Merlot & Co. Debuts in Jaipur, Redefining Global Cuisine

Merlot & Co. Debuts in Jaipur, Redefining Global Cuisine

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 21, 2025

Jaipur’s culinary landscape just got a sophisticated new addition with the launch of Merlot & Co. Located in an elegant heritage building on MI Road, the restaurant blends European aesthetics with Jaipur’s regal charm, offering a refined take on global flavors and world-class hospitality.

The grand opening on March 19, 2025, was a high-energy affair, setting the stage for what promises to be Jaipur’s go-to destination for international cuisine. Designed by an ace architectural firm, Merlot & Co. exudes timeless elegance, complementing its exquisite culinary offerings.

A Michelin-Trained Culinary Team

At the heart of Merlot & Co.’s success is a team of exceptional chefs, each bringing a wealth of experience, expertise, and passion for authentic world cuisine.

  • Chef Vikash Kumar – Trained under Michelin-starred Chef Aldo Zilli, he specializes in European and Pan-Indian cuisines, reimagining classic dishes with modern techniques.
  • Chef Ram Singh Bisht – With over a decade of expertise in Italian, Mediterranean, and Spanish cuisines, he curates an Italian-forward menu focused on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
  • Chef Himanshu Sharma – A specialist in pastry and bakery, with experience at ITC Fortune, he showcases French and Italian-inspired desserts, bringing refined techniques to the dessert menu.

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An Unforgettable Global Dining Experience

Merlot & Co. offers a culinary journey across continents, carefully crafting each dish to perfection. The menu highlights include:

  • Hand-tossed artisanal pizzas
  • Rich Truffle Mushroom Risotto
  • Fresh-baked bread baskets
  • Signature desserts like Chocolate Hazelnut Éclairs and Blueberry Cheesecake

Every dish is tailored to guest preferences, with options to adjust spice levels and ingredient choices, ensuring a personalized experience for every diner.

A Vision Rooted in Excellence

Prashant Ojha, Founder & Director at Merlot & Co., shared his excitement about bringing world-class dining to Jaipur, stating:

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"We're delighted to serve a city that's so culturally rich and known for its vibrancy. At Merlot & Co., we continue to take this tradition forward in food and hospitality by bringing the finest dining experience to Jaipur. We believe that exceptional dining begins with the finest ingredients. Our ethos centers on sourcing the freshest local produce, seasonal ingredients, and premium spices."

Jaipur’s Newest Culinary Destination

Merlot & Co. is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where culinary artistry meets refined elegance. Whether celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a gourmet dining experience, guests can expect a memorable, multi-sensory journey through flavors from around the world.

With its Michelin-trained chefs, thoughtfully curated menu, and commitment to excellence, Merlot & Co. is set to become Jaipur’s most sought-after fine dining experience.


Tamil Nadu’s Vijay Kumar Wins James Beard Award, Puts Semma and South Indian Cuisine on the Global Map

Tamil Nadu’s Vijay Kumar Wins James Beard Award, Puts Semma and South Indian Cuisine on the Global Map

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 20, 2025

In a historic win for Indian cuisine, Chef Vijay Kumar, hailing from a small village near Madurai in Tamil Nadu, has been awarded Best Chef: New York State at the prestigious James Beard Awards 2025. Held on Monday night in Chicago, the awards are regarded as one of the culinary world’s highest honours — and for the first time, an Indian restaurant and chef have claimed this top spot in New York.

Kumar is the Executive Chef of Semma, a restaurant that has revolutionized the Indian fine dining scene in New York. Part of the Unapologetic Foods group led by Chintan Pandya and Roni Mazumdar, Semma is unapologetically rooted in South Indian heritage, serving dishes rarely seen outside Tamil homes. From fiery nathai pirattal (snail curry) to eral thokku (spicy prawns) and foxtail millet khichdi, the food is bold, soulful, and deeply personal — served in clay pots and on banana leaves, often without cutlery.

Dressed in a traditional Veshti while accepting the award, Kumar shared an emotional moment:

“When I started cooking, I never thought a kid like me from Tamil Nadu could make it to a room like this. But the food I grew up with — food made with care and fire, with soul — is now taking the main stage. There’s no such thing as poor people’s food or rich people’s food. If it’s true, it’s powerful.”

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Semma has consistently earned accolades since its opening in 2021. It holds a Michelin star for three years running and was crowned No. 1 on The New York Times’ 100 Best Restaurants list — a rare feat for an Indian restaurant. But for Kumar, this moment is about more than stars and rankings. It’s about representation, roots, and reclaiming pride in food once hidden in shame.

Growing up in Arasampatti, a village surrounded by paddy fields and coconut trees, Kumar recalls how dishes like snail curry were once considered farmer’s food — something to be kept from classmates. It wasn’t until culinary school that he saw escargot on a fine-dining menu and realized: “Maybe the world just hadn’t tasted our food yet.”

Originally dreaming of becoming an engineer, financial limitations led Kumar to pursue catering college — a twist of fate that launched a career celebrating the food of his ancestors. Today, with a James Beard medal and a mission that resonates from New York to Tamil Nadu, Chef Vijay Kumar has not only redefined fine dining but also carved a powerful space for heritage cuisine in global gastronomy.

Semma is no longer just a restaurant — it’s a revolution in flavour, identity, and cultural pride.


PAUL to Bring French Culinary Excellence to Bengaluru in August with First Outlet at Orion Gateway Mall

PAUL to Bring French Culinary Excellence to Bengaluru in August with First Outlet at Orion Gateway Mall

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 20, 2025

Globally celebrated French bakery and café PAUL is set to make its Bengaluru debut this August with its first outlet at Orion Gateway Mall, Rajajinagar. With a rich legacy spanning over 135 years, PAUL brings its signature French charm to the city in a stunning alfresco lakeside setting covering 3,850 square feet.

The menu will feature a refined selection of authentic French delicacies—from quiche lorraine, croque monsieur, savoury crêpes, and French onion soup, to caramelized canelés. Bengaluru’s food lovers can also enjoy sourdough Napoletana pizzas, tartines, pastas, rice bowls, salads, risottos, sandwiches, and refreshing beverages—all made using the finest locally and internationally sourced ingredients.

The Parisian-style ambience at PAUL makes it the perfect spot for a cozy breakfast, a laid-back brunch, or even a quick solo indulgence. Whether it's a casual coffee date or a business meeting, PAUL promises a slice of France in the heart of the city.

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Sunil Munshi, Senior Vice President – Retail, Brigade Group, said:

"The upcoming launch of PAUL at Orion Gateway Mall furthers our commitment to delivering globally inspired experiences crafted with innovation and care. We’re excited to bring this iconic French tradition to Bengaluru and confident it will become a favourite among the city's food connoisseurs.”

Vaibhav Kaushish, Chief Operating Officer, PAUL India, added:

“Opening our first outlet in Bengaluru is a significant milestone. Staying true to our brand's philosophy of Eat Well, Live Well, we bring the finest ingredients—free from palm oil and artificial additives—and French staples like viennoiseries, hot chocolate, and pain au chocolat to this vibrant city.”

PAUL’s commitment to authenticity, wellness, and sustainability, combined with its heritage of artisanal craftsmanship, makes it a much-awaited culinary destination for Bengalureans. With its debut, the city is all set to savour the best of French bakery traditions—one croissant at a time.


Figaro's Pizza Redefines Flavour with Signature Creations and Fresh Craftsmanship

Figaro's Pizza Redefines Flavour with Signature Creations and Fresh Craftsmanship

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 20, 2025

Figaro’s Pizza has unveiled a bold new chapter, staying true to its roots while elevating every element of the pizza experience. Known for its dedication to freshness and flavour, Figaro’s reaffirms its core philosophy: honest ingredients, expertly crafted.

At the heart of every Figaro’s offering is fresh dough made daily, 100% real cheese, and never-frozen vegetables—a trio that ensures every bite is not just delicious but crafted with intention and integrity.

Spotlight on Signature Flavours

1. Mama’s Favorite Pizza
A classic with a twist. Perfect for those who love bold, meaty flavours, this pizza combines chicken pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, olives, and capsicum, layered on your choice of red sauce or creamy garlic base. A celebration of richness and balance.

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2. Rainbow Pizza
Vegetarians, rejoice! This colourful and flavour-packed pizza brings together garlic mushrooms, baby corn, black olives, capsicum, and tomatoes. It’s a visual and gastronomic treat, offered with Figaro’s signature red or creamy garlic sauce.

3. Figaro’s Special Garden Salad
Fresh, light, and full of crunch, this salad brings together capsicum, onions, tomatoes, and olives tossed in Caesar or Italian dressing. A perfect pairing to any main.

4. Santa Fe BBQ Sandwich
Comfort meets bold in this grilled chicken sandwich, layered with sweet onions, red paprika, tomatoes, melted cheese, lettuce, and a generous drizzle of smoky BBQ sauce. A hearty choice for those craving depth and flavour.

Whether you’re a loyal Figaro’s fan or a new diner, the menu’s flavour-forward philosophy ensures there’s something to love. These creations are more than meals—they’re crafted experiences, designed to satisfy both the stomach and the soul.

At Figaro’s Pizza, flavour isn’t just served—it’s redefined.

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