For Immediate Release
SAN FRANCISCO (June 1, 2018)
– Chef Rupam Bhagat has announced the rebrand of his critically-acclaimed Mission District restaurant, Dum Indian Soul Food, to mark the restaurant’s second anniversary this month. Originally founded as the brick-and-mortar location for the popular Dum Food Truck, the restaurant will now be known as Ritu Indian Soul Food. Inspired by the vibrant cuisine of India and Chef Bhagat’s childhood in Mumbai, Ritu evokes true Indian hospitality with its warm, inviting atmosphere, and soulful and seasonal cooking. The official switch to the name Ritu on June 7 reflects Chef Bhagat’s desire to broaden the menu and concept for the restaurant beyond what is available on the food truck, while still retaining a fun, casual ambiance.
With more than a decade of global kitchen leadership experience with luxury brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, and a degree from The Culinary Institute of America, Chef Bhagat will continue to share his passion for good eats at Ritu by applying modern techniques to the flavors and dishes from his childhood in Mumbai. The menu features crave-worthy Indian cuisine that highlights Chef Bhagat’s inspired interpretations of his favorite family recipes.
“At Ritu, I want guests to enjoy a delicious, Indian meal rooted in traditional recipes from my family, combined with the global influences I have had in my culinary journey over the last decade,” said Bhagat. “The vision of Ritu is to experience Indian flavors using seasonal ingredients found in the Bay Area. Dishes like Kale Chaat and Tandoori Fried Chicken embody the vision of Ritu – dishes that have evolved to satisfy the palate of the melting pot of the Bay area without losing their identity. While I may be using non-traditional ingredients and modern techniques, the soul of my food is still 100 percent Indian.”
The name Ritu, which means “seasons” in Hindi, references the fresh, seasonal ingredients that are present in the restaurant’s delicious and sometimes surprising menu. Classic Indian flavors and dishes like Palak Paneer ($14) and Butter Chicken ($15) are reinterpreted at Ritu and remain crave-worthy and soulful. In addition to a Chef’s tasting menu ($40) and daily specials, the menu also offers a variety of savory Chaats such as Kale ($9; above photo) and Asparagus ($10); an array of vegetable and seafood dishes, such as Tandoori Whole Cauliflower ($12), Artichoke Pakora ($10) and Shrimp Curry ($17); Chicken, Lamb or Jackfruit Biryani ($14-$17); a selection of Kebabs, including Chicken, Lamb or Paneer (all $12) and other dishes that accentuate Chef Bhagat’s inspired and daring approach to authentic Indian cuisine. Ritu also offers a sweet selection of house-made desserts ($6-$7) including Pistachio Pot de Crème, Roasted Rice Pudding, and “Cookies & Milk,” with roasted fruit, flavored milk and butter cookies.
The beverage program includes select wines by the glass starting at $10, bottled wines starting at $38, and refreshing craft beers. Guests can also enjoy low-proof cocktails and various seasonal flavors of lassi, the traditional Indian yogurt-based drink.
The updated design of the restaurant will feature a new color palette to match the new logo, with oranges, reds and yellows throughout the space, which will also have an expanded bar area. Ritu’s 50-seat space also features a chef’s counter in front of the open kitchen and communal table. Unusual for an Indian restaurant, the open kitchen serves as the focal point of the restaurant. Ritu redefines Indian hospitality with an experienced and friendly staff committed to making guests’ dining experience fun and memorable.
Ritu is open for dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday for all-day dining. Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Happy Hour is Wednesday through Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m.The restaurant is located at 3111 24th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94110. For additional information and updates, visit www.ritusf.com or call 415-874-9045. Reservations are available through Yelp.
About Shubham Hospitality
Owned by Chef Rupam Bhagat, Shubham Hospitality Group comprises two San Francisco Bay Area restaurant concepts: Dum, a popular Indian food truck, and Ritu, an Indian soul food restaurant located in the San Francisco Mission district. Catering is also available for small and large-scale events.
*Photos by Kristen Loken. More photos available upon request.