Aangan Unveiled at BrijRama Palace: A New Chapter in Varanasi’s Culinary Heritage

Brij Hotels has introduced Aangan, a fresh dining destination inside the historic BrijRama Palace in Varanasi. Set against the timeless backdrop of the Ganges, the restaurant creates a refined vegetarian experience inspired by the palace’s culture, craftsmanship, and stories.

A Historic Courtyard Reimagined

Aangan occupies a courtyard that once served as a private arena for royal gatherings. The space is linked to one of the palace’s premium suites through a discreet passage, adding a layer of intrigue for diners. Today, the courtyard has been transformed into an intimate restaurant where heritage and creativity meet.

A Menu That Interprets the Palace’s Past

Instead of simply presenting regional recipes, Aangan builds its menu around the personalities who shaped the palace through the centuries. Their influences appear as symbolic dishes, seasonal preparations, and thoughtful combinations rooted in Indian culinary wisdom.

The ten-course tasting sequence moves through varied themes—architecture, devotion, royal indulgence, Banarasi artistry, and mindful cooking—turning dinner into a narrative experience rather than a traditional meal.

Highlights of the Culinary Journey

Guests are introduced to playful, imaginative creations such as:

• Opening bites drawing on ancient ideas of astronomy and craftsmanship

• Vegetable-based preparations that reference the fort-like structure of the palace

• Recipes inspired by ceremonial cooking traditions

• Light pre-desserts that echo the softness of traditional Banarasi milk sweets

• A final handcrafted sweet selection symbolising the custodians of the palace

The entire experience has been shaped by Chef Devansh, who focuses on balancing authenticity with contemporary technique.

Dining Beside the Ghats — A First for the City

Aangan is one of the few places in Varanasi where guests can eat within an old palace while staying close to the ghats. The expansive Bada Aangan courtyard can be booked privately by visitors who are not staying at the property.

Evening reservations may also include curated cultural elements such as traditional musicians, local artists, or folk dancers—turning the experience into an immersion into Varanasi’s living traditions.

Design That Blends Ancient Structure With Modern Craft

The restaurant retains the palace’s original stone and Greco-Roman design influences, while all interior elements have been reimagined for the new dining space. Designer Inderpal Kocchar and Sarthak Sahil Design Co. crafted a look that mixes heritage forms with contemporary materials.

The décor includes:

• Hand-finished brass frames

• Customized lighting with alabaster accents

• Artefacts and accessories made from brass and copper

• A central lantern engraved with a poetic line written in the local dialect

These details give Aangan a distinct identity—rooted in Varanasi yet refined in its aesthetic.

A Distinguished Addition to BrijRama Palace

BrijRama Palace has long been known for hosting global personalities and cultural icons. With the launch of Aangan, the palace expands its offerings with a restaurant that honours the city’s spiritual atmosphere while presenting a modern approach to vegetarian cuisine.

Aangan is expected to become one of Varanasi’s most sought-after dining venues, offering a blend of history, artistry, and thoughtful gastronomy in one of India’s oldest living cities.