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By Nishang Narayan
Published on May 29, 2025
In a proud moment for Vietnam’s culinary world, Chef Nguyen Dong Hai, Executive Chef at Azerai La Residence, Hue, has been awarded the prestigious title of "Master Culinary Artisan of Vietnam." This rare national honour recognises his exceptional skill, cultural contribution, and unwavering dedication to preserving and innovating Vietnamese and Hue cuisine.
Presented by the Vietnam Handicraft Villages Association, the title is bestowed only once every few years, with fewer than ten chefs across the country selected in each cycle. Chef Hai’s recognition is a testament to his decades-long culinary journey and the profound impact of his work—serving everyone from international royalty and dignitaries to celebrities and global culinary icons.
“Chef Hai embodies the essence of Hue's culinary heritage while infusing it with a global perspective,” said Minh Phan Trong, General Manager of Azerai La Residence, Hue. “His dedication, humility and creativity have earned him this well-deserved recognition.”
Chef Hai joined La Residence in 2005 and quickly became the visionary force behind several of its signature dining experiences, including The Colonial Life—a unique blend of Nguyen Dynasty imperial cuisine and French gastronomy. His celebrated “Majestic Menu,” crafted for the 2017 visit of Japan’s Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, continues to be one of the hotel’s most iconic offerings.
Internationally, Chef Hai’s talent drew praise from the late Anthony Bourdain during his 2014 visit to the hotel. Bourdain particularly admired Hai’s inventive take on the Vietnamese banh mi, now known affectionately as the “La Residence Banh Mi.”
Throughout his career, Chef Hai has worked with renowned chefs from around the world, and continues to serve as a mentor, training hundreds of aspiring chefs through collaborations with Hue Tourism College. His influence extends beyond the kitchen, playing a key role in shaping Vietnam’s future culinary landscape.
Located in a beautifully restored 1930s colonial mansion, Azerai La Residence, Hue is known for its art deco charm and riverside elegance. Recently named one of Vietnam’s top 16 hotels for 2025 by The Times (UK), it is part of legendary hotelier Adrian Zecha’s growing Azerai portfolio.
Congratulations to Chef Nguyen Dong Hai on this extraordinary achievement—a recognition not just of individual excellence, but of Vietnamese culinary heritage on the world stage.
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By Hariharan U
Published on February 25, 2026
As vibrant gulal fills the air and festive music sets the mood, Haldiram's ushers in the Holi season with a specially curated festive range under its campaign, “Holi Ke Rang, Gujiya Aur Thandai Ke Sang.” The initiative celebrates the joy of togetherness, indulgence, and the timeless pairing of colours with classic festive flavours.
Blending tradition with modern celebrations, Haldiram’s Holi collection captures the essence of rangon ki dhoom dhaam, laughter shared with loved ones, and tables adorned with festive favourites. Whether it is a lively Holi party, thoughtful gifting, or a family gathering, the brand’s curated hampers and assortments are designed to add warmth and sweetness to every celebration.
At the centre of the festive spread is Haldiram’s iconic Gujiya range. The Kesar Gujiya stands out with its delicate preparation using premium saffron, lending a rich aroma, natural golden hue, and royal flavour to every bite. Its crisp outer shell encases a luscious mawa (khoya) filling, delivering the melt-in-the-mouth indulgence associated with authentic Holi traditions.Complementing the classic is the Coconut Dry Fruit Gujiya, generously filled with coconut shavings and premium dry fruits, offering a satisfying balance of crunch and sweetness. Together, the Gujiya selection brings back the nostalgic taste of Holi while catering to evolving festive preferences.
No Holi celebration is complete without thandai, and the festive range pairs seamlessly with chilled, flavourful servings of the traditional drink. The combination of gujiya and thandai ensures every colourful moment is accompanied by familiar, comforting flavours.
In addition to sweets, customers can explore Haldiram’s special chaat and snackable range, perfect for house parties and festive gatherings, adding a savoury twist to the sweet indulgence.
The Holi collection is available across Haldiram’s stores, including outlets in North Delhi. Customers can also place orders via Swiggy and Zomato, making festive treats easily accessible at home
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
A new Italian dining destination is ready to add fresh energy to Navi Mumbai’s food scene with the launch of Piccolino Italian Taproom. Designed as an all-day vegetarian space, the restaurant brings together relaxed European charm, handcrafted Italian food, and a modern taproom experience under one roof.
Inspired by the easy-going vibe of European plazas, Piccolino is created as a warm and welcoming space for every kind of gathering. From leisurely lunches and coffee catch-ups to family dinners, intimate dates, and lively evenings with friends, the restaurant is positioned as a seamless all-day destination that celebrates everyday moments.
At the core of Piccolino’s kitchen is a strong focus on honest, from-scratch cooking. Fresh pasta is rolled and shaped every morning, pizza dough is fermented for 24 hours to achieve the right texture, and breads, sauces, and dips are prepared in-house daily. The menu highlights premium produce, mature cheeses, and carefully sourced ingredients, staying true to Italian traditions while keeping flavours clean and comforting.
Some of the menu’s standout favourites include the rich Pesto Burrata Pizza, the Stuffed Ravioli with Pesto Calabrese, and the popular Spinach & Corn Croconte. For smaller bites, options like Picco Crisps and Parmesan Garlic Knots set the tone for shared dining, while the Classic Tiramisu rounds off the meal with a familiar and comforting finish.
The beverage programme follows the same attention to detail. The taproom features a curated selection of craft beers, meads, and ciders on tap, along with a thoughtfully put-together global wine list. Popular pours include the American Dream West Coast IPA, Guava Chilli, Berrylicious, and Mango Peach, adding a fun and contemporary layer to the dining experience.
Among the early movers in the region, Piccolino also introduces an elevated range of Zero Proof Cocktails in Navi Mumbai. These alcohol-free options are crafted for guests who prefer mindful drinking, without compromising on flavour or presentation.
With its polished yet friendly ambience, ingredient-led Italian menu, and vibrant taproom feel, Piccolino Italian Taproom is set to become a neighbourhood favourite in Navi Mumbai, whether for a morning espresso, a relaxed afternoon meet-up, or a long evening over food and drinks.
Published on February 24, 2026
Café Amudham, known for its contemporary take on authentic South Indian cuisine, has launched its third outlet in Punjabi Bagh, West Delhi. The opening marks an important milestone in the brand’s growing presence in the capital and its steady expansion across key urban markets.
Guided by its philosophy of ‘Good Food Happiness’, Café Amudham blends authentic South Indian flavours with a modern urban dining style. The menu is thoughtfully curated to balance tradition and everyday comfort, while the dining spaces are designed to feel warm, friendly, and casual. The new Punjabi Bagh outlet carries forward the brand’s signature Mediterranean detailing, offering a relaxed setting for daily dining.
With this addition, Café Amudham brings its premium yet approachable QSR experience to West Delhi’s vibrant food scene. The focus remains on quality ingredients, consistency, and authenticity, values that have helped the brand build a loyal following across its locations.
Speaking about the Punjabi Bagh outlet, Priyanka Rudrappa, CEO of Café Amudham, said, “Our Punjabi Bagh outlet reflects Café Amudham's continued growth in Delhi. West Delhi has a strong appreciation for food prepared with integrity and authentic flavour. We remain committed to staying true to our South Indian roots while creating warm, contemporary spaces where guests can experience comfort, sustainability, and the joy of good food.”
Ankur Shukla, Director – Operations, Strategy & Growth, Café Amudham, added, “Our new store at Punjabi Bagh is a big step toward bringing the richness of South Indian culinary heritage to West Delhi. We aim to create a warm, modern environment where guests can enjoy both traditional and regional dishes while having a significant impact on the Punjabi Bagh.”
The Punjabi Bagh outlet joins Café Amudham’s existing locations in Delhi and Bengaluru, reflecting the brand’s focus on thoughtful expansion while remaining rooted in its South Indian culinary heritage.
Outlet Details:
Time: 08 am onwards till 12 at night
Venue: 5C, Punjabi Bagh West, Ground Floor, North West, Avenue Club Road, New Delhi – 110026.
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