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.


Chef Chinna Karuppan Unveils the Timeless Flavours of South India at CUR8, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

Chef Chinna Karuppan Unveils the Timeless Flavours of South India at CUR8, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

By Author

Published on January 17, 2025

CUR8, the vibrant dining destination at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, is set to host an extraordinary South Indian Food Festival led by the esteemed Chef Chinna Karuppan. From January 17 to 26, 2025, guests will embark on a flavorful journey celebrating the rich culinary heritage of South India, with a menu inspired by the spice plantations of Kerala and the coastal kitchens of Tamil Nadu.

A Culinary Maestro

With over a decade of experience at prestigious establishments like The Leela Ashtamudi, Pullman and Novotel Hotel Delhi Airport, and Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel, Chef Chinna Karuppan has perfected the art of blending traditional South Indian flavors with contemporary techniques and modern plating.

Hailing from the charming village of Malavalabu, Tamil Nadu, Chef Chinna’s passion for South Indian cuisine was nurtured from an early age. From mastering treasured family recipes to assisting local caterers, he developed a deep-rooted love for cooking. Now, his expertise shines in signature dishes like the iconic Madurai Mutton Sukka, a celebration of bold regional flavors with a modern twist.

Festival Highlights

The South Indian Food Festival at CUR8 will feature a curated menu of Chef Chinna’s signature dishes, each crafted with authentic spices and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savor:

  • Nandu Kuzhambu: A rich crab curry from Tamil Nadu.
  • Lobster Thokku Masala: A flavorful indulgence from Kerala.
  • Fish Nirvana: A coastal delicacy inspired by Kerala’s culinary traditions.
  • Gongura Mutton: A tangy, aromatic mutton dish.
  • Kakarakaya Stuffed Fry: A bold and spicy stuffed bitter gourd preparation.

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Each dish is a testament to Chef Chinna’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and authenticity.

“I believe in celebrating the authenticity of South Indian flavors while embracing modern techniques to elevate the dining experience,” Chef Chinna shares. “Cooking recipes inherited from my mother brings me immense joy, especially when I come close to her original flavors.”

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An Immersive Experience

Set against the warm and inviting ambience of CUR8, the festival promises a sensory feast for culinary enthusiasts. With its live kitchens and Chef Chinna’s mastery on display, the event is a celebration of South India’s diverse culinary landscape.

Dates: January 17 to 26, 2025

For reservations and more details, contact Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru or visit their website.

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to experience the timeless flavors of South India, reimagined by Chef Chinna Karuppan.


Chef Nino Returns to Blu at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru with Two-Michelin-Star Culinary Magic

Chef Nino Returns to Blu at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru with Two-Michelin-Star Culinary Magic

By Author

Published on January 17, 2025

Celebrated Italian Chef Nino Di Costanzo, known for his visionary two-Michelin-starred restaurant Danì Maison in Ischia, is set to return to Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. From February 13 to 19, 2025, Chef Nino will bring his unique gastronomic artistry to the iconic Blu Beach Club, situated in the heart of the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

A Culinary Fusion of Two Islands

Chef Nino's return marks a collaboration that goes beyond flavors, blending the traditions of his native Ischia with the rich bounty of the Maldives. Inspired by nature, this unique partnership sees Mediterranean culinary techniques harmonized with fresh produce from Landaa’s herb and vegetable gardens. The result is an exquisite cross-cultural dining experience, which, as Chef Nino explains, is “a meeting of diverse culinary traditions grounded in soil, sea, and surroundings.”

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Limited-Time Residency and Year-Round Legacy

During his week-long residency, Chef Nino will personally curate and showcase a menu that embodies his distinctive style. Following this, Blu Beach Club will offer an exclusive year-round dining experience with a specially designed menu, available to just two tables of four guests each evening.

The collaboration extends beyond the plate, with members of Blu’s culinary team training at Danì Maison, ensuring the seamless infusion of Chef Nino’s expertise into the resort's gastronomic offerings.

Artistry Beyond Ingredients

For Chef Nino, every dish is more than just food—it is an experience, meticulously crafted to evoke emotion and amazement. His creative process begins months in advance, with every detail, from the choice of ingredients to the design of custom-made plates, carefully considered. His Venetian glass and Italian ceramic plates add a visual storytelling element that enhances the dining experience.

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Landaa Giraavaru’s Regional Vice President and General Manager, Armando Kraenzlin, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:
“We are thrilled to partner with one of the world’s greatest chefs at Blu. Collaborating with Chef Nino here at Landaa will not only offer an inspirational culinary experience to guests but expose our onsite team to unique career-advancing insights.”

To be among the first to savor Chef Nino’s culinary creations at Blu Beach Club, visit the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru website or email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com.


Burger King India Partners with Gen Z Romantic Comedy Loveyapa

Burger King India Partners with Gen Z Romantic Comedy Loveyapa

By Author

Published on January 17, 2025

Burger King India, one of the country’s leading Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) chains, has announced an exciting partnership with the much-anticipated Gen Z romantic comedy Loveyapa. Starring Khushi Kapoor and Junaid Khan—the latter making his theatrical debut—the film is set to hit screens on February 7. Loveyapa explores the intricacies of modern relationships and humorously delves into the disillusionment of the “perfect” romance.

Introducing the Exclusive “Loveyapa Combo”

As part of this collaboration, Burger King is launching the “Loveyapa Combo,” a specially curated meal designed to celebrate this unique partnership. The combo includes:

  • Whopper Jr. with Cheese

  • Saucy Fries

  • Chocolate Thickshake

Available across all Burger King outlets nationwide starting January 15, this limited-time offering is perfect for sharing with a loved one or enjoying solo while immersing in the spirit of Loveyapa.

Engaging Gen Z with Fun Contests

In addition to the new combo, Burger King is hosting an exclusive social media contest to engage fans and movie enthusiasts. The user-generated content (UGC) contest invites participants to create humorous memes using screenshots from the Loveyapa trailer. Winners stand a chance to win exciting prizes, building anticipation for the film’s release.

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Insights from Industry Leaders

Kapil Grover, Chief Marketing & Digital Officer of Burger King India, shared his thoughts on the collaboration:

“Burger King has always been about having meaningful connections with our Gen Z guests. Loveyapa’s script and cast perfectly align with our brand’s ethos. We’re thrilled to celebrate the movie’s release with the exclusive ‘Loveyapa Combo,’ which mirrors the film’s flavor with the taste of Burger King. With Junaid Khan’s debut and Khushi Kapoor’s charm, this movie promises to resonate with the youth of India.”

Srishti Behl, CEO of Phantom Studios, echoed similar sentiments:

“We are excited to partner with Burger King India for Loveyapa. The movie, with its fresh take on love and relationships, aligns perfectly with the dynamic and youthful energy of the brand. The ‘Loveyapa Combo’ captures the playful essence of the film that resonates with today’s Gen Z. It’s exciting to see this partnership come to life, reaching young audiences through a brand that truly speaks to them.”

A Star-Studded Trailer Launch Event

The trailer launch event for Loveyapa featured a glamorous red-carpet celebration attended by the film’s cast. Junaid Khan, son of Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, made a striking debut, while Khushi Kapoor captivated audiences with her on-screen charm. Guests at the event also enjoyed the “Loveyapa Combo,” adding a flavorful touch to the celebrations.

About Restaurant Brands Asia Limited

Restaurant Brands Asia Limited (formerly Burger King India Ltd) has grown to become India’s fastest-growing international QSR chain, with exclusive rights to develop, establish, and franchise Burger King restaurants in the country. The master franchisee arrangement allows RBA to leverage Burger King’s globally recognized brand name while utilizing its technical, marketing, and operational expertise.

Founded in 1954, the BURGER KING® brand is the second-largest fast-food burger chain globally. Operating over 15,000 locations in 100 countries, the brand is synonymous with the WHOPPER® and an unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.

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