Southern California’s First Upscale Desi Concept Retains Prestigious MICHELIN Recognition
Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen, Fullerton’s lauded 100% Halal eatery helmed by award-winning Pakistani Chef Imran “Ali” Mookhi, was listed on the 2023 MICHELIN Guide and distinguished with the Bib Gourmand Award again this year, retaining MICHELIN recognition for the third year in a row since its opening in 2020. According to MICHELIN, the award, which deems Khan Saab a “good quality, good value” restaurant, involves the same rigorous and discerning selection process by MICHELIN inspectors as stars and other distinctions.
Located in the lively neighborhood of Downtown Fullerton, CA, the restaurant is known for being a pioneer in providing upscale Desi cuisine, and uniting the flavors of Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan into an eclectic 100% Halal menu. Chef Imran “Ali” Mookhi, with his extensive experience training under MICHELIN-starred chefs in renowned kitchens worldwide, has been instrumental in the restaurant’s success. Throughout his culinary career, Chef Ali’s innovative approach to traditional Desi flavors has garnered him national recognition, evident in his previous affiliations with high-caliber establishments like Tantra on Sunset, Tamarind of London in Newport Coast, Dosa, Tumbi in Santa Monica, and now in Michelin-recognized Khan Saab.
“To be recognized in the MICHELIN guide again this year is a true honor and testament to our talented team’s unwavering dedication to reimagining the West’s relationship with Desi cuisine,” said Khan Saab Executive Chef Imran “Ali” Mookhi. “I’m immensely proud of the Khan Saab team for achieving this accolade and continuing to serve Orange County with approachable, yet elevated foods inspired by the Indian, Afghani, and Pakistani regions. Our success wouldn’t be possible without our loyal guests and supportive community, and this recognition further inspires us to continue serving and celebrating our culture.”
As described by MICHELIN, “This South Asian gem makes a splash on this quiet stretch that teems with Mex-American eateries and markets aplenty. Originally from Pakistan, Chef Imran Ali Mookhi displays a certain deftness with spices, flavors and in his handling of red meat. Chicken, fish and vegetarian items are on offer, but there’s no denying that beef is king on this menu. The décor is bright, neat and hip. A bar in the back pours craft mocktails that pair swimmingly with such memorable items as beef (sirloin) kebabs with mustard oil, yogurt and garlic. Signature dishes like Khan biryani and chicken Karahi score high on flavor and texture. Australian Wagyu and Tomahawk steak will thrill carnivores; while seasonal vegetables have locavores returning for more.”
In line with Halal tradition, the cuisine is complemented by a craft, 100% non-alcoholic bar program, which was the first of its kind in Southern California and fourth in the nation. The innovative mocktail menu features Desi-inspired, handcrafted cocktails and includes standouts like the Tower of Peshawar, made with fresh cucumber, basil, and elderflower tonic, and the Smoked Negroni, made with Seedlip Spice 94, rose syrup and Palo Santo bitters, and served under a smoke filled dome.
Khan Saab is open 7 days a week from 4pm to 11pm Monday through Friday, and from 2pm to 11pm Saturday and Sunday. Guests can enjoy this dining experience for lunch or dinner at 229 East Commonwealth Avenue in downtown Fullerton. Reservations are highly recommended. For more information, or to learn more, visit khansaaboc.com or follow them on Instagram at @khansaab_oc.
Khan Saab is a 100% Halal restaurant featuring high-end Desi cuisine paired alongside a menu of alcohol-free crafted mocktails from the award-winning Chef Imran Ali Mookhi. Built on the mission to highlight global cuisine in an elevated and elegant way, Khan Saab’s menu offers bold entrees made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Since its inception, the concept has been recognized by several regional publications and has earned the Plate and Bib Gourmand awards, respectively, by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide. For more information, visit khansaaboc.com or follow them on Instagram at @khansaab_oc.
- More from Khan Saab
