Suma, the newest fine-dining destination by S.P. Motles and founded by Niketa Sharma, has officially opened its doors, introducing an immersive culinary experience inspired by the historic Grand Trunk Road and the flavours of Arabia. More than a restaurant, Suma is a sensorial journey through time, where recipes travelled with caravans, stories crossed borders, and music filled ancient markets and forts.
At Suma, the menu draws on North Indian and Arabic culinary traditions, bringing together flavours shaped along the historic route from Lucknow to Afghanistan. The dishes reflect a meeting of techniques and ingredients—shawarmas alongside seekh kebabs, hummus with smoky aubergine, and plates built around za’atar, saffron, nuts, and coal-roasted marinades.
Chef Rahul on Suma’s flavour philosophy
Commenting on the launch, Chef Rahul, Group Executive Chef at Suma, said: “Suma allowed us to explore a culinary journey that connects India and Arabia through flavour, technique, and memory. The menu is built on slow-cooked traditions, coal-roasted depth, and ingredient-led storytelling. Every kebab, dip, and biryani carries a piece of the Grand Trunk Road and the warmth of Middle Eastern kitchens. Our aim was to make the food feel rooted yet new, familiar yet exciting.”
Interiors that blend Mediterranean warmth with Indian character
Suma’s interiors blend Mediterranean warmth with rustic Victorian and Indian touches, featuring an arch-framed bar, rich tones, and soft lighting for an inviting, flexible dining space.
Sharing her design vision, Ankita Sharma of Design Alma said: “Our intention with Suma was to create a space that feels warm, expressive, and deeply connected to its food philosophy. We used arches, maroon tones, brass accents, and layered lighting to build a space that flows like a journey. Suma is designed to feel rooted and contemporary at the same time.”
Founder Niketa Sharma on the vision behind Suma
Commenting on the launch, Founder Niketa Sharma, added: “Suma is my love letter to the journeys that shaped our food culture. From the Grand Trunk Road to the Arabian sands, I wanted to create a space where flavours, stories, music, and memories come together effortlessly. Every dish, every drink, every corner of Suma is designed to make guests feel something. Suma is not just a place to dine, it is a place to experience.”
