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.


Kiran’s Houston Introduces ‘Punjabi By Nature’ Cocktail Experience Inspired by India

Kiran’s Houston Introduces ‘Punjabi By Nature’ Cocktail Experience Inspired by India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 25, 2026

Kiran’s Houston has introduced its latest beverage programme, Punjabi By Nature, a new cocktail experience that brings together Indian nostalgia and contemporary mixology. Conceptualised and designed by Prrateek Chaudhary, Director of Beverages, the menu reflects a thoughtful mix of cultural storytelling, regional flavours and modern drink-making techniques.

Designed around the idea of turning familiar Indian flavours into refined cocktail experiences, the programme takes inspiration from memories, traditions and ingredients deeply rooted in Indian culture. Each drink aims to create an experience that goes beyond taste by bringing together emotion, creativity and a strong sense of place.

The menu features a wide range of signature cocktails including Jahangir Lassi, Chai Old Fashioned, Kashmiri Margarita, Summer In Shimla, TNT Sour, Nolet’s 75, East India Negroni, Malabar Martini, Rosé Martini, Lychee Martini, CB G&T, Old Wives’ Tale, Mezcal Is My Pal, Delhi Glitterati, Smoky Isle and Mumbai Miracle.

The creations combine premium spirits with ingredients and flavours inspired by India, including chai blends, mango lassi, pistachio, Kashmiri mirch, tamarind, saffron bitters, cardamom, rose, masala pin and nimbu pani.

Adding a luxury touch to the offering is a dedicated segment titled Kaun Banega Crorepati featuring the Millionaire Martini, crafted using Nolet’s Reserve Gin.

Speaking about the concept behind the menu, Prrateek Chaudhary said: "With Punjabi By Nature, our intention was to take familiar Indian flavors and reimagine them through a global cocktail lens. Each drink is designed to evoke emotion, memory, and a sense of place, while maintaining elegance, balance, and innovation. It’s not just a cocktail menu, it’s a storytelling experience in a glass."

With a modern visual identity and a strong narrative approach, the menu aims to create a seamless connection between Indian heritage and contemporary beverage culture.

Through this latest launch, Kiran’s Houston continues to strengthen its positioning as a destination where Indian culinary experiences and modern beverage craftsmanship come together with global standards of creativity and sophistication.


Mumbai Cafes Serve Power-Packed Breakfasts for Healthy Morning Starts

Mumbai Cafes Serve Power-Packed Breakfasts for Healthy Morning Starts

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 23, 2026

Healthy breakfasts are moving beyond simple salads and basic meals, with cafés across Mumbai creating menus that combine nutrition with comfort and flavour. Whether it is a quick morning bite before work or a relaxed brunch outing, several food destinations are now offering breakfast options that are both wholesome and satisfying.

Leading the list is Pantry, known for serving mindful meals without compromising on indulgence. Its breakfast menu includes the Four Cheese Omelet, bringing together mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan and artisanal gouda for a rich start to the day. For those looking for a protein-rich option, the Protein Packed Quinoa Egg Scrambled combines eggs, quinoa, cheddar and spinach into a filling breakfast plate. Another standout is the Marine Lines Wrap, filled with spicy cottage cheese, BBQ mix, peppers and lettuce wrapped in multigrain bread.

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Flax Healthy Living continues to focus on lighter and nourishing breakfast choices. The Granola Power Bowl combines Greek yoghurt, fresh fruits and chia seeds for a balanced meal, while the Avocado and Garlic Butter Rye Toast pairs creamy avocado with roasted garlic butter and seeds on sourdough toast. Its smoothie bowls and parfait options, including Dragon Fruit Parfait, Blueberry Honey Parfait and Green Protein Smoothie, offer refreshing choices packed with nutrients.

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Adding a creative touch to breakfast is Juliette Café & Bar, where classic comfort food meets global flavours. The café’s smoothie bowl collection, featuring options like The Beetfruit, Day Dreamer and The Green Galaxy, includes a mix of fruits, nuts, seeds and superfoods.

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Those looking for sweet breakfast options can choose Japanese Fluffy Pancakes and French Toast, while savoury selections include Healthy Bowls, Quinoa Upma and Eggs Benedict Crobun. The Benne Dosas also bring a familiar South Indian touch to the menu.

Across the city, cafés and cloud kitchens are increasingly focusing on menus that balance indulgence with healthier ingredients. From protein-rich scrambles to energising smoothie bowls and wraps, breakfast options are becoming more thoughtful and diverse.

With changing eating habits and growing interest in wellness-led dining, these breakfast destinations show that healthy eating no longer means giving up flavour or comfort.


MoMo Café Brings Back The Brunch Society with Mango-ficent Edition

MoMo Café Brings Back The Brunch Society with Mango-ficent Edition

By Hariharan U

Published on May 23, 2026

MoMo Café is bringing back its popular brunch concept, The Brunch Society, with a special Mango-ficent Edition celebrating the flavours and vibrancy of the summer season.

Scheduled for Sunday, 24 May 2026, the themed brunch experience at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport will spotlight mango-inspired delicacies, refreshing beverages, desserts, and interactive family-friendly activities designed around India’s favourite summer fruit.

The specially curated brunch menu features a wide selection of mango-forward dishes including Mango Sushi, Raw Mango Chicken Tikka, Raw Mango Som Tum, Meen Mango Curry, Mango Risotto, and the classic Aamras Puri.

Complementing the culinary experience are seasonal beverages such as Mango Mint Cooler and Aam Panna, alongside indulgent desserts including Mango Shrikhand and Mango Tres Leches.

Beyond the dining experience, the Mango-ficent Edition aims to create an immersive summer-themed afternoon through vibrant décor, Mango-themed Housie sessions, interactive paper craft workshops for children, and activities curated for guests across all age groups.

The brunch continues the larger concept of The Brunch Society, which blends experiential dining with entertainment-led hospitality experiences focused on family gatherings, social dining, and relaxed weekend indulgence.

With seasonal flavours, interactive engagement, and a festive atmosphere, the Mango-ficent Edition offers guests a lively Sunday celebration centred around the king of fruits.

Event Details

  • Venue: MoMo Café
  • Date: Sunday, 24 May 2026
  • Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Location: Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport

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