Srinagar, April 16: In a city where wazwan has long ruled the culinary scene, a chef from North Kashmir is popularising Afghan and Uzbek cuisines among foodies.
Meet Sahil Ahmed Wani, a young chef from Gingal in Baramulla, whose knack for preparing Central Asian cuisine has turned heads – and appetites – at The Cherry Cafe, tucked inside Srinagar city’s bustling City Mall.
While his culinary résumé includes everything from Indian to Lebanese, it is the warmth of Afghani platters and the fragrant depth of Uzbek plov that have set him apart. With 12 years of experience behind the apron, Chef Sahil said he wanted to bring new tastes to the Valley.
“I wanted to bring something new to the Kashmiri palate – something we’re not used to, but can fall in love with. I am thankful to the Almighty that my Afghan platter, as well as the lamb-infused Uzbek plov, is now a top seller among locals and tourists alike,” Chef Sahil told The Kashmir Monitor.
His dishes speak of saffron, slow-cooked meats, and spices that tell stories of Silk Road caravans. Customers return for the soul-soothing warmth of Afghani dumplings and smoky kebabs that linger on the tongue like a good conversation.
Even the stars have taken notice. When popular actress and model Jasmin Bhasin visited The Cherry Cafe, a video of her glowing review of Sahil’s cooking went viral, giving the young chef notable attention overnight.
But Sahil remains rooted. “I come from a remote background, and my first job was with a local bakery. I am glad that I now work at a top Srinagar restaurant and get appreciated by locals, tourists and celebrities,” he said.
Popular food blogger Omar Rather, of Kashmirfoodgram fame, said it was encouraging to see the culinary landscape in Kashmir evolve.
“It’s refreshing to watch young chefs like Sahil experiment with new cuisines and carve a niche beyond traditional fare. It adds diversity to our food culture and opens up new horizons for the local palate,” he told The Kashmir Monitor.