Photo Courtesy: nenow
Guwahati: Soul Chef, located in Caranzalem, Panjim, has become a significant destination for authentic Northeastern cuisine in a region traditionally dominated by seafood and Portuguese influences. Founded by Saurav Parashar and Monalisa Baruah, the restaurant serves as a cultural bridge connecting the Brahmaputra Valley with the Arabian Sea.
The founders started with a mission to share heirloom family recipes in 2015, operating as a home-chef service near Miramar. A major turning point occurred at the 2016 Serendipity Arts Festival, where an overwhelming positive response to their food confirmed there was a demand for Assamese dishes. By 2019, the venture moved into a physical cafe in the historic Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, later winning the Best Northeastern Cuisine award at the 2022 Times Food and Nightlife Awards.
The menu remains focused on traditional preparation rather than commercial trends. Signature items include pork ribs with black sesame and pork chops prepared with Bhut Jolokia and jaggery. Dessert offerings also draw on regional heritage, such as their black sesame ice cream inspired by traditional til diya laroo sweets. As the founders note, the restaurant aims for authenticity, stating: "Every dish tells a story of home, memory, and tradition."
In 2025, the restaurant relocated to a larger space in Caranzalem to accommodate growing demand while maintaining its intimate atmosphere. The couple continues to integrate their family legacy into the business, with their daughter learning the culinary craft from an early age, ensuring these traditions persist for future generations.
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