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.


Native Bombay Reopens at Ballard Estate with a Refreshed Culinary Identity

Native Bombay Reopens at Ballard Estate with a Refreshed Culinary Identity

By Hariharan U

Published on November 5, 2026

Native Bombay is returning to its familiar address in Mumbai's historic Ballard Estate with a refreshed culinary identity, an expressive small-plates menu and a new association with Soulinaire, the signature lifestyle catering brand of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL).

Led by Chef Darius Madon, the restaurant's latest chapter places greater emphasis on sharing, culinary exploration and contemporary interpretations of the flavours that define Bombay. The menu draws inspiration from the city's diverse communities, bringing together influences from Parsi cafés, coastal kitchens, street-food stalls and regional Indian cooking traditions.

The association with Soulinaire combines Native Bombay's cultural identity with IHCL's hospitality expertise, culinary capabilities and service philosophy.

A Menu Inspired by Bombay's Culinary Diversity

The refreshed menu is organised into sections including Small Beginnings, Bombay Snackery, Small Plates, Curries & Bombay Comforts, Rice & Bread, and Bombay Sweets. The format encourages diners to explore a wider selection of dishes through smaller portions and shared plates.

Guests can begin with familiar favourites such as Bun Maska or explore contemporary creations including Ghee Roasted Kathal Taco and Chicken Thecha Poppers.

The Bombay Snackery section draws from the city's street-food culture and café traditions, featuring Khaman Chaat, Crispy Palak Chaat and Mutton Galouti Sliders.

The small-plates selection brings together seafood, kebabs and tandoor preparations. Highlights include Crab Bake, Maska Prawns, Patrani Macchi, Thechha Chicken Kebab and Tandoori Lamb Chops. The selection is intended to offer diners the opportunity to move between familiar flavours and newer interpretations during a meal.

For those seeking traditional Indian comfort food, the menu includes Mutton Dhansak, a preparation associated with Bombay's Parsi culinary heritage, alongside Native Butter Chicken, Coastal Prawn Curry, Cafreal Chicken and Malabar Duck Leg.

The dessert selection features Shahi Tukda, Baked Jamun Rabdi and Kesar Phirni, bringing familiar Indian sweet traditions to the end of the meal.

Speaking about the restaurant's renewed direction, Amrita Malik, Promoter, Native Bombay, said, "Native Bombay has always been very personal to us because it reflects the city we love. Bombay is constantly changing, yet there is something wonderfully familiar about it. We wanted Native to reflect that same spirit. This new chapter brings fresh energy and a more contemporary dining experience while remaining true to the warmth, character and cultural diversity that have always defined the restaurant."

Chef Darius Madon said the menu brings together the different communities and culinary influences that have shaped the city's food culture. He added that the small-plates format allows guests to sample more dishes, share their selections and experience both recognisable favourites and unexpected combinations.

Familiar Surroundings, Renewed Dining Experience

Native Bombay retains its setting in Ballard Estate, with interiors featuring exposed brickwork, timber beams, warm lighting and industrial architectural details. The familiar surroundings provide the backdrop for the restaurant's renewed focus on sharing and culinary discovery.

The association with Soulinaire brings IHCL's hospitality experience and personalised service approach into the restaurant's operations. Soulinaire specialises in bespoke catering and curated food and beverage experiences, drawing on IHCL's hospitality legacy through a contemporary, design-led approach.

With its refreshed menu and hospitality partnership, Native Bombay's latest chapter remains connected to the city's cultural and culinary character while offering a contemporary format for exploring its many flavours.

Restaurant Details

  • Restaurant: Native Bombay

  • Address: 10/12, Cochin Street, Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai – 400001

  • Timings: 6:30 PM – 12:30 AM

About Native Bombay

Native Bombay is a contemporary Indian restaurant located in Mumbai's historic Ballard Estate. Its menu draws inspiration from the city's diverse communities, culinary traditions and cultural influences, bringing together familiar favourites and contemporary interpretations with an emphasis on sharing and discovery.

About Soulinaire

Soulinaire is the signature lifestyle catering brand of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL). It offers bespoke culinary experiences, combining IHCL's hospitality expertise with a contemporary approach to catering, personalisation and service.


Burger King India Launches Doomsday Whopper and Avengers: Doomsday Collection

Burger King India Launches Doomsday Whopper and Avengers: Doomsday Collection

By Hariharan U

Published on November 4, 2026

Burger King India has unveiled its limited-edition Avengers: Doomsday Collection, bringing Marvel-inspired flavours, character-themed packaging and collectible merchandise to its restaurants across the country ahead of the film's theatrical release on December 17, 2026.

As the Official Restaurant Partner for Avengers: Doomsday in India, Burger King has introduced a special menu that gives its signature flame-grilled offerings a superhero-inspired twist. Available from November 3, the collection features burgers, sides and a beverage, with burger prices starting at ₹199.

Doomsday Whopper Takes Centre Stage

The highlight of the collection is the Doomsday Whopper, available in two variants: Doomsday Whopper Extra Crunch Veg and Doomsday Whopper Flame-Grilled Chicken.

Inspired by the film's antagonist, Doctor Doom, the signature Whopper features a striking black glazed bun and a bold spicy garlic flavour. The brand says the distinctive bun colour is achieved using plant-derived natural food colour, aligning with its stated commitment to avoiding synthetic colours and artificial flavours in its menu.

The collection also draws inspiration from other Marvel characters, with a selection of premium burgers and sides named after familiar superheroes and villains.

What's on the Avengers: Doomsday Menu?

The limited-edition collection includes:

  • Doomsday Whoppers: Doomsday Whopper Extra Crunch Veg and Doomsday Whopper Flame-Grilled Chicken

  • Premium Burgers: Loki Molten Cheese Burger, Cyclops Soft Paneer Burger and Magneto Crunchy Chicken Burger

  • Sides: Shuri Vibranium Fries, Falcon Fearless Chicken Wings, Magneto Boneless Chicken and Thor Thunder Nuggets

  • Beverage: Fantastic Fizz

The menu follows Burger King's signature dunking platform, with spicy garlic flavour cues and bold sauces featuring across the offerings.

Themed Packaging and Collectible Merchandise

The collaboration extends beyond the menu through special-edition packaging featuring Avengers: Doomsday-themed burger boxes and a Doctor Doom-inspired crown. The packaging draws on the film's visual identity, turning the meal into a themed experience for fans.

Select meals from the collection also come with opportunities to access Marvel-themed merchandise. The campaign begins with a limited-edition collectible tumbler, with further merchandise planned to be introduced in phases.

Burger King has also opened a pre-booking window through its app, featuring a limited-edition Doomsday Meal bundled with a collectible Avengers: Doomsday tumbler at a special price.

Speaking about the launch, Kapil Grover, Chief Marketing Officer, Burger King India, said the collaboration brings together the Marvel fandom and Burger King's signature Whopper experience. He added that the menu, themed packaging and merchandise are intended to extend the excitement of the film beyond the cinema.

Nationwide Availability and Campaign

The launch is supported by a 360-degree marketing campaign spanning digital promotions, in-restaurant activations, outdoor advertising and influencer partnerships. The strategy aims to engage both food enthusiasts and Marvel fans ahead of the film's release.

Guests can access the Avengers: Doomsday Collection through dine-in, takeaway and home delivery at Burger King restaurants across India. Orders are also available through the BK App and leading food delivery platforms.

With its character-inspired menu, distinctive black-bun Whopper and collectible merchandise, Burger King India is bringing the Marvel universe into its quick-service restaurant experience for a limited period.


The Masala Story Opens First Dine-In Outlet on Golf Course Road, Gurugram

The Masala Story Opens First Dine-In Outlet on Golf Course Road, Gurugram

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 4, 2026

Gurugram-based food brand The Masala Story has opened its first dine-in outlet on Golf Course Road, Sector 54, marking a new phase in its journey since its establishment in 2020. Known for its North Indian and Mughlai offerings through delivery and catering, the brand is now welcoming guests to a dedicated dining space while continuing its existing operations.

Spread across approximately 1,000 sq. ft., the new outlet has been designed as a small, intimate space with soft lighting and music. Its location in Sector 54 offers access to a mix of commercial offices, residential towers and an established food and café scene, allowing the brand to serve walk-in diners as well as nearby households.

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At the heart of the brand's culinary operations is Vatsala Khanna, Founder and Head Chef of The Masala Story. Having previously worked as an academician, she pursued her interest in food through national and international culinary programmes. She now oversees the kitchen's day-to-day operations and personally develops the dishes and recipes featured on the menu.

The menu brings together several of the brand's signature preparations. Its Butter Chicken, named among Zomato's Top 10 in Gurgaon in 2025, is one of the highlights. Other offerings include slow-cooked Dal Makhani served in a clay handi, Paneer Lababdar, high-protein non-fried Paneer Cigar Rolls and Chicken Tikka.

The dessert selection includes the signature Gulab Jamun Nut, which presents the familiar flavours of gulab jamun in a doughnut shape, along with Phirni.

Speaking about the expansion, Vatsala Khanna, Founder and Head Chef, The Masala Story, said, “Our guests have trusted us with their meals at home, and this space lets us welcome them to our table for the first time. Every dish we serve carries a story written in spice, from our Butter Chicken to our slow-cooked Dal Makhani, and Golf Course Road, with its energy and love for good food, felt like the perfect place to share it.”

Beyond its dine-in and delivery operations, The Masala Story also caters to private and corporate gatherings. Its catering portfolio includes grazing tables, charcuterie and cheese boards, Mediterranean mezze, Mexican spreads, executive lunch combinations, and customised Jain, vegan and vegetarian menus.

With its first dine-in outlet, The Masala Story is expanding its presence in Gurugram while bringing its North Indian and Mughlai offerings to guests in a new setting.

Outlet Details:

  • Location: Golf Course Road, Sector 54, Gurugram, Haryana

  • Format: Dine-In, Cloud Kitchen and Catering

  • Cuisine: Mughlai and North Indian

  • Timings: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM

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