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


Where Mumbai Goes for Its Chocolate Fix This Chocolate Day

Where Mumbai Goes for Its Chocolate Fix This Chocolate Day

By Hariharan U

Published on July 3, 2026

Chocolate Day, celebrated on 7th July, is all about indulging in rich, comforting desserts, and Mumbai's dining scene has no shortage of irresistible options. From classic chocolate mousse to creative chocolate-forward desserts, the city's restaurants are serving indulgent treats that promise to satisfy every chocolate lover.

Here's where to head for some of Mumbai's best chocolate desserts this Chocolate Day.

Papi, Bandra

Papi's Dark Chocolate Mousse is a refined take on a timeless classic. Rich without being overly sweet, the dessert delivers an intense chocolate flavour with a smooth, airy texture, making it a fitting finale to the restaurant's European-inspired menu.

Torii, Khar

image

Torii's Vegan Ganache Chocolate Cake combines 55% dark chocolate with coconut milk to create a silky vegan ganache, finished with a generous drizzle of Nutella sauce. The result is a rich dessert that offers deep chocolate flavours while remaining completely dairy-free.

Harajuku Bakehouse

image

Inspired by Tokyo's café culture, Harajuku Bakehouse serves its signature Jiggly Pancake topped with Nutella, vanilla ice cream, and dark chocolate sticks. Soft, fluffy, and playful, the dessert balances visual appeal with comforting flavours.

Amelia

image

Chocolate lovers looking for something indulgent can opt for Amelia's Chocolate Bomb. Built on a fudgy brownie base, the dessert layers dark chocolate hazelnut mousse with bright orange purée and mixed berries, creating a balance of richness and freshness.

Lyla

image

Lyla's Chocolate Coma offers an interactive dessert experience. A white chocolate dome melts under warm chocolate sauce to reveal a dark chocolate mousse layered with roasted peanuts, combining creamy textures with a satisfying crunch.

Amaru

image

For those looking for something unconventional, Amaru presents the JD Matcha Cake. The dessert pairs matcha and chocolate with a shot of Jack Daniel's and chocolate bitters, bringing together earthy tea notes, rich cocoa, and subtle whiskey flavours for a distinctive finish.

Whether you prefer classic chocolate desserts or contemporary interpretations, these restaurants offer some of Mumbai's most memorable sweet experiences, making them ideal destinations to celebrate Chocolate Day.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Launches Friday Weekend Pizza Party

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Launches Friday Weekend Pizza Party

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport is inviting pizza lovers to kick off their weekends with its Weekend Pizza Party, a special Friday dining experience that celebrates the art of handcrafted pizzas. Available every Friday in July at Food Exchange, the limited-period offering combines freshly made pizzas, interactive live cooking, and gourmet sides.

A highlight of the experience is the Live Pizza Station, where chefs prepare every pizza from scratch using freshly made dough, premium cheeses, and carefully selected toppings. Guests can watch their pizzas being crafted to order, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.

image

The menu features a wide selection of classic and gourmet pizzas. Diners can enjoy favourites such as the Margherita with Buffalo Mozzarella & Basil and Quattro Formaggi, along with signature creations including Truffle Wild Mushroom Pizza, Roasted Vegetable & Feta Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza, Lamb Kofta Pizza, Spicy Italian Sausage Pizza, and Garlic Prawn Pizza. The selection draws inspiration from Italian, Mediterranean, and global flavours.

Adding to the spread is a Root Vegetable Fries Bar, offering a variety of crispy options such as Sweet Potato Fries, Cassava Fries, Beetroot Fries, Carrot Fries, Lotus Stem Chips, and classic potato fries. Guests can pair them with a range of gourmet dips, including Truffle Aioli, Garlic Herb Mayo, Chipotle Dip, Basil Pesto, Roasted Tomato Dip, and Cheese Sauce.

Designed for families, friends, and colleagues, the Weekend Pizza Party offers a relaxed way to enjoy handcrafted pizzas and flavourful accompaniments while welcoming the weekend.

  • Venue: Food Exchange, Novotel Hyderabad Airport.
  • Dates: Every Friday in July.
  • Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM.

Top Mumbai Restaurants to Explore Exclusive Monsoon Menus This Season

Top Mumbai Restaurants to Explore Exclusive Monsoon Menus This Season

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2026

As the rains return to Mumbai, several restaurants have introduced exclusive monsoon menus designed to match the season's craving for warm, comforting food. Whether it's Mediterranean classics, Japanese hot pots, or sizzling Indian favourites, these limited-time menus promise memorable dining experiences throughout the monsoon.

Luuma House (Juhu)

Starting 6th July, Luuma House in Juhu is serving its specially curated Mezze Monsoon Menu, inspired by comforting Mediterranean flavours and seasonal ingredients.

The menu begins with the Turkish Lentil Soup, followed by the signature Lyali Beirut Mezze, which includes hummus, labneh, falafel, batata hara, muhammara, and freshly baked pita. Guests can also enjoy the Moroccan Dijaj, topped with lemon-marinated chicken, pistachio pesto, and creamy burrata.

For the main course, highlights include the Turkish Moussaka served with herb apricot sauce and the Chelo Chicken with garlic chilli sauce. The meal ends on a sweet note with the Steamed Date Pudding, served with tahini date caramel and ice cream. With its warm ambience and Mediterranean-inspired menu, Luuma House offers the perfect setting to enjoy the rainy season with family and friends.

image

  • Address: Plot No. 47, Gulmohar Road, JVPD Scheme, Vile Parle West, Mumbai
  • Timings: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Tokki & Tora (Andheri & Powai)

This monsoon, Tokki & Tora is inviting guests to enjoy comforting Japanese and Korean flavours through a seasonal menu featuring hot pots and ramen.

The menu includes favourites such as the Vegetable Hot Pot, Tori Nabe, Seafood Hot Pot, and the popular Korean Kimchi Jjigae, prepared with fermented kimchi, tofu, and fresh vegetables.

Guests can also choose from a variety of ramen bowls, including Miso Ramen (available in spicy and non-spicy versions), Korean Ramen, and Shoyu Ramen, all served with rich broths and authentic flavours. Whether it's a cosy lunch or dinner on a rainy day, Tokki & Tora offers the perfect comfort meal for the season.

image

  • Locations: Tokki & Tora, Andheri | Powai
  • Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM

Epitome (Lower Parel)

From 5th July to 30th August, Epitome in Lower Parel is presenting its Sizzling Monsoon Menu, packed with comforting starters, hearty sizzlers, and indulgent desserts.

Guests can begin with seasonal favourites including Pahadi Dal Wada Popcorn, Bhajiya Basket, Charred Corn Ribs, and Sweet Aloo Tikki Chaat.

For the main course, the menu features Tofu in Black Bean Sizzler and Red Pepper Chilli Paneer Sizzler, served piping hot with flavourful accompaniments. To finish, diners can indulge in the Sizzling Brownie, topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and nuts. Combined with its lively ambience and handcrafted cocktails, Epitome offers a complete monsoon dining experience.

image

  • Address: Mathuradas Mill Compound, Plot 242, NM Joshi Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai
  • Timings: 12:30 PM – 1:30 AM

This monsoon, these restaurants offer a variety of seasonal menus that celebrate comfort, flavour, and the joy of dining during the rains. Whether you're in the mood for Mediterranean delicacies, Japanese comfort food, or sizzling Indian favourites, these limited-time experiences are worth exploring.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.