Radisson Blu Dubai Media City Leads with Solar Energy Innovation

Radisson Blu Dubai Media City Leads with Solar Energy Innovation

By Author

Published on December 24, 2023

In a commendable stride towards environmental stewardship, the Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City has adopted a cutting-edge thermodynamic solar system for domestic hot water (DHW) production. This initiative is a key part of the hotel's green building commitment, aligning with the Radisson Hotel Group's goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Harnessing Renewable Energy:

Thermodynamic Solar System: This advanced system combines an air-source heat pump with solar blocks to efficiently produce hot water at 60°C. The process involves compressing refrigerant fluid, which then boils in the solar blocks due to solar radiance and environmental temperature. This heat is transferred to the water in a heat exchanger.

A Sustainable Substitute: This renewable energy solution is set to fully replace traditional electrical heaters in the hotel, marking a significant shift towards sustainable practices.

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Impressive Impact:

Reduction in Consumption and Emissions: On its first day of operation, the system impressively reduced the electrical consumption and carbon emissions of the hotel’s hot water system by 65%.

24/7 Operation: According to Kathiravan Selvarasu, the cluster chief engineer, the system’s ability to produce hot water up to 60°C around the clock, regardless of sunlight exposure, sets it apart from traditional solar thermal systems.

A Step Toward Sustainability:

Commitment to Green Goals: James Berry, the cluster general manager, expressed his satisfaction with the integration of the thermodynamic solar system, viewing it as a significant step towards achieving the hotel's sustainability objectives.

Pioneering in the Region: The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City is the fourth Radisson Blu property in the country to implement this eco-friendly technology.

The adoption of the thermodynamic solar system by Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City marks a pioneering move in the hospitality industry’s journey towards sustainability. By leveraging innovative technologies, the hotel is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also setting a precedent for others in the industry to follow.


ButterBrews Opens New Café in Aundh with Coffee-First Experience

ButterBrews Opens New Café in Aundh with Coffee-First Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 7, 2026

ButterBrews has opened its new outlet in Aundh, marking its largest format café so far. The new space has been designed as an everyday destination, bringing together a comfortable layout, a strong all-day menu, and a clear focus on coffee.

The café has been planned with multiple zones to suit different preferences. It includes an indoor seating area, a non-smoking outdoor section with an amphitheatre-style setup, and a separate smoking zone placed away from the main space to ensure a smooth and relaxed experience for all guests.

The menu offers a premium all-day selection built around fresh ingredients. Guests can choose from breakfast options, healthy bowls, wholesome meals, and vegan dishes, making it suitable for different tastes and dining needs throughout the day.

Coffee continues to be at the heart of the ButterBrews experience. The café uses 100 percent Arabica beans and serves both house blends and manually brewed coffees. It also features guest roasters like Tulum Coffee Roasters and Ground Zero Coffee Roasters, adding variety to its coffee offerings.

Desserts and baked items are prepared in-house at ButterBrews’ bakehouse. Popular choices include the Basque cheesecake and cinnamon rolls, which have already become favourites among guests.

Commenting on the opening, Harsh Agarwal, Co-founder, ButterBrews, said, “ButterBrews, Aundh is our largest format cafe yet. We have built a stronger indoor experience and created clear zones across the cafe so guests can settle in the way they like. We want this to be an address people can count on through the week.”

Umang Bhimrajka, Co-founder, ButterBrews, added, “For us, coffee has always been non-negotiable. With 100 percent Arabica beans, house espresso coffees and manual brews that rotate speciality roasters, we are bringing a program that balances familiarity with discovery. Alongside that, the all-day menu and our bakehouse desserts complete the experience we want to offer Aundh.”


McDonald’s India Brings Back Limited-Edition Sipper with App-Exclusive Meals

McDonald’s India Brings Back Limited-Edition Sipper with App-Exclusive Meals

By Hariharan U

Published on April 7, 2026

McDonald's India – North and East has reintroduced its popular limited-edition Sipper, bringing back the fan-favourite collectible as part of its app-exclusive Super Sipper Meals. The offering follows strong customer demand earlier this year and is available for a limited time across select regions.

Accessible exclusively through the McDonald's App, the Super Sipper Meals can be ordered between 4 PM and 7 PM, adding an element of exclusivity and urgency for customers looking to grab the collectible while stocks last.

The meals are offered in two variants, catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences. The Veg option, includes a McAloo Tikki Burger, Medium Fries, Small Coke, and Pizza McPuff. The Non-Veg variant, features a McGrill Burger along with Medium Fries, Small Coke, and Pizza McPuff.

Commenting on the reintroduction, Rajeev Ranjan said the overwhelming response to the earlier launch highlighted customers’ interest in unique and engaging experiences. He added that the brand remains focused on delivering offerings that combine value, taste, and memorable moments.

Operated by Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt. Ltd., McDonald’s India – North and East continues to strengthen its presence with over 295 restaurants and 190+ McCafé outlets across the region. The brand’s latest offering reflects its ongoing effort to create experience-led promotions that go beyond traditional value meals.

By combining everyday favourites with collectible merchandise, the reintroduced Sipper campaign aims to enhance customer engagement while driving digital adoption through its app ecosystem.


JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Chef Balachandar K as Executive Sous Chef

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Appoints Chef Balachandar K as Executive Sous Chef

By Hariharan U

Published on April 7, 2026

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru has announced the appointment of Chef Balachandar K as Executive Sous Chef, further strengthening its culinary leadership in Bengaluru.

With over 17 years of experience, Chef Balachandar brings a strong foundation built across global kitchens and fine-dining environments. Known for his intuitive understanding of flavours and operational expertise, he has consistently delivered dining experiences that balance creativity with precision.

Over the years, he has worked with leading hospitality brands such as Conrad Bengaluru, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, The Leela Palace Chennai, and InterContinental Dubai Festival City. His journey reflects both versatility in cuisine and the ability to lead high-performing kitchen teams.

Commenting on the appointment, Gaurav Sinha highlighted that Chef Balachandar brings a deep understanding of both the art and discipline of the kitchen. He noted that the chef’s ability to blend global influences with strong technique will further enhance the hotel’s culinary offerings.

Sharing his perspective, Chef Balachandar said that kitchens thrive on energy, collaboration, and constant evolution. He expressed his intent to build vibrant, ingredient-driven menus while creating dining experiences that guests can connect with.

In his new role, he will oversee culinary operations across the hotel, working closely with teams to shape menus, refine techniques, and elevate offerings across restaurants and banquet spaces.

Part of Marriott International, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru continues to position itself as a leading luxury destination, offering diverse dining experiences alongside premium hospitality for both business and leisure travellers.

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