Chef Joel Basumatari’s "Seven Spices Up North" Pop-Up Takes Over Courtyard by Marriott, Mumbai

Chef Joel Basumatari’s "Seven Spices Up North" Pop-Up Takes Over Courtyard by Marriott, Mumbai

By Shreenidhi Jagannathan

Published on June 18, 2024

The Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, in partnership with Gormei, renowned for curating exceptional culinary experiences, proudly presents "Seven Spices Up North"—a unique dining adventure curated by acclaimed Chef Joel Basumatari. Ranked #27 on India's Top 30 Chefs list by Culinary Culture, Chef Joel will showcase the vibrant flavors of Naga cuisine at the Momo Cafe from June 14th to June 23rd, 2024.

Victor Chen, General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, expressed his enthusiasm: "We are thrilled to welcome Chef Basumatari. His expertise in Naga cuisine offers a unique opportunity for our diners to explore bold and beautiful flavors. At Courtyard by Marriott, we strive to curate unforgettable experiences, and the 'Seven Spices Up North' pop-up promises to be a culinary adventure for all."

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Chef Basumatari's specially curated menu highlights the versatility and health benefits of Naga cuisine. Diners can look forward to a variety of dishes, including steaming hot pots, live cooking stations, flavorful soups, appetizers, and mains. Each meal can be completed with fluffy rice, decadent desserts, and a variety of condiments to enhance the dining experience. Signature dishes include:

  • Dohneiiong: A traditional dish from Meghalaya featuring tender pork cooked with black sesame paste and aromatic spices.
  • Masor Bor: A delightful fish dumpling soup made with ground fish paste, herbs, and spices, offering a burst of flavors with every spoonful.
  • Millet Cannoli: A fusion dessert that combines the Italian cannoli with millet for a unique and delicious treat.
  • Masor Tenga: A tangy fish curry from Assam made with souring agents like tomatoes, lemon, or dried kokum, giving it a refreshing and zesty flavor profile.
  • Oma Bedor Saonia: A traditional Naga dish featuring smoked pork cooked with fermented bamboo shoots and fiery Naga chili peppers, resulting in a smoky, spicy, and aromatic curry.
  • Kenie Thevü Gacha: A comforting rice porridge from Nagaland made with locally-grown sticky rice and served with various toppings such as boiled eggs, vegetables, and pickles.

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Chef Basumatari aims to introduce diners to the unique ingredients and intriguing flavor profiles of Naga cuisine. "Naga cuisine is a hidden gem, celebrating fresh, local produce and traditional cooking methods," he said. "My menu for 'Seven Spices Up North' is a vibrant exploration of these elements. I want diners to experience the warmth and hospitality integral to Naga culture through food. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or curious to try something new, this pop-up at Courtyard by Marriott, Mumbai will be an unforgettable culinary adventure."

Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to experience the magic of Naga cuisine at MoMo Cafe, Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport.

Venue: MoMo Cafe, Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, Lobby Level, CTS 215, Opposite Carnival Cinemas, Andheri Kurla Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400059

Dates: June 14th to June 23rd, 2024

Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Price: INR 2375++

For reservations and more information, visit the Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport website.


Gracia Cero Brings Mindful Drinking to the Fore

Gracia Cero Brings Mindful Drinking to the Fore

By Hariharan U

Published on January 11, 2026

Kantala Spirits has introduced Gracia Cero, a new-age beverage that encourages mindful drinking while keeping the joy of social occasions intact. Positioned clearly as not anti-alcohol, Cero supports choice, moderation, and inclusivity, giving consumers the freedom to enjoy gatherings on their own terms.

Gracia Cero stands out as India’s first non-alcoholic agave drink, created for people looking to reset after festive indulgence, take part in Dry January, or simply adopt a more balanced drinking approach. The focus remains on flavour and experience, ensuring that choosing a zero-alcohol option never feels like a compromise.

Designed to fit seamlessly into parties, work events, and everyday social settings, Cero allows everyone at the table to feel included. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal gathering, the drink offers a refined alternative that blends in naturally with modern social rituals.

Completely alcohol-free and sugar-free, Gracia Cero contains 0% ABV and just 4 calories per serving. Made using agave, it delivers a clean, refreshing profile without alcohol, making it suitable for those prioritising health, detox routines, or mindful living, while still enjoying a premium beverage.

The brand brings a bold approach to flavour with two distinct variants, Raw ‘n’ Wild Mango and Pineapple Piñata. These flavour-forward options add a playful yet elevated touch, challenging the idea that non-alcoholic drinks need to be plain or predictable.

With Gracia Cero, Kantala Spirits aims to reshape modern drinking culture by offering a guilt-free way to raise a glass. Free from sugary mixers, next-day fatigue, or social pressure, Cero fits effortlessly into evolving lifestyle choices where balance and enjoyment go hand in hand.


Punjab Grill Expands Footprint with 57th Outlet in Thane

Punjab Grill Expands Footprint with 57th Outlet in Thane

By Hariharan U

Published on January 9, 2026

Punjab Grill, the flagship North Indian dining brand from Lite Bite Foods, has marked a new milestone with the opening of its 57th outlet at Lakeshore, Viviana Mall, Thane. The launch reinforces the brand’s steady expansion across key urban markets while bringing its heritage-driven culinary offering closer to diners in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The newly opened restaurant reflects Punjab Grill’s signature design language, an elegant blend of warmth, nostalgia, and modern sophistication. Thoughtfully curated interiors and a welcoming ambience create a versatile dining environment suited for family gatherings, business lunches, and celebratory occasions.

Staying true to its culinary philosophy, the menu showcases Punjab Grill’s well-known repertoire inspired by the royal kitchens of undivided Punjab, age-old recipes, and the region’s vibrant food culture. Guests can expect robust flavours, slow-cooked preparations, and meticulously crafted dishes that balance authenticity with contemporary presentation.

Commenting on the launch, Rohit Aggarwal, Founder and Managing Director, Lite Bite Foods, said, “Thane has emerged as a dynamic dining destination with an audience that values quality, legacy, and innovation. With our 57th outlet at Viviana Mall, we aim to address this growing demand by offering an immersive dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of North India.”

With this addition, Punjab Grill continues to strengthen its nationwide presence, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating heritage-led cuisine while evolving with modern dining preferences. The Thane outlet represents the brand’s focus on expanding into high-footfall urban centres with a strong appetite for premium dining experiences.


Romanos at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Launches Formaggi d’Italia: A Cheese-Centric Culinary Experience

Romanos at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Launches Formaggi d’Italia: A Cheese-Centric Culinary Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on January 8, 2026

Romanos, the city’s premier destination for authentic Italian cuisine at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, is set to unveil Formaggi d’Italia, a refined, cheese-led culinary experience. Launching on 7th January 2026, the showcase celebrates Italian cheese through craftsmanship, storytelling, and interactive dining.

Inspired by Italy’s regional cheese culture, Formaggi d’Italia begins with an artisanal cheese board featuring Bocconcini, Mozzarella, Gorgonzola, pine nut-crusted goat cheese, Pecorino, and Provolone, paired with pecan nuts, JW herb crackers, and mostarda.

Guests can then indulge in a range of cheese-forward pastas including Four Root Cheese Gnocchi with Brie, Fettuccine Quattro Formaggi, and Tortellini alla Fonduta. The experience continues with comforting mains such as Chicken Parmigiana and Spinach Ricotta Lasagna with Brie, and concludes with classic Italian desserts like Tiramisu and Sicilian Cannoli filled with Ricotta.

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“Formaggi d’Italia brings together craftsmanship, indulgence, and storytelling,” said a spokesperson for Romanos. “It reaffirms Romanos as a destination where authentic Italian flavours are elevated through immersive, experience-led dining.”

About JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar combines elegance and sophistication, conveniently located near Mumbai’s international and domestic airports. The hotel features 588 spacious rooms, world-class dining including Romanos, JW Café, BarQat, and AUTM – JW Lounge, as well as 95,781 sq.ft. of convention spaces, and Spa by JW, Asia Pacific’s first, offering holistic wellness therapies.

For more details, visit www.jwmumbai.com.

About Marriott International
Marriott International operates nearly 9,500 properties in 144 countries under 30+ brands. Marriott Bonvoy® offers a highly awarded travel platform. For the latest news, visit Marriott News Center or follow @MarriottIntl on social media.

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