Dakshin: A Journey Through Authentic South Indian Cuisine at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai

Dakshin: A Journey Through Authentic South Indian Cuisine at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai

By Author

Published on October 2, 2023

In the heart of Parel, Mumbai, Dakshin, a renowned premium South Indian fine dining restaurant, has found a new home at ITC Grand Central, continuing its legacy of 34 years. The restaurant’s roots date back to 1989 when a team led by Chef Praveen Anand embarked on a culinary journey to revive the disappearing lifestyle of peninsular India through Southern cooking.

Dakshin's commitment to quality and authenticity has always been at its core. The menu, curated after extensive testing and food tasting sessions, pays tribute to the rich culinary traditions of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry.

The newly introduced Dakshin at ITC Grand Central warmly welcomes guests with a 'Vanakkam' greeting and a fragrant jasmine coil, reminiscent of South Indian heritage. The highlight of the restaurant is its guided dining concept, offering four set menus from different Southern states, including Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh & Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, with clear choices for both vegetarian (Saivam) and non-vegetarian (Asaivam) preferences.

The immersive dining experience unfolds with a menu walkthrough, highlighting Taste & Flavour Notes, Textures to expect, Spice Blends, and seasonal Chutney of the day. Guests can choose from the elaborate Sampoornam, a seafood trail called Matsyam, or 'No Onion & No Garlic' options to suit their preferences.

Dakshin's culinary journey began in 1989, with a vision to recreate the splendor of Southern cooking and preserve the disappearing lifestyle of peninsular India. Top chefs from different regions of the South collaborated to offer an authentic taste of their respective cuisines. Today, Dakshin stands as a testament to the diverse and unique flavors of South Indian cuisine, bringing together different regional culinary traditions under one roof.

The brand's expansion to ITC Grand Central in Mumbai marks a continuation of its 34-year legacy, offering patrons an opportunity to explore the rich and varied tastes of the Southern states. With interiors reflecting the essence of South Indian culture, including wood accents, brass chandeliers, traditional statues, and soothing Carnatic music, Dakshin creates an immersive dining experience.

Dakshin's commitment to authenticity extends to its choice of ingredients and cooking techniques, ensuring that each dish reflects the traditions and flavors of its place of origin. From the use of coconut oil in Kerala to sesame oil and ghee in Tamil Nadu, Dakshin pays meticulous attention to regional nuances.

The simplified menu, presented with temple-like doors, guides guests through the culinary journey, explaining each dish and categorizing them by region. Chef's curated menus are available for Saivam (vegetarian), Asaivam (non-vegetarian), and Matsam (seafood), offering a diverse range of choices for all tastes.

Dakshin's dedication to perfection and authenticity makes it a destination for connoisseurs and novices alike, offering a true taste of South Indian cuisine that transports diners to the homes of the region's diverse communities.


The World Sushi Festival Takes Center Stage at Eight in Phoenix Mall of the Millennium, Pune

The World Sushi Festival Takes Center Stage at Eight in Phoenix Mall of the Millennium, Pune

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 29, 2024

Sushi enthusiasts and food lovers, mark your calendars! Eight at Phoenix Mall of the Millennium in Pune is thrilled to announce the launch of the World Sushi Festival, a unique celebration bringing together sushi creations inspired by eight countries. This festival promises a blend of traditional Japanese sushi with flavors influenced by global cuisines, each crafted with locally sourced ingredients for an authentic twist.

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The World Sushi Festival will feature flavors from:

  • Argentina – Bold chimichurri flavors in sushi for a vibrant fusion.
  • India – Spicy, aromatic sushi inspired by rich Indian spices.
  • Vietnam – Fresh, zesty rolls with a nod to Vietnamese street food.
  • Peru – Citrusy, refreshing flavors unique to Peruvian cuisine.
  • Korea – A mushroom medley and Korean staples for an umami-packed bite.
  • Turkey – Mediterranean-inspired sushi with Turkish influences.
  • Sri Lanka – Tropical crab stick flavors with a spicy kick.
  • Japan – Traditional sushi celebrating its Japanese origins with a modern touch.

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The festival menu includes five non-vegetarian and three vegetarian options, available in 4 and 8-piece servings, catering to all palates. Each sushi creation reflects the culinary heritage of its country, ensuring a diverse and memorable dining experience.

Chef Sagar Sarkar, Chef de Cuisine at Eight, shared, “The World Sushi Festival is more than just a celebration of sushi—it’s a journey across cultures, where each bite tells the story of a country through its ingredients and flavors. At Eight, we’re always pushing culinary boundaries, and this festival is our way of offering something truly special to Pune’s vibrant food scene.”

Embark on a global gastronomic journey at the World Sushi Festival, where tradition meets innovation. Join us at Eight, Phoenix Mall of the Millennium, and taste sushi like never before.

Event Details:

  • Dates: From October 15 onward
  • Location: Eight, Phoenix Mall of the Millennium, Pune
  • Reservation: +91 8657940135

Be part of this international culinary celebration and savor a taste of the world in every bite!


Chinese Wok Partners with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 in First-Ever Movie Integration

Chinese Wok Partners with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 in First-Ever Movie Integration

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 26, 2024

Chinese Wok, one of India’s leading quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains specializing in Chinese cuisine, has announced an exciting collaboration with the highly anticipated film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. This marks the brand’s first foray into movie integration, a strategic move aimed at reaching a wider audience through the film’s vast popularity and enhancing brand visibility nationwide. By merging the worlds of cinema and cuisine, Chinese Wok seeks to create an entertaining and flavorful experience for fans and customers alike.

The campaign spotlights Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 star Kartik Aaryan, bringing his signature charm together with Chinese Wok’s popular Desi Chinese dishes. This unique combination not only amplifies the buzz around the film but also celebrates the brand’s distinctive flavors that have made it a favorite among Indian food lovers.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3,” said Aayush Agrawal, Founder of Chinese Wok. “At Chinese Wok, we always look for innovative ways to connect with our audience in meaningful and engaging ways. By partnering with such a highly anticipated film, we can bring the energy of cinema together with the vibrant flavors of Desi Chinese. This campaign showcases our efforts to expand our reach and create memorable experiences that blend food and entertainment.”

Beyond the movie integration, Chinese Wok has launched an interactive Instagram filter called “Balance the Wok.” The filter engages users by challenging them to balance a virtual wok while collecting Desi Chinese ingredients, blending fun with a touch of culinary education. This interactive experience reinforces the bold flavors and authenticity that Chinese Wok is known for, while inviting fans to participate in the campaign on social media.

Link to Balance the Wok Game: Play Now  Open this link on a mobile device to see the effect

Chinese Wok, part of the Lenexis Foodworks group, is renowned for its variety of Chinese dishes, which are accessible through nearly 200 outlets in over 29 cities across India. The brand’s collaboration with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 not only enhances its presence but also aligns with its mission to deliver affordable, high-quality Desi Chinese cuisine while exploring new avenues to engage with customers.

This innovative campaign combines the thrill of the upcoming film with a unique food experience, bringing Chinese Wok’s offerings to a larger audience and reinforcing its connection with fans through creative digital engagement. Available for a limited time, the “Balance the Wok” filter and campaign are expected to attract attention from food lovers and film enthusiasts alike, underscoring the brand’s commitment to innovation and customer engagement.

About Lenexis Foodworks

Lenexis Foodworks, a prominent quick-service food company in India, offers a range of culinary experiences through its popular brands, including Chinese Wok, The Momo Co., and Big Bowl. Founded in 2015, Chinese Wok has become Lenexis’s flagship brand, delivering a unique blend of high-quality, hygienic Desi Chinese cuisine at accessible prices across a growing footprint in India’s urban centers. Lenexis continues to pioneer the QSR landscape by focusing on innovative offerings and memorable experiences for customers.

For more information, visit https://www.thechinesewok.com/.


Oven Fresh: A Vegetarian Delight on the Highway to Lonavala

Oven Fresh: A Vegetarian Delight on the Highway to Lonavala

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 24, 2024

As more people lean towards vegetarianism for health and sustainability reasons, finding top-notch vegetarian dining options can still be quite the task. Enter Oven Fresh, a culinary gem perfectly positioned on the busy highway to Lonavala. Since its inception in 1993 in Mumbai, this restaurant has carved a niche for itself, delighting both locals and travelers with its exceptional vegetarian offerings.

Oven Fresh prides itself on its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction. The spacious restaurant features thoughtfully arranged seating to cater to various group sizes. Guests can choose between Magnolia, which specializes in Indian, South Indian, and Gujarati dishes and seats up to 200 people, and Camellia, where patrons can savor Italian, Continental, Asian, and Mexican cuisine alongside signature cocktails. For those traveling with pets, the non-AC section is a welcoming space to enjoy meals together.

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Founder Raunak Mehta shares, “At Oven Fresh, we believe in the power of good food to bring people together. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction drives us to create a dining experience that is both memorable and enjoyable. We are grateful for the support of our community and look forward to continuing to serve you with the best vegetarian cuisine.”

imageThe menu is a delightful mix of signature dishes and refreshing beverages, featuring fruity mocktails and unique cocktails. Among the standout offerings, the Veg Kolhapuri shines with its spicy tomato gravy, while the Mix Veg Kafir Lime offers a distinct yellow gravy that’s a must-try. Over in Camellia, the Paneer Pepper Steak paired with Mexican rice and BBQ sauce has garnered a loyal following. And let’s not forget their pizzas, made with a sourdough base, which have earned rave reviews.

The ambiance at Oven Fresh is cozy yet contemporary, enriched with rustic charm. Warm lighting and comfortable seating create a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for individuals, families, and groups. Adding to the experience, live piano performances featuring soulful retro Bollywood tunes fill the air every evening, making it a perfect choice for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.

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Ensuring freshness and quality, Oven Fresh sources its ingredients from trusted local suppliers and adheres to stringent food safety standards. Vegans can also indulge in a variety of options, including flavorful tofu dishes and crisp salads. For those who prefer dining at home, reliable delivery is available through Zomato and Swiggy.

Every visit to Oven Fresh promises a culinary experience that celebrates the best of vegetarian cuisine.

For more information, visit: Oven Fresh Instagram

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