Bastian Hospitality Welcomes Culinary Maestro Suvir Saran

Bastian Hospitality Welcomes Culinary Maestro Suvir Saran

By Author

Published on September 21, 2023

Bastian Hospitality Private Limited (BHPL), the force behind popular dining establishments like Bastian and Bizza, has a new culinary maestro at the helm. They proudly introduce Suvir Saran as their Culinary Director, a name synonymous with gastronomic excellence.

Hailing from New Delhi, Suvir Saran brings an illustrious culinary journey to the table. He's not only the author of three revered cookbooks but also a global influencer in the world of F&B concepts, menus, catering, and culinary conferences. Suvir rose to fame as the standout star of the 3rd season of Top Chef Masters and holds the unique distinction of being the sole chef on the Nutrition Advisory Board at Brigham & Women’s Hospital of Harvard Medical School. His culinary passion shines brightest when it comes to the diverse flavors found in Indian homes and regions.

At BHPL, Chef Saran assumes a pivotal role in propelling the already-established homegrown F&B brand to new heights, particularly as BHPL expands its footprint across India. Collaborating closely with BHPL's senior management, he brings his unparalleled insights into the global F&B industry to chart out international growth strategies.

Ranjit Bindra, Founder & CEO of BHPL, expresses his confidence in Chef Saran's appointment, noting, “BHPL has always attracted the finest talent from around the world, which is what has helped us grow into one of the country’s most respected and exciting F&B brands. With Suvir joining to steer the culinary direction of the company, I am confident that we will cement our reputation, not just in India but also abroad.”

In Chef Saran's impressive culinary portfolio, he achieved a significant milestone by creating Devi in Manhattan, the first restaurant to earn a Michelin star when the guide made its North American debut. Devi also holds the distinction of being the first non-Northern European and Indian restaurant to receive a Michelin star in North America. Chef Saran also owned and operated Tapestry in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, before temporarily closing it to return to India for health reasons.

BHPL's future plans include launching the Bastian brand in two more key metropolitan areas and relocating Bastian Worli to a larger and more strategically positioned venue in central Mumbai. With Chef Suvir Saran steering the culinary ship, exciting developments await the world of gastronomy under BHPL's banner.


Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

Global F&B Expert Mariki Sayles Joins JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as Director of Food & Beverage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has announced the appointment of Mariki Sayles as its new Director of Food & Beverage, marking an exciting chapter in the hotel’s culinary evolution. With more than a decade of distinguished international experience spanning India, New York, and beyond, Mariki brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the role.

An award-winning hospitality professional, Mariki was honoured as Mixologist of the Year by The Times of India and served as a judge at ProWine Mumbai 2024, establishing herself as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking F&B leaders. Her diverse experience includes leading beverage operations for Bastian Hospitality’s iconic venues across India, directing transformative consulting projects nationwide, and contributing to the beverage program at New York’s Michelin-starred Le Bernardin.

Throughout her career, Mariki has been recognised for creating and elevating cutting-edge bar and restaurant concepts that blend operational excellence with creative storytelling, crafting experiences that resonate deeply with guests.

At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, she will oversee the hotel’s comprehensive food and beverage operations, driving strategy, innovation, and exceptional guest engagement across its acclaimed dining venues, sophisticated banquet facilities, and signature lounges. This appointment underscores the hotel’s dedication to maintaining its leadership position in Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape.

Reflecting on her new role, Mariki Sayles shared,

“JW Marriott is synonymous with international standards of excellence, and I am thrilled to contribute to this legacy at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar. My vision is to elevate our food and beverage experiences to not only match global benchmarks but also redefine them for the Mumbai market, curating concepts that are innovative, immersive, and unforgettable.”

With her creative vision, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic insight, Mariki’s leadership is set to enhance JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s culinary identity, reaffirming its reputation as the Gateway to Mumbai and a true pioneer of hospitality excellence.


Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels Appoints Vijaya Kumar as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

GRT Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Vijaya Kumar as the General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the group’s flagship property. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Kumar brings a wealth of expertise in operations, culinary innovation, and sustainable hospitality practices.

Kumar’s promotion to General Manager marks a significant internal advancement within GRT Hotels & Resorts. He previously served as Cluster Director of Food & Beverage, leading operations across Radisson franchise GRT hotels, and has contributed 17 years of dedicated service to the group across multiple properties. His experience also includes tenures with renowned brands such as Taj, ITC, and SRM Hotels.

Passionate about community impact, Kumar has spearheaded initiatives like Chef Amudhupadai, a program to feed underprivileged children, collaborated with local farmers for organic produce, introduced Braille menus and allergen-friendly dining, and trained differently-abled individuals in hospitality and bakery sectors.

Commenting on the appointment, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said:

“We are delighted to appoint Mr. Vijaya Kumar as General Manager of Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels. His journey reflects our commitment to nurturing talent from within. Beginning his career as a professional chef, he combines culinary creativity with operational insight, equipping him with a deep understanding of guest experience and hospitality operations. Under his stewardship, Grand Chennai will continue to set new benchmarks in guest satisfaction and brand excellence.”

Speaking about his new role, Vijaya Kumar added:

“It is a privilege to lead Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, the flagship property of a brand that has set benchmarks in Indian hospitality for nearly three decades. My focus will be on crafting meaningful guest experiences, championing sustainability, and creating a destination that truly reflects the essence of GRT Hotels. Together with my team, I look forward to carrying this tradition forward while setting new standards for excellence.”

Kumar holds a diploma in hotel management from IHM Chennai, alongside multiple postgraduate degrees including an MBA in Human Resources, MA in Public Administration, and a Master’s in Tourism Management. He is also certified in ISO 22000, AHLA programs, and is an accredited trainer and auditor.


Himanshu Batra Appointed General Manager of Welcomhotel Jodhpur

Himanshu Batra Appointed General Manager of Welcomhotel Jodhpur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

ITC Hotels has announced the appointment of Himanshu Batra as the new General Manager of Welcomhotel Jodhpur, situated at the heart of the city. A seasoned hotelier with over 17 years of experience, Batra brings operational expertise, strategic leadership, and a strong commitment to excellence in creating and delivering remarkable guest experiences.

Over the years, Batra has held key leadership roles across several iconic ITC Hotels, including ITC Narmada (Ahmedabad), ITC Grand Chola (Chennai), ITC Windsor (Bengaluru), ITC Mughal (Agra), and ITC Rajputana (Jaipur). Across each property, he has consistently elevated service standards, fostered high-performing teams, and driven guest satisfaction with precision and poise.

Batra’s association with ITC Hotels began early in his career. He is a graduate of the Welcomgroup Management Institute, which laid the foundation for his journey within one of India’s most respected luxury hospitality chains.

Reflecting on his appointment, Himanshu Batra said:

“I am honoured to take on the role of General Manager at Welcomhotel Jodhpur. I look forward to shaping Welcomhotel Jodhpur – a landmark in this beautiful city that blends heritage, crafts, and industrialisation. This makes Jodhpur a value-driven and highly competitive market, and I am eager to position our property as a leader in delivering best-in-class luxury hospitality experiences responsibly, in line with the core ethos of ITC Hotels.”

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