Loya: Bengaluru's Newest Culinary Gem

Loya: Bengaluru's Newest Culinary Gem

By Author

Published on September 6, 2023

After a successful debut at The Taj Palace, New Delhi, the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) proudly presents Loya, its flagship North Indian concept restaurant, at Taj West End, Bengaluru. Loya promises an extraordinary gastronomic journey, from the Himalayan foothills to the lush terrains of Punjab and the snow-clad peaks of Kashmir.

Derived from Bakarwal shepherds, 'Loya' embodies the spirit of joyous feasting and camaraderie. The restaurant's menu resurrects forgotten culinary traditions and authentic recipes, using heirloom ingredients. Loya shines a spotlight on time-honored cooking techniques like dungaar (smoking and slow-cooking), baghar (spices tempered in hot oil), sigdi (cooking over an open fire), and the art of pounding masalas with a sil-batta (pestle and mortar). Loya 'Paanch,' the bar philosophy, blends the charm of the past with modern refinement, offering indigenous beverages and a contemporary twist on local spirits.

Beyond the tantalizing flavors and aromas, Loya's design seamlessly blends elegance and nostalgia. The ambiance features grand arches, intricate motifs, and outdoor spaces adorned with natural rocks, boulders, and Himalayan spring-inspired aquatic elements. Adding the final touch to the quintessential North Indian experience is Loya's curated music by Shreyas Patkar, featuring folk tunes, traditional rhythms, and soul-stirring compositions.

This second outpost of Loya comes on the heels of its triumphant debut at The Taj Palace, New Delhi, last year. The restaurant aims to captivate diners with the diverse flavors and rich heritage of North Indian cuisine, making it an exciting addition to Bengaluru's culinary scene.

Loya's Culinary Journey

Loya's journey began with an extensive exploration of North Indian cuisine. A dedicated team of chefs embarked on a research mission, uncovering the region's diverse ingredients and culinary techniques. This deep dive into North India's culinary heritage forms the foundation of Loya's menu and experience.

Loya's commitment to authenticity extends beyond its menu. The restaurant's design and decor pay homage to North Indian traditions, with walls adorned with ancient inscriptions and khatiya-themed placemats. The space also includes exclusive zones, such as the champagne room, offering bespoke services, and the Delhi lounge called Qissa, where guests are encouraged to sit, relax, and share stories—a practice rooted in the tradition of bonding as the sun sets.

Heart-y Drinks

At Loya, the art of crafting drinks takes center stage. Following the philosophy of HEART (Harmony, Experimental, Authentic, Reverence, and The Spirit), the bar menu offers a range of unique cocktails that capture the essence of North India.

One standout drink is the Sparkling Sangria, a delightful blend of gin and sparkling wine with saffron strands that provide a sweet and refreshing finish. The Mulethi cocktail, featuring gin and an in-house citrus concoction, incorporates the herb liquorice, known for its Ayurvedic properties in treating common colds.

Many of Loya's drinks are accompanied by chaats that tantalize the palate, offering a unique twist to the traditional pairing of snacks with drinks.

Food from the Northern Hinterlands

Loya's culinary offerings are rooted in restoration and tradition. The open kitchen showcases long-forgotten cooking tools and techniques from North India's hinterlands. For example, the traditional dhungar method, involving charcoal and clarified butter, infuses a smoky flavor into dishes like Loya Dum Murgh.

The menu boasts a diverse array of dishes, including Sepu Wadi (urad dal dumplings stewed in a tomato-based curry) and Seviyan Pulao (vermicelli and rice cooked in a dum-sealed pot). The use of clarified butter adds richness and aroma to many dishes, creating a delightful culinary experience.

In summary, Loya is a welcome addition to Bengaluru's culinary landscape, offering a unique blend of North Indian flavors and culinary traditions. Whether you're a connoisseur of North Indian cuisine or looking to expand your palate, Loya promises an unforgettable dining experience.

For a glimpse of the Loya menu, here are some recommended dishes and drinks:

Food:

Kunni Murgh

Sepu Wadi

Kala Moti Gucchi Pulao

Drinks:

The Sparkling Saffron

Mountain Margarita

Indus G&T

Price for two: Approximately Rs 6,400, excluding alcohol.

Loya's meticulous attention to detail, commitment to authenticity, and innovative approach to cocktails make it a must-visit for those seeking an exploration of North Indian cuisine in Bengaluru.


Discover the Art of Cocktail Craftsmanship at Reservoire

Discover the Art of Cocktail Craftsmanship at Reservoire

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 18, 2024

At Reservoire, cocktail-making is transformed into an art form, combining creativity, precision, and high-quality ingredients. The bar is known for its unique cocktail categories, offering a memorable experience with each drink. Their menu features Avengers-themed cocktails, inspired by characters like Iron Man, Black Widow, and the Hulk, alongside Hollywood-inspired drinks such as "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Treasure Island."

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For those seeking innovative options, clarified cocktails provide a silky texture and crystal-clear look, while reimagined classics get modern updates. Their experiential cocktails take guests on a flavor journey, ensuring that every sip is an adventure.

What sets Reservoire apart is its attention to detail and customization. Each cocktail is tailored to individual tastes, making the drinking experience personalized and memorable. With a diverse selection of over 150-180 cocktails, there is something for everyone, from casual drinkers to cocktail enthusiasts.

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In addition to regular offerings, Reservoire introduces seasonal and limited-edition cocktails every month, highlighting fresh ingredients and festive themes. Whether a guest prefers a classic martini or a bold tequila-based drink, Reservoire’s philosophy ensures that each cocktail tells a story, integrating pop culture references with refined mixology.

Guests can enhance their drinks by pairing them with thoughtfully curated dishes from the menu, where food and cocktails complement each other perfectly. The vibrant ambiance blends art and nature, creating a stunning garden oasis in the heart of Bangalore, making Reservoire the ideal spot to relax with an exceptional drink in hand.


The Great Indian Street Food Festival Unveiled at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad

The Great Indian Street Food Festival Unveiled at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 18, 2024

Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad is bringing the rich flavors of Indian street food to its all-day dining venue, Essence, with “The Great Indian Street Food Festival.” This exciting event will run from October 17 to October 26, 2024, offering a vibrant showcase of street food specialties from across India’s four regions: North, South, East, and West.

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The festival will feature live food stations serving iconic dishes like spicy dosas from the South, tangy chaats from the North, flavorful puchkas from the East, and the popular vada pav from the West. Guests can indulge in these street delicacies without leaving the comfort of the city.

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Commenting on the festival, Suraj Kumar Jha, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad, said, "The Great Indian Street Food Festival is an invitation to our guests to experience the spirit of Indian streets through food. We’ve curated a menu that reflects the heart of India’s culinary heritage and brought it to our restaurant to create an unforgettable dining experience for everyone."

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Executive Chef Daksh Sirwani shared his passion behind the festival: "Our team has worked passionately to bring the authentic flavors of India’s bustling streets to the plates of our guests. We’ve carefully crafted each dish, ensuring that it remains true to its roots while delivering the signature quality of Crowne Plaza. This festival is not just about food; it’s about culture, tradition, and the stories behind every bite."

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The festival will be open daily from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, priced at INR 1799 plus taxes. Visitors can make reservations by contacting the hotel directly. This event offers a unique opportunity to explore India's culinary diversity under one roof in the heart of Ahmedabad.

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Brush Creek Distillery Partners with Purdue for Life on Limited-Edition Bourbon

Brush Creek Distillery Partners with Purdue for Life on Limited-Edition Bourbon

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 18, 2024

Brush Creek Distillery has launched a special-release Straight Bourbon Whiskey in collaboration with the Purdue for Life Foundation, celebrating the shared legacy of the university and alumni Bruce and Beth White, founders of Brush Creek Ranch. The bourbon reflects Purdue’s values and history, with each bottle priced at $74.18, representing Purdue’s founding year, 1874. It is available online through Bourbon Outfitters and at the Brush Creek Distillery in Saratoga, Wyoming.

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Managing Director Andrew Wason expressed the distillery’s excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to unveil this special-release whiskey with Purdue for Life and to support the organization’s ongoing efforts to engage alumni and strengthen the community.” The limited-edition bourbon showcases Wyoming’s rugged spirit and Purdue’s innovative legacy, aged for seven years—symbolizing the seven degrees offered at Purdue’s White Lodging – J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, which honors Bruce White's contributions to the hospitality industry.

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The bourbon offers a rich tasting experience, with aromas of spiced honey, mint, citrus zest, and baking spices. The palate reveals layers of vanilla custard, caramel, dark chocolate, and spearmint, leading to a smooth, lingering finish with hints of pipe smoke and spice.

Founded in 2019, Brush Creek Distillery focuses on small-batch spirits, including bourbon, rye, gin, and vodka. The distillery’s commitment to craftsmanship is evident through this release, blending Wyoming's natural elements with Purdue’s spirit of innovation.

The Purdue for Life Foundation, established in 2020, helps alumni stay connected, supports lifelong learning, and encourages engagement with the university. The bourbon serves as a tribute to Purdue’s past while also supporting ongoing alumni initiatives.

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