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.”

image

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.”

image

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.


PizzaExpress Opens 38th India Restaurant at 5 Worldmark Aerocity

PizzaExpress Opens 38th India Restaurant at 5 Worldmark Aerocity

By Hariharan U

Published on August 11, 2026

PizzaExpress, the UK-based pizza and casual dining brand, has opened its newest restaurant at World St. at 5 Worldmark, Aerocity, New Delhi, marking its 38th outlet in India.

Located within one of Delhi's prominent business, hospitality and lifestyle destinations, the new restaurant brings PizzaExpress' signature handcrafted pizzas, relaxed dining experience and warm hospitality to a growing community of professionals, travellers and diners in Aerocity.

Designed as a contemporary and relaxed dining space, the restaurant offers a selection of PizzaExpress classics alongside seasonal offerings. The menu includes the brand's popular Dough Balls, gourmet pizzas starting at INR 495 for two, summer specials, salads, appetisers, pastas and desserts, including Tiramisu and Baked Vanilla Cheesecake.

The restaurant also features PizzaExpress' Romana pizzas, known for their larger, thinner and crispier bases inspired by the pizzas of Rome.

Reflecting the brand's "Only For Everyone" philosophy, the menu caters to a variety of preferences and occasions. Options include the Piccolo menu for children, Leggera range for lighter choices and Soho Bowls for wholesome meals. Guests can also choose from a selection of mocktails and signature desserts.

Speaking on the launch, Ramit Bharti Mittal, Founder & Director, Gourmet Investments Hospitality Group (GIHG), said, “5 Worldmark at Aerocity is one of Delhi's most exciting and relaxed dining spaces, bringing together travellers, young professionals and consumers who actively seek quality dining experiences. PizzaExpress fits naturally into this environment because the brand has always stood for great food served in a relaxed, welcoming setting.”

Rohan Pewekar, CEO, Gourmet Investments Hospitality Group (GIHG), added, “The launch of our 38th PizzaExpress restaurant in India is in line with our steady growth and long-term commitment in India. 5 Worldmark at Aerocity continues to evolve as a premium lifestyle and food destination, making it an important location for us strategically.”

SK Sayal, MD & CEO, Bharti Real Estate, said, “We're delighted to welcome PizzaExpress to World St. at 5 Worldmark, Aerocity. Good food has a unique way of bringing people together, and that's exactly the kind of experience we want to create at World St.”

The culinary offering is built around PizzaExpress' focus on fresh ingredients and handcrafted preparation. Each pizza is made with freshly prepared dough and the brand's signature tomato passata, produced using San Marzano tomatoes sourced from Parma, Italy.

Among the menu highlights is the Calabrese pizza, created by Michelin-starred chef Francesco Mazzei and inspired by the bold flavours of Southern Italy.

The new outlet also features contemporary interiors, comfortable seating and PizzaExpress' signature open kitchen, allowing diners to watch pizzaiolos prepare and bake pizzas in real time. The space is designed for business lunches, casual meals, family dining and evening gatherings.

PizzaExpress opened its first restaurant on London's Wardour Street in 1965 and has since grown to more than 330 restaurants in the UK, with a presence across 13 countries. In India, the brand currently operates 38 restaurants across markets including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Pune, Punjab, Lucknow and Hyderabad.

Restaurant Details

Address: Unit No. W11, Ground Floor, World St. 5 Worldmark, Aerocity, Near Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi – 110037


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

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.