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.


Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen Unveils Bold New Fusion Dinner Menu

Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen Unveils Bold New Fusion Dinner Menu

By Hariharan U

Published on May 28, 2026

Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen has introduced a new dinner menu that brings together bold Indian flavours and Persian-inspired culinary traditions, curated under the leadership of Executive Chef Mahesh Dhami.

The refreshed menu reflects the restaurant’s focus on modern fusion dining, combining regional Indian tastes with Middle Eastern influences and a global presentation style. Known for its contemporary approach in McAllen’s dining scene, Zaya continues to position itself as a destination for creative and experience-led cuisine.

The new offerings feature a wide mix of dishes across categories, including street-food inspired starters, charcoal-grilled specials, Persian mezze, handcrafted breads, and innovative fusion handhelds designed to enhance the overall dining experience.

Highlights from the grill section include Chipotle Chicken Tikka, Burrah Lamb Chops, Tandoori Octopus, and Kesari Paneer Tikka. The street-style selection brings a modern twist to familiar flavours with dishes such as Delhi-style Paani Puri, Tuna Passionfruit Paani Puri, Samosa Chaat, and Beetroot Chaat.

The menu also introduces creative fusion handhelds like Chapli Kebab Smash Burger, Roganjosh Birria Tacos, and Persian-inspired shawarma wraps, offering a cross-cultural dining experience.

Main course dishes include a mix of traditional Indian recipes and modern plating styles, featuring Ruby Chicken, Chicken Chettinad, Goat Korma, Moilee Salmon, Palak Saag Paneer, and Pistachio Malai Kofta. Classic biryanis such as Hyderabadi Goat Dum Biryani and Kolkata Vegetable Biryani further highlight India’s regional diversity.

Speaking about the launch, Executive Chef Mahesh Dhami shared that the menu is designed as a storytelling experience through food, combining authentic flavours with modern culinary techniques to create a memorable dining journey for guests.

With this launch, Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen strengthens its position as one of McAllen’s most innovative dining destinations, offering a menu rooted in tradition while embracing contemporary creativity.


Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Launches ‘The Southern Treasures’ Food Festival

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Launches ‘The Southern Treasures’ Food Festival

By Hariharan U

Published on May 28, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai is set to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of South India with the launch of The Southern Treasures, a specially curated food festival at Madurai Kitchen this June.

Designed as a month-long gastronomic experience, the festival will take guests on a flavourful journey across four South Indian states Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu through a series of weekend showcases led by master chefs.

Each weekend will focus on one state’s cuisine, highlighting traditional recipes, authentic ingredients, and regional cooking styles deeply rooted in local culture and heritage. Guests can expect a diverse spread of signature dishes that reflect the unique culinary identity of each region.

The festival aims to bring together the bold spices of Andhra cuisine, the comforting flavours of Karnataka, the coastal richness of Kerala, and the timeless classics of Tamil Nadu under one roof, offering diners an immersive regional dining experience.

Hosted at Madurai Kitchen inside Courtyard by Marriott Madurai, the event will run across all weekends in June 2026. Dining experiences will be available during Friday dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner, along with Sunday brunch.

With The Southern Treasures, the hotel continues to strengthen its focus on celebrating regional Indian cuisine while offering guests authentic and thoughtfully curated dining experiences


POIZ Gurgaon Redefines Dining with Design, Food and Experiences

POIZ Gurgaon Redefines Dining with Design, Food and Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 28, 2026

Nearly two years after its launch, POIZ Gurgaon continues to stand out in the city’s dining landscape by offering more than just a place to eat. Spread across a 10,000-square-foot space, the restaurant has built a loyal following by focusing on thoughtful experiences rather than short-lived trends.

Founded by entrepreneur Ansh Gupta, POIZ was created around the idea that food, entertainment, and design should work together rather than compete with one another. The result is a space that brings together striking interiors and a carefully planned atmosphere.

The restaurant features statuario marble walls, rich textures, fine veneers, and layered tapestries that create a visually distinctive setting. Complementing the interiors is a sunlit terrace with palm trees and a French-inspired patio, while the lounge offers a more intimate setting suited for relaxed conversations and after-dinner drinks.

Speaking about the vision behind the concept, Ansh Gupta, Founder, said:

"We didn't want Poiz to feel like it was chasing a moment. The intention was always to build a place that feels considered, where the design, the food, and the energy of the room work together rather than compete. A place you come back to."

Alongside the setting, the culinary experience remains a key focus. The menu takes inspiration from global flavours with a contemporary approach, offering dishes that appeal both to adventurous diners and those who prefer familiar favourites. The cocktail programme follows a similar direction, featuring classics and signature creations designed to complement the overall experience.

POIZ also keeps its calendar active beyond regular dining hours. Live music performances add energy to Friday and Saturday evenings, while Sunday family brunches have become a favourite for guests looking for a more relaxed way to spend time together.

Whether it is a quick business lunch, an evening with friends, or an extended dining experience, POIZ Gurgaon continues to create a space that balances food, ambience, and hospitality without compromise.

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