In a neighborhood known for its vibrant walls and spray-painted edifices, it’s no wonder that one of Miami’s most colorful restaurants resides in Wynwood. Walk into Rishtedar and you are immediately blinded by the warmth of the red, blue, green and yellow hues adorning the walls and lanterns, complete with the scents and smells of centuries of family recipes.
Rishtedar started in Santiago, Chile in 2007 and has since grown to over four locations, with a fifth one currently under construction (Miami opened in February 2023).
But Rishtedar is more than a restaurant—it’s an immersive cultural journey that brings the vibrant traditions of India to life. While the menu boasts bold, flavorful dishes rooted in regional Indian cuisine, it’s the thoughtful, multisensory experiences that truly set Rishtedar apart. From the moment guests arrive, they’re welcomed into a world of color, connection, and celebration.
One of Rishtedar’s signature touches is the bindi ritual, where guests are adorned with the traditional forehead mark—a symbol of love, energy, and spirituality. Before dining, guests are invited to participate in a hand-washing ceremony, a meaningful tradition that sets the tone for a shared, intentional meal. Throughout the evening, the atmosphere comes alive with the sounds of Bollywood music and spontaneous dancing, encouraging diners to embrace the joy and rhythm of Indian culture.
“As a child, I was taught that every guest should be treated as a manifestation of God – an avatar,” says owner Vikram Thadani. ”That philosophy became the foundation of Rishtedar. Our vision is simple: to make you feel like you’re in the living room of an Indian home. Warm, sacred, full of love – and with a few surprises up its sleeve.”
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something beyond the ordinary, Rishtedar delivers a one-of-a-kind experience where hospitality, tradition, and theatrical flair come together seamlessly. It’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about how you feel from the moment you walk in. Every detail is thoughtfully crafted to create lasting memories and transport guests to the heart of India, one soulful moment at a time.
Indulge in signature dishes like the rich and comforting Butter Chicken, the bold Karay Murgh Tikka Masala, the flavorful Goa Chilly Bengan, and the decadent Lobster Masala—all served with warm, pillowy naan and fragrant basmati rice. Round out your journey with authentic Indian desserts that offer a sweet, satisfying finale to an unforgettable meal.
In addition to fine Indian cuisine, here’s what else you can expect with a journey through Rishtedar:
The Bindi
Every guest is welcomed with a bindi on the forehead – a symbolic gesture deeply rooted in Indian tradition. It represents the third eye, the gateway to intuition and inner wisdom. In spiritual terms, it activates the ajna chakra, helping open the path to higher consciousness. In our restaurant, it’s also our way of saying, “Welcome home.”
The Hand Washing Ritual
Our hand-washing ceremony happens at the end of the meal. Since Indian food is traditionally enjoyed with the hands (and yes – we proudly teach you how to do it right from our menu), it’s both a practical and symbolic way to close the experience. The water is infused with cardamom, rose water, and lemon – not only to cleanse the hands but to leave a lasting aromatic touch after a rich journey through spices.
Bollywood Dancers & Fire Show
Rishtedar uses live Bollywood dance and, on special nights, fire performances as a form of storytelling. “It’s not just entertainment – it’s our way of taking you to the heart of India without leaving your table. You travel through flavor, music, color, and heat – literally,” says Thadani.
You can make reservations for Bollywood nights here – every Thursday!