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Food Allergy Awareness Course

FICSI offers a specialized food allergy awareness course designed to educate food handlers, chefs, and industry professionals on identifying, managing, and preventing food allergen risks. This course provides essential knowledge about common allergens, cross-contamination prevention, accurate labeling, and safe food preparation practices. Through interactive online modules and expert guidance, participants learn how to create safer dining environments for consumers with allergies. By completing the food allergy awareness course, professionals enhance their food safety expertise, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and contribute to building a culture of safety and trust within the food and hospitality sector. Read more :- https://www.ficsi.in/food-allergen-management-training-course

Executive Housekeeper

A passionate hotelier with over eight years of experience in India’s leading luxury hotels and resorts, currently enhancing guest experiences at Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur. With a strong foundation built through my journey at The Oberoi Group, Ananda in the Himalayas, Jw Marriott and Suryagarh, I have developed a deep understanding of personalized guest service, attention to detail, and operational excellence. Presently working as an Executive Housekeeper at Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur, I focus on blending traditional Indian hospitality with modern guest expectations. My passion lies in creating memorable experiences, developing teams, and continuously redefining service standards that reflect warmth, culture, and care.

The Evolution of Service: From Gueridon to Modern Hospitality Perspective

The hospitality industry has undergone significant changes over the centuries, with service styles continuously evolving to reflect shifting guest preferences, cultural values, and societal norms. Among these styles, “Gueridon Service” has long been recognized for its elegance, precision, and personalized touch. Interestingly, it shares certain characteristics with India’s humble roadside eateries — both emphasizing the art of live preparation and guest interaction. Gueridon Service: A Regal Legacy Gueridon Service originated in Europe, where it was once a hallmark of fine dining. This elaborate service style involved chefs or waiters preparing and serving food tableside, often with great flair and theatrical presentation — from flambéing desserts to carving meats in front of guests. It symbolized luxury, sophistication, and exclusivity, catering to aristocrats and the elite. However, in recent years, its popularity has declined. The high operational cost, need for skilled staff, and time-intensive nature of the service have made it less practical in today’s fast-paced dining environments. Moreover, some critics argue that its roots in an era of class distinction — where servers were treated as subordinates — make it less appealing in a modern world that values equality, humility, and inclusiveness. Indian Roadside Eateries: A Popular Trend among all walks of life Interestingly, Indian roadside eateries share a surprising similarity with Gueridon Service. In these bustling spaces, cooks prepare food right in front of customers, creating a lively and engaging dining experience. The sizzling of a tawa, the aroma of freshly ground spices, and the rhythm of quick cooking evoke a sense of authenticity and warmth that connects directly with diners.  Though informal, this form of service mirrors the spirit of Gueridon — emphasizing freshness, presentation, and the personal connection between cook and guest. Both styles celebrate the visual and sensory delight of seeing one’s food prepared before their eyes. A Clash of Cultures So, why has Gueridon Service fallen out of favor in modern times? One reason lies in its association with a bygone era, marked by social hierarchies and elitism.  As one expert observes, “Gueridon Service was practiced when the world was ruled by kings and conquerors, who displayed their power and legacy through such elaborate dining rituals, while the indigenous people served as subordinates or slaves.” This historical context contrasts sharply with today’s hospitality values, where guests and service professionals are seen as equals in creating meaningful experiences. Modern hospitality emphasizes respect, cultural sensitivity, and inclusivity — qualities that make rigidly hierarchical service models feel outdated. Adapting to Changing Times In contrast, Indian roadside eateries continue to thrive within their cultural framework. Their success lies in simplicity, transparency, and emotional connection. Guests appreciate the authenticity and personal touch that come from watching their food being freshly prepared. This engagement reflects a deep cultural preference for warmth and human interaction — values that remain timeless even as service models evolve. As the hospitality industry continues to adapt to new expectations, technology, and global influences, the focus must remain on understanding cultural context and guest psychology. Efficiency, personalization, and respect must go hand in hand to create truly memorable guest experiences. Conclusion While Gueridon Service may now be considered a relic of the past, its essence — personalized attention and tableside preparation — continues to inspire modern service philosophies. Its unexpected resemblance to Indian roadside eateries reminds us that hospitality is not confined to luxury but rooted in human connection and care. By embracing service styles that prioritize empathy, efficiency, and cultural awareness, hospitality professionals can bridge the past and present — creating experiences that resonate with the diverse expectations of today’s global guests.

Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh Welcomes New Director of Sales & Marketing

Educational Background and International Career Mr. Parker holds an MBA in Sales & Marketing from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad (2000–2002). This strong academic foundation has shaped his strategic mindset, leadership skills, and ability to build high-performing teams, leaving a remarkable footprint throughout his professional journey. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Parker has held senior leadership positions at renowned international brands, including Furama Resort Danang, The Leela Palaces Hotels & Resorts, and Accor Hotels with key roles at Novotel Danang Premier Han River and Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences. His diverse experience across dynamic markets has equipped him with a global perspective and the agility to adapt to emerging industry trends. Vision with Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh Speaking about his new role, Mr. Parker shared: “I am truly honored to join the Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh family – a stunning resort with tremendous potential. I believe that combining international experience with Mövenpick’s signature hospitality will create a strong foundation for us to grow together, delivering memorable guest experiences while strengthening the resort’s position both domestically and internationally.” Connecting the Indian Wedding Market – From the Very First Steps As a native of India, Mr. Parker has deep insight into the country’s wedding market, known for extravagant celebrations that span multiple days, host hundreds of guests, and demand world-class service standards. Early in his tenure at Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh, he proposed a special fam trip dedicated to top Indian wedding planners, with the aim of introducing Cam Ranh as an emerging and promising wedding destination in Vietnam. From October 6 to 9, 2025, a fam trip delegation of 42 professionals from 20 leading wedding planning companies in India visited Khanh Hoa to tour and experience various resorts in the region - with Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh being one of the key highlights of the itinerary. At the resort, the delegation was warmly welcomed with a vibrant traditional lion dance performance in a setting that was both formal and friendly, accompanied by the resort’s executive team and representatives from the Khanh Hoa Department of Tourism. In addition to its ideal location on the pristine Bai Dai Beach, Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh impressed guests with its luxurious beachfront villas, multi-level swimming pools with water slides, and expansive outdoor spaces - making it a perfect venue for lavish weddings amid a tropical backdrop. What truly stood out was the specially curated Indian dining experience, meticulously prepared by the resort’s Indian chef. This thoughtful detail not only offered an authentic culinary journey but also reflected the team’s deep understanding of Indian wedding culture - a key factor highly appreciated by the fam trip guests in their search for future international wedding destinations. About Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh Nestled along the pristine Bai Dai Beach and just 10 minutes from Cam Ranh International Airport, Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh is the perfect destination for families, couples, and groups.  The resort offers more than 500 ocean-view rooms and villas, a diverse selection of dining venues, and a wide range of leisure and wellness facilities designed to international standards. With heartfelt service and the signature Swiss hospitality of the Mövenpick brand, the resort has quickly become a top choice for travelers exploring Vietnam’s central coast.

Events

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Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Hosts Its Annual Cake Mixing Celebration

Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort & Convention Center welcomed the Christmas spirit with its Annual Cake Mixing Ceremony, setting a warm and cheerful tone for the festive season. The event brought together guests, children from the Marriott Home and the hotel’s culinary team for a joyful evening filled with aromas of spices, fruits and holiday treats. Led by Executive Chef Vijayan and his team, everyone joined in mixing the rich ingredients that go into the signature Christmas cake. Premium fruits, nuts, raisins and spices were blended with fine rum, wine and syrups, creating a mix that filled the air with festive flavours. To match the mood, a specially curated menu was served, offering guests a taste of the season. The presence of young guests added an extra layer of joy to the celebration, making the occasion even more special for everyone involved. Speaking about the event, Mr. Prashanth Kuchimanchi, General Manager, Four Points By Sheraton Mahabalipuram, said, "This is a time for giving and spreading joy, and we're thrilled to share this special tradition with our guests, especially the kids from Marriott Home. We look forward to making more memories together this holiday season." The evening wrapped up with warm moments, laughter and delicious food, leaving guests with memories that perfectly captured the joy of the festive season.

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Thomas Cook India Enhances Its Forex Retail Experience with New Kottayam Store

Thomas Cook (India) Limited has opened its newly designed forex store in Kottayam, Kerala, marking a notable upgrade in both layout and customer comfort. Centrally located with a spacious setup and improved service facilities, the store adds to the Company’s expanding footprint, taking its Foreign Exchange network in the State to 14 outlets. The new Kottayam outlet gives Thomas Cook India access to a wide mix of travellers including families, professionals and students. Its central position in Kerala makes it a strong location, thanks to easy connectivity to Kochi, Cochin International Airport and Infopark Kochi. With access to important business routes and seamless transport links, the outlet is well-placed to support the Company’s growing forex business. It also serves nearby regions like Alappuzha and Thiruvalla, both known for their strong tourism and NRI presence. The store offers a complete range of Thomas Cook India’s Forex Portfolio, including, Prepaid Travel Cards in partnership with Mastercard and Visa: Borderless Travel card with 12 global currencies,  FX Enterprise card, India’s first Eco-Friendly Forex prepaid card, Study Buddy card created for overseas education and  Thomas Cook One Currency Card with zero cross currency conversion fees Digital Services for easy access: Forex App, Online Forex, Forex on WhatsApp with 24x7 services (from live rate checks to end-to-end transactions), and V-KYC Overseas Education Forex for students in Kottayam: University/tuition fee transfers, living expenses, discounted air fares, excess baggage support, insurance and Study Buddy Card Currency: 26 global destination currencies Overseas Remittances: Send Money Abroad services to over 120 countries Thomas Cook Foreign Exchange continues to position itself as India ka Forex Specialist, serving over 1 million customers every year through its website, FX Now app, call centre 1800-2099-100, and a network of 125+ Forex stores across 69 metros and tier 2–4 cities. Its Ghar pe Forex promise of doorstep delivery in 2 hours adds convenience and trust to the overall experience.

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Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore Launches Claus & Cravings Lobster Roll Pop-Up

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore has introduced Claus & Cravings, a decadent lobster roll pop-up offering a seaside-inspired escape right in the heart of the city. Set by the pool at The Bengaluru Brasserie, the experience brings guests the taste of the coast through fresh, buttery, indulgent lobster rolls served à la carte. This limited-period offering is designed to create the perfect early-evening indulgence with expertly crafted flavours and a breezy ambience. The pop-up runs from 14th to 23rd November between 5 PM and 8 PM at The Bengaluru Brasserie, inviting guests to unwind and enjoy comforting sides and refreshing drinks paired with delicious seafood creations. Guests can explore a thoughtfully curated menu of five distinct lobster rolls, each bringing a unique twist to this coastal classic. The Classic Lobster Roll features steamed and cured lobster layered in buttered buns, while the Cajun Spiced Lobster Roll offers a bold and smoky flavour. The Green Lobster Roll presents herb-marinated lobster paired with slaw and chermoula butter for a fresh, vibrant bite. For those who prefer a richer profile, The Holy Lobster Roll blends lobster with avocado, basil, and a zesty garlic-lemon butter. The Kimchi Lobster Roll adds a fusion element with napa cabbage kimchi and sriracha mayo, creating a lively mix of textures and flavours. All rolls are served with fries and warm butter, enhancing the indulgent experience. Whether guests are looking to enjoy a relaxed evening by the pool or craving a rich, flavourful seafood treat, Claus & Cravings promises an unforgettable experience for seafood lovers and evening grazers alike.

Hotelier Community

Chef Jerson Fernandes: A Culinary Story of Resilience

In the high-octane world of gastronomy, few stories blend humility and achievement quite like that of Chef Jerson Fernandes. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, the Guinness World Record holder and Director of Culinary Operations (Corporate Food) at Sodexo India opens up about a journey defined not by fame, but by fortitude. Today, as one of India’s most respected culinary leaders, his story isn’t just about mastering recipes, it’s about mastering resilience. Before the accolades and White House invitations, there was a young man in a modest kitchen, learning the true value of hard work. Chef Jerson began his journey as a dishwasher, a role that taught him humility, patience, and the discipline that would one day define his leadership. For most chefs, the dream of cooking for international delegates belongs to fantasy. For Chef Jerson, it became history, twice. Being the only Indian chef to cook for White House delegates on two separate occasions placed Indian flavours at the heart of global diplomacy. His achievements include being named Best Executive Chef of India across seven platforms and winning the Hotelier India Award twice, an unmatched feat in the industry. Beyond accolades, his philosophy remains deeply human. He believes authenticity is India’s greatest luxury—whether in a simple Goan curry or a contemporary tasting menu. His culinary repertoire has touched the lives of global icons across business, cinema, and sports, yet his focus remains unchanged: connection through food. As a mentor, leader, and advocate for inclusion, Chef Jerson has trained special needs children, collaborated with the armed forces, and transformed kitchens into spaces of learning. With over 4 million monthly digital impressions, he continues to inspire and educate a generation of young chefs. It was a privilege speaking with Chef Jerson Fernandes, whose journey proves that true success is born from humility and heart. Read the complete interview in the November issue of Hospitality News on our website, or get your physical copy to explore his full story.

The Art of Soulful Hospitality at GRT Hotels

In an era when luxury is often measured by grandeur, Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, is crafting a new narrative, one where luxury feels human, purposeful, and rooted in culture. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, he delves into how GRT Hotels has evolved into a symbol of Soulful Hospitality, blending design, sustainability, and local storytelling to create experiences that truly connect people with people. Under his leadership, GRT has not only expanded its footprint across South India but also redefined what modern Indian hospitality can be conscious, inclusive, and deeply experiential. In this featured interview, Vikram shares insights on how the brand’s journey began, the inspiration behind The Great Butterfly Effect, and how initiatives like The Great Being and Great Divine Darshan are shaping wellness and spiritual tourism for the next generation of travelers. From sustainable operations to promoting women in leadership, and from reimagining the Indian wedding experience with Great Ceremonies to integrating AI for hyper-personalized service, every aspect of GRT’s evolution reflects a balance between innovation and emotion. Vikram’s reflections go beyond business; they reveal a philosophy that hospitality, at its core, is an act of care and connection. What stands out most in our exchange is his conviction that India’s future in tourism lies in authenticity, in celebrating regional identities while delivering global excellence. It’s a vision that feels both ambitious and deeply grounded. It was a truly inspiring conversation with Vikram Cotah, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality. Read the full interview in the November issue of HospitalityNews, available now on our website  and don’t miss your chance to grab a physical copy for your collection.

Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

In an exclusive feature with October edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, Chef Altamsh Patel, Director of Culinary at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, shared insights that reveal not only his passion for gastronomy but also the philosophy that drives his success. His journey is a testament to how unexpected paths often lead to extraordinary destinations. When asked about his defining moment, Chef Altamsh reflected on his early life where his parents wished for him to become a doctor. Yet, destiny had other plans. Drawn into hotel management and eventually the kitchen of the Taj, he discovered a true sense of belonging. “What began as honoring my parents soon grew into a lifelong love, reminding me that sometimes the unplanned path becomes the one we cherish most,” he shared. Speaking about innovation and tradition, he noted, “At Hilton Mumbai International Airport, balancing innovation with tradition means sharing a part of our heart with every guest.” To him, food is storytelling, an art that surprises guests while honoring culture. Chef Altamsh also underlined how food creates cherished memories. Whether in restaurants, banquets, or in-room dining, he and his team strive to ensure every plate carries love, passion, and culture, making each meal unforgettable. On sustainability, his commitment is firm. From locally sourced ingredients to Hilton’s Travel with Purpose mission, practices like waste-to-fertilizer initiatives, cage-free eggs, and glass bottles redefine responsible luxury dining. As a mentor, Chef Altamsh believes in nurturing creativity, humility, and resilience among young chefs, ensuring excellence remains a collective effort. Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about India’s micro-cuisines and Peruvian influences, combining authenticity with multi-sensory experiences to shape the future of luxury dining. It was truly an inspiring and enriching conversation with Chef Altamsh Patel. For the complete feature, explore the Hospitalitynews October Magazine, available on our website (E-Magazine) and as a physical copy.

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