EIGHT is a Pan-Asian powerhouse that is setting India's fine-dining benchmark
In India’s increasingly dynamic culinary landscape, where Pan-Asian cuisine often struggles to rise above the commonplace, one name has emerged as a definitive standard-bearer for quality, service and high-value artistry: EIGHT.
More than just a restaurant, EIGHT is the masterful vision of restaurateur Prashant Issar and is led by the culinary virtuoso, Chef Sagar Sarkar. It embodies a strategic ideology that positions it as a true trendsetter and a shining beacon of gastronomic excellence.
The Pan-India Phenomenon
EIGHT’s commitment to uncompromising quality has resonated far beyond its initial flagship location. It has swiftly expanded its footprint, establishing exclusive outposts in major culinary hubs, including Lucknow, Pune and Bengaluru, cementing its status as a genuine pan-India phenomenon.
This collective, dedicated focus on sourcing the highest quality produce and ingredients – a core tenet of the brand – has made EIGHT an immensely popular and revered destination for all gourmands seeking an authentic, refined and consistent Asian dining experience across the country.
Prashant Issar’s Vision: A Philosophy of Prosperity
The name EIGHT itself – inspired by the luckiest number in Chinese culture, symbolising intuition, wealth, prosperity, innovation and strength – is the core Philosophy of Prosperity driving the establishment. This is not merely an aesthetic choice, but a declaration of the high value the brand is committed to delivering.
Prashant Issar, Managing Director, Bellona Hospitality, has cemented his reputation as a visionary by setting bold new standards in the industry. He articulates his inspiring ethos perfectly: “We want to create a space where every dish, every cocktail, and every moment is meticulously crafted to mesmerise our patrons and redefine their expectations.”
Issar’s vision transcends mere dining; it is about curating a holistic, high-value experiential transaction that assures guests their investment in luxury dining will be spectacularly exceeded every single time.
The Uber Chic Interiors and Sophisticated Design
Complementing its elevated cuisine is EIGHT’s uber chic and sophisticated ambiance, which seamlessly blends Asian opulence with modern global design. The interiors in Pune and Bengaluru are meticulously curated to transport patrons, feeling like a space straight out of a cosmopolitan hub like Madison Avenue.
The design features a thoughtful layering of textures and materials, including stained wood railings, faux stone walls and contemporary Asian seating. Privacy is maintained through elegant wood and metallic glass panels, while artistic touches like hand-painted calligraphy and textured blue walls enhance the serene atmosphere.
The bar acts as a striking centrepiece, cleverly dividing the space with a corrugated corten steel apron and metal bulkhead intertwined with rice paper, affirming EIGHT as a holistic luxury experience designed for the discerning audience.
Culinary Excellence: Chef Sarkar and the Pursuit of Perfection
At the heart of EIGHT’s success is its esteemed Corporate Chef, Sagar Sarkar. With a pedigree that includes tenures at global institutions like Hakkasan and Yauatcha, Chef Sarkar brings a depth of experience and technical mastery that elevates every plate.
Chef Sarkar’s kitchen is driven by the uncompromising pursuit of quality produce and authentic flavours. His approach transforms familiar Pan-Asian styles – spanning Canton, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia and Japan – into signature innovations:
The Rare & Refined: EIGHT distinguishes itself by introducing rarely seen techniques and ingredients in the Indian market, such as the authentic Roast Peking Duck prepared in a traditional Chinese duck roaster.
The Uncompromising Menu: The focus on high-quality ingredients is evident in-house specials that have become city legends: the tender Jasmine Smoked New Zealand Pork Ribs served with Jaggery and Yakiniku Sauce, the delicate Steamed Indian Salmon with Spicy Lemongrass Jus, and the exquisite Chilean Sea Bass with Taiwanese Chilli Sauce.
Holistic Excellence: From an extensive Izakaya selection prepared on the Robata grill to a dedicated, research-backed vegetarian repertoire featuring delights like the Truffle Edamame & Blue Pea Jasmine Fried Rice, EIGHT ensures that every single diner receives a masterfully executed, high-value culinary experience.
By dedicating itself to uncompromising quality, meticulous sourcing, intentional design and a grand expansion plan – all orchestrated by the vision of Prashant Issar – EIGHT has redefined the luxury Pan-Asian standard in India. It stands not as a mere competitor, but as a collaborative force that elevates the entire market, providing a high-value assurance that its culinary promises are not just met, but spectacularly exceeded. EIGHT is, quite simply, the future of Asian dining in India.
