Avartana at ITC Maratha: Mumbai's Newest Destination for Haute Cuisine

Avartana at ITC Maratha: Mumbai's Newest Destination for Haute Cuisine

By Author

Published on February 8, 2024

ITC Hotels proudly announces the opening of the third outlet of its iconic restaurant, Avartana, at ITC Maratha, Mumbai, marking a significant expansion of its culinary repertoire to the western part of India. Following the resounding success of its predecessors at ITC Grand Chola and ITC Royal Bengal, Avartana continues to redefine Southern Indian cuisine with its innovative and pioneering approach, now bringing its legacy to the vibrant city of Mumbai

Avartana has not only shone brightly among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2023 but has also established itself as a beacon of culinary innovation, showcasing the depth and diversity of Indian ingredients and culinary techniques. Anil Chadha, Chief Executive of ITC Hotels, shares the excitement and vision behind the brand, "Brand Avartana, just seven years young, has carved a niche for itself by demonstrating the strength and prowess of Indian ingredients and culinary techniques to the world. We endeavor to share the reimagined renditions of Avartana with diners across various cities, crafting moments that resonate long after the dining experience."

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At its core, Avartana is an ode to the rich tapestry of Southern Indian culinary traditions, seamlessly blending these with modern interpretations to create an unparalleled dining experience. The restaurant's name, derived from the Sanskrit word for rhythm, mysticism, and magic, perfectly encapsulates the essence of its offerings - magical dishes that are a modernist take on traditional flavors, each telling a unique story.

The menu at Avartana is a testament to the culinary team's dedication to exploring and innovating within the realm of Southern Indian cuisine. Ingredients such as Ghee from Kerala, Uthukuli Butter and Mango Ginger from Andhra Pradesh, Sago and Jaggery from Chennai, Mochai Beans from Tamil Nadu, and Tamarind from Telangana are deconstructed and reimagined into dishes that engage the senses and captivate the diner's imagination.

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Among the standout offerings are the Spiced Aubergine and Sago with a Byadagi chilli emulsion, Sago Yogurt reinterpreting the classic Bagala Bath with an exotic dried berry tamarind sauce, and the visually striking Fennel Pannacotta egg dessert, presented in a bird's nest with a mini hammer for an interactive dining experience.

Avartana at ITC Maratha promises to be a culinary destination where magical flavors meet twenty-first-century technology, reinventing haute cuisine fine dining into an evolved art form. As it opens its doors in Mumbai, Avartana is set to offer diners a unique journey through the vibrant and diverse mosaics of Southern Indian cuisine, creating unforgettable moments that resonate with the magic of dining at its finest.


Disfrutar’s Debut in India: World’s Best Restaurant Comes to The Oberoi, New Delhi

Disfrutar’s Debut in India: World’s Best Restaurant Comes to The Oberoi, New Delhi

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 28, 2025

In a landmark moment for India’s culinary world, Culinary Culture is bringing Disfrutar—ranked No. 1 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list—to India for the very first time. The much-anticipated event will be held at The Oberoi, New Delhi, on May 29, 2025, and promises to be an extraordinary opportunity for chefs, students, and food aficionados to witness the creative genius of Chef Oriol Castro in action.

This Superclass, curated by Culinary Culture in partnership with The Oberoi and Don Julio, will feature a live session by Oriol Castro, Head Chef and Co-Owner of the legendary Disfrutar. Attendees will get a rare, up-close look at Disfrutar’s radical culinary style—known for its bold presentations, scientific approach, and deep creative storytelling.

“India is one of the world’s greatest culinary cultures, and unfortunately one place we have not had an opportunity to visit—until now. I’m excited to discover India’s cuisine and take back inspiration with us,” said Oriol Castro.

Disfrutar, co-founded in 2014 by Castro along with Eduard Xatruch and Mateu Casañas—veterans of the iconic elBulli—has quickly become a global culinary icon. Their cuisine blends innovation, science, and art in a way that transforms each dish into a multisensory experience.

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This exclusive, invite-only event is part of Culinary Culture’s acclaimed Culinary Exchange series, which has previously brought culinary legends like Massimo Bottura, Mauro Colagreco, Virgilio Martínez, and Heston Blumenthal to India. This latest edition with Disfrutar is expected to set a new benchmark.

Raaj Sanghvi, CEO of Culinary Culture, shared, “Our mission is to bring the best of the world to India. Hosting the reigning World No. 1 restaurant is a proud moment. We are excited to offer India’s chef community and culinary students an unforgettable experience.”

Ahead of the Superclass, Chef Oriol Castro will join Culinary Culture Chairman Vir Sanghvi for an exclusive Culinary Conversation on May 27, 2025, also at The Oberoi, New Delhi. The conversation will explore Castro’s journey from elBulli to the global stage with Disfrutar.

“As we celebrate 60 years of The Oberoi, New Delhi, we are proud to begin the year with this spectacular collaboration,” said Abhishek Panshikar, Vice President and General Manager – The Oberoi, New Delhi.

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In response to overwhelming interest, Culinary Culture has opened up a limited number of additional seats for this event. Attendance is complimentary but strictly by invitation. Interested individuals can write to contact@culinaryculture.co with a note expressing their interest.

About Culinary Culture

Founded by Vir Sanghvi and Sameer Sain, and led by CEO Raaj Sanghvi, Culinary Culture is India’s leading authority on food. Known for its flagship properties like FoodSuperstars, Ultimate Restaurant Ratings, and StreetFoodSuperstars, the platform brings global culinary excellence to Indian shores while celebrating local talent and diversity.

About The Oberoi, New Delhi

Celebrating 60 years in 2025, The Oberoi, New Delhi is a symbol of timeless elegance and luxury. With iconic views, Michelin-starred dining, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, it remains one of India’s most celebrated hotels.


Italian Wines Shine Bright in Mumbai: Gambero Rosso's Roadshow Draws Over 323 Industry Experts

Italian Wines Shine Bright in Mumbai: Gambero Rosso's Roadshow Draws Over 323 Industry Experts

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 28, 2025

Mumbai recently hosted an extraordinary celebration of Italian winemaking as the Gambero Rosso’s Top Italian Wines Roadshow made its much-anticipated return to India. Held at the prestigious Jio World Convention Centre, the event brought together over 323 wine professionals, hoteliers, restaurateurs, importers, and educators, offering them a taste of Italy’s finest wines.

The one-day event featured more than 50 top-tier Italian wine producers who showcased over 100 premium labels. It wasn’t just a tasting—it was a cultural exchange that celebrated both the heritage and the future of Italy’s winemaking, while reinforcing India’s rapidly growing interest in wine.

The day began with a grand inauguration attended by notable dignitaries including Luigi Salerno, Director & Head-International Operations at Gambero Rosso, Marco Sabellico, Editor-in-Chief of the Vini d’Italia Guide, and Walter Ferrara, Consul General of Italy in Mumbai. Their presence added gravitas to the occasion and set the tone for the day.

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A major highlight was the Top Italian Restaurants Awards Ceremony, where Mumbai's celebrated Italian dining spots such as Celini, CinCin, and Cecconi’s were honoured for their culinary excellence. These recognitions underscored the growing love and respect for authentic Italian food in India.

In-depth masterclasses conducted throughout the event offered guests a deep dive into Italy’s regional varietals. From the fresh bubbles of Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato 2024 to bold Southern Italian reds like Primitivo, the sessions brought alive the diverse terroirs of Northern, Central, and Southern Italy. Marco Sabellico led the discussions, blending expertise with storytelling to engage and educate attendees.

"This return to India is more than symbolic—it marks the evolution of wine culture in the country," said Marco Sabellico. “We witnessed a level of interest and appreciation that reflects India’s growing appetite for quality wine and international collaborations.”

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The event also served as a dynamic business hub, allowing Italian producers to build connections with Indian importers and distributors. Many exhibitors expressed optimism about future collaborations, pointing to India’s expanding wine retail and hospitality sectors as promising avenues for growth.

Gambero Rosso, a globally recognised name in Italian food and wine media, continues to strengthen the global reach of Italian wines with roadshows like this. Through their trusted guides such as Vini d’Italia 2025—which reviews over 25,000 wines and ranks them using the iconic Tre Bicchieri rating—they’ve helped wine lovers and professionals alike navigate Italy’s evolving wine map.

With this successful edition in Mumbai, the Top Italian Wines Roadshow has reaffirmed its position as a catalyst for international wine diplomacy. As Italy and India raise a glass to stronger ties, the future certainly looks rich, refined, and full of flavour.


Lovefools Launches “Lunchish” – A Whimsical New Take on Midday Dining

Lovefools Launches “Lunchish” – A Whimsical New Take on Midday Dining

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 27, 2025

Mumbai’s beloved culinary haven, Lovefools, is back with yet another delightful twist — introducing Lunchish, a creative daytime dining experience that bends the rules of traditional mealtimes. Nestled in a charming Bandra lane, Lovefools invites diners to explore this flavourful new journey that’s not quite brunch, not quite lunch — and never boring.

Between that first sip of coffee and your evening cocktail, Lunchish offers a comforting yet adventurous pause — a mid-day moodboard of flavors blending nostalgia, wanderlust, and a generous dose of culinary rebellion.

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Chef Sarita Pereira explains the inspiration behind the idea:

“We wanted to break this whole box format of breakfast, lunch & brunch. The Lunchish menu isn’t bound by time — it tastes just as satisfying at 11 AM as it does at 4 PM.”

Each dish on the Lunchish menu tells a unique story of global influence and emotional warmth:

 The Jay Fai Bucket List: A gluten-free crab fried omelette meets Kerala moilee curry — bridging Bangkok’s street food with India’s coastal flavors.

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 Sawadee Mango Toast: Fresh mango slices, Thai chili-lime papaya salad, and peanut dressing create a tangy twist on the usual toast.

 Mexican Khichu: Gujarat’s classic comfort dish gets a makeover with jalapeños, raw mango salsa, and crunchy paprika cornflakes.

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 Panji to Pattaya: Thai fermented noodles paired with Goan prawn or fish curry, coconut milk, mangoes, and tropical fruits — a true East-meets-West fusion.

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 Katsu 'Curry' Benedict: Crispy katsu chicken on brioche, topped with a poached egg, Japanese curry hollandaise, and crispy spinach — a Tokyo-inspired take on brunch.

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From global mashups to nostalgic flavors, each plate is a playful expression of Lovefools’ ethos — slow, honest cooking filled with creativity, comfort, and emotion.

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Lunchish is for the late risers, the dreamers, and the flavor chasers, served from 11 AM to 4 PM, Tuesday to Friday. No reservations needed — just follow your appetite.

 Where: C14, 525, Ranwar, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
When: Tuesday to Friday, 11 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Mondays)

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