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.


Decoding Wine with Matthieu Longuère: Education, Trends, and India’s Market

Decoding Wine with Matthieu Longuère: Education, Trends, and India’s Market

Matthieu Longuère

Published on April 1, 2025

Matthieu Longuère, Master Sommelier and Wine Development Manager at Le Cordon Bleu London, is a leading expert in the world of wine, shaping the future of sommeliers through education. With over two decades of experience, Matthieu has contributed significantly to the global wine industry. During his recent visit to India, he shared insights on the country’s rapidly growing wine culture, global trends, and the challenges the industry faces in the modern era.

Longuère’s journey to becoming a Master Sommelier is one of determination and passion, marked by a life-changing mentorship under Gérard Basset. His experiences across various wine-producing regions, and his focus on education, have shaped his approach to wine—an approach grounded in curiosity and open-mindedness.

Reflecting on India’s wine market, Matthieu notes the country’s preference for fuller and sweeter wines, which is becoming less popular in global markets. However, he remains optimistic about the future, highlighting the importance of wine education. As more people become curious about wine, India’s potential to produce internationally recognized wines could be realized. His visit is a milestone for Le Cordon Bleu, which celebrates 130 years of wine and culinary excellence. Matthieu sees great potential in nurturing Indian sommeliers, emphasizing that education is the key to shaping the next generation of wine experts.

Matthieu’s expertise extends beyond just wine education. He also offers advice for young hospitality students, stressing the importance of hands-on experience, structured learning, and building credibility in the industry. His insights into wine pairing are equally fascinating, with a focus on balancing elements like spice and acidity for unexpected yet delightful combinations.

For those interested in exploring wine in greater depth, Matthieu's insights offer a glimpse into the evolving world of wine. As the wine industry faces challenges like climate change, his advice on adapting to these changes while maintaining quality is invaluable.

To read Matthieu Longuère’s full interview and explore his expert views on wine education and India’s wine future, visit our website to access the latest eMagazine. For a physical copy, DM us now!


The Future of Hospitality Marketing: Neha Chowdhury’s Bold Vision for Personalization

The Future of Hospitality Marketing: Neha Chowdhury’s Bold Vision for Personalization

Neha Chowdhury

Published on April 1, 2025

Neha Chowdhury, the Director of Sales and Marketing at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, has spent nearly two decades in luxury hospitality, transforming marketing strategies across some of the world’s top hotel brands. In a recent conversation, she shared her vision for the future of hospitality marketing, focusing on personalization and storytelling to forge deeper connections with guests.

Neha believes that marketing in hospitality is more than just numbers—it’s about crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with people. At Courtyard by Marriott, their story revolves around being a ‘gateway to seamless journeys,’ emphasizing not just a strategic location, but a commitment to warm, efficient, and personalized service. By combining digital tools with authentic guest experiences and cultural collaborations, Neha aims to create a truly memorable stay for every guest.

Her leadership philosophy is built on empathy and adaptability, qualities that she believes are essential in an ever-changing industry. For Neha, empowering her team to anticipate and respond to guest needs is key to driving success, both in the guest experience and in market positioning.

As a strong advocate for women in leadership, Neha also advises young women looking to succeed in hospitality to be bold, resilient, and authentic. She stresses the importance of continuous learning, networking, and staying true to one's unique perspective.

Neha’s innovative ideas, such as integrating AI-driven personalization with traditional hospitality values, showcase her forward-thinking approach to marketing. In the ever-evolving Mumbai hospitality scene, she is committed to ensuring that Courtyard by Marriott remains a preferred choice for business and leisure travelers alike.

To dive deeper into Neha Chowdhury’s full interview and discover more about the future of hospitality marketing, visit our website to read the latest april e-Magazine. Interested in a physical copy? DM us for more details!


Manish Garg on Why True Hospitality is About Heartfelt Service, Not Just Luxury

Manish Garg on Why True Hospitality is About Heartfelt Service, Not Just Luxury

Manish Garg

Published on April 1, 2025

Manish Garg, General Manager of Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, is a dynamic leader in hospitality, dedicated to crafting exceptional experiences. His career began in food and beverage operations before stepping into leadership roles with prestigious global hotel brands. With a background in both India and the UK, Manish has become known for shaping luxury hospitality and leading successful pre-opening projects. An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management in Chennai and the Australian International Hotel School, his foundation in hotel management is complemented by a passion for operational excellence and team leadership.

In this insightful conversation, Manish shares how Hilton is embracing innovation, enhancing guest expectations, and setting itself apart in Bengaluru's vibrant hospitality scene.

Innovation in Service

Manish emphasizes that true hospitality is about creating memorable experiences. A perfect example came during a recent wedding hosted at Hilton Bengaluru, where the event team created a "Wanderlust" theme, incorporating flavors from Italy, Morocco, and India to celebrate the couple’s love for travel. This personalized touch was complemented by a walk-through gallery of their travel memories, elevating the event into a deeply personal experience.

Hilton also hosted an unforgettable event for Tata Consumer Products, where chefs curated an innovative culinary journey that seamlessly integrated the brand into the menu. This interactive experience showcased how creativity and collaboration can redefine event hospitality.

Catering to Diverse Guests

Bengaluru’s dynamic nature requires constant evolution, and Hilton meets this challenge head-on. With a dual-brand setup—Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn—guests enjoy both luxury and practicality, whether they’re corporate travelers or on leisure getaways. Strategically located near business districts, the properties offer an ideal blend of convenience, with state-of-the-art event spaces and personalized service tailored to every guest’s needs.

Redefining Luxury

For Manish, luxury today goes beyond opulence—it’s about personalization and seamless comfort. Digital Key access, voice-command smart rooms, and AI-driven chatbots ensure a tech-savvy, personalized experience for every guest. At Hilton, innovation extends to sustainability efforts, such as the LightStay program, which helps guests make environmentally conscious choices during events.

A Culture of Service Excellence

Hilton’s success can be attributed to its people. Manish focuses on creating an inclusive culture where recognition and continuous learning are prioritized. Initiatives like ‘Shakti at Hilton’ and leadership mentoring programs empower team members to go above and beyond for guests, ensuring every interaction is exceptional.

Standing Out in Bengaluru

In a competitive market like Bengaluru, Hilton differentiates itself by offering personalized service that goes beyond standard hospitality. From tailored dining experiences to wellness offerings, Hilton creates memorable stays, making every guest feel valued and at home.

Sustainability and Luxury

Hilton’s commitment to sustainability is evident through initiatives like a zero single-use plastic policy, operating on renewable energy, and the innovative in-house water bottling plant. These eco-conscious efforts demonstrate that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.

The Hilton Experience in Three Words

For Manish, the Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru experience can be summed up as: Forward-Thinking, Personalized, and Unforgettable. These values guide every decision, ensuring that every guest enjoys a seamless, bespoke, and memorable stay.

To dive deeper into the world of Hilton and Manish Garg’s leadership, visit our website to read the full April eMagazine. You can also DM us to receive a physical copy and experience firsthand the exceptional service Hilton offers.