Michelin-starred chef Sujan Sarkar opens NADU in Lincoln Park

Renowned chef Sujan Sarkar unveiled his latest culinary venture, NADU in Lincoln Park, marking his fourth restaurant in Chicago. Known for his Michelin-starred and James Beard-nominated expertise at Indienne, Sifr, and Swadesi, Sarkar now brings a deeply personal touch with NADU, which means "homeland" in Tamil. The restaurant aims to immerse diners in the rich diversity of Indian regional cuisine while seamlessly blending traditional flavors with modern sensibilities.

“We want NADU to reflect the way we truly eat in my home country, India—simple, bold, and full of flavor,” said Sarkar in a statement. “Our goal is to highlight the beauty of regional Indian cooking in an approachable way, with flavors people recognize and love.”

NADU’s menu, developed in collaboration with Head Chef Sanchit Sahu, spans India’s varied culinary landscape—from the coastal vibrancy of Kerala to the spice-rich heartland of the north. Comprising 24 curated a la carte dishes, the menu emphasizes local produce and sustainable sourcing. Notable offerings include the Banarasi Tamatar Chaat, a warm tomato dish enhanced with namak para and ghee; Naga Smoked Chilly Pork Ribs, glazed with king chili and pineapple sauce; and the indulgent Crab Milagu Fry, featuring whole Dungeness crab in a Telicherry peppercorn and spice blend.

Beyond the food, the beverage program at NADU presents a carefully curated selection of cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks infused with Indian ingredients such as turmeric, saffron, and palm jaggery. A standout feature is the use of regional spirits like Old Monk Rum and Cashew Feni, alongside an Indian wine selection curated by Tia Polite, Wine Director at Indienne.

The 90-seat dining space at NADU exudes modern elegance while channeling the energy of contemporary India. A centerpiece of the decor is The Chicago Durbar, an oil painting by Abhay Sehgal, an Art Institute of Chicago alumnus. The artwork bridges Chicago’s history with Indian mythology, adding a unique visual dimension to the restaurant.

For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, NADU offers an exclusive upstairs dining room ideal for private gatherings. The restaurant will operate from Tuesday to Saturday, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. A four-course tasting menu and Sunday brunch are slated for a summer launch, with reservations available on NADU’s website.