Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur has revealed that it has collaborated with Indian chef Garima Arora to introduce a new dining experience by opening Yaari.
Arora needs no introduction in Mumbai and India. The chef-owner of Bangkok’s two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Gaa has been internationally recognised for her progressive interpretation of Indian cuisine.
In 2018, Restaurant Gaa earned a Michelin star under her leadership, making her the first Indian female chef to helm a Michelin-starred restaurant.
She has since received numerous accolades, including Asia’s Best Female Chef and Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.
The name `Yaari`, meaning “friendship” in Hindi, aims to reflect the DNA of Arora’s modern Indian establishment, embodying the legacy of heartfelt Indian hospitality, that is set to open in January 2026.
Reinventing traditional dishes through a deep understanding of heritage cooking techniques and application of spices, the cuisine is both modern and timeless.
The contemporary space is set to be warm and subtly playful, layered with rich textures and a sense of understated allure.
Yaari will present a modern Indian menu celebrating the breadth and diversity of India’s culinary landscape.
It will reimagine regional Indian dishes from the tangy curries of the southern coast to the smoky kebabs of the north.
The menu will feature refined chaats, elevating one of India’s most beloved street foods into an artful expression of texture and spice. It will also retain its interactive spirit with a dessert menu inspired by traditional mithais while refining its precision and presentation.
“Yaari will celebrate the extraordinary diversity of Indian cuisine in ways that feel both authentic and contemporary,” said chef Garima Arora. “Yaari is born from my passion for storytelling through food, celebrating heritage, creativity and the joyful experience of sharing a meal.”
Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, chef Garima Arora collaborate to open `Yaari`
