Secret Ingredient Launches Three Unique Culinary Concepts Ac

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.”

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.”

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.

Kiran’s Houston Introduces ‘Punjabi By Nature’ Cocktail Experience Inspired by India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 25, 2026

Kiran’s Houston has introduced its latest beverage programme, Punjabi By Nature, a new cocktail experience that brings together Indian nostalgia and contemporary mixology. Conceptualised and designed by Prrateek Chaudhary, Director of Beverages, the menu reflects a thoughtful mix of cultural storytelling, regional flavours and modern drink-making techniques.

Designed around the idea of turning familiar Indian flavours into refined cocktail experiences, the programme takes inspiration from memories, traditions and ingredients deeply rooted in Indian culture. Each drink aims to create an experience that goes beyond taste by bringing together emotion, creativity and a strong sense of place.

The menu features a wide range of signature cocktails including Jahangir Lassi, Chai Old Fashioned, Kashmiri Margarita, Summer In Shimla, TNT Sour, Nolet’s 75, East India Negroni, Malabar Martini, Rosé Martini, Lychee Martini, CB G&T, Old Wives’ Tale, Mezcal Is My Pal, Delhi Glitterati, Smoky Isle and Mumbai Miracle.

The creations combine premium spirits with ingredients and flavours inspired by India, including chai blends, mango lassi, pistachio, Kashmiri mirch, tamarind, saffron bitters, cardamom, rose, masala pin and nimbu pani.

Adding a luxury touch to the offering is a dedicated segment titled Kaun Banega Crorepati featuring the Millionaire Martini, crafted using Nolet’s Reserve Gin.

Speaking about the concept behind the menu, Prrateek Chaudhary said: "With Punjabi By Nature, our intention was to take familiar Indian flavors and reimagine them through a global cocktail lens. Each drink is designed to evoke emotion, memory, and a sense of place, while maintaining elegance, balance, and innovation. It’s not just a cocktail menu, it’s a storytelling experience in a glass."

With a modern visual identity and a strong narrative approach, the menu aims to create a seamless connection between Indian heritage and contemporary beverage culture.

Through this latest launch, Kiran’s Houston continues to strengthen its positioning as a destination where Indian culinary experiences and modern beverage craftsmanship come together with global standards of creativity and sophistication.

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Mumbai Cafes Serve Power-Packed Breakfasts for Healthy Morning Starts

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 23, 2026

Healthy breakfasts are moving beyond simple salads and basic meals, with cafés across Mumbai creating menus that combine nutrition with comfort and flavour. Whether it is a quick morning bite before work or a relaxed brunch outing, several food destinations are now offering breakfast options that are both wholesome and satisfying.

Leading the list is Pantry, known for serving mindful meals without compromising on indulgence. Its breakfast menu includes the Four Cheese Omelet, bringing together mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan and artisanal gouda for a rich start to the day. For those looking for a protein-rich option, the Protein Packed Quinoa Egg Scrambled combines eggs, quinoa, cheddar and spinach into a filling breakfast plate. Another standout is the Marine Lines Wrap, filled with spicy cottage cheese, BBQ mix, peppers and lettuce wrapped in multigrain bread.

Flax Healthy Living continues to focus on lighter and nourishing breakfast choices. The Granola Power Bowl combines Greek yoghurt, fresh fruits and chia seeds for a balanced meal, while the Avocado and Garlic Butter Rye Toast pairs creamy avocado with roasted garlic butter and seeds on sourdough toast. Its smoothie bowls and parfait options, including Dragon Fruit Parfait, Blueberry Honey Parfait and Green Protein Smoothie, offer refreshing choices packed with nutrients.

Adding a creative touch to breakfast is Juliette Café & Bar, where classic comfort food meets global flavours. The café’s smoothie bowl collection, featuring options like The Beetfruit, Day Dreamer and The Green Galaxy, includes a mix of fruits, nuts, seeds and superfoods.

Those looking for sweet breakfast options can choose Japanese Fluffy Pancakes and French Toast, while savoury selections include Healthy Bowls, Quinoa Upma and Eggs Benedict Crobun. The Benne Dosas also bring a familiar South Indian touch to the menu.

Across the city, cafés and cloud kitchens are increasingly focusing on menus that balance indulgence with healthier ingredients. From protein-rich scrambles to energising smoothie bowls and wraps, breakfast options are becoming more thoughtful and diverse.

With changing eating habits and growing interest in wellness-led dining, these breakfast destinations show that healthy eating no longer means giving up flavour or comfort.