ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Indian restaurant Indiyaana Kitchen debuts in Illinois suburb

The restaurant combines North and South Indian cuisine with modern presentation and fusion-style dishes aimed at both Indian American and broader American audiences.

Attendees of the inauguration posing for a photograph / Asian Media USA

Indiyaana Kitchen, Lounge, Bar and Banquets was inaugurated May 15, 2026, in Schaumburg, Illinois, with a grand opening ceremony attended by diplomats, elected officials, business leaders and members of the Indian American community.

The new 22,000-square-foot venue's inauguration began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and prayers for prosperity and community growth.

Hosted by Priya Sivakumar and restaurateur Sivakumar Rajarathinam, the event was attended by Congressmen Raja Krishnamoorthi and Jonathan Jackson, along with Consul General of India in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of China Wang Baodong and Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison.

Speaking at the event, Rajarathinam described Indiyaana as more than just a restaurant and said it was designed to be an “experience center.”

He noted that the project took around 15 months to complete and reflected his long-term vision of creating a high-end Indian dining destination in the Chicago area.

The restaurant combines North and South Indian cuisine with modern presentation and fusion-style dishes aimed at both Indian American and broader American audiences.

Executive Chef Jesu Santiagu Lambert introduced guests to several signature dishes during the event.

Also Read: “Apna time aa gaya” Vikas Khanna on TIME 100 recognition

Featured dishes included vegetarian Galouti Taco made with jackfruit, Chicken 65 with scrambled egg, Indiana Lobster prepared in different styles, Wedding Goat Biryani, Chettinad Pepper Chicken, Godavari Goi Fry, Smoked Jamun and Kubani Ka Meetha inspired by American cobbler desserts.

General Manager Sat Kumar Daraj said the restaurant was built around the idea of blending tradition with innovation. The venue includes a lounge, bar, banquet hall and large dining areas near Woodfield Mall.

The event also included live entertainment and a fashion show by designer Nam J, coupled with a performance by saxophone musician Femi Ogebule, as models showcased couture designs as part of the celebrations.

Congressman Jonathan Jackson praised the family’s efforts and contribution to cultural diversity and business growth. Consul General Somnath Ghosh highlighted the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the American economy and job creation.

Florida-based architect Sunny, who worked on the project, said the venue transformed a previously unused banquet space into a modern hospitality destination.

Real estate professional Kathy Thorat, who helped secure the property, said she believed the restaurant would become a major attraction in the area.

Pastor Kent Muny delivered a prayer during the event and spoke about the importance of bringing communities together. Commissioner Kevin Morrison also praised the food and hospitality during the launch.

The restaurant is expected to fully open to the public in the coming weeks and plans to offer Indian cuisine, cocktails and banquet services for both small gatherings and large events.

The organizers said Indiyaana reflects the journey of an immigrant family building a business through years of effort and ambition while promoting Indian culture and hospitality in the United States.

Discover more at New India Abroad.

Glimpses from the event / Asian Media USA

Comments

Related

To continue...

Already have an account? Log in

Create your free account or log in