Unapologetic Foods Champions Authentic Indian Cuisine with Expansion Plans

Unapologetic Foods has built its reputation on the belief that Indian cuisine should remain true to its roots without dilution for broader appeal. Co-founders Roni Mazumdar and executive chef Chintan Pandya opened Adda in Long Island City in 2018, and the name Unapologetic Foods emerged shortly after when a guest suggested that Pandya owed her an apology for the spiciness of the food. He firmly disagreed, marking the beginning of their mission to serve authentic Indian flavors.

Since its inception, Unapologetic Foods has expanded to include nine distinct concepts, such as Dhamaka, Rowdy Rooster, and Masalawala & Sons, collectively serving around 5,000 customers weekly. Semma, led by chef Vijay Kumar, is particularly noteworthy, having earned a Michelin star and being ranked No. 9 on The New York Times’ 100 Best Restaurants in New York City for 2026, following a previous No. 1 ranking. Dhamaka also received recognition, placing No. 66 on the Times list.

The group's ambitions extend beyond Indian cuisine, as they recently partnered with Filipino chef Eric Valdez, who previously served as chef de cuisine at Dhamaka. Together, they launched Naks, their first venture outside of Indian food, and later introduced Sanwits, a small Filipino sandwich shop. This expansion reflects their commitment to exploring diverse culinary traditions while maintaining their hands-on approach to hospitality.

Mazumdar, Pandya, and Kumar, who were honored in the 2026 Nightlife & Dining Power List, shared insights on their dedication to authentic regional Indian cuisine and their plans to broaden Unapologetic Foods' reach. They believe that New York diners are eager to embrace bold flavors and authentic dishes, and they are committed to providing an honest representation of the cuisines they serve.

Honoring Indian Culinary Traditions in Growth Strategy

The philosophy behind their growth is rooted in honoring the culinary traditions of the regions they represent. Mazumdar emphasized the importance of serving food that reflects the true essence of Indian culture, which includes eating with hands and presenting dishes in a way that tells a story.

Embracing Community and Authenticity in Philadelphia's Dining Scene

As they prepare to open Adda in Philadelphia, they are excited about the city's vibrant dining scene and the opportunity to connect with a diverse community. The name 'Adda,' which signifies a gathering place, resonates with their vision of creating spaces where people can come together and enjoy authentic food.

Unapologetic Foods remains steadfast in its mission to champion Indian cuisine without compromise, ensuring that every dish served is a true representation of its cultural heritage. Their journey reflects a broader movement in the culinary world, where chefs and restaurateurs are increasingly embracing authenticity and regional diversity in their offerings.