About KHAAR
Our Story
Welcome
California's Home for Modern Northeast Indian Cuisine
Located in California, KHAAR introduces guests to one of India's most extraordinary yet least explored culinary traditions.
Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Assam and the Seven Sister States of Northeast India, KHAAR blends authentic regional recipes with modern culinary techniques to create an unforgettable dining experience.
While Indian cuisine is celebrated around the world, the rich food traditions of Northeast India remain largely undiscovered. At KHAAR, we're changing that by bringing together heritage, innovation, and warm hospitality under one roof.
Whether you're a longtime lover of Indian food or discovering Northeast Indian cuisine for the very first time, KHAAR offers a dining experience unlike any other in California.
The Region
A Culinary Journey Through Northeast India
Every region has a story. Every dish has a history.
Our menu celebrates the incredible diversity of Northeast India — from the comforting sour-and-alkaline flavors of Assam to the bold, smoke-forward character of Nagaland and the mountain-inspired cooking traditions of Meghalaya.
Every recipe is thoughtfully crafted using fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, natural fermentation, indigenous spices, and carefully sourced ingredients that allow authentic flavors to shine.
Signature Dishes
- Northeast Signature Fish Curry
- Mutton in Claypot
- Black Sesame Chicken
- Pork with Bamboo Shoot
- Duck Confit Fusion Curry with Ash Gourd
- Naga Smoked Chilli Cauliflower Steak
Alongside these mains, guests enjoy inventive appetizers like Smoked Chilli Chicken, Lobster with Smoked Naga Chilli Butter, Mango Pani Puri, Bamboo Shoot Chicken Wings, and Taro Chips with Tuna Tartare.
Authentic roots. Modern expression.
The Founder
Crafted by Chef Nandana Hazarika
KHAAR is the dream of Chef Nandana Hazarika, brought to life through a shared passion for food, culture, and meaningful hospitality.
Born and raised in Assam, Chef Nandana grew up surrounded by recipes that celebrated family, tradition, and the natural abundance of Northeast India.
Although she built a successful seventeen-year corporate career as an engineer and MBA professional, her passion for cooking never faded.
Choosing purpose over comfort, she pursued professional culinary training, refined her skills under renowned chefs, and dedicated herself to preserving and reimagining the cuisine she grew up with.
"To introduce the extraordinary flavors of Northeast India to the world while honoring the traditions that inspired them."
How We Cook
Our Philosophy
At KHAAR, we believe exceptional food begins with exceptional ingredients.
Instead of overwhelming dishes with heavy spices, we allow every ingredient to express its natural character.
Fresh herbs.
Seasonal produce.
Natural fermentation.
Traditional cooking techniques.
Balanced flavors.
Inspired by the simplicity of Mediterranean cuisine and deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Northeast India, our menu is designed to be vibrant, nourishing, and memorable.
Because great food should nourish both body and soul.
At the Table
Signature Dining Experience
Dining at KHAAR is more than enjoying a meal.
It's discovering a culture.
From handcrafted appetizers and nourishing soups to signature curries, vegetarian specialties, thoughtfully prepared desserts, and seasonal chef's creations, every course is designed to tell a story.
Complete your experience with our carefully curated beverage program featuring handcrafted cocktails, premium wines, local craft beers, artisanal teas, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages selected to complement the bold yet balanced flavors of Northeast Indian cuisine.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, gathering with family, or exploring new flavors with friends, KHAAR offers an experience that is elegant, welcoming, and unforgettable.
Celebrating Northeast India's Culinary Heritage
KHAAR is more than a restaurant. It is a celebration of a region, its people, and its stories.
Every recipe honors generations of tradition.
Every ingredient reflects the richness of the land.
Every meal invites guests to experience a side of India that many have never discovered.
Every culture deserves to be celebrated. And every great tradition deserves a place at the table.