“We celebrate regional flavors…” - Kedar Shetty, Co-Founder,

“We celebrate regional flavors…” - Kedar Shetty, Co-Founder, Baliboo, Mumbai

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Published on July 3, 2024

Kedarnath Shetty, co-founder of Baliboo, discusses their menu development philosophy, use of local ingredients, and exciting upcoming plans for the restaurant in this Exclusive Interview.

Conceptualized by the dynamic duo of Divya Kadam and Kedar Shetty, Baliboo boasts a stunning ambiance that reflects the lush beauty of the tropics. Think inviting interiors, a touch of modern elegance, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for a truly unforgettable experience.

But Baliboo’s magic extends beyond its aesthetics. The meticulously crafted menu is a delightful fusion of cultures, offering a taste of the exotic alongside familiar favorites. Whether you're a dedicated vegetarian, a confirmed carnivore, or someone with dietary restrictions, Baliboo caters to all with thoughtfully tailored options. Locally sourced ingredients ensure freshness in every bite, while the culinary team's passion for flavor shines through in each dish.

The restaurant also boasts an impressive beverage program, featuring refreshing cocktails and mocktails that perfectly complement the food. From classic favorites to innovative concoctions bursting with tropical fruits and spices, there’s a drink to tantalize every taste bud.

What inspired the concept behind Baliboo, and how does it differentiate itself in Mumbai’s dining scene?

Inspiration Behind Baliboo: The concept behind Baliboo was inspired by the vibrant cultures and diverse culinary traditions encountered by founders Divya Kadam and Kedar Shetty during their extensive travels. They envisioned creating a dining destination that encapsulates the joy and excitement of discovering new flavors and experiences. This vision is brought to life through Baliboo's innovative menu, which features a seamless blend of global cuisines with a unique twist, creating an unforgettable gastronomic journey for our guests.

Differentiation in Mumbai’s Dining Scene: Baliboo sets itself apart in Mumbai's bustling dining scene through its commitment to culinary ingenuity and heartfelt hospitality. Each dish is meticulously crafted, balancing creativity and tradition to offer a unique taste experience. The ambiance at Baliboo is vibrant and inviting, reflecting the joyous revelry of taste and life's vibrant essence that we aim to celebrate with every visit. Our dedication to exceptional service and creating memorable dining experiences ensures that Baliboo remains a standout choice for food enthusiasts in Mumbai.

Could you share some insights into the design philosophy of Baliboo and how it reflects the essence of a tropical paradise?

Baliboo’s design philosophy centers on creating a tropical paradise within the heart of Mumbai. Inspired by the serene beauty and vibrant culture of tropical destinations, our interior features lush greenery, natural wood elements, and bright, airy spaces. This design reflects our commitment to offering an escape from the urban hustle, allowing guests to unwind and immerse themselves in a tranquil, exotic ambiance while enjoying our unique culinary creations.

How do you ensure that the menu at Baliboo offers a harmonious blend of Asian, Continental, and Indian flavors while catering to diverse dietary preferences?

At Baliboo, we ensure a harmonious blend of Asian, Continental, and Indian flavors by carefully curating our menu to highlight the best of each cuisine while maintaining balance and coherence. Our chefs meticulously source high-quality ingredients and craft dishes that celebrate diverse culinary traditions. Additionally, we offer a variety of options catering to diverse dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb choices, ensuring that every guest finds something delightful to enjoy.

Baliboo emphasizes inclusivity with its vegetarian, vegan, and dietary-specific options. How do you approach menu development to accommodate these needs without compromising on taste and quality?

At Baliboo, we approach menu development with a focus on creativity and innovation to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and dietary-specific needs. Our chefs experiment with diverse ingredients and cooking techniques to ensure every dish is flavorful and satisfying. By using fresh, high-quality produce and carefully balancing spices and textures, we create dishes that cater to dietary preferences without compromising on taste and quality. This commitment ensures that all our guests enjoy a memorable dining experience.

The cocktail menu at Baliboo offers a wide range of unique libations. What inspired the creation of signature cocktails like Scarlet and Rosetta?

The creation of signature cocktails like Scarlet and Rosetta at Baliboo is inspired by our desire to craft beverages that reflect the vibrant, tropical essence of our dining experience. Scarlet, with its bold, rich flavors, draws inspiration from exotic fruits and spices, while Rosetta combines delicate floral notes and refreshing botanicals. Both cocktails are designed to complement our diverse menu and enhance the overall sensory experience for our guests.

With the strong emphasis on local sourcing, how does Baliboo contribute to enhancing the community's culinary experience?

At Baliboo, we emphasize local sourcing to contribute to the community’s culinary experience by partnering with local farmers and suppliers. This ensures fresh, high-quality ingredients while supporting the local economy. By incorporating locally-sourced produce into our dishes, we celebrate regional flavors and create a sustainable dining experience that resonates with our community’s tastes and values.

Can you share any upcoming initiatives or events that patrons can look forward to at Baliboo?

At Baliboo, patrons can look forward to an exciting lineup of upcoming initiatives and events, including themed culinary nights, live music performances, and exclusive tasting menus that showcase seasonal ingredients. We are also planning interactive cooking workshops and mixology classes, providing guests with unique and engaging experiences that celebrate our commitment to culinary innovation and community engagement.

What legacy do you hope the restaurant leaves in Mumbai's dining landscape, and what future vision do you have for its continued success?

At Baliboo, we hope to leave a legacy of culinary excellence and innovative dining experiences in Mumbai’s dining landscape. We aim to be remembered for our exceptional food, heartfelt hospitality, and vibrant ambiance. Our future vision includes expanding our reach while maintaining our commitment to quality and creativity, continuously evolving our menu, and deepening our connection with the community through diverse, memorable experiences.

Chef Jerson Fernandes: A Culinary Story of Resilience

Chef Jerson Fernandes

Published on November 1, 2025

In the high-octane world of gastronomy, few stories blend humility and achievement quite like that of Chef Jerson Fernandes. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, the Guinness World Record holder and Director of Culinary Operations (Corporate Food) at Sodexo India opens up about a journey defined not by fame, but by fortitude.

Today, as one of India’s most respected culinary leaders, his story isn’t just about mastering recipes, it’s about mastering resilience. Before the accolades and White House invitations, there was a young man in a modest kitchen, learning the true value of hard work. Chef Jerson began his journey as a dishwasher, a role that taught him humility, patience, and the discipline that would one day define his leadership.

For most chefs, the dream of cooking for international delegates belongs to fantasy. For Chef Jerson, it became history, twice. Being the only Indian chef to cook for White House delegates on two separate occasions placed Indian flavours at the heart of global diplomacy. His achievements include being named Best Executive Chef of India across seven platforms and winning the Hotelier India Award twice, an unmatched feat in the industry.

Beyond accolades, his philosophy remains deeply human. He believes authenticity is India’s greatest luxury—whether in a simple Goan curry or a contemporary tasting menu. His culinary repertoire has touched the lives of global icons across business, cinema, and sports, yet his focus remains unchanged: connection through food.

As a mentor, leader, and advocate for inclusion, Chef Jerson has trained special needs children, collaborated with the armed forces, and transformed kitchens into spaces of learning. With over 4 million monthly digital impressions, he continues to inspire and educate a generation of young chefs.

It was a privilege speaking with Chef Jerson Fernandes, whose journey proves that true success is born from humility and heart.

Read the complete interview in the November issue of Hospitality News on our website, or get your physical copy to explore his full story.

The Art of Soulful Hospitality at GRT Hotels

Vikram Cotah

Published on November 1, 2025

In an era when luxury is often measured by grandeur, Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, is crafting a new narrative, one where luxury feels human, purposeful, and rooted in culture. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, he delves into how GRT Hotels has evolved into a symbol of Soulful Hospitality, blending design, sustainability, and local storytelling to create experiences that truly connect people with people.

Under his leadership, GRT has not only expanded its footprint across South India but also redefined what modern Indian hospitality can be conscious, inclusive, and deeply experiential. In this featured interview, Vikram shares insights on how the brand’s journey began, the inspiration behind The Great Butterfly Effect, and how initiatives like The Great Being and Great Divine Darshan are shaping wellness and spiritual tourism for the next generation of travelers.

From sustainable operations to promoting women in leadership, and from reimagining the Indian wedding experience with Great Ceremonies to integrating AI for hyper-personalized service, every aspect of GRT’s evolution reflects a balance between innovation and emotion. Vikram’s reflections go beyond business; they reveal a philosophy that hospitality, at its core, is an act of care and connection.

What stands out most in our exchange is his conviction that India’s future in tourism lies in authenticity, in celebrating regional identities while delivering global excellence. It’s a vision that feels both ambitious and deeply grounded.

It was a truly inspiring conversation with Vikram Cotah, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality.

Read the full interview in the November issue of HospitalityNews, available now on our website and don’t miss your chance to grab a physical copy for your collection.

Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

Chef Altamsh Patel

Published on October 1, 2025

In an exclusive feature with October edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, Chef Altamsh Patel, Director of Culinary at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, shared insights that reveal not only his passion for gastronomy but also the philosophy that drives his success. His journey is a testament to how unexpected paths often lead to extraordinary destinations.

When asked about his defining moment, Chef Altamsh reflected on his early life where his parents wished for him to become a doctor. Yet, destiny had other plans. Drawn into hotel management and eventually the kitchen of the Taj, he discovered a true sense of belonging. “What began as honoring my parents soon grew into a lifelong love, reminding me that sometimes the unplanned path becomes the one we cherish most,” he shared.

Speaking about innovation and tradition, he noted, “At Hilton Mumbai International Airport, balancing innovation with tradition means sharing a part of our heart with every guest.” To him, food is storytelling, an art that surprises guests while honoring culture.

Chef Altamsh also underlined how food creates cherished memories. Whether in restaurants, banquets, or in-room dining, he and his team strive to ensure every plate carries love, passion, and culture, making each meal unforgettable.

On sustainability, his commitment is firm. From locally sourced ingredients to Hilton’s Travel with Purpose mission, practices like waste-to-fertilizer initiatives, cage-free eggs, and glass bottles redefine responsible luxury dining.

As a mentor, Chef Altamsh believes in nurturing creativity, humility, and resilience among young chefs, ensuring excellence remains a collective effort. Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about India’s micro-cuisines and Peruvian influences, combining authenticity with multi-sensory experiences to shape the future of luxury dining.

It was truly an inspiring and enriching conversation with Chef Altamsh Patel. For the complete feature, explore the Hospitalitynews October Magazine, available on our website (E-Magazine) and as a physical copy.