A New Era for Pakistani Cuisine in the USA
At Saahil, an ordinary chef just wouldn’t suffice. Enter Chef Ahtesham Us Samad, a true culinary gem with over 18 years of experience in some of Pakistan's most prestigious kitchens. He is a celebrated chef frequently featured on TV shows where he showcases his culinary skills and receives accolades from various organizations. As the newly appointed Head Chef, Ahtesham infuses Saahil with a unique culinary artistry and innovation blend. Renowned for his expertise across multiple cuisines—including Pakistani, Indian, French, Italian, and Middle Eastern—he has garnered a reputation for seamlessly merging tradition with modern techniques.
Chef Ahtesham's impressive journey includes pivotal roles at distinguished establishments such as the Marriott (Islamabad and Karachi), Avari, Best Western Premier, and Ramada. He has successfully directed food and beverage services throughout his career, celebrating a rich tapestry of culinary styles. His comprehensive expertise covers all aspects of kitchen management, from crafting innovative menus and supervising talented staff to prioritizing maintaining the highest food quality standards, ensuring that every dish meets exceptional expectations.
His commitment to excellence shines through in every dish he creates. He deeply understands flavor profiles, ingredient sourcing, and fine dining presentations. He has crafted menus for luxury hotels and led culinary innovation in savory and pastry kitchens.
Chef Ahtesham’s remarkable talent lies in his ability to modify traditional dishes to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Among the few culinary masters who can craft whipping cream from scratch, Chef Ahtesham Us Samad truly excels. He created and launched a dairy-free whipped cream that enables guests with lactose intolerance to savor beloved dishes without worrying about their allergies. This innovative approach highlights his dedication to inclusivity and maintains the authenticity of Pakistani flavors.
With his extensive background in fine dining and global cuisine, Chef Ahtesham is excited to offer Virginia an unparalleled taste of Pakistani culinary excellence.
Preserving Authenticity While Appealing to International Tastes
A significant challenge Saahil faces is balancing the authenticity of Pakistani cuisine with the preferences of modern American diners. To address this, the restaurant retains the essence of each dish while refining its presentation and adjusting spice levels to make the flavors approachable without diluting their cultural identity.
For instance, traditionally robust and spicy, Chicken Karahi is served at Saahil with a milder sauce and garnished with premium herbs, allowing its rich flavors to shine. Pani Puri is elevated with exotic chutneys and foam fillings, adding a sophisticated touch to this beloved street food. Even the classic Lassi receives a refined twist with a saffron garnish, celebrating its roots while enhancing its presentation.
At the heart of this innovation is Saahil’s commitment to inclusivity. Under Chef Ahtesham's guidance, the restaurant intends to meticulously address dietary restrictions, ensuring that all dishes cater to diverse preferences without sacrificing flavor. His dairy-free whipped cream, for example, enables lactose-intolerant guests to savor traditional favorites like Malai Boti without compromise.
Pakistani Cuisine’s Journey to Global Recognition
Despite its rich flavors and regional diversity, Pakistani cuisine often remains overshadowed by Indian food in the West. While Indian restaurants thrive, generating billions annually, Pakistani cuisine—focusing on lighter, meat-based dishes and distinctive spices—offers a unique dining experience that deserves attention. Saahil is determined to change that narrative. Set to open in Sterling, Virginia, the restaurant aims to redefine the experience of dining on Pakistani food by blending authenticity with contemporary culinary techniques.
Saahil aims to showcase the depth and complexity of Pakistani cuisine, allowing it to stand on its own. Dishes like Lahori Cholay and Peshawari Mutton Karahi highlight regional specialties, utilizing fresh herbs and balanced spices to create a flavorful and refined dining experience. By emphasizing these regional treasures, Saahil aspires to carve out a space for Pakistani cuisine within the fine dining sector.
Redefining the Pakistani Dining Experience with Enlightened Hospitality
Saahil’s founders are committed to providing more than meals—they envision creating memorable experiences. Qaisar, a founder, captures this vision: “Saahil is not just serving food, but experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
It seeks to bridge the gap in the U.S. dining scene by providing a polished, fine dining experience rooted in Pakistani tradition. Unlike many casual Pakistani eateries, Saahil prioritizes ambiance, service, and hospitality as integral parts of the dining experience.
The founders recognize that diners expect more than just food in a fine-dining establishment—they desire an immersive experience. From the moment guests walk through the doors, they will be welcomed with top-tier service and hospitality, ensuring every detail of their meal is carefully curated. To achieve this, Saahil has enlisted professionals to train staff in the principles of Enlightened Hospitality, focusing on creating a holistic and memorable experience for every diner.
A Vision for the Future of Pakistani Cuisine in the U.S.
Saahil’s ultimate goal is to elevate Pakistani cuisine to new heights in the U.S. Through its Tasting Menu concept, diners will explore the full spectrum of flavors in Pakistan. This curated experience allows guests to savor small portions of signature dishes, providing a unique introduction to the variety and depth of Pakistani cuisine.
Blending authentic flavors with refined techniques, Saahil seeks to transform perceptions of Pakistani cuisine in America. Central to this vision is Chef Nadeem, whose fine dining expertise and fusion cuisine experience bring a unique edge. His innovative use of French culinary techniques—seen in dishes like Shahi Tukray and his pairing of tender eggplant with crispy okra in Chaat—highlights his culinary style's creativity and multicultural depth.
Saahil aims to set a new benchmark for Pakistani dining in the U.S., emphasizing food quality, professionalism, consistency, and exceptional customer service. By focusing on these elements, the founders aspire to elevate the industry and make fine dining a defining feature of Pakistani cuisine in America.
The Future is Bright for Saahil
With powerhouse chefs Nadeem and Ahtesham at the helm, Saahil is set to leave a lasting impact on the U.S. culinary scene. As the restaurant opens its doors in Sterling, it promises diners a meal and an unforgettable fine dining experience that embodies the richness and diversity of Pakistan’s culinary heritage. Saahil aims to redefine perceptions of Desi food in America by offering a halal, alcohol-free experience in a refined and sophisticated setting.
