From Wow Factor to Flavor: How Phurr Delivers an Unforgettable Experience

From Wow Factor to Flavor: How Phurr Delivers an Unforgettable Experience

Nishang Narayan

Published on November 4, 2024

Phurr has quickly emerged as a favorite among Bangalore’s food enthusiasts, offering a modern vegetarian dining experience in a stylish setting. Known for pushing culinary boundaries, Phurr has attracted attention across the city, and we were excited to experience it firsthand. During our visit, we sat down with Rahul Lunawat, one of Phurr’s founders, who shared his insights into what makes Phurr a standout.

From the moment we walked in, the welcoming ambiance set the tone. Designed by a renowned Mumbai-based architectural firm, Phurr’s interiors impress immediately—a perfect complement to the dining experience they aim to offer. “The ambiance is just as important as the food,” Rahul explained. “It needed to be memorable, something people would talk about long after they leave.”

Phurr has established a reputation for reimagining vegetarian cuisine, with over 120 dishes on the menu, including vegan and Jain options. When asked about what sets Phurr apart, Rahul emphasized their commitment to delivering an experience that keeps guests coming back. “In a city with new restaurants popping up every day, we knew we had to offer something unique. It’s all about giving people a dining experience they’ll love and remember,” he shared.

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The extensive menu showcases Phurr’s creative approach, with signature dishes like the Phurr Biryani Nuggets and Ratatouille Gujiya quickly becoming customer favorites. Rahul shared the process behind creating these dishes, balancing creativity with familiarity. “There’s a fine line between being unique and going too far. We spent a lot of time testing each dish—for taste, texture, and presentation,” he said.

Phurr’s success also lies in its ability to blend innovation with tradition. While the starters are often experimental, the main courses offer a comforting selection of classic dishes. “We wanted to strike a balance—new and exciting starters, but familiar main courses. This way, guests can try something different without feeling overwhelmed,” Rahul explained.

In just eight months, Phurr has become one of Bangalore’s most talked-about spots. Rahul attributes their success to a focus on details and constant innovation. “It’s about giving guests more than they expect. From an amuse-bouche to greet them to new menu items every month, we’re always looking for ways to surprise our customers,” he shared.

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Phurr also stands out for its creative collaborations. By working with culinary experts like Chef Sombir on the menu and mixologist Avinash Kapoli for unique mocktails, Phurr has elevated its dining experience. “These partnerships bring fresh perspectives to what we do. We’ll keep collaborating with experts to ensure Phurr remains exciting,” Rahul noted.

Reflecting on his journey from brainstorming ideas at Airlines Hotel to running one of Bangalore’s top restaurants, Rahul’s advice to aspiring restaurateurs was simple yet powerful. “The restaurant industry is tough. You need passion and hard work to succeed. Even after seven years, we’re hands-on every day, constantly creating new experiences and pushing the brand forward,” he said.

As we left Phurr, it was clear why this restaurant has captivated Bangalore’s food lovers. With its thoughtfully crafted menu, inviting ambiance, and focus on innovation, Phurr promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. You can check out the complete article in the November issue of Hospitality News, available on our website.


The Sommeliers Association of India Is Crafting a New Narrative for Indian Wine

The Sommeliers Association of India Is Crafting a New Narrative for Indian Wine

Nishang Narayan

Published on June 2, 2025

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) isn’t just another wine club—it’s a movement. Founded in 2024 by Amrita Singh and world-renowned sommelier Mattia Antonio Cianca, SAI is India’s first national sommelier association aligned with the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI).

Their mission? To elevate Indian wine education, represent India at global sommelier contests, and create pathways for young professionals to thrive in the global hospitality space.

Inside the Article: The SAI Vision That’s Changing the Game

  • Why the absence of an Indian representative at the 2023 ASI Best Sommelier of the World contest led to the birth of SAI.
  • How international certifications like the ASI Diploma (now introduced in India) are setting new benchmarks for excellence.
  • The powerful impact of being affiliated with global platforms like JancisRobinson.com, GuildSomm, and ASI.

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  • Why pairing wine with Indian cuisine isn’t just possible—it’s revolutionary. Think regional curries, spice blends, and global wines in harmony.
  • How SAI membership is opening up access to mentorships, global internships, and exclusive wine training events across India.
  • What the future holds—positioning India as a major player in wine education, tourism, and fine-dining excellence on the global map.

The full article on SAI is out now in our June 2025 edition of Hospitality News!
Discover how this non-profit is shaking up India’s wine scene, nurturing sommelier talent, and making wine a celebration of both taste and tradition.


Shivam & Riddhi Bhagat: 200 Years of Bhagat Halwai, Served Fresh

Shivam & Riddhi Bhagat: 200 Years of Bhagat Halwai, Served Fresh

Nishang Narayan

Published on June 2, 2025

As Bhagat Halwai completes over 200 years of legacy, the iconic Agra-based sweet brand is finding its modern voice through two young, passionate leaders: Shivam Bhagat, Director, and Riddhi Bhagat, Strategic Director.

Stepping into the family business at just 19, Shivam has remained rooted in tradition while redefining how mithai connects with a new generation. Meanwhile, Riddhi brings her hospitality background and entrepreneurial drive into play—crafting mindful, wholesome offerings like “Binge on Baked,” a health-forward brand under the Bhagat Halwai umbrella. Together, they’re proving that legacy doesn’t have to mean outdated—it can mean dependable and dynamic.

Inside the Interview: How They’re Reimagining Mithai for Today’s India

In this heartwarming and forward-looking interview, Shivam and Riddhi share:

  • How a 1795 legacy brand stays fresh through seasonal specials, premium ingredients, and a blend of nostalgia and novelty.
  • Why health-conscious consumers are now at the center of product innovation—from sugar-free mithai to organic ingredients and locally sourced produce.
  • The big festive game plan—including how Bhagat Halwai scales operations, curates gifting options, and delivers joy at scale.
  • How Bhagat Halwai builds lifelong relationships, turning everyday customers into loyal patrons through flavour, service, and trust.
  • The role of creativity and strategy in taking heritage brands beyond sweets—into savouries, multi-cuisine offerings, and modern snacking.

The full interview with Shivam & Riddhi Bhagat is now out in our June 2025 issue of Hospitality News!

Don’t miss this inspiring story of two next-gen leaders keeping tradition alive—while boldly stepping into the future of food.

Read the full feature now at: https://hospitalitynews.in/e-magzines  


Flavours with Purpose: Chef Peter’s Pan-Asian Journey

Flavours with Purpose: Chef Peter’s Pan-Asian Journey

Chef Te Yuan Peter Tseng

Published on June 2, 2025

In this exclusive feature for Hospitalitynews, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Chef Te Yuan Peter Tseng, the visionary Culinary Director of Pricol Gourmet Pvt. Ltd., and the creative force behind the vibrant flavours at Soy Soi. Known to many as Chef Peter, he brings a deep sense of purpose and artistry to his cuisine, which reflects across every plate at Soy Soi and Little Soi.

In this engaging conversation, Chef Peter walks us through his culinary philosophy—one rooted in simplicity, tradition, and balance. His defining dish, Hainan Chicken Rice, reflects his belief that a humble plate, when done right, can speak volumes. As he puts it, a dish may appear minimal, but if it strikes harmony in taste and technique, it represents something much deeper.

Chef Peter also shares what makes Soy Soi stand apart in the competitive world of Pan-Asian dining. With a bold departure from the expected, the restaurant curates lesser-known regional street foods from across Southeast Asia, blending authenticity with innovation. It’s not just about flavour—it’s an experience woven together with ambience and hospitality.

The conversation dives deeper into his creative process, career-defining moments across cities like Chennai, Dubai, and Bangkok, and his vision for where Pan-Asian cuisine is headed in India. His take on “freestyle Asian” dining presents a promising outlook for evolving palates in the country.

What stands out is his thoughtful approach to leadership—where kitchen culture, mentorship, and staff well-being are prioritised as key ingredients to success.

This inspiring conversation with Chef Peter is more than a feature—it’s a masterclass in culinary creativity and team building.

To explore the full interview, grab your June Edition of Hospitalitynews or read it on our website today.