20th Annual Chef Awards: Honoring India's Top Culinary Talents

20th Annual Chef Awards: Honoring India's Top Culinary Talents

By Author

Published on October 26, 2023

The 20th Annual Chef Awards, a much-anticipated event organized by the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF), was held at Hotel Ashok in New Delhi as part of the International Chefs Day celebrations. The luminous event, distinguished for honoring the culinary arts and those who elevate them, was graced by the presence of Priya Paul, Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, as the chief guest.

A remarkable twenty years have passed since the inauguration of these awards, each year witnessing a grander, more opulent ceremony than the last. This occasion was no different, with 18 culinary maestros and four esteemed individuals receiving the special Presidium awards, a testament to their unfettered contribution to the tapestry of the hospitality industry. The ceremony was not just a gathering but a tribute, a melody of claps and cheers echoing the halls, singing praises of the artistry that is often confined to the silence of the kitchen.

A four-day culinary competition, as rigorous as it was exhilarating, preluded the event. Over 150 chefs from the diverse and rich landscapes of India clashed spatulas, their skill and innovation evaluated by a distinguished panel of WACS-certified jury members from across the nation. Eleven emerged victorious, their talent and prowess earning them the coveted MasterChef awards.

Chef Davinder Kumar, the President of the ICF, painted a vivid picture of the significance of these awards, "They are about nurturing their growth and enhancing Indian cuisine's worldwide appeal,” he said. A sentiment echoed by Chef Vivek Saggar, the General Secretary of the ICF, who highlighted the two-decade journey of hosting the Annual Chef Awards. This event was not just a celebration but a global showcase of Indian culinary art, a source of inspiration for budding talents and established chefs alike.

A cascade of awards flowed through the evening. Chef Shaju Zacharia was adorned with the Lifetime Achievement Award, a tribute echoing the years of dedication and passion he poured into his craft. The Golden Hat Award found its deserving recipient in Chef Rajiv Malhotra, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in the culinary world.

The ICF, a beacon of culinary arts in India, aims to not just celebrate but elevate the craft. It strives to ignite careers, disseminate the aromatic allure of Indian flavors globally, and carve a niche where artistry, skill, and innovation in the culinary world are not just recognized but revered. This year’s Annual Chef Awards was a testament to this relentless pursuit, a melody of spices and flavors, artistry and skill, celebration and honor that would linger long after the curtains drew to a close.


Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills Opens Kokoon - The Asian Nook

Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills Opens Kokoon - The Asian Nook

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 8, 2024

Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, has introduced a new dining experience with the opening of Kokoon - The Asian Nook. The restaurant, nestled at the base of the scenic Nandi Hills, promises to blend modern elegance with traditional charm. It offers a serene atmosphere where guests can enjoy a unique blend of Asian cuisine alongside panoramic views and lush greenery.

Devidyuti Ghosh, the Hotel Manager of Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, shared, “We are excited to bring a second dining option to our esteemed guests, which offers hearty Oriental fare, coupled with batch cocktails made by our expert bartenders, making it a memorable and distinctive dining experience that reflects the serene beauty and quaint boutique charm of our resort.”

Kokoon’s menu features a wide range of carefully curated Asian dishes designed to appeal to both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar flavors. Standout offerings include the Asian broth with morel goji berries, sourced from the foothills of the Himalayas, and the Soft-Shell Crab and Prawn Summer Roll. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, including dishes such as Kochi Lobster and Bannur Lamb.

The restaurant also boasts a selection of special cocktails, crafted by expert bartenders, to enhance the dining experience. The combination of flavorful cuisine and serene views makes Kokoon a unique addition to the Mulberry Shades dining scene. It aims to cater to both travelers and locals, offering a harmonious blend of casual dining with sophisticated Asian flavors.

Kokoon is set to become a popular destination for both visitors to Nandi Hills and Bangaloreans looking for a culinary retreat. With its thoughtful design and attention to detail, the restaurant creates a relaxing environment where guests can savor high-quality dishes in a peaceful setting.


SirDavis Whiskey Launches in Travel Retail with DFS

SirDavis Whiskey Launches in Travel Retail with DFS

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 7, 2024

SirDavis, a new American whiskey created by Moët Hennessy and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, has been introduced to travel retail with DFS at major US airports. Travelers can now find the premium whiskey at duty-free stores in John F. Kennedy (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), and San Francisco (SFO) International airports. Special tasting sessions are available for passengers at DFS locations within JFK and LAX.

SirDavis whiskey is a tribute to Beyoncé’s great-grandfather, Davis Hogue, a farmer and moonshiner during Prohibition. The design of the bottle reflects the Art Deco style of Hogue’s era, with its sleek, ribbed glass creating an impression of luxury and elegance.

Crafted by Master Distiller Dr. Bill Lumsden, the whiskey features a blend of 51% rye and 49% malted barley, with secondary maturation in sherry casks. This unique combination offers a smooth texture and a flavor profile reminiscent of Japanese and Scotch whiskies while maintaining the robust character of American rye.

image

The whiskey’s release in travel retail follows an “overwhelming” pre-order period that began on August 20. SirDavis is now available not only in airports but also in domestic retail across select US states, including California, New York, Texas, and more. The brand has also expanded internationally, with distribution in London, Paris, and Tokyo, and additional markets planned.

SirDavis is designed to stand out on shelves, both in its packaging and flavor. The bottle’s minimal branding and striking design set a new standard for modern luxury spirits. Along with a rich flavor experience, SirDavis offers a nod to tradition and innovation, aiming to appeal to both seasoned whiskey drinkers and new enthusiasts.

Travelers passing through DFS stores can also enjoy exclusive promotions, including a Gift-With-Purchase for DFS Circle App members, and can order the whiskey online for convenient pickup.

For a signature experience, try [Honey Bee], a cocktail paying homage to the brand's founder and crafted using SirDavis American Whisky, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup, garnished with honeycomb.

Honey Bee

image

Ingredients

2 oz SirDavis American Whisky

.75 oz Lemon Juice

.5 oz Honey Syrup*

Garnish: Honeycomb

*To make honey syrup, add 2 parts honey and 1 part water into a small saucepan over medium heat.  Stir until the honey is dissolved. Allow to cool and transfer to an airtight container.

Instructions

Add liquid ingredients to a shaker tin with ice going in last. Shake for dilution and pour into a coupe glass. Garnish with honeycomb.

image


Start Your Day with a Luxurious Breakfast at Begam Noida

Start Your Day with a Luxurious Breakfast at Begam Noida

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 7, 2024

As dawn breaks and the first rays of sunlight spill across Noida, there exists a sanctuary where mornings are not merely welcomed but celebrated in grand style. Begam Noida, an exquisite blend of modern luxury and timeless charm, invites you to begin your day with a breakfast experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Every detail at Begam Noida is meticulously curated to elevate both your soul and tastebuds. The air is fragrant with the scent of freshly baked croissants and artisanal breads, complemented by farm-fresh eggs, seasonal fruits, rich yogurt, and a variety of cheeses. The experience is rounded out with steaming coffee and freshly squeezed juices.

image

The menu, thoughtfully designed for the discerning palate, offers an array of refined options that seamlessly blend innovation with tradition. Imagine starting your morning with a plate of Short Stack Pancakes, paired with your choice of egg preparations, or perhaps indulging in the Charred Broccoli and Cheddar Scramble, where the earthy flavors of broccoli meet the richness of aged cheddar. For those seeking a touch of the exotic, the Chettinad Uttapam Tacos are a revelation, offering a unique twist on traditional South Indian flavors. And then there is the Smoked Salmon, its silky texture and briny flavor perfectly complemented by the crispness of fresh greens and the tang of lemon.

At Begam, breakfast is not just a meal; it is a ritual, a way to embrace the new day with a sense of luxury and grace. Founded by the esteemed restaurateurs Naresh and Sharad Madan, Begam Noida is more than just a restaurant—it is a celebration of the art of living well. It offers a moment of quiet indulgence, where the worries of the world seem far away, and all that matters is the pleasure of the present.

image

For those who seek a luxurious start to their day, there is no better place to be.

Fact Sheet:

  • Address: Begam Noida, Building No 105, opposite Kidzania, Gardens Galleria Mall, Sector 38, Noida, Uttar Pradesh

  • Contact Number: +91 80691 68844

  • Cost for Two: ₹1800 plus taxes

  • Breakfast Timings: 7:30 am to 11:30 am

  • Instagram Link: Begam Noida

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.