India, as acclaimed by the renowned novelist E. M. Forster, stands distinct and enigmatic, with its food culture offering a fascinating journey through time. The vibrant history of Indian cuisine, filled with delectable twists and turns, aligns with the notion that exploring Indian culture can be achieved through its diverse foods. Socio-cultural reasons behind culinary choices can be historically traced across various cultures, making it imperative to delve into the history of food in India.

In the contemporary era, Indian cuisine has gracefully embraced international influences, resulting in the creation of innovative fusion dishes. Chefs experiment with local ingredients and global cooking styles to deliver a modern culinary experience while preserving traditional flavors.

An excellent example of this blend is Tushar Alagh, the face behind Pete's Deli, a charming spot in the bustling market of Hauz Khas, Delhi, offering a taste of New York's gourmet sandwich experience. Upon returning from the United States, Tushar, armed with culinary school education, aimed to establish his venture in Delhi. Identifying a gap in the market for a New York-style delicatessen, he founded Pete's Deli, driven by a passion to provide satisfying and high-quality products to his customers.

The term "delicatessen" finds its origin in the German term "delikatessen," translating to "delicacies" or "fine foods." Today, many traditional delicatessens remain family-owned, preserving recipes passed down through generations.

In the United States, the first delicatessen, "S. Volk & Co.," opened its doors in 1888 on New York's Lower East Side, evolving from retail stores selling various food items. The Jewish delicatessen became closely associated with New York City's cuisine and culture, leading to the rise of deli chains like Stage, Carnegie, and Katz's, with the pastrami sandwich becoming an iconic dish.

The distinctive flavor and style of New York-style delis continue to be a cherished aspect of America's food culture. These establishments exude a lively atmosphere, encouraging patrons to express themselves freely, eat with gusto, and enjoy a sense of community. Delicatessens embody abundance, community, and even a touch of celebrity.

Tushar's inspiration from the New York deli culture led to the creation of Pete's Deli, where everything, from bagels to mayos, is crafted in-house. He envisions his establishment not just as a sandwich shop but as a grocery store selling ingredients, encouraging customers to replicate the experience at home.

“My whole concept is if people, if you can eat the sandwich, you can buy the ingredients and make it at home as well. My vision for Pete’s is to educate people that they don't just have to go to a restaurant to eat something. I want to show them that anything that they are eating at the restaurant, they can make it at home. I don't hide any of my ingredients. I don't believe in opening up a packet of sauce and using it. Everything has to be made fresh so that it can taste fresh,” he said.

Having experienced both Indian and American culinary landscapes, Tushar observes a positive transformation in India's culinary industry. People's growing interest in understanding and exploring food motivates them to try diverse concepts. “I'm glad that people are enjoying this. They want to understand food better as well. Hence they want to try different things. They want to see different concepts," he added.

As India's culinary culture evolves, it will be captivating to witness emerging trends and innovations that blend cultural influences, contributing to an even more diverse gastronomic experience. From its roots to contemporary interpretations, Indian food reflects the nation's rich history and diversity, constantly evolving while drawing inspiration from tradition and embracing the latest trends.