In the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s renowned culinary landscape, certain restaurants emerge that redefine expectations and ignite a profound sense of discovery. As a food blogger dedicated to exploring diverse gastronomic narratives, I constantly seek establishments that not only offer exquisite flavors but also tell an authentic story. This quest for genuine culinary experiences, unmarred by contrivance or artificiality, shapes my journey and invigorates the purpose of this blog. I believe that true authenticity lies not just in replicating tradition, but in honoring its essence while embracing innovation. Many dining establishments attempt this delicate balance, often falling short, yet a select few manage to achieve it with breathtaking grace. And then, there’s ROOH.
Meaning ‘soul’ or ‘spirit’ in Sanskrit, ROOH Chicago is more than just an Indian restaurant; it’s a profound culinary bridge, connecting the rich heritage of India with the dynamic, contemporary spirit of the Windy City. As someone deeply familiar with the nuances of traditional Indian cooking, my anticipation was palpable. I was eager to witness how acclaimed Executive Chef Sujan Sarkar would interpret and elevate the fundamentals of Indian cuisine to create a truly fine dining experience. Such an ambitious project inherently carries risks, primarily the potential dilution of authenticity. Stepping into ROOH on its official launch night, one pivotal question resonated in my mind: Could I genuinely find the soul of India thriving within ROOH’s innovative approach?
Nestled in the bustling heart of West Loop’s famed Restaurant Row on Randolph Street, ROOH immediately transports you into a realm of wonder and enchantment. From the moment you cross the threshold, the space envelops you in a rich interior design, a masterful blend of tradition and avant-garde. The eye is captivated by vibrant artwork that tells ancient stories in modern hues, seamlessly integrated with intricate, flowery wallpaper that evokes the lush beauty of India. It’s an exciting dialogue between past and present, a visual feast that perfectly sets the stage for the culinary journey ahead.
The interior architecture at ROOH is a testament to thoughtful design, where a sophisticated interplay of shadows and light contributes to an atmosphere of intriguing mystery. This is a restaurant that gradually reveals its charm, unfolding its narrative piece by piece. Each corner, every intimate compartment, tells a unique visual story, yet all elements coalesce into a compelling harmony, creating a cohesive and immersive environment. The designers have meticulously crafted a space where every detail feels deliberate, guiding the diner through a sensory exploration before the first dish even arrives.
The chromatic palette at ROOH is particularly striking and memorable. Sumptuous brushes of orange velvet, reminiscent of Indian spices and sunsets, are artfully contrasted with the cool, refreshing tones of electric blue, teal, and turquoise. This vibrant yet balanced color scheme reflects the dynamism and diversity of Indian culture, creating an aesthetic that is both luxurious and inviting. The strategic use of natural light, flowing in through expansive windows, combines with carefully placed artificial lighting to provide a sense of enduring visual appeal and dynamism throughout the day and into the evening.
The commitment to aesthetic excellence is evident in every detail. From the enchanting pictures of blooming flowers adorning the walls, which imbue the space with a sense of natural beauty and tranquility, to the breathtaking mural that greets guests at the entrance, each element is thoughtfully chosen to enrich the dining experience. As a connoisseur of vibrant colors, I found myself utterly delighted by their extensive and masterful deployment throughout ROOH, transforming the restaurant into a living art piece. The mural, in particular, serves as a powerful visual introduction, immediately conveying the restaurant’s artistic ethos and connection to its Indian roots.
For those who appreciate the beauty of handcrafted elements and rustic charm, ROOH incorporates diverse ceramic pieces on its walls. These additions provide a grounding, traditional touch, reminding patrons of India’s rich artisanal heritage amidst the modern design. Each piece, subtly integrated, speaks volumes about the meticulous attention to detail that defines ROOH’s aesthetic. It is clear that at ROOH, beauty is not merely a superficial layer but an intrinsic quality found in the smallest, most thoughtfully executed elements, ensuring a visually stimulating experience from every vantage point.
The culinary journey at ROOH truly begins to unfold at the bar, a focal point where artistry and flavor converge. Guests can unwind with a glass of expertly selected wine, soaking in the dramatic ambiance created by the striking countertops and the overall sophisticated design. However, for those seeking a more adventurous palate experience, ROOH’s cocktail program is a masterpiece of innovation and tradition, deeply inspired by Ayurveda.
The Ayurveda-inspired cocktail menu at ROOH showcases an undeniable passion for bold flavors and imaginative pairings. What truly sets it apart is its dedication to utilizing a blend of unique Indian ingredients, house-made shrubs, exotic spices, and artisanal spirits. This approach crafts cocktails that are not merely drinks, but persuasive homages to the vibrant spirit of India – feisty, rustic, deeply reflective, and unapologetically spicy. Each sip is designed to evoke a sense of tradition reinvented, a delicate dance between ancient wisdom and modern mixology. This commitment to genuine ingredients ensures that even the libations contribute to the overarching theme of progressive Indian cuisine.
A prime example of this inventive spirit is the “Pink City” cocktail. This exquisite creation features a compelling combination of tequila, sweet guava, a hint of chili, and ROOH’s distinct in-house blend of masala. I was instantly captivated by this cocktail, enchanted by its sophisticated balance of fresh, sweet-and-sour guava and the assertive warmth of the spice blend. Guava holds a special place in my heart, its flavor and texture echoing the quince I cherished during my childhood. “Pink City” brought together beauty, innovation, and refreshing deliciousness in a seemingly perfect concoction, setting an incredibly high bar for the culinary delights to follow.
The dishes I sampled during ROOH’s official opening night truly embodied Executive Chef Sujan Sarkar’s celebrated culinary philosophy: a championing of progressive cooking that remains deeply rooted in tradition. Chef Sarkar’s unwavering commitment to breathing new life into authentic Indian flavors, while meticulously sourcing fresh, local ingredients, shone through in every bite. Recently honored as Times Chef of the Year in India, Chef Sarkar has left an indelible mark on the global culinary scene, from his esteemed kitchens in London to his innovative ventures in Dubai. Following the immense success of the first ROOH restaurant in San Francisco in 2016 and Baar Baar in New York last year, Chef Sarkar boldly decided to introduce his vision to Chicago’s fiercely competitive restaurant landscape, culminating in the birth of ROOH Chicago.
Authentic, innovative, and unequivocally happiness-inducing – these words succinctly capture the essence of the food experience at ROOH. Every dish resonated with a masterful balance of familiar comfort and thrilling novelty. The spicy and crispy dahi puri, for instance, was an absolute revelation. Adorned with a vibrant trio of tangy tamarind, creamy avocado, and a refreshing mint & cilantro chutney, these dahi puri were a symphony of textures and flavors. I particularly appreciated the creative integration of avocado and cilantro, which added layers of freshness and complexity that elevated this classic street food to an art form. Their exquisite flavoring was matched only by their beautiful presentation, as evident below:
Perhaps my favorite discovery of the evening was the paneer rolls served with a vibrant ginger chutney. My affection for paneer is deep-seated, cultivated during my time living in the UK, and seeing it reimagined in such an inventive way was truly exciting. Here, the paneer was presented in delicate, thin layers, then expertly wrapped in crispy kataifi pastry. This dish scored exceptionally high on the creativity chart, not just in its flavor profile but also in its application and texture. It was my inaugural experience with paneer in such a fine, layered form, and equally, my first delightful encounter with savory kataifi. Such exciting and delightful culinary discoveries are what make dining at ROOH an unforgettable adventure.
The stuffed green pea and goat cheese kulcha offered another moment of culinary brilliance. This traditional Indian bread was transformed into a pillowy, soft delight, with the unexpected inclusion of fresh shaved truffle providing a luxurious and innovative touch. The earthy aroma and distinct flavor of the truffle harmonized beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the peas and the tang of the goat cheese, showcasing Chef Sarkar’s ability to seamlessly blend global fine dining elements with authentic Indian staples.
A special mention must be reserved for the beef and potato croquettes, elegantly presented atop a vibrant mint and cilantro chutney. These perfectly golden, crispy croquettes offered a comforting yet sophisticated bite. The accompanying chutney, with its bright, herbaceous, and slightly piquant notes, provided a very exciting and surprising flavor twist. It elevated the humble croquette to an entirely new level, demonstrating ROOH’s knack for creating memorable contrasts and harmonious pairings in every dish.
Each bite was truly perfect, a testament to the kitchen’s precision and passion. The cumulative effect of these appetizers and small plates was a journey through textures and tastes, each preparing the palate for the next delightful revelation.
Departing ROOH on its official opening night, I found myself utterly enamored with its thoughtfully crafted menu and deeply mesmerized by its captivating interior. This exceptional new addition to Chicago’s esteemed Restaurant Row promises “a gastronomical journey in progressive Indian cuisine,” and I can unequivocally confirm that this journey is truly unparalleled. Much to my profound delight and satisfaction, I did indeed discover the vibrant spirit of India alive and thriving at ROOH. In their brilliant pursuit of innovative flavor combinations and the application of exquisite modern culinary techniques, the talented individuals behind ROOH have maintained an unwavering integrity, staying true to the rich gastronomic heritage they honor each day. This is authenticity brilliantly reinvented – executed with remarkable skill and profound respect.
At ROOH Chicago, I entered a world of sophisticated flavors, encountered unexpected culinary applications, and admired thoughtful presentations, all seamlessly woven together to narrate a captivating story of wonder, progression, and nostalgic familiarity – ultimately, a story of belonging. ROOH is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience that nourishes the soul, challenges the palate, and leaves a lasting impression, firmly establishing itself as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the pinnacle of progressive Indian dining in Chicago.
*Disclaimer: While I received a complimentary tasting to facilitate this review, all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and reflect my genuine experience.