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.


Haldiram’s Unveils Holi Hampers with “Holi Ke Rang, Gujiya Aur Thandai Ke Sang”

Haldiram’s Unveils Holi Hampers with “Holi Ke Rang, Gujiya Aur Thandai Ke Sang”

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.imageComplementing 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


Piccolino Italian Taproom Debuts Refined Italian Dining in Navi Mumbai

Piccolino Italian Taproom Debuts Refined Italian Dining in Navi Mumbai

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

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.

  • What: Piccolino comes to Navi Mumbai
  • When: March
  • Where: 6th Floor, Le Meridian, Plot no D-33, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400705


Café Amudham Expands to West Delhi with Third Outlet in Punjabi Bagh

Café Amudham Expands to West Delhi with Third Outlet in Punjabi Bagh

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

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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