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.


Conrad Pune Brings Authentic Sichuan Flavours to Koji with The Mala Market

Conrad Pune Brings Authentic Sichuan Flavours to Koji with The Mala Market

By Hariharan U

Published on August 16, 2026

Conrad Pune is bringing the bold flavours of southwestern China to the city with The Mala Market, a limited-time Sichuan cuisine festival at Koji from August 7 to 16, 2026.

Available during both lunch and dinner, the culinary promotion features a specially curated menu by Chef Gopal, showcasing authentic Sichuan preparations and traditional cooking techniques.

Sichuan cuisine is known for its distinctive balance of heat, aroma and depth, with the celebrated málà sensation at its heart. The characteristic combination of fiery chillies, fragrant Sichuan peppercorns and fermented broad bean paste creates the layered flavour profile associated with the region's cuisine.

The Mala Market brings together a selection of Sichuan classics, including Hot Pot, Mapo Tofu, Dan Dan Noodles, Stir-fried Green Beans and Roasted Pork. Each preparation has been crafted to highlight the bold flavours, aromatic spices and cooking techniques that define Sichuan's culinary heritage.

The specially curated à la carte menu allows diners to explore the diversity of Sichuan cuisine while experiencing its distinctive balance of spice, fragrance and umami.

Set within the contemporary Asian-inspired ambience of Koji at Conrad Pune, The Mala Market offers diners an opportunity to discover the culinary traditions of southwestern China through a focused regional menu.

Whether enjoyed over a leisurely lunch or an evening meal, the limited-time promotion brings together authentic flavours and contemporary dining in an experience designed for Sichuan food enthusiasts.

Event Details

Promotion: The Mala Market
Cuisine: Sichuan Cuisine
Venue: Koji, Conrad Pune
Dates: August 7–16, 2026
Timings: Lunch & Dinner
Reservations: +91 91686 03648 | 020 6745 6745


Sofitel Mumbai BKC Brings Authentic Parsi Flavours to Navroz Brunch

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Brings Authentic Parsi Flavours to Navroz Brunch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 16, 2026

This Parsi New Year, Sofitel Mumbai BKC is bringing the flavours of Parsi culinary heritage to the table with a special Navroz Brunch at Pondichéry Café on Sunday, 16th August 2026.

The curated brunch brings together the richness of traditional Parsi cuisine with the contemporary setting of Sofitel Mumbai BKC. Guests can explore heritage recipes, nostalgic street-side favourites, global dishes and interactive live stations as part of the festive spread.

The culinary highlights include much-loved Parsi preparations such as Patra Ni Machhi, Salli Boti, Berry Pulao, Dhansak, Jardaloo Salli Murgh, Mutton Cutlets, Kolmi No Patio, Kheema Pav, Lagan Nu Achar, and freshly baked brun pav.

Adding a nostalgic touch to the celebration, familiar favourites including Bun Maska, Akuri, Kejriwal Toast, Mawa Cakes, Pattice, and savoury bakes will be prepared live, allowing guests to enjoy these treats fresh from the stations.

The Navroz Brunch is designed as a celebration of Parsi food traditions, bringing together recipes and flavours that have been part of the community's culinary heritage, while adding the hospitality and dining experience of Sofitel Mumbai BKC.

Event Details:

  • Venue: Pondichéry Café, Sofitel Mumbai BKC
  • Event: Navroz Brunch
  • Date: Sunday, 16th August 2026
  • Time: 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM.


Maize & Malt Unveils Pork & Pints with Regional Pork and Craft Beer

Maize & Malt Unveils Pork & Pints with Regional Pork and Craft Beer

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 16, 2026

Maize & Malt is bringing together India's rich pork traditions and craft beer with Pork & Pints, a month-long culinary festival running throughout August 2026.

The festival brings eight pork preparations from different parts of India onto one menu, giving food lovers an opportunity to explore the distinct flavours and cooking traditions associated with each region.

The menu features pork specialties from Kodagu, Malnad, Kerala, Goa, Mangaluru, Nagaland, Assam, along with dishes from the Anglo-Indian culinary tradition. Each preparation is made with regional ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, keeping the recipes close to their original flavours and culinary roots.

Adding to the experience, every pork dish comes with a carefully selected craft beer pairing from Maize & Malt. The combinations are designed to bring together the flavours of the food and the beer while offering guests a balanced food and beer experience.

The festival's highlights include Kodava Pandi Fry, Malnad Pepper Pork Fry, Kerala Pork Ularthiyathu, Goan Pork Cafreal, Mangalorean Pork Bafat Fry, Naga Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot, Assamese Til Pork, and Anglo-Indian Devilled Pork. Each preparation is accompanied by a recommended beer pairing chosen to complement its flavour profile.

Rather than giving traditional dishes a modern reinterpretation, Pork & Pints focuses on regional authenticity. The festival takes guests through different pork traditions across India while also highlighting the range of flavours that can be paired with craft beer. The festival will be available exclusively at Maize & Malt throughout August.

Event Details:

  • Date: August 2026
  • Where: 3, 4th Cross Road, near Whitefield, Vigneshwar Nagar, Kaveri Nagar, Mahadevapura, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560048

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