Raise Your Glass: Haku Vodka from Japan Hits India's Shores

Raise Your Glass: Haku Vodka from Japan Hits India's Shores

By Author

Published on September 29, 2023

India, brace yourself for a taste of Japan like never before, as Beam Suntory, the global leader in premium spirits, unveils the latest gem from the House of Suntory. Following the resounding success of The House of Suntory portfolio's launch in December 2019, the spotlight now shines on India with the introduction of Haku® Vodka.

Derived from the finest Japanese ingredients, Haku® Vodka is a testament to the nature and spirit of Japan. It embodies the core principles of Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii's Monozukuri craftsmanship—a relentless pursuit of perfection, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

In a country where vodka's versatility has captured the hearts of consumers, the arrival of Haku® Vodka is set to make waves in the vodka market. Neeraj Kumar, Managing Director of Beam Suntory India, expresses their excitement, stating, "Vodka continues to gain prominence as a sought-after spirit amongst Indian consumers due to its versatility. Delivering a distinctive experience and establishing a unique presence in the vodka market, we bring yet another addition from our esteemed House of Suntory portfolio in India with the launch of Haku® Vodka."

The name "Haku," meaning 'white and brilliant' in Japanese, pays homage to the key ingredient, "Hakumai," a pure, white Japanese rice symbolising Japan's essence. This rice is meticulously milled, polished, and distilled, resulting in a "junpaku," a clear, clean, and luminous vodka. What makes Haku® Vodka truly exceptional is its filtration process through bamboo charcoal, adding a touch of sophistication and complexity to the vodka's natural flavour.

Haku® Vodka's design blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern sensibilities, creating a minimalist and artisanal product that beautifully celebrates Japanese craftsmanship.

India is not the sole destination for Haku® Vodka. This premium spirit is set to take flight across multiple markets, including Maharashtra, Goa, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana. With prices ranging from INR 3,950 to INR 6,140, it promises to set an unprecedented benchmark in the vodka category.

Haku® Vodka, an embodiment of quality, tradition, and innovation, marks a significant step in Beam Suntory's mission to elevate its premium portfolio in India, further enriching the vibrant landscape of Indian spirits.

As The House of Suntory celebrates a century of whisky innovation, the introduction of Haku® Vodka reaffirms Suntory's commitment to heritage and a relentless pursuit of crafting exceptional spirits. Beam Suntory invites India to savour the essence of Japanese craftsmanship with each sip of Haku® Vodka.

Image Source: The Whiskey Exchange


Andrea’s Eatery Debuts in Gurgaon with a Global Menu That Celebrates Connection

Andrea’s Eatery Debuts in Gurgaon with a Global Menu That Celebrates Connection

By Hariharan U

Published on October 31, 2025

Andrea’s Eatery has opened its doors in Gurgaon, bringing its signature philosophy, “World of Flavors on a Plate” to one of India’s most vibrant dining destinations. Located in Ambience Mall, the new outpost reflects founder Andrea Pauro’s lifelong love for travel and diverse cuisines, offering guests a culinary journey that spans continents.

The space itself is designed to feel calm, modern, and inviting, a place where people can come together, share a meal, and connect over global flavours. It mirrors the cosmopolitan pulse of Gurgaon, giving diners a chance to experience the world without leaving the city.

The menu is inspired by Andrea’s own travels across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, featuring dishes that tell stories through flavour and technique. From the Andrea’s House Salad and San Sebastian Cheesecake to the Gambas Al Ajillo — sizzling garlic prawns with a Spanish soul each dish celebrates authenticity and craft. The Pollo Pizzaiolo brings the warmth of Italian comfort food, while the Kafta Lamb Burger blends Middle Eastern spices into a flavour-packed bite. Andrea’s signature Krapow, inspired by Bangkok’s street-side magic, and Yalla Habibi, full of Middle Eastern zest, are also highlights on the menu.

Catering to all palates, Andrea’s Eatery ensures inclusivity through a range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Dishes like Mala Chili Tofu bring a spicy kick without compromising on flavour, while the restaurant’s gluten-free pizzas and pastas are crafted with the same passion and precision as any classic recipe. The newly introduced Protein Salad and Super Green Salad celebrate freshness and balance, proving that wholesome food can be vibrant and satisfying.

The interiors complement the menu perfectly. With warm lighting, earthy tones, and relaxed seating across 80 indoor seats, Andrea’s Eatery offers a versatile space for every occasion  from family gatherings and business lunches to casual dinners. Open daily from 12 noon to 11 PM, the restaurant welcomes guests to dine in or enjoy the Andrea’s experience at home through Zomato and Swiggy.

For Andrea Pauro, the heart of the brand lies not just in its food but in its values. “I couldn’t be more excited to join Gurgaon's dining scene,” says Mr. Andrea Pauro. “We’re bringing the flavours and experiences that have made our guests smile for two decades, and I can’t wait for the city to try them. There’s a rare satisfaction that comes from pure hedonism, one that enriches life and makes it worth living. From dishes crafted with care to a space full of warmth and life, every detail is meant to make your visit special.”

Built on kindness, respect, and joy, Andrea’s Eatery continues to create spaces that go beyond dining, where community, comfort, and connection come alive over every shared meal


1.5 Degree Partners with PVR to Serve 100% Natural, Plant-Based Gelatos to Movie Lovers

1.5 Degree Partners with PVR to Serve 100% Natural, Plant-Based Gelatos to Movie Lovers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 30, 2025

1.5 Degree, Delhi’s pioneering plant-based dairy start-up, has partnered with PVR Cinemas, India’s largest multiplex chain, to launch its first-ever retail kiosks offering 100% natural, lactose-free gelatos, shakes, and sundaes. This collaboration marks a new chapter in the cinema experience, combining indulgence with sustainability.

The kiosks have been launched at two of NCR’s most iconic cinema destinations, PVR ECX Chanakyapuri, Delhi’s only ECX, and PVR Inox Worldmark, Gurgaon. These illuminated experiential carts are designed to seamlessly blend with the premium ambiance of PVR cinemas, inviting movie-goers to enjoy a guilt-free treat under the tagline “Plant-based to Cool a Warmer Planet.”

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Through this partnership, 1.5 Degree brings its signature range of natural, lactose-free, and palm-oil-free gelatos to cinema audiences seeking both taste and wellness. To celebrate the collaboration, the brand has introduced exclusive PVR-inspired flavours like Caramel Popcorn Gelato, along with indulgent options including Mixed Berry, Biscoff, Mango, Coffee, and No-Added-Sugar Blueberry. The menu also features a variety of sugar-free shakes and signature sundaes served in cans, designed for freshness and convenience.

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Speaking on the launch, Vedansh Goyal, Founder of 1.5 Degree, said, “Ice cream is an emotion, an inseparable part of the movie experience. Whether it’s a family outing, date night, or get-together with friends, our gelatos aim to make every PVR moment sweeter, healthier, and more memorable. Our mission is to make plant-based indulgence mainstream, where great taste meets good health and sustainability.”

1.5 Degree recently raised seed funding from BITS Pilani and continues to expand its footprint across India with a focus on sustainable, health-conscious dairy alternatives. Through this association with PVR, the brand aims to make plant-based treats more accessible, enjoyable, and part of everyday indulgence.

 Watch the launch teasers here:


Holiday Inn Gurgaon NH8 Hosts “Boo-ffet Night” — A Spooky Feast of Flavours

Holiday Inn Gurgaon NH8 Hosts “Boo-ffet Night” — A Spooky Feast of Flavours

By Hariharan U

Published on October 30, 2025

Holiday Inn Gurgaon NH8 is set to bring an exciting twist to Halloween this year with its one-of-a-kind “Boo-ffet Night” at The Palate. The evening promises guests a mix of spooky elegance, great food, and festive fun from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM.

Curated by Executive Chef Deep Dubey and his talented culinary team, the buffet will feature a range of creatively themed appetizers, wickedly delicious mains, and ghostly desserts, all inspired by the playful spirit of Halloween. Each dish has been designed to surprise and delight, turning a simple dinner into a memorable dining experience.

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The restaurant will take on a hauntingly beautiful makeover for the night, with eerie lighting, Halloween décor, and a few unexpected spooky surprises waiting to catch diners off guard.

Speaking about the celebration, Ms. Mukta Khanna, General Manager, shared, “The Boo-ffet Night is all about combining festive fun with culinary creativity. We want our guests to enjoy not just the flavors, but the entire spooky ambience that makes Halloween so special.”

Located conveniently off the Delhi-Jaipur Highway, Holiday Inn Gurgaon NH8 is known for its modern comfort, warm hospitality, and lively dining experiences. Its signature restaurant, The Palate, has built a reputation for global buffets and themed food festivals that bring people together through the joy of flavour and creativity.

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