Callebaut Unveils the Third Edition of India’s PATISSIER OF THE YEAR Competition

Callebaut Unveils the Third Edition of India’s PATISSIER OF THE YEAR Competition

By Author

Published on December 15, 2023

Callebaut, the renowned producer of the Finest Belgian Chocolate, is thrilled to announce the return of its flagship event, Callebaut Patissier of the Year (CPY) 2024, in collaboration with Chocolate Academy Mumbai. This prestigious competition invites chefs and artisans to showcase their creative mastery in the art of chocolate crafting.

Celebrating a century of crafting The Finest Belgian Chocolate, Callebaut recognizes the paramount value of originality in the world of chocolate and pastry. This year's theme, 'Craft Your Signature,' emphasizes the uniqueness of every chef. CPY 2024 aims to create a platform that celebrates chefs for who they are – their background, culture, and authentic selves.

The competition features qualifying rounds challenging participants to showcase their originality through chocolate creations. Scheduled through February 2024 in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, the qualifier winners will compete in the finale set to take place in Mumbai in May 2024.

Dhruva Sanyal, Managing Director of India for Barry Callebaut, said, “As we embark on the third edition of Callebaut Patissier of the Year, we are excited to witness the diverse and innovative creations of our talented Indian chefs. This competition reflects our commitment to supporting and celebrating the unique talents within the culinary world.”

Pratik Deshmukh, Head of Chocolate Academy Mumbai, invited participants to become a part of the Callebaut family, emphasizing the competition as not only a chance to compete but also to learn. “We welcome you to become a part of the Callebaut and Global Chocolate Academy™ Network. We’re thrilled to witness groundbreaking creation techniques and excited to see the best talents come forward to participate in the competition. We are excited to find the best gem of the pastry chef community together,” he added.

Applications are open from December 1, 2023, and can be submitted online until January 20, 2024. An esteemed jury led by Pratik Deshmukh will evaluate the applications.

The title winner will enjoy a privileged visit to the world's largest chocolate factory in Wieze, Belgium. The first runner-up will receive a masterclass at Chocolate Academy Dubai, while the second runner-up will be awarded an international masterclass at Chocolate Academy Mumbai.

Callebaut's CPY 2024 promises not just a competition but a celebration of creativity and individuality in the world of chocolate crafting. As the legacy continues, it invites participants to showcase their unique signatures and be a part of a community passionate about the artistry of chocolate.


The Patio at 24/1 Unveils a New All-Day Dining Menu in Bengaluru

The Patio at 24/1 Unveils a New All-Day Dining Menu in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2026

The Patio at 24/1, located at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, has introduced a refreshed all-day dining menu curated by Chef Afzal Mahmood. Designed to cater to every part of the day, the new offering combines globally inspired flavours with comforting classics and thoughtfully crafted dishes.

Guests can begin their day with the restaurant's breakfast selection, Patio Breakfast Then I'll Change The World. One of the highlights is the Ms. Patio Big Breakfast, featuring eggs cooked to preference, beef bacon, chicken sausage, and crispy potatoes.

As the day progresses, diners can explore a selection of small plates, including the Lebanese Batata Harra served with roasted red pepper dip and the Edamame & Red Cheddar Croquetas, accompanied by saffron aioli and jalapeño salsa.

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The main course menu reflects Chef Afzal Mahmood's global culinary approach. Signature dishes include the Homemade Almond Butter Ricotta & Young Spinach Ravioli finished with tomato basil pecorino fondue, the Saffron Seafood Cappelletti served in a delicate creamy bisque, and the Premium Pink Cut Salmon paired with saffron caviar butter sauce and a citrus fennel salad.

To end the meal, guests can choose from desserts such as A Must Eat Risotto, a playful creation featuring white chocolate gelato and almond crumble, or the restaurant's signature Tiramisu, prepared using a 58-year-old recipe.

Whether visiting after a game on the pickleball court, meeting over breakfast, or enjoying a leisurely lunch, the new menu at The Patio at 24/1 is designed to offer a relaxed and memorable dining experience throughout the day.

  • Venue: The Patio at 24/1, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru.
  • Timing: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
  • Address: JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, 24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd, Bengaluru – 560001.

So Good Soju Expands to Karnataka with Five Flavour Launch

So Good Soju Expands to Karnataka with Five Flavour Launch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2026

Homegrown craft soju brand So Good Soju has expanded into Karnataka, marking its entry into Bengaluru with the launch of five popular flavours: Peach, Green Grape, Strawberry, Blueberry, and Green Apple. The move comes as interest in Korean food, culture, and flavour-forward, low-ABV beverages continues to grow among young Indian consumers.

The Karnataka launch is part of the brand's wider expansion strategy, which also includes Goa and the North East, further strengthening its footprint in India's evolving craft spirits market.

With this expansion, So Good Soju now offers a portfolio of seven flavours across still and sparkling expressions, including Peach, Green Apple, Yuzu Lime, K-Bomb, Green Grape, Strawberry, and Blueberry. The brand is currently available at both terminals of Mumbai Airport, retail outlets across Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Haryana, with additional markets set to follow.

The latest launch reflects the growing preference among Indian consumers for lighter, fruit-forward alcoholic beverages influenced by global drinking trends. The rising popularity of Korean cuisine, entertainment, and lifestyle has also contributed to increasing demand for authentic soju experiences in the country.

Each of the newly introduced flavours has been developed to offer a distinct taste profile. Green Grape delivers a crisp and refreshing finish, Strawberry offers a balanced fruit-forward flavour with bright acidity, while Blueberry features rich berry notes and a smooth finish, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences.

Commenting on the expansion, Jaspreet Singh, Founder, So Good Soju, said:

"We are seeing a clear shift in how young Indian consumers are approaching alcohol. They are looking for drinks that are lighter, flavour-forward and suited to more social, experiential occasions. Bengaluru is one of India's most exciting beverage markets, making it the ideal city to introduce the next phase of our portfolio. As interest in Korean culture continues to grow, we believe soju has the potential to become an important premium drinking choice for Indian consumers."

As part of its national growth strategy, So Good Soju will also introduce the new variants in Maharashtra, Goa, Haryana, and Punjab in the coming weeks, making its expanding portfolio accessible to more consumers seeking globally inspired beverage experiences.


Wendy's India Launches Flagship Store in Delhi's Hudson Lane

Wendy's India Launches Flagship Store in Delhi's Hudson Lane

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 10, 2026

Wendy's India, operated by Rebel Foods under the master franchise agreement, has expanded its presence in the capital with the launch of its flagship restaurant in Hudson Lane, GTB Nagar, Delhi. Positioned in one of the city's most popular student and youth hubs, the new outlet has been designed as more than just a dining destination, bringing together food, music, anime culture, and community-driven experiences.

To mark the launch, Wendy's India has lined up a series of events inspired by the interests of Gen Z consumers. The initiative follows the recent introduction of the brand's Teriyaki Burger range and reflects its strategy of creating experiences that extend beyond its menu.

The celebrations begin on July 10, when customers can enjoy Wendy's newly launched Teriyaki Burgers free of cost, along with exclusive giveaways and meet-and-greet sessions with the iconic Wendy mascot.

On July 12, the flagship restaurant will host Wendy's Buns & Bars, a live rap battle celebrating India's growing hip-hop culture. Organised in collaboration with Naam Sujal, runner-up of Hustle Season 4, the event will feature ten finalists selected through online auditions. Winners will receive cash prizes of ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000, along with exclusive Wendy's merchandise and unlimited Wendy's meals during the competition.

The celebrations will continue on July 18 with an Anime Fans Meetup, inspired by the Teriyaki Burger range. For the event, the restaurant will be transformed into a Japanese-themed venue featuring anime-inspired décor, cosplay competitions, interactive fan activities, and exclusive Teriyaki merchandise, including T-shirts and bucket hats. The Wendy mascot will also make a special appearance, while cosplay winners will receive cash prizes of ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000.

Commenting on the launch, Mohit Mahajan, AVP Marketing, Rebel Foods, said:

"Delhi has always been a key market for Wendy's India, and Hudson Lane - with its vibrant student community and dynamic food culture - is the perfect home for our flagship restaurant. More than just a place to enjoy great food, this outlet has been designed as a space where music, fandom and global flavours come together. Through experiences like Buns & Bars and our Anime Fans Meetup, we are creating meaningful cultural moments that allow consumers to connect with Wendy's beyond the menu. As we continue to expand across India, our focus remains on building experiences that resonate with the country's next generation of consumers."

The Hudson Lane flagship reflects Wendy's India's focus on combining globally inspired flavours with locally relevant cultural experiences, strengthening the brand's presence among young consumers while creating a destination where food, entertainment, and community come together.

Outlet Address:  Wendy's, Hudson Lane, GTB Nagar, Delhi

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