Secret Ingredient Launches Three Unique Culinary Concepts Across India

Secret Ingredient Launches Three Unique Culinary Concepts Across India

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 8, 2024

Secret Ingredient, a prominent food consulting firm for the restaurant and hospitality industry, has announced the launch of three new culinary destinations in India. The newly unveiled venues include Niko, a modern Asian restaurant in Gurgaon, La Croute, an artisanal pie shop and café in Delhi’s Sunder Nagar, and Bonita, a globally inspired European bistro located in Arossim, South Goa.

Secret Ingredient played a pivotal role in creating these distinct concepts by offering a wide range of consulting services. These included everything from research and feasibility studies to the development of a detailed concept, interior and graphic design collaboration, kitchen and bar planning, as well as food and beverage identity creation. The firm also assisted in hiring and training core team members, ensuring that each establishment delivers a well-rounded guest experience.

Kula Naidu, Director at Secret Ingredient, explained the firm’s approach: “At Secret Ingredient, we go beyond just food—we create a complete experience. Niko offers an upbeat yet calming atmosphere; La Croute provides a warm and welcoming vibe, while Bonita is all about relaxation and indulgence. Each venue has a distinct character, from the ambience to the décor, music, and overall f&b offering. We meticulously ensure that every aspect, from the kitchen’s efficiency to staff training, operates seamlessly.”

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Each of these new venues provides a unique culinary experience. Niko in Gurgaon brings modern Asian cuisine to the forefront, with an ambiance that blends lively and calming elements, making it a versatile choice for casual dining and special occasions. La Croute in Delhi focuses on artisanal pies, providing a cozy, neighborhood café vibe that invites people to sit back and enjoy freshly baked goods. Meanwhile, Bonita in Goa offers a mix of European-inspired dishes in a relaxed beachside setting, perfect for guests seeking an indulgent escape.

Sid Mathur, also a Director at Secret Ingredient, emphasized the research-driven approach that goes into every project. “Our team conducts thorough research to ensure dining experiences that are both unique, inventive and feasible. We oversee every aspect from the outset, focusing on guest experience to culinary offerings. Our goal with these projects was to create a menu that celebrates rich flavors and resonates with today’s diners, who seek new and exciting experiences. The feedback we’ve received is a testament to the hard work and creativity that went into these projects.”

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Secret Ingredient has a history of providing advisory services for a diverse range of clients, including restaurants, hotels, malls, and schools. They use their extensive hands-on experience from operating and advising multiple F&B outlets across India to create tailored solutions for new and existing projects. Their experience has allowed them to work with iconic brands and build a substantial portfolio across 28 cities in India.

Some of Secret Ingredient’s notable past projects include collaborations with The Khyber in Gulmarg, Kaansa at Crowne Plaza Gurgaon, Lyrah at Trident Gurgaon, and Koyo Koyo at Hyatt Centric Chandigarh. They have also partnered with popular venues such as Select City Walk Mall in Delhi, British School in Delhi, as well as with brands like Olive Group, Swiggy, and Anardana.


Mirth Cocktail Conservatory Raises a Glass to International Scotch Day

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory Raises a Glass to International Scotch Day

By Author

Published on February 6, 2026

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory is marking International Scotch Day on February 8 with an evening dedicated to the craft, heritage, and evolving expression of Scotch whisky. Positioned as a destination for both whisky purists and experimental cocktail lovers, Mirth brings together classic malts and contemporary interpretations, celebrating Scotland’s “water of life” through a thoughtfully designed menu.

For the occasion, Mirth’s mixologists have introduced a signature Scotch cocktail selection that explores bold flavour pairings while staying rooted in whisky character. Among the highlights is Pour Me A Slice, a daring creation featuring Dewar’s 12 infused with Gouda and blue cheese, balanced with honey, bitters, and cherry–hibiscus-infused sake. The cocktail delivers a layered profile that moves between savoury, floral, and gently sweet notes, reimagining how Scotch can be experienced.

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Another standout is Mango Reverie, a playful yet nostalgic cocktail inspired by India’s love for raw mango and chilli. Built on JW Black Label, the drink combines a sharp raw mango cordial with soda for freshness, finished with chilli salt for heat and texture. The whisky’s subtle smokiness grounds the cocktail, creating a bright, easy-drinking serve with a strong sense of memory and place.

With its focus on storytelling through spirits, Mirth promises an evening of refined pours and relaxed energy. As the bar continues to push boundaries in modern mixology, International Scotch Day becomes an opportunity not just to drink whisky, but to experience its evolution one sip at a time.


Maize and Malt Unveils Valentine’s Menu for a Perfect Date Night in Bengaluru

Maize and Malt Unveils Valentine’s Menu for a Perfect Date Night in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 6, 2026

Maize and Malt, one of Bengaluru’s most loved date destinations, is setting the mood for romance this Valentine’s Day with a thoughtfully curated Valentine’s menu that celebrates love through flavour, comfort, and togetherness. Available from 7th Feb to 14th Feb, 2026, the special menu is designed for couples looking to enjoy unhurried conversations and indulgent dining.

The experience begins with a selection of playful yet comforting appetisers. Dishes like Love in Every Fold, featuring delicate potstickers with the perfect balance of crisp and soft textures, set the tone for the evening. Rosy Paneer Affair brings together smoky tandoori paneer, toasted sourdough, and herbed cream cheese, while Honey-Kissed Harissa Prawn offers a bold combination of heat, sweetness, and smoky depth for those who enjoy stronger flavours.

The main course continues the romantic journey with rich, share-worthy plates. Velvet Kofta Gnocchi pairs pillowy textures with a delicate cashew cream sauce, creating a comforting yet indulgent dish. Pasta La Romance reinvents a classic favourite with butter chicken–filled pasta parcels served in a velvety tomato butter base. Seafood lovers can choose Hooked on You, a char-grilled fish accompanied by fragrant Thai red curry and jasmine rice, ideal for a cosy and relaxed dinner.

Desserts strike a balance between light and indulgent. Lavender Kisses, a lavender-infused panna cotta paired with poached pear, offers a refined floral finish, while Ruby Romance Mousse impresses with its naturally pink ruby chocolate and silky texture.

Complementing the menu is a special Valentine’s cocktail selection crafted in collaboration with Maize and Malt. Romantic pours such as In Between Us, a floral and smoky gin cocktail, and Heartstrings, a soft bittersweet blend of vodka and strawberry, are designed to enhance the dining experience and set the mood for an intimate evening.

With its warm ambience, romantic menu, and handcrafted cocktails, Maize and Malt promises a memorable Valentine’s celebration, making it a perfect spot in Bengaluru to slow down, celebrate love, and enjoy meaningful moments together.

Date: 7th Feb - 14th Feb, 2026

Timings: 12:30 PM - 1:00 AM

Address: 3, 4th Cross Rd, near Whitefield, Vigneshwar Nagar, Kaveri Nagar, Krishnarajapuram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560048


Mirth Cocktail Conservatory to Celebrate International Scotch Day in Bengaluru

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory to Celebrate International Scotch Day in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 6, 2026

Mirth Cocktail Conservatory is inviting Bengaluru’s whisky lovers to celebrate the spirit, heritage, and craftsmanship of Scotland on International Scotch Day this February 8th. Known for its contemporary approach to mixology, Mirth promises an evening that honours Scotch whisky in both its classic and modern forms.

Whether guests prefer a neat pour of fine malts or enjoy experimenting with new-age flavour combinations, Mirth positions itself as the city’s go-to destination for the celebrated “water of life.” For this special occasion, the bar’s mixologists have curated a signature Scotch menu that explores bold pairings while staying rooted in the character of the spirit.

One of the highlights of the menu is Pour Me A Slice, created for those with a bold palate. The cocktail features Dewar's 12 infused with Gouda and Blue Cheese, balanced with honey, bitters, and a cherry-hibiscus infused sake. The result is a savoury and floral creation that offers a fresh take on the traditional whisky experience.

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Another standout offering is Mango Reverie, a cocktail inspired by the nostalgic pairing of raw mango and chilli, a flavour combination deeply rooted in Indian street culture. Built on JW Black Label, the drink blends a sharp raw mango cordial with soda to keep it light and refreshing. Chilli salt adds heat and texture, while the whisky’s subtle smokiness brings balance, making it playful, nostalgic, and easy-drinking.

Guests can look forward to an evening marked by refined pours and vibrant energy. At Mirth, Scotch is not just served but celebrated through storytelling, creativity, and thoughtful craftsmanship, one sip at a time.

Recognised as a leader in modern mixology, Mirth Cocktail Conservatory continues to push creative boundaries, offering innovative and sophisticated drinking experiences that appeal to both seasoned enthusiasts and curious explorers.

Address: 2nd floor, Ashok Terrace, 303, 100 Feet Rd, Indira Nagar 1st Stage, Stage 1, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560038.

Date: 8th February, 2026.

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