Michelin-starred Chef Vikas Khanna is set to bring the rich spirit of Assam to the heart of Manhattan with a specially curated Assam Tea Festival at his East Village restaurant, Bungalow. The announcement was made during the global 200 Years of Assam Tea celebrations held at the prestigious Summer Fancy Food Show 2025 .
A Legacy Steeped in History
Two centuries ago, in 1823, explorer Robert Bruce stumbled upon the wild tea plants of Assam, cultivated by the indigenous Singpho tribe in the region’s mist-covered forests. That discovery transformed Indian tea from a local tradition into a worldwide phenomenon—forever entwining Assam with global beverage culture.
A Festival Rooted in Heritage
At the Summer Fancy Food Show’s business roundtable, Khanna who has traveled to Assam 11 times—spoke passionately about the region’s vibrant tea-growing heritage, cultural richness, and strong community bonds.
In response, he unveiled plans for the Assam Tea Festival at Bungalow, framing it as a tribute to Assam’s iconic contributions to India’s cultural identity—its tea, cuisine, and textiles.
The Government of Assam has endorsed the initiative, collaborating closely to ensure the festival amplifies Assam Tea’s international profile and supports its global outreach strategy.
Bungalow: More Than Dining
Since opening in March 2024 under Khanna’s and restaurateur Jimmy Rizvi’s leadership, Bungalow has become a notable fixture in New York’s culinary scene. Styled as a nostalgic homage to colonial-era clubhouses in India, it features elegant interiors—lush interiors and intimate ambiance—serving as a fitting venue for cultural celebrations.
The restaurant has earned critical acclaim, including a Michelin 2024 Bib Gourmand award and three stars from The New York Times.
What to Expect at the Assam Tea Festival
While full event details are forthcoming, early previews suggest an immersive, thematic experience:
- Showcasing a curated selection of Assam’s signature teas, including robust black, pungent CTC blends, and delicate single-estate varieties.
- Expert-led tastings and tea-pairing sessions with artisanal snacks inspired by Assamese flavors.
- A focus on storytelling—sharing Assam’s tea heritage through visuals, music, and cultural narratives.
- Collaborations with Assam-based tea growers and cooperatives, spotlighting sustainability and female empowerment in tea production—mirroring initiatives at the Summer Fancy Food Show pavilion.
Why This Festival Matters
Assam Tea isn’t just a beverage; it’s a powerful symbol of India’s soft power. Khanna emphasizes that events like these help celebrate and elevate Assam’s traditions to global audiences.
With his prominent platform and deep connection to India’s culinary roots, Khanna’s festival stands to significantly boost Assam’s cultural and commercial visibility.
The Assam Tea Festival at Bungalow promises to be more than an elegant tea-tasting—it’s a rich cultural immersion that bridges history, flavor, and global dialogue. As we mark 200 years since Assam’s tea heritage began staggering its way around the world, this event celebrates more than a drink; it honors centuries of community, legacy, and resilience.
