Epicurean Elegance: Exploring G-20 Star Host Taj Mahal Hotel's Machan

Epicurean Elegance: Exploring G-20 Star Host Taj Mahal Hotel's Machan

By Author

Published on October 7, 2023

In the heart of Delhi stands an iconic culinary and architectural masterpiece, the Taj Mahal Hotel. It’s not just a hotel but a symbol of tradition, legacy, and modern innovation. One of its most cherished gems is the Machan restaurant, a name that resonates with both nostalgia and novelty.

Machan isn't just another restaurant in the city; it’s a story that began in 1978. Envision cane and wood furniture, a collection of traditional lanterns, paintings, and the presence of a royal Indian touch. This is a place where yesteryears meet today, where signature dishes from decades past are served with the same affection and innovation as the new ones.

In its latest incarnation, Machan 3.0, you'll be welcomed by an aesthetic brilliance that honors both flora and fauna. It's an environment inspired by the forests of India and beyond. Imagine dining under the stunning cane tree canopies, amidst the artistry of terracotta animal masks crafted by local talents, with the magnificence of the Indian Tiger gracing the walls. This isn’t just dining; it’s an experience, a journey through nature, and a dance of flavors.

Every dish tells a story, every bite is a melody of the forests and their rich, varied legacy. The Tehucan Salad, Mushrooms on the Forest Floor, The Ocean Turns Purple - these are more than just menu items; they are a gateway to a world where food is art and dining is an experience. Machan’s focus on sustainability is evident; the restaurant prides itself on a significant reduction in carbon footprint and the complete abandonment of single-use plastics. A dining experience here isn’t just pleasing to the palate but is also a nod to our collective responsibility towards Mother Earth.

The revival of Machan is a harmony of the old and new. It brings back the classic favorites from the 1978 menu at their original prices – a journey back in time, combined with new, global flavors. Pug Marks, Mushroom On The Forest Floor, Carnero Barbacoa, the signature The Number One cocktail - each dish and drink is a masterpiece, a harmonious blend of the legacy and the contemporary. Amidst the city's hustle and bustle, the ambiance of natural light pouring in through huge windows offers an oasis of calm and luxury.

When Executive Chef Arun Sundararaj stepped into the reimagined space of Machan in 2015, he knew the legacy he was inheriting. The emotional attachment of the patrons, the nostalgic reminiscences of first dates and cherished meetings - these were the soul of Machan. The refurbishment wasn’t just physical; it was emotional, thoughtful. The menu, meticulously crafted, offers thematic sections, inspired by various forests of India, invoking an experience that is as rich in flavors as it is in culture and tradition.

Machan bids adieu to buffets, embracing an à la carte experience, aimed at engaging guests from the moment they settle in. A meticulous process where chefs have access to a database format recipe module, enhancing precision and elevating the culinary experience. Sundararaj’s innovation doesn’t just lie in the flavors but also in the unique guest experiences, like inviting patrons to witness the culinary artistry unfold in the kitchen - an immersive experience that bridges the gap between the chefs and diners.

Seven years into his journey at the Taj Mahal, every moment is as vibrant and dynamic as the city the hotel resides in. Every guest, from heads of state to local patrons, is a testament to the timeless allure of this establishment. At Machan, dining isn’t just about the food; it’s about the stories that unfold at every table, the memories crafted in every corner, and the legacy that is served on every plate.


Ayana Rooftop Restaurant Opens at Udaipur Marriott Hotel

Ayana Rooftop Restaurant Opens at Udaipur Marriott Hotel

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 20, 2025

Udaipur Marriott Hotel has unveiled Ayana, its newest rooftop dining destination, offering guests a transcendent culinary journey set against the shimmering lakes and Aravalli Hills. True to its name, which means “the path,” Ayana guides diners through an immersive experience that begins with its serene poolside ambiance and culminates with indulgent desserts.

The restaurant’s design harmoniously blends contemporary Indian aesthetics with natural materials, oversized cushions, glowing lanterns, and curated world music, creating an atmosphere that is both vibrant and serene. The panoramic rooftop views add a magical dimension to every visit.

Ayana’s menu celebrates India’s royal culinary legacy, drawing inspiration from the Northwest Frontier and the regal kitchens of Rajasthan. Each dish is crafted with precision, honouring its origins while presenting a modern twist. The bar complements the menu with artisanal cocktails infused with Indian botanicals, spices, and local flavours, alongside a curated selection of fine wines and craft beers.

Designed for intimate dinners, celebratory gatherings, and exclusive events, Ayana offers a mix of communal seating, semi-private corners, and open decks. The restaurant is also deeply committed to sustainability, prioritizing locally sourced seasonal produce, plant-forward innovations, minimal food waste, energy-efficient kitchens, and elimination of single-use plastics.

Executive Chef Mohit Mishra commented on the launch:

“We are thrilled to officially welcome guests to Ayana. Our vision was to create more than just a restaurant, we wanted to craft a journey where each dish tells a story, each flavour evokes tradition, and every detail reflects India’s rich culinary heritage.”

Vaibhav Sagar, General Manager, added:

“Ayana is designed to be an immersive experience, not just a dining venue. From the sweeping rooftop views to the thoughtfully curated menu and serene yet vibrant ambiance, every element has been meticulously crafted to create lasting memories for both travellers and locals seeking a refined night out.”

Ayana promises to be a destination for culinary discovery, offering diners a seamless blend of tradition, innovation, and unforgettable experiences atop one of Udaipur’s most scenic rooftops.


1.5 Degree Expands Plant-Based Portfolio with New Beverages, Sundaes, Kulfi, and Popsicles

1.5 Degree Expands Plant-Based Portfolio with New Beverages, Sundaes, Kulfi, and Popsicles

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

1.5 Degree, India’s leading plant-based dairy alternative brand, has unveiled an exciting new range of signature beverages, frozen sundaes, traditional kulfis, and refreshing popsicles this festive season. The announcement comes on the heels of the company securing seed funding from BITS Pilani and being recognised among its top emerging startups.

The new collection reflects 1.5 Degree’s philosophy of combining indulgence with responsibility. Designed for the conscious consumer, the range features sugar-free café-style beverages like Kesar Badam, Salted Pistachio, Hazelnut Coffee, and Cold Vegan Tea, crafted for refreshing, guilt-free sips.

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The Frozen Sundaes promise rich, layered indulgence in flavours like Salted Peanut Butter and Nutty Choco Fudge, while the Kulfi Collection, also sugar-free, reimagines the classic Indian favourite with plant-based innovation. The Popsicle lineup includes fruity and tangy favourites such as Chilly Guava, Jamun, and Shikanji, complemented by rotating seasonal sorbets for an extra-refreshing twist.

“At 1.5 Degree, we believe in indulgence without compromise,” said Vedansh Goyal, Founder of 1.5Degree.co. “With the overwhelming response to our gelatos, this new range brings familiar Indian favourites like kulfi and shikanji into the plant-based space, while also offering global café-style beverages, now with sugar-free options that keep taste front and centre.”

All products are 100% plant-based, dairy-free, lactose-free, and cholesterol-free, made using natural ingredients without artificial additives or preservatives. Ethically sourced and responsibly produced, the brand reinforces its mission to support a cooler planet while offering full-flavoured experiences.

1.5 Degree’s new offerings are available across Delhi NCR and Mumbai through select retail outlets, quick-commerce platforms, kiosks, and cloud kitchens. Orders can also be placed online via Swiggy, Zomato, or directly at 1.5degree.co.

Founded with a vision to make plant-based indulgence mainstream, 1.5 Degree continues to expand its product line with an aim to merge taste, sustainability, and innovation, one scoop and sip at a time.


BarQat Returns to JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar with a Celebration of Abundance

BarQat Returns to JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar with a Celebration of Abundance

By Hariharan U

Published on October 16, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has opened the doors to its latest dining experience, BarQat, a restaurant that reimagines India’s rich culinary traditions through the lens of heritage and innovation. Meaning “abundance” in Urdu, BarQat captures the spirit of generosity and connection through food, celebrating regional flavours from Kashmir, Lucknow, Bhopal, and Hyderabad.

Designed as a culinary journey along India’s historical route, BarQat brings together the nuanced flavours and stories of these four regions, each offering its own interpretation of classic dishes. The restaurant’s philosophy is simple yet profound, to honour heirloom recipes while giving them a contemporary touch. Every dish tells a story of how shared roots evolved into diverse traditions across India’s culinary landscape.

Speaking about the relaunch, Sachin Mylavarapu, General Manager at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, said, “At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, we believe true luxury is found in abundance — abundance of flavour, culture, connection, and celebration. The relaunch of BarQat embodies this philosophy. We've created a space where Straight-line Cuisine comes to life and the abundance of India's culinary heritage unfolds through heirloom recipes passed down through generations. Here, every gathering becomes an opportunity to foster deeper bonds with loved ones. From the lavish spread of regional delicacies to the warm embrace of shared meals, BarQat is designed for those special moments of togetherness. It's about celebrating abundance in every form — on your plate, in your conversations, and in the memories you create.”

Open daily from 7:00 PM to midnight, BarQat offers guests a place to unwind, celebrate, and savour the flavours of India’s most storied kitchens. With its rich textures, soulful aromas, and immersive storytelling, BarQat promises a dining experience that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Guests can reserve their tables by calling +91 7710009250 or visiting www.jwmumbai.com.

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