International Chefs Day: A Global Celebration of Culinary Ma

International Chefs Day: A Global Celebration of Culinary Mastery

By Shreenidhi Jagannathan

Published on October 20, 2024

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Imagine walking into a kitchen. The air is rich with aromas of fresh herbs, sizzling pans, and spices swirling together in a symphony of flavor. Behind every pot and pan stands a chef, the conductor of this orchestra, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. On October 20th, we celebrate these culinary visionaries on International Chefs Day, a day dedicated to those who bring joy, comfort, and adventure to our plates.

But this isn’t just about fancy Michelin-starred chefs (though they’re awesome too). It’s about the grandma making the perfect pasta sauce in her family kitchen, the street food vendor creating mouthwatering dishes with humble ingredients, and the culinary students learning to master the craft. Let’s dive into why International Chefs Day matters, and why every meal you’ve ever loved deserves to be celebrated.

The Magic of a Chef’s Craft: More Than Just Food

It’s easy to see a plate of food as just something we eat. But for chefs, it’s a canvas, a blank slate for creativity. They don't just cook—they design experiences. Think about the last time you had a meal that made you stop in your tracks, whether it was a perfectly seared steak, a delicate pastry, or even a burger that made you believe in love at first bite. That moment of awe? That’s the magic of a chef’s craft.

Chefs aren’t just feeding us; they’re telling stories. Through their dishes, they share culture, history, and passion. A simple bowl of ramen can transport you to the streets of Tokyo. A plate of paella might make you feel like you’re sitting by the Spanish coast. Food is the universal language, and chefs are the ones writing the poetry.

More Than a Job, It’s a Lifestyle

Being a chef isn’t a 9-to-5 job. It’s a lifestyle. It’s long hours in the kitchen, perfecting recipes, experimenting with ingredients, and never settling for “good enough.” It’s burning your hand on a hot pan (and not flinching) or making a dish over and over until it’s just right. The dedication is real. And it’s why chefs hold a special place in our hearts—and stomachs.

International Chefs Day is a salute to this relentless passion. It’s not just about fancy plates with tweezers-arranged microgreens (although, shoutout to that level of detail!). It’s about the people who stay up all night to feed hundreds, those who innovate with every bite, and those who take risks to make something unforgettable.

The Heroes Behind the Pandemic Kitchens

When the pandemic hit, the world stopped—but chefs kept cooking. While restaurants closed their doors, kitchens found new ways to serve. Virtual cooking classes took off, with chefs teaching home cooks how to make gourmet meals from their pantries. Delivery became a lifeline, and chefs—who are used to the buzz of a full dining room—kept the flame alive, bringing meals to our doors when we couldn’t step out.

Some even took things a step further. During these uncertain times, chefs rallied to feed frontline workers, communities in need, and those who couldn’t afford meals. Their knives didn’t just chop vegetables; they brought hope.

This Year’s Message: Health and Sustainability

This year, International Chefs Day comes with a powerful message: Healthy Food for the Future. Chefs across the globe are stepping up to encourage the next generation to embrace nutritious, sustainable eating. They’re showing us how we can enjoy incredible meals without harming the planet—whether that means reducing food waste, sourcing ingredients locally, or championing plant-based dishes.

This movement isn’t just trendy—it’s essential. Chefs, through their influence and platforms, are helping reshape how we think about food and the future. And they’re proving that “eating healthy” doesn’t mean boring or bland. It’s delicious, inspiring, and good for the planet.

Celebrate Like a Chef!

How can you celebrate International Chefs Day? Well, if you’re a food lover (which, let’s be honest, who isn’t?), here’s your excuse to go all out. Support your local restaurants, try a new dish, or even get adventurous in your own kitchen. And when you sit down to enjoy that plate of food, take a moment to appreciate the chef behind it.

Try out a recipe from a chef you admire. Or if you’re really feeling the love, order something extra fancy tonight and raise a glass to the culinary artists who make life just a little bit more flavorful.

On October 20th, let’s not just eat. Let’s feast. Let’s celebrate the world’s chefs—the ones who inspire, create, and, most importantly, keep us coming back for seconds Happy International Chefs Day!

Love at First Bite: Top Restaurants for a Romantic Valentine’s Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 13, 2025

Love is in the air, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with an unforgettable dining experience. This Valentine’s Day, indulge in specially curated menus, unmatched experiences, romantic ambiance, and exquisite flavors designed to make your evening truly magical. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner for two or a lively celebration with loved ones, let us set the perfect stage for love, laughter, and delicious moments with this thoughtfully curated list of restaurants to visit:

1. Harajuku Tokyo Cafe

Celebrate Love & Sweetness at Harajuku Tokyo Café this Valentine’s Season!

Harajuku Tokyo Café, one of the most loved Japanese premium casual dining brands at Select City Walk, Saket, Ambience Mall, and M3M IFC Gurugram, is turning up the romance with an irresistible menu and exclusive Japanese-inspired 3-course meals.

The most Instagrammable café in town has been winning hearts across NCR with its gastronomical delights and is all set to transform its outlets into a pink paradise of love and indulgence, perfect for cozy dates, Galentine’s gatherings, or treating yourself to something sweet from 10th to 14th February 2025.

Valentine’s Specials:

Valentine's Affair – Crispy bites, fluffy baos, and strawberry cheesecake
Lovebirds Special – Sushi, your choice of noodles or ramen, and strawberry macarons
Cupid's Choice – Gyoza, a rice dish of your choice, and strawberry fruit roll
DIY Date Night Special – Choose any appetizer, main, dessert, and drink from a variety of Japanese dishes

Don't miss the exclusive Dine-In Offer at M3M Outlet On 14th February!

Location & Availability:

Dine-in: Any Harajuku outlet or order online via Swiggy & Zomato.
Dates: February 10th – 14th
Operational Time: 10 am - 11 pm
Instagram: Harajuku Tokyo Cafe

2. CAMO Modern Cookhouse

This Valentine’s Day, CAMO Modern Cookhouse invites guests to indulge in a specially curated menu, available from 14th to 16th February. Designed to add a touch of romance to every bite, the exclusive selection features modern Indian and Pan-Asian flavors crafted with passion and creativity.

Menu Highlights:

Starters: Pink Passion Paneer Tikka, Rose-Tinted Chicken Tikka, Red Rose Asparagus Sushi, Love Bloom Tuna Roll, Wild Mushroom Dimsums, and Heartfelt Chicken Dimsums.
Main Course: Red Rose Love Curry and creamy Pink Pasta.
Desserts: Berry Sweet Heart Cheesecake and Strawberry Mousse of Love.
Beverages: Handcrafted cocktails like Tokyo-Tini and Bombay Beets; refreshing mocktails such as Camo Cane and Berry Punch.

Location & Availability:

Address: SH 02 & 03, Near Embassy Oxygen Business Park, Sector 144, Noida
Dates: February 14th - 16th
Operational Time: 12 pm to 11:30 pm
Instagram: CAMO Modern Cookhouse

3. Cafe Delhi Heights

Café Delhi Heights is bringing you the perfect way to celebrate with a Valentine’s Special Cocktail, Mocktail & Dessert Menu from 7th to 28th February 2025. Whether you're planning a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends, this limited-time menu offers crafted drinks and sweet indulgences.

Menu Highlights:

Cocktails: Rosé Sparkle Cosmo, Pink Prosecco Velvet Fizz, Be Mine, Love Potion, Red Velvet Bliss, and Strawberry Kiss.
Mocktails: Just You & Me, Spreading Love.
Desserts: Heart-Shaped Cookies, Strawberry Tart.

Availability:

Dates: February 7th - 28th
Outlets: All Café Delhi Heights outlets across India
Instagram: Cafe Delhi Heights

4. Ikigai

Ikigai, the latest venture by Café Delhi Heights, offers a Pre-Set Menu from 9th to 15th February and exclusive Valentine’s Cocktails of the Week from 12th to 18th February.

Menu Highlights:

Pre-Set Menu: Carrot Soup, Sky Salad, Lamb Kibbeh, Goan Seabass Curry, and Panna Cotta.
Signature Cocktails: Berry Much In Love, It’s Camplicated, Cupid’s Martini, and Truffly Yours.

Location & Availability:

Address: D-4, Defence Colony, New Delhi
Timings: 8:15 AM - 1 AM
Instagram: Ikigai

5. Pizza Pazzi

Make love the main ingredient with Pizza Pazzi’s exclusive Valentine’s menu, available from 7th to 14th February.

Menu Highlights:

Salads: Strawberry & Feta Arugula, Chicken Caesar.
Appetizers: Truffle Mushroom Arancini, Harissa Chicken Skewers.
Mains: Grilled Cottage Cheese Verdure, Peri-Peri Grilled Chicken, Margherita Pizza, Chicken Cacciatore Pizza.
Desserts: Red Velvet Cake.
Drinks: Watermelon & Basil Spritzer, Oreo & Strawberry Shakes.

Location & Availability:

Address: 2nd Floor, Nexus, Select Citywalk Mall, Saket, New Delhi
Operational Time: 12 pm to 11 pm
Instagram: Pizza Pazzi

6. Central Delhi By House of Minar

Celebrate love with a Valentine’s tasting menu and a live singing performance by Armaan Batra on 14th February.

Menu Highlights:

Starters: Kale Caesar Salad, Kale Patta Chaat, Wasabi Dahi Sev, Parmesan Alfredo Chicken Tikka, Minar Special Chicken Barra Tikka.
Desserts: Lucknowi Rasmalai, Ghewar Berry Rabdi, Malpua Basundi Panna Cotta.

Location & Availability:

Address: M3M IFC, Badshahpur, Sector 66, Gurugram
Timings: 12 PM – 12 AM
Instagram: Central Delhi By House of Minar

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Mumbai’s Ultimate Pizza Guide for World Pizza Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 8, 2025

Mumbai, let’s be honest—there’s never a bad time for pizza! But World Pizza Day? That’s a whole other level of celebration. The city’s pizza scene has evolved into a culinary delight, offering everything from traditional Italian masterpieces to unique, fusion-inspired creations. Whether you’re a fan of artisanal sourdough, gourmet toppings, or just a simple, well-made Margherita, this guide has you covered.

Si Nonna’s – A Slice of Italy

Step into Si Nonna’s, India’s first sourdough pizzeria, for a true Italian pizza experience. The aroma of freshly baked sourdough, the warm ambiance, and the lively open kitchen set the perfect mood. Indulge in classics like:

Pizza No. 2 – Buffalo mozzarella, tomato sauce, fresh basil, and EVOO
Pizza No. 3 – Fior di latte mozzarella, garlic, Kalamata olives, capers, oregano, and basil
Pizza No. 6 – Slow-cooked spiced chicken, Mt. Vesuvian sun-dried tomatoes, homemade chili oil, and basil pesto

For those seeking authentic flavors, Si Nonna’s is the perfect place to celebrate World Pizza Day.

One8 Commune – Celebrity Pizzas with a Twist

Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune isn’t just about the name—it’s about the flavors. Their thin-crust pizzas are crafted to perfection, offering:

Mexicana – A vegetarian delight with charred corn, bell peppers, fresh jalapeños, and chipotle drizzle
Smoked Chicken Trifolati – A bold, smoky treat
Indiana (Veg & Non-Veg) – A fusion of Indian and Italian flavors
Herbed Chicken Basilico – A classic Italian experience

Mad Doh – Wood-Fired Wonders

Mad Doh Sourdough Pizzeria serves wood-fired pies that cater to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Standouts include:

Spicy Cipolla – A fiery mix of Pomodoro, onions, chilies, and jalapeños
Pizza Indiana – Tandoori paneer meets Italian finesse
Ai Funghi – A mushroom lover’s dream
Quattro Formaggi – A cheese lover’s delight with four rich varieties

The Corrner Room – Gourmet Indulgence

This Khar hotspot offers a refined pizza experience with:

Spring Break – Basil pesto, asparagus, zucchini, and chevre
Funguy – A Bianca-based pizza with wild mushrooms and truffle
Pulled Lamb Pizza – Shredded lamb, pickled jalapeños, and coriander

Blabber – Pizzas with Personality

Each pizza at Blabber is crafted with premium toppings and bold flavors:

Funghi – Wild mushrooms, black truffle, and truffle oil
Pollo di Piccante – Roasted chicken, capers, and pickled jalapeños
Diavola – A carnivore’s dream with chicken salami, pepperoni, and bacon

The Bluebop Cafe – Classic & Creative Pizzas

From romantic date nights to casual dining, Blue Bop Cafe offers:

Amore Loves Veggie – A delight for plant-based enthusiasts
Fiesta Chicken – Bursting with bold flavors
Pepperoni Passion – A timeless classic

Thyme & Whisk – Global Flavors on a Crust

With locations in Mumbai and Hyderabad, Thyme & Whisk offers:

Harissa Twist – Spicy Harissa sauce adds a fiery touch
Spicy Mexicana Queso – Corn, mushrooms, and jalapeños in a Mexicana sauce
Jamaican Garlic – A Caribbean-inspired pizza
Lebanon Pizza – A fusion of za’atar sauce, falafel tikki, and pomegranate

Two Gud Sisters – Heartwarming Pizzas

This Santa Cruz pizzeria serves comforting, handcrafted pies:

Burrata Pizza – Creamy burrata, arugula, and balsamic reduction
BBQ Pizza – In-house BBQ sauce with your choice of toppings
Pesto Pizza – Herbaceous flavors with rich pesto

The Pantry – Healthy & Keto Pizzas

Indulge in pizza without the guilt with their gluten-free and keto-friendly options:

Flower Power Pizza – Cauliflower crust with mushrooms and roasted garlic
Vegan Delight – Cashew cheese and mashed avocados
Arabian Rooster – Za’atar-spiced grilled chicken with homemade ricotta

Amelia – Artisanal Pizzas, Crafted to Perfection

At Amelia, every pizza tells a story:

Sylvette’s Classic – A timeless Margherita
Fernande’s Garden – Basil pesto with fresh veggies
Eva’s Four Cheese – A dream for cheese lovers
Dora’s Truffle Delight – Rich truffle indulgence
Amelia’s Fiery Pepperoni – Spicy pork pepperoni with a fiery kick

Conclusion

Whether you prefer a classic Margherita, an experimental fusion, or a healthy alternative, Mumbai has the perfect pizza for every craving this World Pizza Day. Gather your friends, loosen your belts, and embark on a delicious journey across the city’s best pizza spots.