Flavor Tales from The Chettinad Stories at hotel Aadithya

Flavor Tales from The Chettinad Stories at hotel Aadithya

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 4, 2025

Chennai, known for its rich culinary heritage, stands proudly as a hub for food lovers across India. With its vibrant blend of tradition and innovation, the city offers a diverse choice  of flavors that beautifully reflect its unique culture. Among these culinary gems is Hotel Aadithya, nestled in the busy neighborhood of Vadapalani. 

Within its welcoming ambiance lies The Chettinad Stories, a restaurant that promises to take you on an extraordinary journey through the flavors of authentic Chettinad cuisine while infusing it with a creative, contemporary twist.

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At The Chettinad Stories, dining is not just about savoring food; it’s about experiencing a celebration of Chettinad’s bold and aromatic heritage, reimagined for today’s preferences. Perfect for those who value traditional tastes with a touch of innovation, every dish on the menu is crafted with care, ensuring an authentic yet refreshing culinary experience.

"Here Chettinad food fused with Anbu and Suvai" ( “Anbu” means love and “Suvai” means Taste in tamil)

The journey begins with the starters, which are nothing short of a treat for the senses. Take the Vazhaipoo Kola Urundai Jalapeno Cheese Fondue, for example. This creative dish transforms the beloved banana flower dumpling by pairing it with a tangy and creamy jalapeno cheese sauce, resulting in a harmonious blend of tradition and modern flavors. Another standout is the Mushroom Three-Way, a playful creation that redefines the humble mushroom with three distinct styles—pancake, crispy, and saucy—elevated by the aromatic spices of Chettinad.

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As you move on to the mains, the innovation continues to shine. The Chettis Khow Suey is a delightful fusion that combines the comforting essence of Burmese cuisine with the bold flavors of Chettinad, creating a dish that feels both nostalgic and adventurous. Equally impressive is the Italian Vadacurry Pasta, a true cross-cultural masterpiece that brings together the hearty Chettinad lentil dumpling curry and the creamy indulgence of Italian pasta, resulting in a dish that’s both familiar and unique.

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The desserts at The Chettinad Stories are a celebration of richness and creativity. The Elaneer Payasam Panna Cotta beautifully marries the tropical freshness of tender coconut payasam with the silky elegance of Italian panna cotta, offering a dessert that is as refreshing as it is indulgent. For those seeking a touch of South Indian flair, the Cardamom Tres Leches reimagines the classic tres leches cake with the warm, aromatic notes of cardamom and the gentle sweetness of injimarappa.

Executive Chef, Mr. Bhaskar shared that: "Our contemporary menu perfectly blends cultural heritage with global flavors, creating a truly immersive dining experience."

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General Manager of Hotel Aadithya, Mr. Joshva Christopher shared that: "The demand for authentic regional flavors is growing, with Chettinad cuisine standing out for its rich spices and traditional techniques. Fusion takes on Chettinad are also making waves in modern dining."

Even the snacks at The Chettinad Stories carry a global touch, making them a delight for food enthusiasts of all kinds. The Chettiyar Club Sandwich layers chicken, turkey ham, and a masala omelette into a hearty creation that’s perfect for a quick yet satisfying bite. On the other hand, the Kozhi Kothu Parotta Gratin takes the traditional shredded parotta with chicken curry and elevates it to new heights with the addition of rich, melted scamorza cheese, creating a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

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“ The Chettinad Stories team is grateful to our guests for their valuable reviews, helping us achieve and maintain a proud 4.9 rating on Google."

The Chettinad Stories has quickly earned a reputation as a must-visit dining destination in Chennai. With a stellar 4.9 rating on Google and recognition from NDTV Food as one of the city’s top restaurants, it’s clear that this culinary gem at Hotel Aadithya is leaving a lasting impression on diners. Whether you’re a lover of authentic flavors or someone eager to explore bold fusion creations, The Chettinad Stories offers an unforgettable experience that blends heritage and innovation to captivate your senses and leave you craving more.


Éntisi Chocolatier Launches Official Harry Potter-Inspired Chocolate Collection in India

Éntisi Chocolatier Launches Official Harry Potter-Inspired Chocolate Collection in India

By Hariharan U

Published on August 3, 2026

Éntisi Chocolatier has partnered with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products to introduce an officially licensed Harry Potter-inspired premium chocolate collection in India, marking the brand's entry into the licensed chocolate category.

Inspired by iconic confectionery treats and memorable elements from the Harry Potter films, the collection includes Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Chocolates, Chocolate Frogs, Hogwarts House Chocolates, and the Platform 9¾ Hogwarts Express Bar. Each product has been designed with custom-developed moulds and packaging inspired by the Wizarding World, accompanied by collectible keepsake cards that encourage fans to build their own collection.

Priced from ₹129, the collection will be available through Éntisi's boutiques in Mumbai and Pune, dark stores across Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, and Bengaluru, the brand's official website, and exclusively on quick commerce platform Blinkit.

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The launch began on 28 July, with celebrations building towards Harry Potter's birthday on 31 July, targeting fans, collectors, teenagers, and gifting audiences.

Commenting on the launch, Nikki Thakker, Founder & CEO, Éntisi Chocolatier, said, "This collaboration is incredibly personal for me. Like millions of people, I grew up on Harry Potter, the books and the films both. The opportunity to reimagine some of its most iconic elements from scratch and bring them to India is something I never imagined would become reality."

She added, "Beyond the nostalgia, this collaboration represents a defining milestone for Éntisi. Collaborating with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products in India is a tremendous validation of the craftsmanship, quality, and ambition we've spent years building. Every mould in this collection has been custom developed exclusively for Harry Potter because we wanted every detail to feel authentic."

The launch also marks Éntisi's strategic expansion into the licensed chocolate segment, which the company views as a key long-term growth opportunity. Over the coming year, the brand plans to strengthen its presence in Delhi and Bengaluru, while its five-year roadmap includes pan-India retail expansion, a stronger presence at international airports, wider quick-commerce accessibility, and future Harry Potter-inspired seasonal collections.

Founded in 2017, Éntisi Chocolatier has built its reputation through handcrafted luxury chocolates, offering signature bonbons, dragees, and seasonal collections crafted using premium ingredients sourced globally.


Loya at Taj Palace New Delhi Unveils New Menu Celebrating North India's Culinary Heritage

Loya at Taj Palace New Delhi Unveils New Menu Celebrating North India's Culinary Heritage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 3, 2026

Loya at Taj Palace, New Delhi has unveiled a thoughtfully curated new menu that continues its journey of exploring the culinary traditions of North India. Built on extensive research, regional travel and interactions with local communities, the latest menu showcases authentic recipes, time-honoured cooking techniques and immersive dining experiences that celebrate the rich food heritage of the region.

Inspired by Loya's philosophy of discovering lesser-known culinary stories, the menu has been developed through extensive journeys across North India's villages, mountains and hinterlands. The culinary team documented recipes from home kitchens, regional cooks and traditional practitioners, preserving not only the ingredients and techniques but also the cultural narratives behind each dish.

The new menu reflects the diversity of North India's culinary landscape, with dishes inspired by Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir and the Dogra region. Each creation captures the traditions, seasonal ingredients and local practices that have been passed down through generations.

Traditional cooking methods remain at the heart of the dining experience. Techniques such as dhungar (smoke infusion), slow cooking and hand-pounding of spices have been carefully incorporated to preserve the authenticity and depth of flavour while presenting the dishes with contemporary refinement.

Among the highlights is Fazilka Launji Chaat, inspired by Punjab's border districts, alongside Bhey Kebab, a lotus stem delicacy from the Dogra region. Guests can also savour Doaba Mutton Curry, showcasing the rich flavours of Punjab's fertile plains, while Karari Phillauri Macchi presents freshwater fish with contrasting textures.

The menu further explores the Himalayan region through dishes such as Sirmouri Murg, prepared using fermented yoghurt and regional raw turmeric, and Yaji Wangun, a traditional Kashmiri preparation pairing walnut dumplings with baby brinjal in an aromatic gravy.

Complementing the main dishes are regional accompaniments including Tehar, a culturally significant Kashmiri rice preparation, and Bedwa Kulcha, a Himachali-style stuffed kulcha filled with spiced kulth dal that reflects the earthy flavours of the Pahadi region.

Adding an interactive element to the dining experience, Loya has introduced Kulfa, inspired by the streets of Amritsar. Presented tableside, the dessert combines phirni, frozen reduced milk, rabri and rose into a theatrical finale that blends nostalgia with culinary craftsmanship.

Commenting on the launch, Taljinder Singh, Senior Vice President & Brand Custodian, IHCL, said, "Since its inception, Loya has remained obsessed with uncovering the untold food stories of the North. Through years of immersive research, our journeys have taken us deep into villages, the hinterlands, and the foothills and mountains of the Himalayas, documenting the food of the foot soldiers, farming communities and local households whose culinary traditions have endured through generations. This new menu is a continuation of that enduring pursuit, celebrating the richness of the North with authenticity, integrity and profound respect for its origins."

Sharing his thoughts on the culinary journey behind the menu, Rajesh Wadhwa, Grand Master Chef, Loya, said, "This menu is shaped by our journeys into the interiors of the North, by listening, observing and learning from those who continue to cook these dishes in their most authentic form. Our approach has always been to bring these stories to the table with care, while preserving their essence."

With its latest menu, Loya continues to strengthen its position as a destination for regional culinary exploration, offering guests an experience that goes beyond dining by bringing together heritage, craftsmanship and authentic storytelling through every dish.


Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar Brings Authentic Balinese Flavours to Mumbai with Limited-Time Bali Food Festival

Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar Brings Authentic Balinese Flavours to Mumbai with Limited-Time Bali Food Festival

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 3, 2026

Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar has introduced its latest culinary showcase with the launch of the Bali Food Festival, bringing the vibrant flavours and culinary traditions of Indonesia's tropical island to Mumbai. As part of its popular Across Asia series, the limited-time festival offers diners an authentic taste of Balinese cuisine through a thoughtfully curated menu inspired by the island's street food, home-style recipes and aromatic spices.

Following the success of its Korean food festival, the restaurant continues its exploration of Asia's diverse culinary landscape by recreating Bali's signature dishes, from comforting broths and charcoal-grilled delicacies to rich coconut curries and tropical desserts.

The festival begins with traditional soups, including the Balinese Pumpkin Coconut Soup and Soto Ayam Bali, offering warm, aromatic flavours that reflect the island's culinary heritage. Guests can also enjoy fresh and vibrant salads such as the Pomelo Bali Salad and Prawn Mango Bali Salad, showcasing Bali's emphasis on tropical produce and citrus-infused flavours.

The appetiser selection features a variety of authentic Balinese favourites, including Charcoal-Grilled Cottage Cheese Satay, Jagung Corn Fritters, Chicken Satay Lilit wrapped around fragrant lemongrass stalks, Fish Cakes Bali, and Kepiting Bumbu Bali, a traditional crab preparation cooked in a rich chilli and spice-based sauce.

The main course menu highlights the comforting flavours of Balinese home cooking. Signature dishes include Jackfruit Curry, Eggplant Sambal Curry, Massaman Curry, Seafood Kari Bali, and Lamb Rendang Bali Style, each prepared using coconut milk, aromatic herbs and traditional island spices.

For guests seeking a complete Balinese dining experience, the Bali Feast Platter offers an assortment of satays, nasi goreng, sambal, stir-fried greens, salads and crackers. Seafood lovers can opt for the Island Seafood Grill Plate, featuring grilled prawns, fish, squid, coconut rice and the classic sambal matah.

The culinary journey concludes with a selection of traditional desserts, including Dadar Gulung Coconut Crepe, Black Rice Coconut Pudding, Fried Banana with Palm Sugar Ice Cream, and the refreshing Es Cendol, one of Southeast Asia's most popular chilled desserts.

Commenting on the festival, Ewa Valia, Assistant Marketing Manager at Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar, said, "The response to our Across Asia series has been incredibly encouraging. Mumbai's diners are clearly eager to explore Asian cuisines beyond the familiar. After Korea, Bali felt like the natural next step, especially with the monsoon in full swing. There's something about rainy days in Mumbai that makes you crave Bali's warmth, its coconut curries and its comforting broths. We wanted to bring not just the flavours but the island's easy, laid-back spirit to the table, right when the city needs it most."

With its immersive menu inspired by Bali's rich culinary traditions, the Bali Food Festival offers Mumbai diners an opportunity to experience the island's vibrant food culture without leaving the city. The festival continues Tipsy Tiger Garden Bar's commitment to celebrating authentic Asian cuisines through thoughtfully curated dining experiences that blend tradition, flavour and cultural discovery.

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