Chef Surendra Rawat Showcases Uttarakhand Cuisine at Veggie Fest Chicago 2025

Chef Surendra Rawat Showcases Uttarakhand Cuisine at Veggie Fest Chicago 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 14, 2025

Veggie Fest Chicago, one of the largest vegetarian food and wellness festivals in the United States, welcomed over 40,000 attendees this year for a weekend of plant-based flavors, health-focused workshops, and cultural exchange. Among the culinary highlights was the participation of Chef Surendra Rawat, Executive Chef at India Palace Restaurant in Wheaton, Illinois, and an active member of the American Culinary Federation, Indian Culinary Forum, and Chefs’ Guild of India.

With over 15 years of professional culinary experience, Chef Rawat used the festival’s stage to bring the lesser-known cuisine of Uttarakhand to an international audience. His live demonstration featured three traditional dishes: instant vegetable pickle, Himalayan Heritage Bread stuffed with Black Lentils, and mushroom masala. These dishes reflected his dedication to preserving regional flavors while promoting the health benefits of traditional Indian ingredients.

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Himalayan Heritage Bread Stuffed with Black Lentils

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup ragi (finger millet) flour
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • ¾ cup water (or as needed)
  • ½ cup black lentils, soaked overnight
  • Pinch of red chili powder
  • Pinch of ajwain (caraway seeds)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • ½ tsp minced garlic

Method:

  1. Prepare the dough by mixing ragi flour, whole wheat flour, and water until smooth and pliable.
  2. Drain the soaked lentils and grind coarsely. Mix with red chili powder, ajwain, salt, cilantro, and garlic to make the stuffing.
  3. Divide the dough into small balls, flatten slightly, and place a spoonful of stuffing in the center. Seal and roll out gently into a roti.
  4. Cook each roti on a hot griddle for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Serve hot.

Mushroom Masala

A hearty dish made with mustard seeds, garlic, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, and a blend of traditional Indian spices, cooked until the mushrooms absorb the rich flavors. The result is a vibrant, aromatic preparation that’s perfect with Indian breads or rice.

Instant Vegetable Pickle

A quick, tangy, and spicy side dish prepared using fresh vegetables, mustard oil, and an assortment of ground spices. This pickle delivers a punch of flavor and is a perfect complement to any Indian meal.

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A Culinary Ambassador for Uttarakhand

For Chef Rawat, events like Veggie Fest Chicago are more than just cooking demonstrations—they are cultural showcases. Through his dishes, he introduces audiences to the diversity of Indian vegetarian cuisine and the nutritional benefits of native ingredients. His culinary outreach extends beyond festivals to nonprofit organizations, public libraries, and professional chef associations, where he has conducted numerous educational cooking sessions.

Currently working on his debut chef memoir, Chef Rawat aims to document his journey from his village roots to the professional kitchens of America, blending personal stories with traditional recipes.

“Indian cuisine is so much more than butter chicken and naan,” he says. “I want the world to know our grains, our greens, our mountain spices, and our stories.”

At Hospitalitynews, we recognize Chef Surendra Rawat as a passionate custodian of North Indian culinary heritage. His presence at Veggie Fest Chicago stands as yet another milestone in his mission to bring the flavors of Uttarakhand to the world—one demonstration at a time.


The Supper Club Mumbai and Fairmont Mumbai Celebrate Karnataka's Culinary Heritage

The Supper Club Mumbai and Fairmont Mumbai Celebrate Karnataka's Culinary Heritage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 6, 2026

The Supper Club Mumbai, in collaboration with The Merchants, Fairmont Mumbai, recently hosted a specially curated dining experience celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Karnataka. The event brought together food lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and members of Mumbai's culinary community for an evening centred around regional flavours, storytelling, and meaningful conversations.

The immersive experience was curated by Chef Rajshri Gupta, Founder & Curator of The Supper Club Mumbai, along with Chef Mihir Kane, Director of Culinary at Fairmont Mumbai, and his team.

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Guests were welcomed with live music before being served an authentic banana leaf meal, inspired by Karnataka's traditional dining culture. The menu featured a selection of regional favourites, including Beans Palya, Beetroot Palya, Enne Badnikayi, Tonde Kai, Goli Bajje, Raw Banana Sukka, Lamb Sukka, Chicken Ghee Roast, Kori Roti, Matta Rice, Donne Biryani, along with an assortment of chutneys, podis, aromatic ghee, seasonal vegetables, and non-vegetarian specialities. The meal concluded with the comforting Dal Payasam, offering guests a memorable finish to the culinary journey.

Beyond the food, the evening combined storytelling, music, and engaging conversations that gave guests a deeper understanding of Karnataka's culinary traditions, local ingredients, and cultural heritage.

The event was also attended by celebrated chef, restaurateur, author, and television personality Gary Mehigan, whose presence highlighted the growing appreciation for India's diverse regional cuisines on the global stage.

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Speaking about the collaboration, Chef Rajshri Gupta, Founder & Curator, The Supper Club Mumbai, said:

"The flavours of Karnataka remain timelessly popular across the expanse of the country, with every individual relating their comfort with the diverse delicacies that it has produced for ages. Though diverse beyond imagination, its regional stories remain heavily underrepresented in the culinary excellence of India. Having partnered with The Merchants, Fairmont Mumbai, we aimed at curating a comprehensive meal to showcase the state's long-living heritage and emotions through food. It was heartening to witness the patrons indulging in every course with curiosity and gratitude."

Sharing his thoughts on the experience, Chef Mihir Kane, Director of Culinary, Fairmont Mumbai, said:

"At Fairmont Mumbai, we are constantly looking to create dining experiences that bring people together over exceptional food. At The Merchants, we've also made a conscious effort to shine a light on India's diverse regional cuisines, forgotten recipes, and local food traditions through a series of thoughtfully curated culinary initiatives. South Side Supper is a natural extension of that vision, showcasing the richness of South Indian home-style cooking through the recipes and traditions that Chef Rajshri has so carefully preserved. We hope guests leave with not just an appreciation for the flavours on the banana leaf, but also for the stories, warmth, and heritage that make these meals so special."

The collaboration reflects The Merchants' continued focus on showcasing India's regional cuisines through authentic ingredients, seasonal produce, and traditional cooking techniques. It also reinforces The Supper Club Mumbai's vision of creating culture-led dining experiences that bring people together through food, music, storytelling, and shared memories while celebrating India's diverse culinary heritage.


7 Bangalore Breweries to Visit This International Beer Day

7 Bangalore Breweries to Visit This International Beer Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 6, 2026

Bangalore has earned its reputation as one of India's craft beer capitals, with breweries offering everything from traditional lagers to experimental fruit-infused creations. Over the years, the city's beer culture has grown into a vibrant mix of innovative brews, great food, and welcoming spaces where friends and families can unwind.

With International Beer Day being celebrated on 7 August 2026, here's a look at seven breweries that are worth adding to your beer trail.

Maize & Malt, Whitefield

Maize & Malt continues to be a favourite among craft beer enthusiasts with its fresh in-house brews created by Brewmaster Amit Mishra and his brewing team. The brewery serves a year-round selection that includes Belgian Wheat, Hefeweizen, IPA, and Stout, while its rotating experimental beers keep the menu exciting.

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Its fruit-based beers, especially the Mango Beer and Strawberry & Guava Bliss, have become crowd favourites. Beer lovers can also explore limited-edition brews such as Rauchbier, American Wheat Ale, German Lager, and Pilsner. Combined with a lively atmosphere and comfort food, Maize & Malt offers a complete brewery experience.

  • Location: Maize & Malt, Whitefield, Bangalore
  • Date: 7 August 2026
  • Time: 12 PM onwards

Oasis Brewery, Whitefield

A well-known name in Bangalore's craft beer scene, Oasis Brewery is recognised for its consistently fresh in-house beers and diverse tap selection. From crisp lagers to bold ales, every brew is prepared to offer a balanced and refreshing experience.

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Popular choices include the Perry Pear Cider, Very Berry Ale, and the signature 007 IPA, known for its bold hop profile. Seasonal brews, paired with global comfort food and a relaxed ambience, make Oasis Brewery an ideal place to celebrate International Beer Day.

  • Location: Oasis Brewery, Whitefield, Bangalore
  • Date: 7 August 2026
  • Time: 12 PM onwards

Brooks & Bonds Brewery, Koramangala

Brooks & Bonds Brewery has become a popular destination for those looking to enjoy craft beer in a lively setting. Its signature Mango Beer remains the biggest draw, while the menu also features lagers, wheat beers, IPAs, and seasonal brews.

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Along with freshly brewed beer, the brewery offers an extensive food menu and an energetic ambience, making it a preferred spot for casual meet-ups and weekend outings.

  • Location: Brooks & Bonds Brewery, Koramangala, Bangalore
  • Date: 7 August 2026
  • Time: 12 PM onwards

Gladia Brewery & Kitchen, Sarjapur

Gladia Brewery & Kitchen focuses on innovative brewing while offering a contemporary brewery experience. The brewery's standout creation is Lavendrix, a pale strong lager infused with delicate lavender notes and subtle spicy hop aromas, delivering a refreshing twist on traditional beer styles.

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Its rotating selection of craft beers, paired with a carefully curated menu and vibrant setting, makes Gladia a great choice for anyone looking to explore unique flavours.

  • Location: Gladia Brewery & Kitchen, Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
  • Date: 7 August 2026
  • Time: 12 PM onwards

Chin Lung Brewery & Resto Bar

Known for its freshly brewed beers and lively atmosphere, Chin Lung Brewery & Resto Bar serves a range of in-house beers including Lager, Hefeweizen, Belgian Wit, India Pale Ale (IPA), and seasonal specials.

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Its brewery experience is complemented by a menu featuring Asian favourites, bar snacks, and comfort food, making it a popular destination across its Bangalore outlets.

  • Location: Chin Lung Brewery & Resto Bar – All Outlets
  • Date: 7 August 2026
  • Time: 12 PM onwards

Sector 144 Pub & Restrobar, JP Nagar

Sector 144 Brewery & Kitchen combines European brewing techniques with locally inspired flavours under the guidance of Brewmaster Lynette. Using premium German-origin ingredients, the brewery has built a reputation for approachable and flavourful craft beers.

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Its signature beers include Off The Wall Stout, Dangerous IPA, Beat It Hefe, and Billie's Wit, while seasonal brews like Mango Jam, a tropical mango wheat ale, continue to attract visitors. A refreshing Pineapple Wheat Ale is also set to join the lineup soon.

With globally inspired comfort food, a modern ambience, and its philosophy of "Brewed with Purpose. Enjoyed Together," Sector 144 offers an enjoyable experience for both first-time visitors and craft beer enthusiasts.

  • Location: Sector 144, JP Nagar, Bangalore
  • Date: 7 August 2026
  • Time: 12 PM onwards.


Nandan Coffee Launches Monsoon Specials Menu Across Mumbai and Bengaluru Cafés

Nandan Coffee Launches Monsoon Specials Menu Across Mumbai and Bengaluru Cafés

By Hariharan U

Published on August 4, 2026

Nandan Coffee has unveiled its Monsoon Specials menu across its cafés in Mumbai and Bengaluru, bringing a seasonal selection of comforting beverages and hearty dishes inspired by the rituals of the Indian monsoon.

Available at the brand's flagship cafés in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai, and Bellary Road, Bengaluru, the limited-time menu has been curated to complement rainy-day dining with warming coffees and comfort food. The seasonal offerings will be available until the end of November, alongside Nandan Coffee's regular menu.

The beverage menu features creations such as the Orange Ginger Latte, Spiced Mocha, Date Cardamom Latte, Almond Croissant Latte, and the non-coffee Rain Check, each designed to reflect the flavours and warmth associated with the monsoon season.

Complementing the drinks is a range of seasonal dishes, including Kale & Onion Pakodas, Lasun Chutney Grilled Cheese served with Pumpkin Soup, Nandan Ramen, and Almond Croissant Fritters. Guests can also enjoy signature comfort dishes such as Mushroom Pepper Fry and Rasam Minestrone Soup, available throughout the season.

Founded on its single-estate Nandanvan Estate in Kodaikanal, Nandan Coffee continues to champion sustainable, farm-to-cup coffee production. Certified organic since 2001, the estate has been recognised for its specialty coffees and remains committed to environmentally responsible farming, wildlife conservation, and community development.

Since opening its first flagship café in Mumbai's Kala Ghoda in 2024 and expanding to Bengaluru in 2026, Nandan Coffee has continued to strengthen its presence in India's specialty coffee segment while showcasing its estate-grown coffees through immersive café experiences.

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