This November, the rich and comforting flavours of Tamil Nadu make their way to Vijayawada as Novotel Vijayawada Varun presents the Tamil Nadu Food Festival, a week that blends taste, tradition, and the stories behind age-old recipes. The experience is created as a soft journey through the state’s kitchens, meant to highlight its heritage rather than just its dishes.

Leading the festival is Chef Kaviyarasu Sundaraju, a respected member of the South India Chefs’ Association. His work is firmly rooted in preserving South Indian culinary traditions, with deep expertise across Chettinadu, Kongunadu, Achi Samayal, Madurai specialties, and the flavours of Nanjil Nadu (Kanyakumari). His style focuses on authenticity and the use of classic techniques that define the region’s food culture.

Executive Chef Shivaramakrishna J shares that Tamil Nadu’s cuisine carries a deep sense of tradition and warmth, shaped by families who cooked with care and memory. He adds that Novotel Vijayawada Varun aims to offer meaningful food experiences to its guests, and hosting Chef Kaviyarasu allows the hotel to celebrate India’s diverse culinary landscape. Known for his balanced flavours and thoughtful presentation, Chef Kaviyarasu has received appreciation across India for his showcases.

From 22 to 28 November 2025, Food Exchange, the hotel’s all-day dining venue, transforms into a lively reflection of Tamil culture. The dinner buffet brings together a selection of dishes that highlight the true essence of Tamil cooking, built on flavour, balance, and traditional methods. Live counters recreate the energy of Tamil Nadu’s bustling kitchens, while the décor adds hints of the region’s rustic charm. Guests can look forward to favourites like Chettinad Chicken, Kothu Parotta, and several regional specialties that express the heart of the state’s cuisine.

As the flavours travel from Tamil Nadu to Vijayawada, the festival becomes more than a meal, it becomes an invitation to slow down, appreciate heritage, and reconnect with the comfort of food made with memory.

Date: 22 to 28 November 2025

Venue: Food Exchange, Novotel Vijayawada Varun

About Novotel:

Novotel Hotels, Suites & Resorts offers welcoming spaces designed to help guests balance work and leisure, with spacious rooms, family-friendly zones, intuitive design, and flexible work areas. With more than 600 hotels across over 60 countries, Novotel is part of Accor, a leading global hospitality group with 5,700+ properties across 110+ countries. The brand is also a participant in ALL Accor, the group’s booking and loyalty programme offering a wide range of rewards and experiences.