From Indian Accent to Masque: See Who Made CNT’s Top Restaurant Awards

From Indian Accent to Masque: See Who Made CNT’s Top Restaurant Awards

By Author

Published on October 12, 2023

Indian Accent is not a newcomer to acclaims and applause. Nestled in the heart of New Delhi, this gem of a restaurant has, for the third time, clinched the top spot at the Condé Nast Traveller Top Restaurant Awards. It's not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of innovative culinary arts where traditional Indian flavors are reimagined, giving birth to a contemporary dining experience that lingers in the memory long after the meal is over.

But this story of culinary artistry doesn't end in the enchanting corridors of Indian Accent. A hop, skip, and jump away in the scenic landscapes of Goa, Bomras carves out its niche, claiming the number two spot on the coveted list. The eatery’s revival in Anjuna has seen it flourish, bringing a seamless blend of Burmese, Vietnamese, and Thai flavors to the table. Each dish is a melodious symphony of tastes that dances gracefully on the palate.

Masque in Mumbai is another name that has etched its signature in the annals of India’s gastronomic scene. Positioned at a proud third in the ranking, Masque is an odyssey of flavors, a journey that takes you through the verdant forests of Kashmir to the golden shores of Goa. Every season sees a new menu, a fresh narrative of India's diverse culinary traditions, morphing homegrown ingredients into exquisite, fine-dining manifestations.

This year marked the grand return of the CNT Top Restaurant Awards after a pause induced by the global lockdowns. It unveiled an eclectic mix of classic and new entrants, each echoing the dynamic shifts and evolution in India’s dining patterns. Mumbai emerged as a star, boasting twelve restaurants that weave a narrative of the city’s diverse and rich culinary offerings. Veronica’s entrance into the top 10 is emblematic of a dining culture that is as rooted in tradition as it is in forward-thinking innovation.

Indian Accent stands as a testament to the inventive spirit of Indian cuisine. Its Chef’s Tasting menu is a handpicked curation of dishes that are iconic, each telling a story of India’s gastronomic heritage interlaced with global influences. Bomras, with its signature dishes like the tea leaf salad and smoked pork fried rice, captures the essence of diverse Asian cuisines, presenting a dining experience that transcends borders. Masque, under the adept hands of Chef Varun Totlani and the visionary entrepreneur Aditi Dugar, transforms hyperlocal ingredients into masterpieces, marrying tradition and innovation.

In these top restaurants, every dish, every flavor, is an ode to India’s vast culinary landscape. They are more than dining spaces; they are experiential journeys that cater to the soul, offering not just food but a holistic experience. From the artful presentation of dishes at Indian Accent to the innovative flavors of Bomras and the seasonal narratives of Masque, each restaurant embodies a unique chapter of India’s rich culinary tale.

As we applaud their achievements, let’s not just celebrate the art of fine dining but also acknowledge the passionate individuals, the chefs, the restaurateurs, and the entire teams who breathe life into these establishments, making them iconic landmarks in India’s culinary journey.


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


The Reservoire Indiranagar Launches Exclusive Sunday Breakfast Menu

The Reservoire Indiranagar Launches Exclusive Sunday Breakfast Menu

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 23, 2024

The Reservoire Indiranagar, a beloved destination for food enthusiasts in Bengaluru, is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated Sunday breakfast menu. Tailored to suit a wide range of palates, the new menu offers something for everyone—from health-conscious diners to those looking to indulge in some comfort food.

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One of the standout dishes is the B.E.L.T., a savory delight that combines thick-cut bacon, a perfectly cooked over-easy egg, crisp lettuce, tomato, and herb aioli, all sandwiched between toasted sourdough slices. For a heartier option, the Bacon N Pita delivers an irresistible combination of grilled pita, bacon jam, fried eggs, sausage, and basil pesto, guaranteed to satisfy.

For those with a sweet tooth, the decadent Banoffee Pancakes offer a perfect indulgence, while the Pitaya Mix Berry Smoothie Bowl provides a vegan-friendly, refreshing option with its vibrant mix of dragon fruit, berries, and banana, topped with chia seeds and nuts.

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The Reservoire Indiranagar invites guests to enjoy this delectable breakfast spread every Sunday from 8 AM to 11 AM. Whether you're craving a savory dish or something sweet, the new menu promises to elevate your Sunday morning dining experience.

When: Every Sunday
Where: The Reservoire Indiranagar
Address: 3rd and 4th Floor, No. 949, 12th Main Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Appareddipalya, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560038

Drop in for a delightful breakfast experience that’s as diverse as it is delicious!


ProWine India 2024: Exploring Opportunities, Talent, and Culture in Wine and Spirits

ProWine India 2024: Exploring Opportunities, Talent, and Culture in Wine and Spirits

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 21, 2024

The ProWine India 2024 event is set to bring industry experts, bartenders, sommeliers, and enthusiasts together at the Jio World Convention Centre, Pavilion 3, on November 8-9, 2024. With engaging panel discussions and exciting competitions, the two-day event promises to be a hub for insights, networking, and the celebration of talent in the wine and spirits industry. 

Panel: Importing Wine and Spirits – Opportunities and Challenges

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On November 8, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, industry experts will explore "The Realities & Opportunities of Importing Wine & Spirits in India". The panel discussion, held on the show floor, will be led by key industry players, including Sanjay Menon (Sansula), Jackie Matai (Aspri Spirits), Vishal Kadakia (Wine Park), John Southwell (Austrade), and Vianney Meynier (Business France India). This session will provide valuable insights into the complexities of import regulations, market potential, and evolving consumer preferences.

Celebrating Excellence: ProWine Bartenders' Competition

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The ProWine Bartenders' Competition will take place on November 9, 2024, featuring some of the best bartenders from across the country. The finalists include LV Swaroop (Roxic, Bangalore), Manu Kwatra (Taj Palace, New Delhi), Narendra Singh (Idyll India, Bangalore), Nikhil Kamble (Nho Saigon, Mumbai), Omkar Parab (Grumps, Goa), Romario Rodrigues (Gigi, Mumbai), and Sumit Mehra (Otra, Mumbai). With MR. BARTENDER + THE CREW as the associate partner, the competition promises to showcase exceptional talent and creativity in mixology.

Panel: Shaping India's Wine Journey – For Sommeliers, By Sommeliers

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On November 8, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, an insightful panel discussion titled "For Sommeliers, By Sommeliers: Taking India's Wine Journey to New Heights" will be held. Hosted by some of the most respected names in the field, including Kevin Rodriguez (Indian Accent, Comorin), Arth Jain (Taj Hotels), Bazil Moniz (I Think Foods), Charle Donnadieu (The Lalit Group), Hridhay Mehra (Masque), and Ravi Punia (The Quorum), the session will explore strategies to elevate India’s wine culture and foster greater appreciation among consumers.

Panel: Crafting World-Class Bar Programs with Indian Talent and Culture

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Another highlight will be the panel discussion "Creating a World-Class Bar Program Showcasing India's Talent & Culture," scheduled for November 8, 2024, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Experts like Shatbi Basu (Creative Consultants), Aditi Dugar (Masque), Evonne Eadie (Perfect Serve India), John Leese (Avant Garde Bar Consultancy), Pankaj Balachandran (Countertop), Sweta Mohanty (Aspri Spirits), and Vikram Achanta (Tulleeho, 30 Best Bars) will share insights on blending creativity with local flavors to build outstanding bar programs in India.

The ProWine India 2024 event at the Jio World Convention Centre promises a vibrant platform for learning, collaboration, and inspiration for all attendees. With a rich lineup of discussions and competitions, it aims to celebrate India's growing prominence in the global wine and spirits market.

HospitalityNews is the official media partner for ProWine India 2024. Stay tuned for more exclusive updates about the event, and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for the exclusive scoop.

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