A Sadhya of Story & Soul, in Celebration of Kerala’s Harvest and the Spirit of Onam
For the very first time Jamavar Dubai marks Onam 2025 with a one-of-a-kind culinary tribute, presenting Leelamma’s Onam Sadhya, a multi-course celebration of Kerala’s harvest season available exclusively from 26 August to 5 September. Drawing on the Keralan heritage of the Nair family, the founders of Jamavar, the experience is inspired by Onam, the vibrant festival of southern India, where food, family, and ritual come together in a joyful celebration of abundance and reunion.
Rooted in the subtle strength and cherished memory of Leela Nair, fondly known as Leelamma—the beloved matriarch of the Nair family, this Onam Sadya is both a personal tribute expressed through a multi-course feast, reflecting the generosity of the land and the spirit of togetherness. Traditionally served on a banana leaf during the harvest festival, each dish is thoughtfully presented to honor balance, seasonality, and cultural significance. At Jamavar, this timeless tradition is reimagined through a regal banana leaf-style presentation, where every element pays homage to Kerala’s culinary identity while carrying forward Leelamma’s nostalgic festive favourites, quiet grace and the endearing legacy she brought to every gathering.
Curated by Culinary Director Chef Surender Mohan, Jamavar’s Onam Sadhya brings together an expressive collection of dishes that reflect Kerala’s geography and layered traditions. The experience begins with crisp textures and sharp pickles — Banana Chips, Sharkara Varatti, Inji Puli, and Mango Pickle, each one designed to awaken the palate and prepare it for what follows. A medley of warm, coconut-laced vegetable preparations such as Avial, Olan, and Kaalan are accompanied by the earthy depth of Kootu Curry and Erissery, balanced by the tangy notes of Sambhar, Pineapple Rasam, and Naranga Achar. Staples such as Matta Rice or Doubled Boiled Rice, Nai Parippu, and crispy Pappadam ground the meal in comfort and tradition, completing the composition.
To honour Leelamma’s personal signature, Jamavar presents its Sadhya with a delicately spiced King Fish and a vibrant Alleppey Prawn Curry — a reflection of Kerala’s coastal bounty and the celebratory richness that defined her festive table. A fully vegetarian experience is also available, staying true to the spirit of Onam and its inclusive generosity.
The Sadhya concludes on a sweet, soulful note with a trio of traditional desserts: Pal Payasam, Delicate and creamy; Parippu Pradhaman, rich with jaggery and moong dal; and an elaichi banana— a final gesture of celebration, comfort, and completeness.
Set within the richly detailed interiors of the Address Residences in Downtown Dubai and inspired by The Viceroy’s House in New Delhi, Jamavar offers an elegant and serene setting in which to honour the season. Available from 26 August to 5 September for both lunch and dinner, Leelamma’s Onam Sadhya invites guests to reconnect with heritage, flavour and the joy of gathering, with menus priced from AED 195 (non-veg) and AED 165 (veg).
This Onam, Jamavar welcomes you to celebrate not only tradition but the spirit behind it, of recipes passed down, stories shared, and the quiet joy of a full table.
Jamavar Dubai
Location: Address Residences Opera District – Downtown Dubai – Dubai
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 12pm – 12am | Saturday – Sunday: 12:30pm – 12am
Contact & Reservations: 04 553 7852
Website: https://jamavarrestaurants.com/indian-restaurant-dubai/
