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

Boulevard at The Orchid Hotel Mumbai Celebrates Father's Day with Street Food and Royal Delicacies

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 21, 2026

Boulevard at The Orchid Hotel Mumbai is set to mark Father's Day with a special brunch that brings together India's vibrant street-food culture, royal culinary traditions and nostalgic childhood favourites. Designed as a celebration of family, flavours and shared memories, the brunch offers guests a chance to enjoy dishes inspired by different regions of India and around the world.

One of the highlights of the experience is a series of interactive live counters showcasing iconic street-food favourites. Guests can explore a lively Chaat Bazaar featuring Muradabadi Chaat from Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow's Chowk Ki Tikki, Gujarat's Dhokla Chaat, Mumbai's popular Pani Puri and Masala Bhutta. A dedicated Galouti Counter will also serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including mushroom, rajma, soya and mutton varieties.

The culinary spread extends beyond Indian flavours with international street-food favourites such as Sushi from Japan, Tibetan-style momos and Middle Eastern Falafel Pita Shawarma, offering something for every palate.

Adding depth to the menu is a selection of royal and regional specialities, including Paya Shorba, Murgh Shammi Kebab, Mahi Tikka, Maa Ki Dal, Patiala Shahi Gosht, Murgh Tikka Biryani and Subz Dum Biryani. Drawing inspiration from the royal kitchens of Lucknow and Punjab, as well as the rich culinary traditions of Hyderabad, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the brunch presents a diverse range of flavours under one roof.

To bring back childhood memories, dedicated counters will serve Malai Gola, Candy Floss and freshly popped Popcorn. These nostalgic treats are designed to recreate the joy of family outings, local fairs and weekend indulgences. Guests can round off the meal with a selection of artisanal pastries, traditional Indian desserts and other sweet delights.

The Father's Day brunch offers families an opportunity to celebrate together over a table filled with familiar flavours, treasured memories and dishes inspired by culinary traditions from across India and beyond.

What: Global Street Food Father's Day Sunday Brunch with Indian Royal Delicacies.
Where: Boulevard, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai.
When: Sunday, 21 June 2026.

Le Méridien Ahmedabad Curates Special Father’s Day Dining Experiences at Bayleaf and The Market

By Hariharan U

Published on June 21, 2026

This Father’s Day, Le Méridien Ahmedabad is inviting families to celebrate the occasion with specially curated dining experiences designed to bring loved ones together over exceptional food and memorable moments.

Taking place on June 21, the celebrations will unfold across the hotel’s signature dining venues, offering guests a choice between an intimate fine-dining experience and a vibrant buffet feast.

At Bayleaf, diners can enjoy a thoughtfully crafted five-course menu served in an elegant setting. Warm lighting, attentive service, and a refined ambience create the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and a relaxed evening with family. The specially curated experience is designed for those seeking a more intimate and sophisticated Father’s Day celebration.

For guests looking for a lively dining experience, The Market will host an elaborate buffet featuring a wide range of global and regional flavours. The expansive spread is complemented by a vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for larger family gatherings and festive celebrations.

Adding to the occasion, fathers dining with two accompanying guests at The Market can enjoy a complimentary meal, offering families another reason to come together and celebrate.

Available from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the Father’s Day experiences at Le Méridien Ahmedabad combine culinary excellence, warm hospitality, and thoughtful touches to create an evening dedicated to honouring fathers and father figures.

Whether choosing the elegance of Bayleaf or the lively buffet at The Market, guests can look forward to a celebration centred on great food, family connections, and lasting memories.

For reservations, guests can contact +91 99789 08933.

Ironhill and Smoor Stir Up a Chocolate Cocktail Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 21, 2026

Chocolate is finding a new place on the menu at Ironhill, and this time, it is not on a dessert plate. In collaboration with Smoor, the brewery has introduced a limited-edition cocktail menu that brings together artisanal chocolate and craft cocktail making in a unique way.

Designed to offer a different perspective on chocolate, the menu features three signature cocktails, each with its own distinct character and flavour profile. Rather than simply adding chocolate to a drink, the collection explores how the ingredient can create depth, balance and complexity in a cocktail glass.

The Silk Route delivers a smooth and rich experience, with deep chocolate notes that unfold gradually and leave a lasting impression. For those who enjoy contrasting flavours, the Salted Cacao combines cacao and salt to create a balanced drink where sweetness and savoury notes work together seamlessly. Meanwhile, the Tropical Ganache brings a lighter and more vibrant approach, blending bright fruit flavours with chocolate for a refreshing and unexpected combination.

What sets the menu apart is its thoughtful approach to flavour. Each cocktail presents a different interpretation of chocolate, showcasing how the ingredient can move beyond traditional desserts and become the centrepiece of a well-crafted drink.

Available for a limited time, the Ironhill x Smoor collaboration offers guests an opportunity to experience chocolate in a fresh and creative format. Whether enjoyed as a leisurely evening drink or as part of a dining experience, the menu aims to bring a new dimension to cocktail culture.

What: Chocolate Cocktails at Ironhill

Where:

Ironhill Marathahalli, Sy no 90, 7 & 90/8, Marathahalli - Sarjapur Outer Ring Rd, beside Radisson Blu, Marathahalli, Bengaluru.
Ironhill Forum South, 4th floor, Cross Metro Station, Forum South, Anjanadri Layout, Konanakunte, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560062.

Welcome to post your talent

A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.