Bellona Hospitality Launches 'Eight': A New Pan-Asian Culinary Destination in Pune

Bellona Hospitality Launches 'Eight': A New Pan-Asian Culinary Destination in Pune

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 7, 2024

Bellona Hospitality, a leader in premium hospitality experiences, proudly announces the opening of its newest venture, 'Eight'. This luxury Pan-Asian bar and restaurant is set to make its grand debut in Pune, located at the city's premier shopping and luxury destination, the Mall of the Millennium.

A Culinary Journey Through Asia

Under the direction of Prashant Issar, Director of Bellona Hospitality, 'Eight' introduces Pune to a sophisticated dining concept inspired by the Izakaya style of dining, reflecting the auspicious number eight, which signifies wealth, prosperity, and abundance in Chinese culture. This venue is designed to merge luxury dining with the vibrant shopping environment of its location, promising an unparalleled gastronomic experience.

image

Delectable Pan-Asian Delights

'Eight' offers a menu that tantalises the taste buds with a variety of Asian cuisines from Canton, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Japan. Signature dishes include:

  • Dim Sums: Highlighting the Cantonese tradition with choices like Water Chestnut and Asparagus Dim Sum.

  • Sushi and Tempura: Featuring over 15 varieties of sushi and a selection of tempura.

  • Curries and Woks: Prepared with the freshest ingredients for an authentic taste.

The menu also caters to vegetarians with dishes such as Tofu & Eggplant in Black Bean Claypot and Truffle Edamame, complemented by inventive desserts crafted from seasonal ingredients.

image

Exclusive Beverages and Cocktails

Enhancing the dining experience, 'Eight' boasts a selection of crafted beverages and signature cocktails designed to complement the rich flavours of the food menu. This includes a curated selection of teas and innovative drinks that capture the essence of Asian cuisine.

Elegant and Sophisticated Ambiance

The interior of 'Eight' exudes Asian opulence, with stained wood railings, faux stone walls, and contemporary Asian seating arrangements. Privacy is offered through wood and metallic glass panels, creating an intimate dining experience enhanced by hand-painted calligraphy and textured blue walls.

Location and Reservation Details

Location: Shop S02, Phoenix Mall of Millennium, Pune - Bangalore Highway, Shankar Kalat Nagar, Wakad, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra 411057

Operating Hours: 12:00 noon to 11:00 PM

Average Cost for Two: Rs. 3500/-

Reservations: 86579 40135

Instagram: @Eightrestaurantpune

Prashant Issar of Bellona Hospitality comments on the launch: "We are excited to introduce 'Eight' in Pune, blending the rich heritage of Asian cuisine with the dynamic spirit of Pune. Our goal is to create more than just a dining experience but a cultural and gastronomic hub that sets new standards in the hospitality industry."

Join us at 'Eight' to explore an innovative fusion of tastes and traditions, making every dining experience memorable.


The LaLiT New Delhi Hosts Michelin-Star Chef Philipp Dyczek for Exclusive Culinary Showcase at OKO

The LaLiT New Delhi Hosts Michelin-Star Chef Philipp Dyczek for Exclusive Culinary Showcase at OKO

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

The LaLiT New Delhi recently hosted an exclusive culinary showcase at its signature Pan-Asian restaurant, OKO, featuring Michelin-starred Austrian chef Philipp Dyczek. Held over two special evenings, the intimate dining experience introduced guests to Chef Dyczek’s distinctive culinary philosophy, blending modern European techniques with Japanese precision.

Chef Dyczek, founder of Restaurant ARTIS, is recognised as one of Austria’s leading contemporary chefs. His restaurant earned its first Michelin Star in 2025 and continues to receive acclaim from global gastronomic guides. Known for his disciplined approach to ingredients, seasonality, and craftsmanship, his cuisine reflects balance, clarity, and refined elegance.

For the showcase, Chef Dyczek curated an eight-course tasting menu inspired by the Japanese Omakase philosophy, where each dish unfolded as a carefully planned progression of flavours, textures, and aromas. The experience was further elevated with premium Austrian wines, thoughtfully paired with each course.

image

The culinary journey began with Bluefin Tuna O-Toro Tartlet, followed by King Crab Beignet, and a refreshing Hamachi Ceviche that balanced acidity and freshness. Guests were then served Austrian Chicken Chawanmushi, highlighting the chef’s cross-cultural approach with subtle and layered flavours.

Seafood courses featured Skrei and Red Snapper, combining European techniques with Japanese influences. The menu continued with Suckling Pig, followed by Duck paired with water spinach and green asparagus, infused with delicate Southeast Asian notes. The evening concluded with a Topfen Soufflé served with Riesling sabayon and vanilla ice cream.

A thoughtfully designed vegetarian menu was also presented, featuring dishes such as Pea and Asparagus Tartlet, Carrot and Miso Beignet, Tomato and Avocado Tartare, Burnt Eggplant with curry butter, Savoy Cabbage Sushi, and seasonal mushrooms, ending with the signature dessert.

image

Speaking about the showcase, Vishal Sharma, General Manager, The LaLiT New Delhi, said:

"It was an honour for The LaLiT New Delhi to host Chef Philipp Dyczek and bring his Michelin-starred culinary artistry to OKO. Experiences like these allow our guests to explore global gastronomy at the highest level while reinforcing our commitment to offering exceptional and immersive dining experiences."

The evenings concluded on a celebratory note, with diplomats, patrons, media, and culinary enthusiasts coming together to enjoy the curated menu and lively ambience. With live music and engaging conversations, the event created a vibrant and memorable atmosphere for all attendees.

Presented in collaboration with Chef’s Table India, the exclusive two-night pop-up welcomed guests for an intimate Chef’s Table experience. The showcase further reinforced OKO’s position as one of Delhi’s leading destinations for elevated international dining and global culinary collaborations.


Naked & Famous Celebrates International Whiskey Day with Signature Cocktails

Naked & Famous Celebrates International Whiskey Day with Signature Cocktails

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

Naked & Famous, known as the first of its kind octagonal bar, is celebrating its first International Whiskey Day with a special showcase of two whiskey-based cocktails, The Showgirl and 3 Acts of Citrus.

The celebration begins with The Showgirl, a cocktail crafted using Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey, maraschino cherry, mandarin orange, and aromatic bitters. The drink carries a classic character with notes of sour mash, fruitiness, cherry, and zesty citrus, balanced by a bittersweet depth. While it stays true to traditional flavours, it also brings a subtle twist that adds to its appeal.

image

The second offering, 3 Acts of Citrus, is made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, blended with tri-citrus marmalade and green lime. This cocktail delivers a bright and refreshing profile, with tart citrus notes complemented by a clean malt and whiskey base, creating a smooth and balanced finish.

Together, these cocktails reflect Naked & Famous’s approach to reimagining familiar drink styles through refined technique and flavour. The bar presents a fresh yet approachable way for guests to experience whiskey without moving too far from classic preferences.

Marking the occasion, Naked & Famous invites guests to raise a toast with The Showgirl and 3 Acts of Citrus, celebrating whiskey through two distinct and thoughtfully crafted creations.


Nashville Fried Chicken Has Landed in Pune and the Crispy Revolution Is Here

Nashville Fried Chicken Has Landed in Pune and the Crispy Revolution Is Here

By Hariharan U

Published on March 18, 2026

Pune's fried chicken scene just got a serious upgrade. Nashville Fried Chicken, the bold comfort food concept from Zorawar Kalra and Massive Restaurants Pvt Ltd, has officially arrived in the city, bringing the same crispy, flavour-packed experience that has already built a loyal following across Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai.

image

This isn't your standard fried chicken chain. Nashville Fried Chicken has a very specific approach to getting it right, and the details matter. The chicken is massaged with robust spices and marinated for 18 hours before it's ever fried. The buns are proofed for 18 hours to achieve that soft, cloud-like texture that holds up to the fillings without falling apart. And the sauces, including Comeback Sauce, Secret Sauce, Honey Mustard, and Hot n Spicy, are all made in-house. Every element of the experience has been thought through, which is exactly what you'd expect from the team behind Louis Burger and Slyce Pizza.

The menu covers a lot of ground and does it well. The signature Fried Chicken Bucket with Peri Peri and Hot n Spicy sauces is the go-to for those who want heat and plenty of it. Glazed Chicken Tenders and Wings bring a slightly different texture to the table, while the Nashville Style Fried Chicken Burger, finished with spicy slaw and a dusting of paprika, is the standout sandwich on the menu. The Big Cluck Burger, Tandoori Fried Chicken Burger, and Hot American Summer round out the non-vegetarian options, while Pretty Boy Fries, Clucking Coop Wrap, and Fiery Double Chicken Wrap give you more reasons to order generously. Vegetarian options are also on the menu for those who want something from the spread.

For delivery, the packaging has been specifically designed to keep the chicken crispy throughout the journey, which matters more than it sounds when you're ordering fried chicken at home or at the office.

Zorawar Kalra shared his enthusiasm for the Pune launch. "Having seen the love from our patrons across India for Louis Burger, we are thrilled to now bring the bold flavours of Nashville Fried Chicken to Pune. Our team has worked tirelessly to develop a menu that combines global culinary expertise with the authentic indulgence of great fried chicken. With Pune's vibrant food culture and love for comfort food, we are excited to offer fried chicken enthusiasts a truly exceptional experience that they can enjoy from the comfort of their homes."

Nashville Fried Chicken is available on Zomato and Swiggy in Pune.

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.