Calling all lovers of authentic Indian cuisine!
Riwaz is set to usher in an exciting new chapter with the official launch of its newly curated menu celebrating India’s rich culinary heritage through refined, contemporary expression.
Indulge in traditional delights like Chicken Tikka Makhani and Rara Gosht, dishes that celebrate bold spices and comforting richness. Whether you are in the mood for a fulfilling dish or just a bite to eat, lovers of spice and all things nice will find themselves feeling right at home.
Since opening its doors on 11 December 2019 as Brunei’s first upscale contemporary Indian restaurant, Riwaz has been redefining the local dining scene with soulful flavours, meticulous craftsmanship and elegant presentation. Rooted in the Urdu word for “tradition,” Riwaz was born from a passion to honour India’s time-honoured recipes while presenting them through a modern fine-dining lens.
Inspired by the overwhelming success of the Indian Food Festival in 2017, the restaurant has grown into a beloved culinary destination that bridges Brunei’s love for bold spices with the artistry of elevated dining.
Today, Riwaz stands as a sanctuary where the culinary legacies of New Delhi, Hyderabad and beyond meet the sophistication of the modern era.
Ahead of its public debut, members of the media and digital tastemakers were invited to an exclusive preview, offering a first taste of a menu that harmonises centuries-old traditions with contemporary innovation. Staying true to its philosophy, the refreshed menu delivers authentic flavours with a modern twist, without compromising on heart or heritage.
During the preview, The Bruneian had the opportunity to sample several standout dishes that perfectly captured the depth and diversity of the new menu.
The Lasooni Scallop Curry was a highlight for seafood lovers. Plump scallops were cooked to a delicate tenderness, absorbing the rich, garlicky gravy without losing their natural sweetness. The lasooni base delivered a bold yet well-balanced punch, where roasted garlic and warm spices created a lingering depth that complemented rather than overwhelmed the seafood.
Equally impressive was the Fish Tikka Masala, featuring chunks of fish that were lightly charred before being enveloped in a luscious tomato-based gravy. The sauce is a beautiful balance between smoky, tangy and creamy, with gentle heat that unfolded gradually on the palate. Each bite was comforting yet complex, making it an easy favourite for those who enjoy classic flavours executed with finesse.
For meat lovers, the Rara Gosht offered a deeply satisfying experience. This robust North Indian dish featured tender lamb slow-cooked in a thick, spiced gravy enriched with minced meat. The result was a dish layered with intense savoury notes, aromatic spices and a richness that felt indulgent without being heavy. It was bold, hearty and unmistakably traditional in character.
Completing the meal was the Kersariya Pulao, a fragrant rice dish infused with saffron and whole spices. Each grain was light and fluffy, carrying subtle floral notes that balanced the richness of the curries beautifully. The gentle sweetness from the saffron added elegance to the dish, making it both comforting and refined.
Dessert was a fitting finale to the experience. The Badan Halwa was rich and indulgent, with a dense, melt-in-the-mouth texture that delivered deep nutty flavours. Warm, comforting and aromatic, it felt like a celebration of traditional Indian sweets done exceptionally well.
The Mango Malai Cake offered a lighter, refreshing contrast. Soft layers of sponge were paired with creamy malai and bright mango notes, creating a dessert that was delicate, balanced and not overly sweet. It was a modern take on classic flavours, ending the meal on a fresh and satisfying note.
The latest menu reflects Riwaz’s continued mission to educate and excite the local palate, proving that while the presentation evolves, the soul of Indian cuisine remains deeply authentic.
The restaurant opens from Tuesday to Sunday, from 6.30pm onwards. For bookings and reservations, contact Riwaz at 2244272 or follow @radissonbrunei on Instagram for more information and their latest updates.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
