Indri Dru Crowned 'Best Indian Single Malt' at World Whiskies Awards 2024

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 1, 2024

In a landmark moment for the Indian whisky industry, Piccadily Distilleries' Indri Dru has been awarded the prestigious title of 'Best Indian Single Malt' at the World Whiskies Awards 2024. This accolade comes on the heels of the success of Indri-Trini, India's first triple cask single malt, which also received international recognition. Indri Dru's triumph is a testament to India's burgeoning reputation in the global whisky scene, less than a year after its market introduction in 2023.

The name 'Dru' is derived from Sanskrit, meaning wood, and pays homage to the ancient Indian mythological drink “soma”. Matured in the subtropical climate of northern India, Indri Dru is a meticulously crafted whisky, blending the richness of Ex-Bourbon barrels to achieve a unique flavour profile, characterised by its impressive 57.2% alcohol by volume.

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Indri Dru delights the senses from the first whiff, offering a rich aroma of mixed fruits, underpinned by vanilla, spice, chocolate, and honey notes. The palate is treated to a symphony of sweet fruits, soft spice, and vanilla, with undertones of chocolate and wood lactones, enriched by citrus notes that lend the whisky its depth and complexity. The finish is both full-bodied and intricate, leaving a lingering fruitiness that is both tantalising and satisfying.

"This award for 'Best Indian Single Malt' is a recognition of India's exceptional skill in whisky making and underscores our commitment to excellence," remarked Siddhartha Sharma, Founder of Piccadily Distilleries. "Indri Dru not only brings honour to our distillery but also marks India's rising stature in the global whisky industry."

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The World Whiskies Awards, known for its rigorous judging process, involves three rounds of scrutiny by an esteemed panel, including international journalists, industry experts, and specialist drink retailers. The competition celebrates the finest in whisky making from around the globe, with participants from the United Kingdom, the United States, Denmark, Australia, and beyond.

Indri Dru's recognition at the World Whiskies Awards 2024 adds to its growing list of accolades, including high praise from the International Wine and Spirits Competition of 2023. Lauded for its balance and richness in flavour, Indri Dru is celebrated as a standout addition to the whisky world, promising a memorable experience for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.


Chinese Wok Enters Agra, Marks 75th North India Outlet

Chinese Wok Enters Agra, Marks 75th North India Outlet

By Hariharan U

Published on March 2, 2026

Chinese Wok, one of India’s leading Desi Chinese QSR chains from Lenexis Foodworks, has entered Agra with the launch of its first outlet in the city. Located at Sanjay Place, Civil Lines, the opening also marks the brand’s 75th store in North India, reinforcing the region’s strategic importance in its national growth plans.

The new outlet received an encouraging response in its first week, recording strong footfall and early traction among local consumers. Agra, with its young population, student base and steady tourist inflow, presents a strong consumption market for organised dining formats.

Commenting on the expansion, Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & Director, Lenexis Foodworks, said, “North India continues to be a key growth engine for Chinese Wok. Reaching our 75th store in the region reflects not just expansion, but deepening consumer trust in emerging markets. Agra is not only a strong residential and commercial hub but also one of India’s most visited tourist destinations. This gives us an opportunity to serve both local consumers and the steady influx of domestic travellers seeking reliable, organised dining options. Our cluster-led strategy allows us to scale efficiently while delivering a consistent, high-quality QSR experience across cities.”

Designed to cater to students, families and working professionals, the Agra store offers value-driven combos, Kurkure Momos and Manchurian available in six sauces. The outlet will operate for dine-in, takeaway and delivery, while also contributing to local employment and the city’s organised food service ecosystem


Roxie & Barry Debuts as India’s First Indo-Italian Crafthouse in Bengaluru

Roxie & Barry Debuts as India’s First Indo-Italian Crafthouse in Bengaluru

By Hariharan U

Published on March 2, 2026

Bengaluru’s evolving dining scene welcomes a distinctive new entrant with the launch of Roxie & Barry, positioned as India’s first Indo-Italian crafthouse. Conceived by restaurateur Pravesh Pandey, the restaurant moves beyond the format of a conventional Italian eatery, presenting instead a narrative-led concept inspired by two contrasting Italian coastlines and the imagined reunion of two characters, Roxie and Barry, whose identities shape both menu and mood.

The culinary programme is helmed by Head of Culinary Jagdish Naidu and Head of Kitchen Operations Chef Abhrajyoti Nandy, while the bar is led by Sagar Sarki. Roxie reflects the vibrant energy of Italy’s western shoreline, particularly the Amalfi Coast, celebrated for citrus-forward flavours, seafood and expressive, shareable plates. Dishes such as Charred Pineapple al Piccante, Ricotta & Truffle Agnolotti and Mediterranean Baked Seabass showcase bold layering and colour.

In contrast, Barry draws from Apulia on Italy’s eastern coast, where cuisine is defined by restraint, olive oil-led preparations, handmade pastas and ingredient purity. Plates like Lobster Bisque Risotto, Hummus & Lamb Bolognese and Confit Duck Leg with Mushroom Jus highlight depth developed through patience and technique rather than excess.

Operating as a true crafthouse, the restaurant prepares pastas, doughs, stocks, sauces, compotes and preserves entirely in-house, avoiding commercial premixes. Time and process are treated as essential ingredients, with fermentation, slow reductions and small-batch preparation forming the backbone of the kitchen philosophy.

The bar programme mirrors this approach with spirit-forward, thoughtfully composed cocktails, while music plays a central role in the brand identity. A daily 7 PM welcome ritual marks the beginning of evening service, complemented by curated live performances that reinforce the space as an experiential destination.

Housed within a restored mansion in Bengaluru, Roxie & Barry aims to position itself as a cultural landmark where food, craft and performance converge. Officially opening on 27 February 2026, the restaurant invites diners to experience East and West Italy reinterpreted through Indian warmth and contemporary craftsmanship.


Mizuki 2.0: A Bold New Chapter in Elevated Asian Dining

Mizuki 2.0: A Bold New Chapter in Elevated Asian Dining

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 2, 2026

Ushering in a fresh and confident phase, Mizuki at Le Méridien Navi Mumbai unveils Mizuki 2.0, a refined evolution that raises the bar for Pan-Asian dining. Set against expansive skyline views, this new chapter brings sharper techniques, deeper flavours, and a more indulgent approach, crafted for guests who appreciate thoughtful, elevated cuisine.

Mizuki 2.0 presents a carefully curated menu that blends comfort with bold expression. Signature highlights include the smoky Aburi Salmon, the fiery Volcano Spicy Prawn Roll, and the richly layered Sichuan Dan Dan Ramen. Popular dim sum selections like the XO Prawn Dumpling continue to impress, while the Indonesian Style Chilli Lobster emerges as a standout, delivering intense flavour and indulgence in every bite. Each dish is designed with balance and precision, creating a dining journey that feels both refined and satisfying.

Desserts complete the experience on a high note, offering indulgent finales such as the Burnt Basque Matcha Cheesecake and the Organic Jaggery & Coconut Cream Brûlée. These thoughtfully crafted desserts add depth and warmth, rounding off the meal with finesse.

With Mizuki 2.0, the restaurant steps into a new era of Pan-Asian opulence, where flavour meets artistry and every detail is designed to leave a lasting impression. It is an experience where the pleasure of the palate meets the beauty of the horizon, creating a dining moment that is both memorable and refined.

Event Details:

  • What: Launch of Mizuki 2.0: New Pan-Asian Menu
  • Where: Mizuki, Le Méridien Navi Mumbai
  • When: Now Available

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