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.


Experience Monsoon Bliss at Sesame – Hyatt Centric Juhu with the Ramen Biyori Menu

Experience Monsoon Bliss at Sesame – Hyatt Centric Juhu with the Ramen Biyori Menu

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 27, 2024

As the monsoon rains pour down, there's nothing quite like enjoying a warm bowl of ramen paired with a refreshing drink. This cozy experience is exactly what Sesame at Hyatt Centric Juhu offers with their special "Ramen Biyori" menu. Translating to "A Perfect Day for Ramen," this menu, available from July 19th to August 4th, promises a delightful culinary escape from the rainy weather.

Chef Rahul Shrivastava, the Executive Chef at Sesame - Hyatt Centric Juhu, emphasizes the artistry behind their ramen. “Ramen is a culinary art that demands meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of its components. At Sesame, we harmoniously balance rich, flavorful broths, house-made jowar, ragi, and wheat noodles, and a variety of toppings to create a unique dining experience. Our broths, from light Shio to creamy Tonkatsu, are carefully simmered for hours to extract complex flavors, while our innovative tare and carefully selected toppings elevate each bowl. Crafting the perfect ramen is a labor of love and precision, reflecting our commitment to authenticity and excellence.

The menu features a range of ramen dishes designed to bring warmth and joy during the monsoon season. From rich and flavorful broths to perfectly cooked noodles, there's something to satisfy every palate. Traditional options include Shio Ramen (light and clear chicken broth), Shoyu Ramen (rich and savory broth), Tonkatsu Ramen (rich and creamy broth), and Miso Ramen (flavorful bonito-Shiro miso broth). For those seeking something different, Sesame offers innovative takes like Edamame & Tofu Ramen (clear vegetable broth with kimchi tare) and Chicken & Chili Roulade (clear chicken broth with kimchi tare and chili-green onion chicken pâté). Guests can also personalize their ramen with house-made jowar, ragi, and wheat noodles, spicy chili oil, vegetable toppings like jalapeños and bamboo shoots, and protein options like jammy eggs.

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To complement the ramen experience, Sesame has an "Every Hour = Happy Hour" promotion running from July 1st to August 31st. Enjoy 50% off on select beverages, including classic cocktails such as the Ichigo Sour and Shiso Negroni, as well as beers and spirits. This offer is available daily from 11 AM to 8 PM, making it the perfect way to unwind after a satisfying meal.

The combination of the "Ramen Biyori" menu and the "Every Hour = Happy Hour" promotion makes Sesame - Hyatt Centric Juhu the ideal destination to savor the monsoon season. Guests can curl up with a steaming bowl of ramen or raise a toast with a refreshing cocktail, turning rainy days into a delightful adventure.

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About Hyatt Centric Juhu

Located in the vibrant city of Mumbai, Hyatt Centric Juhu Mumbai provides a luxurious escape with contemporary design, unparalleled hospitality, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Situated in the upscale Juhu neighborhood, the hotel offers easy access to iconic landmarks, shopping districts, and entertainment hubs, making it a prime spot for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel features spacious and elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities and personalized service, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for every guest.

Dates to Remember:

Ramen Biyori: July 19 to August 4

Happy Hours: July 1 to August 31

Reservation Number: +91 86578 84964

Address: Lobby Level, Sesame - Hyatt Centric Juhu, Juhu Tara Rd, Santacruz West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049


Experience the Spicy Delights of Saoji Cuisine at The Den’s Sunday Brunch

Experience the Spicy Delights of Saoji Cuisine at The Den’s Sunday Brunch

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 27, 2024

The Den, renowned for its luxury and culinary excellence, invites you to a unique Sunday Brunch featuring the bold and spicy flavors of Saoji cuisine. Originating from the Halba Koshti weaver community of Madhya Pradesh and brought to Nagpur, Maharashtra, Saoji cuisine offers a distinctive and fiery gastronomic experience.

This special brunch will be hosted at The Creek, The Den Bengaluru, on Sunday, 28th July 2024, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Guests can enjoy an array of Saoji dishes such as Jhunka with Bhakar, Marathi Kadhi, Bharleli Vangi, Saoji Murgh, Varhadi Mutton, Assorted Thecha, Lasun Chutney, Dhabeli Pao, Thari Poha, Patudi Rassa, Dal Bhaji, and Besan Arbi Wadi. Each dish promises to deliver the authentic and intense flavors that Saoji cuisine is known for.

Set in an elegant and lavish ambiance, the brunch is designed to offer more than just a meal. It includes a wide selection of beverages, live music to enhance the dining experience, and activities for children, ensuring that guests of all ages have a delightful time. The impeccable service and attention to detail are hallmarks of The Den, ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable culinary journey.

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The Den's Saoji-themed Sunday Brunch is priced at INR 2199 plus taxes. Given the exclusive nature of this event, reservations are highly recommended. For bookings, please contact 80 71117272 or +91 951367272.

Join The Den for this extraordinary brunch and savor the fiery flavors of Saoji cuisine in an elegant setting, making your Sunday a truly special occasion.


Locally Sourced, Seasonally Inspired: Toast & Tonic's Monsoon Menu

Locally Sourced, Seasonally Inspired: Toast & Tonic's Monsoon Menu

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 26, 2024

As the monsoon season arrives with its refreshing showers, Toast & Tonic Bengaluru has unveiled a new Monsoon Menu, available from July 15th. This limited-time menu captures the essence of the season with hearty, comforting dishes crafted from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Menu Highlights:

  • Corn & Lotus Root Fritters: Crispy and golden, served with a house-made sweet chili sauce and BBQ rub.

  • Green Scallion Pancake: Made with ragi sourdough batter, house-made kimchi, and soy & sesame sauce.

  • Chicken Wonton Soup: A warm bowl of light chicken broth with Bhavnagri chili oil, bok choy, and savory wontons.

  • Lamb Sliders: Juicy lamb patties topped with Andouille sausage, pickled cucumber, cilantro crema, and jalapeño.

  • Crab Croquettes: Crunchy exterior with pickled onions, jowar flake crust, and dill aioli.

  • Pork Teriyaki Noodles: A satisfying mix of Bandel cheese, bacon, pork belly, and flat rice noodles.

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Signature Cocktails:

  • The Irish Kiss: A blend of Irish whiskey, cinnamon whiskey, fresh lime, apple juice, and wild honey syrup.

  • Honey Punch: Gin, cranberry juice, rosemary, thyme, honey, and lime.

  • Miss Caramella: Gin with homemade popcorn and caramel syrup, fresh lime, and tonic.

  • Cloudy Collins: Gin mixed with fresh pineapple, green pepper, muddled with homemade thyme cordial, and topped with tonic.

  • The Wild Wild Citrus: Irish whiskey, honey, fresh lime, and dehydrated citrus fruits.

For dessert, enjoy the comforting Warm Dutch Apple Cake with plum compote, sour cherry gel, brandy snap, vanilla crumble, and salted caramel ice cream—a perfect end to a monsoon meal.

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About Toast & Tonic:

Toast & Tonic, renowned for its creativity and sustainability, began its journey in Bangalore and has expanded to Mumbai. With a focus on innovation and local inspirations, Toast & Tonic offers a diverse menu and has earned several international accolades, including the Conde Nast Traveller UK Hot List and Times Food and Nightlife Awards. Follow @toastandtonic for more updates.

Celebrate the monsoon season with a flavorful experience at Toast & Tonic, where every dish and drink reflects the spirit of the season.

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