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.


Chef Hari Nayak Is Back at Four Seasons Maldives — and the Menu Looks Absolutely Stunning

Chef Hari Nayak Is Back at Four Seasons Maldives — and the Menu Looks Absolutely Stunning

By Hariharan U

Published on March 10, 2026

If you've been looking for a reason to plan a Maldives trip this April, Chef Hari Nayak just gave you one.

The celebrated chef is returning to Baraabaru, the award-winning Indian restaurant at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa for another residency that promises to be every bit as special as his previous visits. Baraabaru, named among CNN Travel's Top 10 Maldives' Finest Tables, is already one of the most respected Indian dining destinations in the region. With Chef Nayak back in the kitchen alongside Head Chef Kishan Singh, the combination of coastal Indian tradition and global culinary technique is going to be firing on all cylinders.

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This season's menu is a confident journey through India's regional flavours but done with personality and a contemporary edge that makes each dish feel fresh. Gujarat's Anda Ghotala makes an appearance alongside Kolkata's Beguni, while black garlic naan and barbecue butter chicken chops bring bold, satisfying flavours to the table. And then there's the gulab jamun crème brûlée, a playful, East-meets-West dessert that sounds like exactly the kind of thing you'd remember long after the meal ends.

The dish that's likely to turn the most heads, though, is Chef Nayak's signature whole baked lobster with coconut turmeric sauce and lemon rice. Bold, fragrant, and unmistakably his, it's the kind of dish that captures everything great about modern Indian cooking in a single plate.

Chef Nayak will be in residence at Baraabaru from 30th March to 4th April 2026. It's a short window, so if this is on your radar, now is the time to make it happen.


Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Celebrates ‘Macaron Month’ at Glazed

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Celebrates ‘Macaron Month’ at Glazed

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 10, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal is bringing a delightful celebration of French confectionery to the city this March with The Macaron Month, an exclusive dessert showcase at its patisserie, Glazed.

Running throughout the month, the festival highlights a vibrant selection of handcrafted macarons designed to celebrate delicate textures, refined sweetness, and playful flavours. The all-day offering invites dessert enthusiasts to indulge in an elegant lineup of colourful treats, each crafted with precision by the hotel’s pastry team.

The curated menu features an enticing variety of flavours created to appeal to every palate. Guests can savour indulgent options such as Strawberry Cheesecake Macaron, Hazelnut with White Chocolate Ganache Macaron, and Red Velvet Macaron, alongside unique selections like Taro, Mocha, and the refreshing Lemon Blueberry Macaron.

Each macaron offers the signature balance that defines the classic French confection—crisp, delicate shells paired with smooth, flavourful fillings that melt effortlessly on the palate.

Designed as both a visual and culinary delight, the collection highlights the artistry behind pastry craftsmanship while offering guests a playful and indulgent dessert experience. With their vibrant colours and refined flavours, the macarons promise to deliver small bites of sweetness that leave a lasting impression.

Guests visiting Glazed can enjoy the macarons throughout the day, making it a perfect stop for a mid-morning treat, afternoon indulgence, or a sweet takeaway.

With The Macaron Month, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal invites dessert lovers to step into a world where flavour meets artistry, transforming each macaron into a moment of pure indulgence.


Garden Café Marks Women’s Day with Complimentary Drinks for Women

Garden Café Marks Women’s Day with Complimentary Drinks for Women

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 10, 2026

Garden Café marked International Women’s Day with a warm and thoughtful gesture dedicated to celebrating the strength, spirit, and contributions of women. On the occasion, the café offered complimentary drinks to every woman visiting the café, creating a simple yet meaningful way to honour the day.

The initiative was designed to celebrate womanhood while giving guests a relaxed space to gather with friends and family. Women visiting the café could enjoy conversations, spend quality time, and feel appreciated as part of the special celebration.

Through this gesture, Garden Café joined the global spirit of Women’s Day, recognising the important role women play in shaping families, communities, and society. The café hoped the initiative would add a memorable touch to the day for all guests who visited.

Along with the celebration, guests enjoyed a menu that reflects the café’s love for comforting and flavourful dishes. The spread includes South Indian favourites such as Mysore Dosa, Topi Dosa, Family Dosa, and Cheese Butter Masala Dosa. For those who prefer continental bites, the café also serves popular pizzas like Garlic Cheese and Mixed Cheese.

The food experience is complemented by a range of refreshing beverages and aromatic drinks. Guests can choose from options like American Ice Cream Soda, Orange Blossom, Hot Chocolate, and traditional Filter Coffee while enjoying the calm garden-style ambience of the café.

Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Mr. Sandip Nowlakha, Owner of Garden Café, said, “Women's Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and dedicate a special moment to the women in our lives. Today at Garden Café, we hope every guest enjoys a relaxing time, a warm gesture and a little celebration of her strength, spirit and joy.”

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