LORE Restaurant offers a vibrant, culinary celebration of Holi. Where global flavors meet traditional Indian spices, creating an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Brooklyn.
LORE, Chef Jay Kumar’s MICHELIN Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant in Park Slope, Brooklyn, has truly caught my attention, especially with its special Holi celebration this March. With a name that evokes both tradition and innovation, LORE promises to deliver a sensory experience unlike any other.
LORE Restaurant beautifully combines vibrant flavors, colors, and textures to honor food and culture. Chef Jay Kumar will celebrate India’s iconic festival of colors with his inventive dish. For those eager to immerse themselves in the joyous spirit of Holi, LORE is an excellent destination to experience the celebration.
📍 March 14 through March 21 | LORE | 441 7th Avenue—Park Slope
A Personal Connection to Holi: My Love for Phaguwa
What I love most about [Holi] Phaguwa, is how it celebrates life in all its vibrant hues. Growing up, it was not just about the festival itself—it was the deep cultural significance. It was a time when the usual divisions of race and class melted away, giving way to joy, energy, and, most importantly, community. I remember the laughter, music, and dancing, however, what I treasured most was the food.
The sweet and savory dishes shared with friends, neighbors, and family were always the highlight. From rich, flavorful curries to delicate sweets, every bite reflected the love and togetherness that Phaguwa embodies. For me, the spirit of celebration—embracing life fully and joyfully—makes Holi such a meaningful and unforgettable festival.
A Culinary Experience at LORE Restaurant Like No Other
Chef Jay Kumar, the visionary behind LORE’s dynamic menu, has created something truly exceptional for this year’s Holi celebration. Renowned for his Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded skills and decades of culinary expertise, he expertly blends his Indian heritage with global influences to craft dishes that are both timeless and contemporary.
LORE’s dedication to sustainability is reflected in its seasonal menu. Crafted from locally sourced produce and meats, allowing Chef Kumar to create vibrant, fresh dishes. The Holi creation promises to be a feast for the senses, capturing the vibrancy, celebration, and joy of the festival in every mouthful.
For Holi 2025, Chef Kumar’s signature dish—a golden-orange puff-pastry samosa—takes center stage. A beloved snack enjoyed across India, the samosa is elevated at LORE into a multi-layered masterpiece bursting with creativity. The crisp, flaky pastry gives way to a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It offers an unforgettable twist on the traditional favorite. The combination of vibrant spices, rich fillings, and playful presentation beautifully mirrors the lively spirit of Holi.
A Dish That Celebrates Holi
The samosa is topped with vibrant sauces, such as mint chutney, evoking the freshness of spring, while a tamarind and date sauce brings a rich, tangy sweetness that balances out the savory layers. A golden-orange mango cashew crème adds a creamy, luxurious texture, elevating the dish to a new level of indulgence. As if the flavors were not already enough to excite your taste buds. The dish is finished with a beet, garlic, and ginger drizzle, which adds an earthy depth and striking visual contrast. This makes it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
This culinary creation wonderfully embodies the spirit of Holi—colorful, playful, and bursting with joy. Paired with a Holi-inspired cocktail for just $18, this exciting combo is sure to leave a lasting impression, capturing the radiance of the festival with every bite.
A Symphony of Senses: The Atmosphere at LORE
The reputation and design of LORE promise an immersive atmosphere that enhances the celebration of Holi. An inviting, intimate ambiance, and warm, soft lighting create a cozy, relaxed environment. The exposed brick walls, adorned with blue glass bottles, lend an elegant, cozy touch to the space, while mid-century modern chandeliers add a subtle sophistication.
I am especially excited about how the energy at LORE will align with the vibrant celebrations of Holi. I imagine the intoxicating aromas of coriander, masala and cardamom will likely fill the air, transporting diners straight to the heart of India. The warmth of the spices will likely mingle with the sounds of joyful conversations and the clink of glasses, creating a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere. Whether accompanied by traditional Indian instruments or lively jazz, the energy of Holi will surely infuse the space, adding an unforgettable layer to the dining experience.
Tradition Meets Innovation: Chef Kumar’s Unique Approach
What fascinates me most is Chef Kumar’s mastery of blending traditional Indian dishes with modern techniques. This fusion of old and new sets LORE apart, offering a fresh perspective on familiar classics like the samosa. By honoring the foundations of Indian cuisine while introducing innovative ideas, he transforms each dish into something exciting and authentic.
With a deep understanding of vibrant ingredients central to Indian cuisine and a global perspective, Chef Kumar reinterprets recipes in ways that stay true to their cultural roots while feeling fresh and contemporary. His approach brings innovation to every dish. He adds a modern twist without compromising the authenticity of the ingredients or the cultural significance behind them.
Cultural Context: Brooklyn’s Global Influence
What makes LORE appealing is its deep connection to Brooklyn’s vibrant, multicultural community. Chef Kumar’s culinary creations are shaped not only by his Indian heritage. But also by the rich cultural influences that define Brooklyn’s unique landscape. As one diner pointed out, “Dining at LORE is like taking a flavorful journey through the world.” I could not agree more. Each dish showcases a seamless fusion of global influences. He blends his roots from Mangalore with his extensive international experiences, crafting dishes that reflect the dynamic and international spirit of Brooklyn.
Holi, the festival of colors, celebrates both the time-honored traditions and the joy of innovation. It honors the past while embracing the future. Chef Kumar’s take on Holi captures this essence perfectly. He offers a unique dining experience that combines bold Indian flavors with contemporary twists. It is precisely this blend of tradition and creativity that makes me so excited to visit and experience it firsthand.
Celebrate Holi at LORE Restaurant
From March 14th to March 21st, LORE Restaurant will host its Holi celebration, featuring a limited-time samosa and a colorful Holi-inspired cocktail pairing for $18.00. This special combo captures the essence of the festival, blending bold flavors, vibrant colors, and the joyful spirit of Holi in every bite and sip.
LORE’s festive offering brings the celebration to the table. It Provides a vibrant way to honor the traditions and colors of Holi, while offering a lively and flavorful experience to gather with friends or family, enjoy festive dishes, and soak in the energy of this beloved holiday.
