India’s evolving food scene welcomes a fresh and thoughtful addition with the launch of AnnYatra, a vegetarian fine-dining destination that opens its first flagship outlet in Delhi NCR. With this debut, AnnYatra sets out to reimagine how Indian cuisine is explored and experienced, one region at a time.

Conceptualised as a journey rather than a fixed menu, AnnYatra presents Indian food as an unfolding story. Each course is inspired by a different Indian state, drawing from its local ingredients, traditions, and culinary thinking. These elements are interpreted through a contemporary approach, while staying true to their original essence, resulting in a dining experience that is immersive, reflective, and indulgent.

In a space where vegetarian dining is often viewed as either traditional or trend-driven, AnnYatra chooses a more balanced path. It positions itself as refined, intentional, and unapologetically Indian. Seasonal produce, indigenous grains, and heirloom spices form the backbone of the menu, handled with care, restraint, and modern technique. The approach highlights how plant-forward cuisine can feel elevated while remaining deeply soulful.

The flagship outlet mirrors the brand’s philosophy of quiet sophistication. The interiors are warm and elegant, designed to support the dining experience without overpowering it. The focus remains on the food, the rhythm of the courses, and the stories behind them. Hospitality is calm and intuitive, allowing guests to move through the experience at an unhurried pace.

Sharing the thought behind the concept, Deepak Tandon, Founder & Visionary, says: “AnnYatra began with a desire to honour India’s culinary diversity in its truest form. This first outlet is not about scale, but about setting the foundation, creating a space where vegetarian cuisine is celebrated with depth, dignity, and refinement. It is an invitation to experience India not through excess, but through understanding.”

Backed by decades of experience in elevated hospitality, Tandon’s vision for AnnYatra is rooted in purpose-led dining. Provenance, storytelling, and guest experience take priority, creating meaningful connections rather than relying on theatrics.

With the opening of its first address, AnnYatra introduces itself as more than just a restaurant. It marks the beginning of a journey that invites diners to slow down, dine mindfully, and rediscover India through a more thoughtful and elevated culinary lens.

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has appointed Vinod K P as Director of Security, reinforcing its leadership team with over three decades of cross-sector security expertise spanning hospitality, aviation, healthcare and central government services.

A Chemistry graduate from University of Calicut, Vinod began his professional journey in 1991 and joined the Central Industrial Security Force as a Sub-Inspector in 1992. During his ten-year tenure, he handled diverse portfolios including administration, intelligence, crime prevention, mechanical transport operations and senior-level liaison, building deep experience in managing complex and high-risk environments.

He later transitioned into aviation security with SriLankan Airlines at Calicut International Airport before entering the hospitality sector with Hyatt Hotels Corporation in 2007 as Security Manager at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa. He subsequently served as Head of Safety and Security at Park Hyatt Chennai. Most recently, he was associated with Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Ltd. in Chennai, where he led operations safety and security for several years.

A native of Kerala, Vinod returns to Hyatt with a strong understanding of the brand’s operational culture. Known for his calm leadership and people-focused approach, he will focus on strengthening safety systems, enhancing risk management frameworks and building resilient, high-performing teams at the property.

Commenting on his appointment, Vinod described it as a homecoming after eight years and reflected on his earlier tenure with Hyatt as one of the most meaningful phases of his career. Guided by his personal philosophy, “Be Good, Do Good,” he emphasises integrity, humility and collaboration in leadership.

With this appointment, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty continues to prioritise safety, security and operational excellence as it advances its position as a leading luxury urban resort in South India

Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. has launched Smoke House Café at Sky City Mall, marking a new phase in the 15-year journey of Smoke House Deli. The new café format builds on the brand’s familiar European comfort-led identity while presenting a calmer, more contemporary neighbourhood expression designed for everyday dining.

Guided by the philosophy From The World, To You, the café draws inspiration from global flavours, ingredients and techniques, translating them into approachable dishes suited for repeat visits and relaxed gatherings. The Borivali outlet is positioned as a space for long lunches, mid-week bites, family dinners and easy catch-ups, reflecting the strong sense of community that defines the neighbourhood.

The interiors subtly reference the lush landscape of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, blending earthy textures, muted tones and organic elements to create a setting that feels grounded yet modern. The result is a café that feels connected to its surroundings while maintaining a refined, urban character.

Riyaaz Amlani, Founder and Managing Director, Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., said, “With Smoke House Café, we are introducing a format that feels current, intentional and deeply rooted in hospitality. It is about giving our guests something new without losing the emotional connection they have always had with the brand. This is the future of Smoke House, more contemporary, more neighbourhood driven, and built for everyday belonging.”

Commenting on the launch, Tanu Prasad, CEO – Malls, Oberoi Realty, said the addition strengthens Sky City Mall’s positioning as a social and experiential hub for the western suburbs.

The menu reflects a structured, comfort-forward approach with an expanded focus on vegetarian options. Guests can expect dishes such as Signature Guacamole, Crispy Chilli Cheese, Raw Papaya, Tender Coconut and Grilled Tofu Salad, SHC Avocado Toast, Creamed Spinach, Feta, Tomato and Olive Pizza, Ricotta and Greens Double Stuffed Ravioli, and Tofu and Baby Corn Curry with Jasmine Rice. A curated range of zero-proof beverages, including Cranberry Cold Brew, P.K Lemonade, Thai Spiced Chai and Lychee and Hibiscus Brew, complements the all-day café format.

A thoughtfully designed kids’ menu further reinforces the café’s family-friendly positioning, particularly relevant in Borivali’s community-driven dining landscape.

Vinod Shetty, Operations Head, Smoke House Café, said, “With Smoke House Café, we wanted to build something that feels natural to the neighbourhood. Borivali has a strong family culture, but it is also evolving and aspirational. The menu reflects that balance. We have strengthened our vegetarian offerings, clarified the structure, and introduced a dedicated kids’ section so that the experience feels complete. It is about creating a café that people can keep coming back to, across occasions and across life stages.”

Located on the ground floor of Sky City Mall, Borivali East, the café operates daily from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM. The opening signals the next chapter for the Smoke House legacy, evolving with changing dining habits while retaining the warmth and familiarity that built its following.