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.


Cavore Brings a Fresh Nightlife Buzz to Bengaluru

Cavore Brings a Fresh Nightlife Buzz to Bengaluru

By Hariharan U

Published on December 3, 2025

Bengaluru has a new spot that’s bringing the city’s nights to life. Cavore, now open on Residency Road, arrives with the promise of energetic evenings, upbeat music, and a space where people can unwind in style.

Designed as an experience that blends sound, lights, and flavour, Cavore brings together sharp mixology, rich gourmet plates, and an atmosphere that shifts with the mood of the night. The room, the rhythm, and the floor move in sync, creating a setting that keeps the energy flowing.

The launch turned heads with dynamic performances by Singer King, with Aryan Khan supporting the evening, giving Bengaluru a glimpse of the kind of lively entertainment Cavore aims to deliver every night. From music and movement to the crowd’s buzz, everything came together to set the tone for what’s ahead.

Cavore isn't just a venue, it's an afterglow,” a Cavore spokesperson said. “Here, every night is designed to leave a mark that lingers long after the last spark of celebration.”

With bold cocktails, elevated food, and a space built for free-spirited evenings, Cavore opens its doors to Bengaluru’s nightlife lovers looking for nights that feel vibrant, indulgent, and full of life.


Malgudi by Shankar Mahadevan Expands in Mumbai with Authentic Roots and Global Expression

Malgudi by Shankar Mahadevan Expands in Mumbai with Authentic Roots and Global Expression

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 3, 2025

Malgudi, the South Indian resto-café co-founded by Padma Shri awardee and global music icon Shankar Mahadevan and Eatopia Holdings, has expanded its presence in Mumbai. The café blends authentic South Indian roots with modern global expression, creating a space that feels warm, creative, and inspired by culture.

Step inside Malgudi and the atmosphere immediately shifts into an indigo-blue and terracotta-orange glow. Brass elements catch the light, hand-painted murals reflect coastal lanes, and Chettinad-inspired tilework guides guests toward the open kitchen. The Filter Kaapi counter adds to the experience, where the barista performs the signature davara pour, filling the room with the aroma of fresh kaapi. The soundtrack carries Carnatic motifs woven into contemporary rhythms, making the space feel both familiar and new.

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For Shankar Mahadevan, Malgudi is a personal tribute to temple feasts, Sunday breakfasts, and the kitchens that shaped his early years. “Malgudi is not just about food. It’s about stories of family, culture, and creativity,” he says. “Every dosa, every cup of kaapi is a piece of heritage retold for today.”

The café’s interiors reflect this philosophy, bringing together natural materials like cane-backed chairs, polished teak tables, and brass detailing. The open kitchen adds warmth and intimacy, with the sound of dosa batter sizzling and the aroma of ghee welcoming guests. Music also plays a central role, blending tradition and modernity to create an inviting dining atmosphere.

Malgudi’s menu celebrates the depth of South Indian cuisine with a creative edge. At the centre is the Mulbagal Legacy Dosa, a 100-year-old recipe available exclusively at Malgudi. The Ven Pongal Arancini brings a playful twist with molten cheese at its core. Small plates such as Podi Cheese Balls, Anna-Style Crispy Lotus Root, and Butter Pepper Garlic Water Chestnuts offer innovative takes on familiar ingredients.

The café also highlights regional dishes through large plates like Bisi Bele Bibimbap, Paneer Ghee Roast with Neer Dosa, Sri Lankan Tamil Curry with Idiyappam, and Sanchi’s Vegetable Stew with Appam. Even classics such as Uthappam, Curd Rice, and Rasam Mini Idli are presented with thoughtful modern touches. Desserts like Elaneer Payasam, Filter Kaapi Panna Cotta, and the dramatic Chocolate Pull-Up Cake bring a playful finish to the meal.

The drinks menu showcases Malgudi’s creative approach to kaapi. Beans from Chikmagalur are brewed traditionally or reimagined for today’s tastes. Choices include the Kappuccino, the Indiano, and the indulgent Filter Kaapi with Ghee & Jaggery. For non-coffee drinkers, the Malgudi Picante, made with guava, pomegranate, Guntur chilli, and charcoal, adds a bold and refreshing option.

“At Malgudi, authenticity isn’t nostalgia, it's our foundation,” says CEO Chandrashekar. “We’ve reimagined South Indian cuisine for today, without losing the soul that makes it timeless. That balance of heritage and innovation is what defines us.”

“Our vision is to make Malgudi the global benchmark for modern South Indian dining culture,” adds K. S. Ramakrishnan, Founder, Eatopia Holdings; and CEO & MD, DEI. “With Malgudi, we’re combining scale with soul, and authenticity with innovation.”

Malgudi continues to bring its philosophy of “Authentic Inspiration. Creative Expression.” to a wider audience, redefining how South Indian cuisine is experienced in a contemporary café setting.

About Malgudi:

Malgudi – The South Indian Resto-Café is co-founded by Shankar Mahadevan and Eatopia Holdings, founded by K. S. Ramakrishnan. The café celebrates authentic recipes, creative reinterpretations, and a warm, modern café setting.

Note: Malgudi is an original brand with no association to the literary or television series Malgudi Days.

Factsheet:

Open Now: SV Road, Borivali West, Mumbai, Lower Parel & Chembur

Timings: Mon–Sun, 9:00 am – 11:30 pm

Accessibility & hospitality: Step-free access; child-friendly seating; Jain options available; reservations recommended at peak hours.


Anardana Launches Its 11th Outlet at Netaji Subhash Place, New Delhi

Anardana Launches Its 11th Outlet at Netaji Subhash Place, New Delhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 2, 2025

Anardana continues its flavorful journey across India with the launch of its 11th outlet at Netaji Subhash Place, New Delhi. This new space strengthens the brand’s presence in North Delhi and reflects its vision of blending traditional Indian flavours with contemporary sensibilities.

Coming soon after the recent opening at Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, this outlet highlights Anardana’s ongoing commitment to creativity, thoughtful design, and soulful dining. The brand’s story remains rooted in nostalgia while being reimagined through a modern lens for today’s diners.

Speaking about the new launch, Dr Ritesh Malik, Founder of Anardana, said, “At Anardana, every space is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience designed to evoke memories and create new ones. Opening our 11th outlet at Netaji Subhash Place is a proud moment for our team. With each location, we strive to bring Anardana’s signature warmth, creativity, and authenticity to new audiences across India.”

The outlet at Netaji Subhash Place features a modern design narrative that reinterprets classic Indian charm with an urban touch. Warm terracotta walls, soft geometric lighting, and elegant glass-block lattice structures create a vibrant yet soothing setting. A dramatic canopy of metal bells adds an immersive visual experience, while contemporary Indian artworks and a sculptural peacock installation bring a playful and culturally rooted character to the space.

The menu continues to celebrate Anardana’s most-loved dishes, offering a mix of traditional favourites and inventive creations. Signature plates such as Anardana Butter Chicken Bombs, Palak Patta Chaat, and Dilli Kulcha Tacos remain at the heart of the experience. Seasonal chef specials crafted exclusively for the NSP outlet add to the culinary excitement, aligning with the neighbourhood’s youthful and lively spirit.

Anardana’s 11th outlet is a reflection of the brand’s passion for redefining modern Indian dining. From nostalgic art walls to contemporary architectural elements, every detail has been designed to offer warmth, familiarity, and a sense of belonging. With every new opening, Anardana continues to offer more than flavour, it offers a story, a memory, and a moment to cherish.

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