Nestled beneath the bustling streets of Dhaka, VAULT is an immersive culinary experience that harmoniously blends bold design, innovative cuisine, and an international flair. Co-owned by five dynamic individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, VAULT exemplifies the power of creative collaboration. The group brought together by Managing Director Sumaiya Mohsinin, brings restaurateurs, fashion entrepreneurs, and seasoned global diners to create a space that is as visually striking as it is gastronomically impressive. From its very inception
VAULT was envisioned as a fine dining establishment that would introduce Dhaka to a refined, globally inspired take on Asian fusion cuisine.
The name “VAULT” reflects both the physical space—set in a basement that resembles a bank vault—and the concept of exclusivity and hidden luxury. With four banks located directly above the restaurant, the thematic design made perfect sense, and it was embraced wholeheartedly by the design team.
With five co-owners, VAULT operates through a unique division of labor. Each partner contributes their specific expertise to ensure the restaurant operates at the highest level. For instance, partners from the fashion and interior design sectors manage the visual aspects—from sourcing luxurious fabrics for furniture to overseeing color harmony. Others focus on operations, finance, and culinary development.
Director Tanvir Azad, who brings extensive experience from the restaurant industry, oversees daily kitchen operations and service standards. His vision of continuous research and development keeps the menu evolving, with new ideas being tested and refined regularly.
The architectural and interior design of VAULT was spearheaded by Mehruz Munir and Saadat Chowdhury, two of the partners, in collaboration with Studio.O, under the creative direction of Sudeshna Shireen Chowdhury. Over eight months of intensive planning and execution, Studio.O crafted a space that is simultaneously moody, intimate, and extravagantly detailed. The color palette—rich shades of dark green, accented by burnt orange, gold, and brushed brass—sets a dramatic yet welcoming tone. This luxurious aesthetic is not only visually pleasing but deliberately curated to enhance the dining experience.
Stepping into VAULT is akin to entering a hidden chamber.
From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted by the soothing sound of a cascading waterfall at the entrance, setting the tone for what lies beyond. Inside, dim ambient lighting is complemented by carefully positioned light wells that allow natural light to filter in during the day. These details make VAULT feel like a world apart—secluded yet vibrant.
Among the standout elements are the Vault Room and the Gold Room—private dining spaces that echo the restaurant’s namesake, with interiors reminiscent of old-world bank vaults. VAULT also boasts an art collection created by students from Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts (Charukola), giving the space an authentic local touch. Even the restrooms have been thoughtfully designed, often prompting guests to take photos thanks to their elegant finishes and unique ambiance.
The heart of VAULT lies in its innovative kitchen, helmed by Michelin-guided Chef Nan from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Chef Nan, along with an executive chef from Bangkok and a dedicated culinary team, has curated a menu that fuses traditional Asian ingredients with Nordic culinary influences. This results in a sophisticated and unique gastronomic offering not currently found elsewhere in Dhaka.
Signature dishes include the Hillsha Fishcake Lollipop—a reinvention of Bangladesh’s beloved hilsha fish in an entirely new form—and “The Nest,” a visually stunning dish resembling a bird’s nest, made with chicken, egg, and a drizzle of truffle oil. Each plate is not only a treat for the palate but also a visual work of art, reflecting the restaurant’s dedication to both taste and presentation. VAULT’s attention to detail extends to its furniture, much of which was custom-designed and imported. Statement pieces include burnt orange chairs with gold hand-shaped armrests, embroidered mustard velvet sofas, and brass-accented tables.
Fabrics were individually sourced and embroidered to create pieces that double as functional artworks.
This synergy between fashion, design, and hospitality adds an additional layer of sophistication to the space.
Fine dining in Dhaka remains a niche but growing sector. VAULT is one of the few establishments boldly attempting to define what fine dining can mean in a local context—fusing international flavors, high-end design, and impeccable service to offer an experience that is both world-class and deeply rooted in its environment.
The founders understand the challenges of operating in a competitive and evolving market. But with unwavering commitment to excellence, ongoing R&D, and a clear brand identity, VAULT is positioned to become a cornerstone of Dhaka’s modern dining landscape. Plans for future growth include expanding event offerings—such as curated seated dinners and corporate events—while continuing to refine the dining experience.
In a city rich with culinary diversity, VAULT is carving its own niche—one luxurious, luminous plate at a time. “Guests should enter with a smile and leave with an even bigger one,” says Tanvir Azad. And with a space this meticulously curated—from food and music to color and mood—that’s a promise VAULT is well-equipped to keep.
