Sheraton Hyderabad is bringing the rich and bold flavours of Karaikudi cuisine to the city with a special food festival at its all-day dining restaurant, Feast. The Karaikudi Food Festival will take place from March 18 – 22, 2026, offering guests a chance to experience one of India’s most distinctive regional cuisines.

Leading the festival is Chef Athi Lakshmi, a home chef from Madurai known for her deep connection to traditional South Tamil Nadu cooking. Her recipes reflect the authentic methods and flavours that define the cuisine of Karaikudi.

Located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, Karaikudi is widely known as the cultural centre of the Chettiar community. The community has a long history of trade and cultural exchange, which has shaped a culinary style that is rich, bold, and deeply rooted in tradition. Chettinad cuisine is recognised for its strong use of freshly ground spices such as kalpasi (black stone flower), marathi mokku (dried flower pods), star anise, pepper, and sesame oil. These ingredients create dishes that are aromatic, layered, and full of flavour.

Chef Athi Lakshmi brings these traditional techniques to the festival, focusing on hand-ground masalas, slow cooking methods, and the bold gravies that define the cuisine.

“For me, food has never been just nourishment. Every dish I cook is a celebration of culture, of tradition, of love. I want every plate at Hyderabad to carry that same authenticity and pride,” says Chef Athi Lakshmi.

Guests dining at Feast can look forward to a variety of signature dishes from the Karaikudi table, including Chettinad Chicken, Karaikudi Mutton Chops, Kola Urundai, Pepper Crab, Kuzhi Paniyaram, Vazhai Poo Vadai, and a traditional Chettinad Vegetable Curry served with rice and dosa.

To enhance the experience, the restaurant will also feature a Karaikudi-themed setup inspired by the region’s colours, textures, and cultural elements, creating an immersive dining atmosphere.

With Hyderabad known for its strong food culture, the festival offers a unique opportunity for diners to explore the bold and authentic flavours of Karaikudi cuisine.

• What: Karaikudi Food Festival at Feast, Sheraton Hyderabad
• When: March 18 – 22, 2026
• Timings: Lunch & Dinner 12:30 – 3 PM | 7 – 11 PM.