Loudoun diners will soon have the unique and exciting privilege to witness-and taste-a culinary revolution. Ashburn resident Qaisar Shah is bringing Saahil Restaurant, a first-of-its-kind concept, to the region next year, reports local media outlet The Burn.
The restaurant, set to open at Dulles 28 Centre, will set itself apart in the crowded hospitality scene by offering authentic and elevated Pakistani cuisine. Owner Shah explains to What Now DC that Saahil will bring something new, not only to the DMV but the nation at large, to the table. He explains: “Fine dining, Pakistani cuisine- there’s none in the entire country. There is none. Most of the Pakistani restaurants are hole in the wall types. At present, there are no fine dining Pakistani restaurants in the country. With Saahil, we aim to transform the dining scene by introducing the very first fine dining experience that celebrates Pakistani cuisine..”
Shah plans to apply exacting standards to Saahil’s fare, ensuring that diners enjoy delicious Pakistani meals under ideal conditions. He describes the areas he intends to correct to ensure guests enjoy the highest quality meal, saying: “First and foremost, our goal is to elevate food quality and ensure consistency, while delivering exceptional hospitality, customer service, and maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness. These are some of the critical gaps in our industry that I aim to address. By bringing in experts in the field, we will create a family-friendly environment that embodies all these qualities currently missing in our cuisine.”
Shah is a first time restaurateur, but is bringing a great deal of passion and knowledge to the venture. The Ashburn local states: “This is my first venture from a restaurant standpoint…My market research shows that Loudoun is one of the richest counties, but most of the fine dining cuisine is in Fairfax. Why not recreate something closer in our own market and keep fine diners over here? It’s got very high foot traffic and proximity to other businesses.”
Shah also relishes the opportunity to share Pakistani cuisine with a wide cross-section of cultures. He explains: “Loudoun County has a pretty significant Pakistani and Indian demographic, and a diverse population lives here.”
Saahil will occupy approximately 2,500 square feet, with seating for up to 100 guests. Shah states that visitors can look forward to outdoor patio seating in the more temperate weather, where they can enjoy mocktails and the concept’s unique menu.
Speaking of the food, Saahil will offer diners plenty to feast upon, both literally and visually. Shah states that in addition to an ala carte menu, the restaurant will offer a tasting menu of a six course meal, and a chef’s experience to take advantage of a unique design feature. “ We have an open kitchen design” he explains. “The chef experience would have seats right next to the kitchen, where you can have direct interaction with kitchen staff. It will be all Pakistani.”
Saahil’s kitchen will be helmed by two chefs with considerable experience and acclaim behind their names and aprons.
Shah is putting a premium on providing an elite dining experience, going so far as to hire a hospitality expert. He describes his vision for Saahil as: “Not just the basic greetings but a high-level of personal interactions.”
In addition to delicious and authentic dishes, future regulars can look forward to an inviting night out in a pleasant atmosphere. Shah describes the design as: “A warm environment, a little bit darker colors, but giving a traditional touch. Our architect and interior designer took inspiration from traditional designs from back home.”
Shah is looking towards a spring debut for Saahil. He states that while he is awaiting a couple more approvals, the bidding is out and he is hoping to start construction in early January and to open in April or May.
While Saahil brings something unique and novel to the national dining scene, its most important contribution will be the authentic flavors of Pakistan, brought to those both familiar and new to the cuisine. Shah states: “Any dish we have represents the culture, tradition, spices, and food that people taste back home.”
