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.


Sheraton Grand Palace Indore Celebrates Independence Day with Special Brunch

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore Celebrates Independence Day with Special Brunch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 10, 2026

Marking India's 80th Independence Day, Sheraton Grand Palace Indore is hosting a special Independence Day Brunch at S Café on 15 August 2026, bringing together festive flavours, cultural celebrations, and family-friendly experiences under one roof.

The brunch has been curated as a tribute to India's rich culinary heritage, offering an extensive vegetarian menu featuring regional favourites alongside international dishes. Guests can enjoy Indian specialities such as Nizami Paneer Tikka, Navratan Korma, Peshawari Paneer, and Soya Nihari, complemented by global flavours including Laksa Soup, Minestrone Genovese, Thai Corn Cake, and Spinach & Cheese Tartlets.

Adding to the experience are live cooking stations serving freshly prepared Paneer Shawarma and Chilli Paneer Bao, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy dishes made to order.

The festive atmosphere will be enhanced with tricolour-inspired décor, live music, and a dedicated Kids' Activity Zone, creating a memorable celebration for families and friends.

With a combination of authentic flavours, warm hospitality, and a vibrant setting, Sheraton Grand Palace Indore invites guests to celebrate the spirit of India's 80th Independence Day over a memorable brunch experience.

Event Details

  • Event: Independence Day Brunch

  • Venue: S Café, Sheraton Grand Palace Indore

  • Date: 15 August 2026

  • Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.


Novotel Vijayawada Varun Revives Nizami Culinary Heritage with Sixth Edition of ‘Lost Cuisine’ Series

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Revives Nizami Culinary Heritage with Sixth Edition of ‘Lost Cuisine’ Series

By Hariharan U

Published on August 10, 2026

Novotel Vijayawada Varun invites diners to embark on a culinary journey through the royal kitchens of Hyderabad with the sixth edition of its ‘Lost Cuisine’ series on 9th August 2026 at Food Exchange.

The exclusive one-day brunch experience aims to revive the forgotten flavours and timeless traditions of Nizami cuisine, offering guests in Vijayawada a rare opportunity to explore the rich culinary legacy of Hyderabad’s royal kitchens.

Rooted in a blend of Persian, Turkish, Mughlai, and Deccani influences, Nizami cuisine is celebrated for its slow-cooking methods, balanced spices, and intricate layers of flavour. Over generations, it has played a significant role in shaping Hyderabad’s food culture and remains one of India’s most cherished culinary traditions.

Curated by the culinary team at Novotel Vijayawada Varun, the specially designed menu brings back traditional recipes and iconic dishes, featuring a selection of royal delicacies including Haazma-e-Zam Zam, Lost Nizami Mutton Maraq, Asaf Jahi Shamiya Kebab, Pathar Ka Gosht, Roohani Kachhi Yakhni Biryani, Bagara Khana, Meetah Gosht, Hyderabadi Lagan Ka Murgh, and the classic Khubani Ka Meetha with Gaadi Malai.

Speaking about the initiative, Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, said, “The Lost Cuisine series is our way of celebrating India's diverse culinary heritage by bringing regional food traditions to our guests. With the sixth edition, we are presenting Nizami cuisine, which continues to be recognized for its history, craftsmanship, and enduring influence on Indian gastronomy.”

A signature initiative of Novotel Vijayawada Varun, the Lost Cuisine series focuses on preserving India’s diverse regional food traditions by reviving authentic recipes and sharing the stories, techniques, and cultural significance behind them.

Event Details

Event: Lost Cuisine Series – Nizami Cuisine Brunch
Date: 9th August 2026, Sunday
Venue: Food Exchange, Novotel Vijayawada Varun


Osama Jalali Brings India's Forgotten Recipes to JW Marriott Kolkata

Osama Jalali Brings India's Forgotten Recipes to JW Marriott Kolkata

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 9, 2026

JW Kitchen at JW Marriott Kolkata is set to host the Osama Jalali Food Festival, bringing India's forgotten recipes and rich culinary traditions to the table. Celebrated food historian and author Osama Jalali will showcase a selection of heirloom recipes, regional delicacies and traditional cooking techniques, offering diners an opportunity to explore lesser-known flavours from different parts of India.

Running over ten evenings from 14–23 August 2026, the festival will feature specially curated dinner menus inspired by royal kitchens, historic food traditions and regional home cooking.

More than just a food festival, the experience aims to connect diners with the stories and traditions behind India's diverse cuisine. Each dish reflects a different part of the country's culinary heritage, giving guests an opportunity to discover authentic flavours and recipes that have been passed down through generations.

For food lovers and those interested in India's culinary history, the festival offers a chance to explore traditional Indian cooking through a specially curated dining experience.

Event Details

  • Venue: JW Kitchen, JW Marriott Kolkata
  • Dates: 14–23 August 2026
  • Time: Dinner from 7.00 PM Onwards.

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