Houston’s culinary scene is set to welcome a new addition as Chopped champion Chef Jassi Bindra, renowned for his work at The Woodlands’ Amrina, prepares to open Kitchen Rumors. This contemporary Indian-inspired restaurant will occupy the former Xin Chao space at 2310 Decatur Street in Houston’s Sixth Ward, with an anticipated opening in late spring 2025.
Kitchen Rumors is the latest venture by the Kahani Social Group, led by brothers Surpreet and Preet Paul Singh, alongside Chef Bindra. The group aims to redefine Indian cuisine by infusing traditional dishes with global flavors, creating a menu that is both accessible and exciting for a diverse clientele. Signature offerings will include bison short rib nihari, pan-seared branzino, and panna cotta shahi tukda, each dish crafted to tell its own unique story.
Chef Jassi emphasizes the evolution of Indian cuisine, stating, “At Kitchen Rumors, we believe Indian cuisine is no longer confined to its origins.” This philosophy aligns with the group’s mission to provoke conversations and offer a fresh dining experience that challenges traditional perceptions of Indian food.
The Kahani Social Group has been instrumental in introducing innovative dining concepts to the Houston area. Following the success of Amrina, which opened in 2022 and was recognized by Southern Living as one of Houston’s best new restaurants, the group launched Pok Pok Po, an Indian fried chicken concept, and Bol, a fast-casual Indian bowl restaurant, both located in Midtown.
The new restaurant will take over the space previously occupied by Xin Chao, a modern Vietnamese eatery that debuted in 2020 under the partnership of chefs Christine Ha and Tony Nguyen. Xin Chao closed its doors in June 2024 due to challenges including a slow crawfish season and the aftermath of severe storms that impacted business operations.
As Kitchen Rumors prepares to open, Houston food enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the innovative dishes and unique dining experience that Chef Jassi and the Kahani Social Group are known to deliver. This new establishment promises to add a vibrant chapter to the city’s diverse culinary narrative.
