kalra, a Delhi-born culinary force whose CV includes the Taj Group and stints alongside Michelin-starred maestro Gaggan Anand. His cooking philosophy is simple yet powerful:
“It’s not about competition — it’s about connection. A good dish should tell a story.”
One of those stories? The VIP Kulcha, which Kalra once served to Indian PM Modi and other dignitaries — now a must-try on Daftar’s menu.
🍽 What We Tried — And Loved
Starters
- Mushroom & Truffle Galouti (AED 75)
Velvety, melt-in-your-mouth patties. Rich in umami and decadence. - Himalayan Jhol Momo (AED 65)
Nepalese-style dumplings, filled with spiced mince, floating in Himalayan pink pepper curry. A bold, comforting standout.
Mains
- Butter Chicken (AED 90)
Spicier than the UAE norm, with succulent chicken and just the right tang. - Dal Makhani (AED 75)
Creamy, rich, and slow-cooked — the perfect balance to the fiery curry. - Steamed Basmati Rice (AED 25)
Fluffy, fragrant, a necessary companion to soak it all up. - VIP Kulcha (AED 40)
The crown jewel. Tandoor-baked with subtle herbs and spice, it’s not just bread — it’s a culinary flex.
Desserts
- Kesari Moong Dal Halwa (AED 50)
Warm, saffron-scented richness that hits all the right nostalgic notes. - Orange Quinoa Kheer (AED 55)
Light, zesty, and refreshingly modern.
💰 Price Check: Worth the Dirhams?
A meal at Daftar ranges between AED 125–400 per person, depending on how far you want to go. Here’s the breakdown:
- Save:
- Bombay Vada Pav (AED 35)
- Aloo Gobi (AED 55)
- Kulfi Trio (AED 35)
- Splurge:
- Bottle Masala Lamb Chops (AED 125)
- Lobster Malai Curry (AED 225)
- Jalebi Rabri (AED 50)
🍗 Chef’s Insider Picks
Kalra’s top recommendations beyond what we tried include:
- Fried Chicken with Kaffir Lime Masala – for bold, layered heat
- Tawa Fish – delicately spiced and crisp
- Brownie Sorbet or White Quinoa Kheer – for plant-based dessert lovers
Bonus: Daftar hosts Comedy Nights twice a month — blending food, fun, and punchlines (AED 75 entry + drinks).
📞 Details to Know
📍 Location: Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC
🕐 Hours: Daily, 11 AM to Midnight
📞 Contact: +971 50 666 4158
🌐 daftar.ae
⭐ The Gulf Talk Verdict
If DIFC needed an Indian restaurant with soul, style, and substance — Daftar delivered. From the first bite to the final spoon of saffron halwa, this place honors its heritage while confidently stepping into the future.
The VIP Kulcha isn’t just hype — it’s heritage in every bite.
So next time you’re headed to DIFC, skip the usual and dine where tradition meets innovation. Trust us, Daftar is more than worth clocking out for,
