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.


When Chocolate Becomes a Love Letter: BELAGIO Unveils Its Valentine’s

When Chocolate Becomes a Love Letter: BELAGIO Unveils Its Valentine’s

By Hariharan U

Published on February 1, 2026

This Valentine’s Day, BELAGIO is redefining romance with chocolate that speaks straight to the heart. Introducing the Hearts & Roses Collection, a limited-edition Valentine’s special where love is baked, sculpted and savoured, transforming classic symbols of romance into elegant dessert creations.

Known for its emotion-driven craftsmanship and refined aesthetic, BELAGIO brings together flavour, form and feeling in a collection designed to delight not just the palate, but the senses. Each dessert is crafted as a love letter in chocolate, turning familiar Valentine motifs into luxurious, share-worthy indulgences.

At the heart of the collection is the Choco Berry Heart, a striking heart-shaped creation layered with dark chocolate mousse, tangy berry compote and almond chocolate sponge. Finished with a radiant red glaze and delicate gold accents, the dessert balances richness with brightness, offering a bold yet romantic expression of flavour.

Equally aptivating is the Chocolate Truffle Rose, a chocolate truffle cake crowned with a meticulously hand-crafted chocolate rose. Designed as a modern tribute to Valentine’s flowers, the edible rose adds both visual drama and sentimental charm, making it as memorable to gift as it is to savour.

Every dessert in the Hearts & Roses Collection is created as a thoughtful conversation between texture, taste and emotion. Whether shared between couples, friends, or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, the collection celebrates love in all its forms.

Available in limited quantities, BELAGIO’s Valentine’s special transforms everyday moments into romantic celebrations, offering chocolate that doesn’t just taste indulgent, but feels meaningful.


Cristal Azul Tequila Launches in Goa, Expands Premium Footprint Across India

Cristal Azul Tequila Launches in Goa, Expands Premium Footprint Across India

By Author

Published on January 31, 2026

Globally recognised premium tequila brand Cristal Azul has officially launched in Goa, marking the next phase of its India journey after a successful debut in Mumbai. The expansion signals the brand’s growing focus on India’s evolving premium spirits landscape, with plans already underway to enter key markets such as Delhi and Bengaluru.

Produced in Mexico and refined in New York, Cristal Azul follows traditional tequila-making methods while embracing contemporary craftsmanship. Made exclusively from 100% Blue Weber Agave sourced from the agave-rich soils of Jalisco, the tequila is known for its smoothness, balance, and consistency. Each bottle reflects a blend of heritage and modern sensibility, catering to today’s discerning consumers seeking refined sipping experiences.

Cristal Azul’s portfolio includes a range of internationally recognised expressions, including Añejo and Reposado, along with Extra Añejo, Blanco, Gold, and Silver. Designed for both neat sipping and modern cocktail culture, the range offers versatility across elevated social occasions and premium hospitality settings.

The brand’s arrival in Goa aligns naturally with the state’s vibrant hospitality ecosystem and premium lifestyle culture. As tequila continues to gain popularity among affluent Gen Z and Gen X consumers, alongside seasoned whisky drinkers exploring new categories, Cristal Azul positions itself as a natural choice for those seeking depth, elegance, and contemporary appeal.

Now available across select premium retail outlets, upscale bars, and leading hospitality destinations in Goa, Cristal Azul aims to elevate beachside gatherings, sunset rituals, and sophisticated nightlife experiences. Each expression is crafted to be enjoyed neat, over ice, or paired with curated culinary offerings.

With launches underway in Mumbai and Goa and further expansion planned across major Indian cities, Cristal Azul continues to strengthen its pan-India footprint. Blending global pedigree with meticulous craftsmanship, the brand invites Indian consumers to discover a new chapter in premium tequila culture, where every sip becomes an occasion.


Spice Traders at W Goa Reimagines Chinese Cuisine with a Modern, Intuitive Lens

Spice Traders at W Goa Reimagines Chinese Cuisine with a Modern, Intuitive Lens

By Hariharan U

Published on January 31, 2026

Spice Traders at W Goa is charting a new course for Chinese cuisine, offering a refined, contemporary interpretation rooted in philosophy rather than replication. Moving away from overt nostalgia or trend-driven reinvention, the restaurant’s refreshed culinary direction focuses on restraint, balance and instinctive flavour-building, quietly bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

Inspired by the philosophies of China’s Eight Great Cuisines, the approach at Spice Traders does not attempt to recreate regional dishes in their original form. Instead, the kitchen, led by Chef Avinash, studies the thinking behind them. The emphasis lies on understanding how heat is layered rather than imposed, how fermentation creates depth without heaviness, and how contrast, rather than excess, brings harmony to a dish.

These principles form the foundation of a menu that feels contemporary and relevant while staying deeply connected to the soul of Chinese cooking. Techniques and ingredients are used with intent, allowing flavours to unfold naturally and with clarity, rather than overwhelming the palate. The result is food that feels confident, edited and quietly expressive.

Central to this evolution is Spice Traders’ BA philosophy, which celebrates the space between opposites. Tradition meets modernity, fire balances freshness, and comfort coexists with curiosity. Each dish is designed to live in this in-between space, reflecting a thoughtful equilibrium that defines the restaurant’s culinary identity.

With this renewed direction, Spice Traders at W Goa continues to honour one of the world’s most storied culinary traditions, while presenting it through a lens that resonates with today’s diners. The experience is less about spectacle and more about intuition, offering a modern Chinese dining journey that feels both familiar and forward-looking.

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