Stars That Matter: India’s Most Trusted Restaurant Ratings Returns Bigger and Bolder in 2025

Stars That Matter: India’s Most Trusted Restaurant Ratings Returns Bigger and Bolder in 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 14, 2025

Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is back in 2025, bringing a bigger and bolder edition that expands across more cities. After its groundbreaking debut in 2024, this highly respected rating system continues to redefine India’s culinary landscape, setting new benchmarks for unbiased restaurant evaluations.

The Ultimate Star Revelation Ceremony will take place in Bengaluru on 15 March 2025, unveiling the finest dining destinations across the country. With rankings extending to four new cities—Hyderabad, Bhopal, Kochi, and Amritsar—this year’s ratings promise a truly pan-India perspective.

A Benchmark of Integrity in Restaurant Ratings

Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings stand apart as India’s only evaluation system based purely on merit, free from sponsorships or external influence. The process ensures transparency, with results remaining confidential until the official ceremony.

Last year, three restaurants earned the coveted 5 Ultimate Stars:

  • Farmlore, Bengaluru

  • Avartana, Chennai

  • Indian Accent, New Delhi

This elite distinction places them at the pinnacle of India’s dining scene, setting the standard for excellence.

Vir Sanghvi, Chairman of Culinary Culture, highlights the significance of this initiative: “At Culinary Culture, we have always led initiatives that shape India’s F&B industry. From celebrating street food to ranking chefs, our mission remains the same—to honor excellence with honesty and transparency. The Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is another game-changing first for India.”

How the Ratings Work

The rating system follows a three-tier structure:

  • 3 Stars: Very Good

  • 4 Stars: Excellent

  • 5 Stars: The Ultimate

Unlike conventional awards influenced by sponsorships, Culinary Culture’s system maintains integrity through anonymous inspections conducted by full-time referees. Restaurants are evaluated through a meticulous process involving nominations, anonymous screenings, debates, and a final selection phase. The platform remains independent and does not accept fees from restaurants for inclusion.

What’s New in 2025?

  • More Cities, More Diversity: Hyderabad, Bhopal, Kochi, and Amritsar join the list, bringing regional culinary gems into the spotlight.

  • Special Awards: Categories include Iconic Restaurant, Restaurant Manager, Sustainability, Opening of the Year, and Mixologist of the Year.

  • A Grand Celebration in Bengaluru: Top restaurateurs, chefs, and industry leaders will gather for this prestigious event.

  • Increased Coverage: Nearly 100 restaurants will be recognized, doubling last year’s coverage and strengthening India’s global culinary presence.

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Raaj Sanghvi, CEO of Culinary Culture, shares: “The response to last year’s ratings was overwhelming. Diners now recognize our plaques as a symbol of trust. Our ratings remain dynamic—restaurants are re-evaluated regularly, ensuring credibility. We thank our partners, Lavazza and Diageo, for their unwavering support.”

Supporting Excellence in the F&B Industry

The Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is backed by brands that share its commitment to advancing India’s culinary industry, including Lavazza, Johnnie Walker, Veeba, Bisleri Vedica, and Newby Tea.

About Culinary Culture

Co-founded by Vir Sanghvi and Sameer Sain, Culinary Culture is India’s leading authority in food evaluation. The platform is renowned for its restaurant ratings, chef awards, and street food rankings. Beyond ratings, it hosts global culinary exchanges, bringing celebrated international chefs to India while showcasing Indian talent on the global stage. Culinary Culture also leads several initiatives, including FoodSuperstars, Culinary Conversations, and StreetFoodSuperstars, shaping the future of India’s gastronomic landscape.

Join India’s Culinary Revolution! - For more destails 

Visit Culinary Culture’s website: www.CulinaryCulture.co


Nidhhi Agerwal Launches Hair Dare You Rituals in Chennai

Nidhhi Agerwal Launches Hair Dare You Rituals in Chennai

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 25, 2026

Actress and entrepreneur Nidhhi Agerwal has officially launched Hair Dare You Rituals at the Chennai Trade Centre, introducing a Korean-developed water filtration solution aimed at improving everyday hair and skin wellness by addressing one of the most common yet often overlooked concerns, hard water.

Built on advanced Korean beauty water filtration technology, the solution is designed to improve the quality of shower water by helping reduce impurities commonly associated with hard water. The brand believes that making healthier water a part of daily routines can contribute to stronger hair, a healthier scalp and improved skin through a preventive, science-backed approach to personal care.

With this launch, Hair Dare You Rituals aims to make innovative hair wellness solutions more accessible to Indian consumers. Beyond introducing a new product, the brand seeks to raise awareness about the role water quality plays in hair health, encouraging consumers to shift from corrective hair care to long-term prevention through simple everyday habits.

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Speaking at the launch, Nidhhi Agerwal, Actress & Co-Founder, Hair Dare You Rituals, said:

"Hair and skincare routines have evolved significantly over the years, but one aspect that often goes unnoticed is the quality of water we use every day. Hard water can impact the health of both our hair and skin, yet very few people consider it as part of their beauty routine. Through Hair Dare You Rituals, we wanted to introduce a solution that addresses this concern in a simple and effective way while bringing Korean beauty innovation closer to Indian consumers."

Prachi Mishra, Co-Founder, Hair Dare You Rituals, added:

"This journey has been driven by a desire to offer solutions that fit naturally into everyday life. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to ensure that the technology is practical, accessible, and delivers a meaningful difference. We hope this encourages people to look beyond products and adopt a more holistic approach to caring for their hair and skin."

Sharing her thoughts, Gayathri Devi, Co-Founder, Hair Dare You Rituals, said:

"For us, innovation isn't about adding complexity; it's about making better everyday choices accessible to everyone. With Hair Dare You, we've created a practical solution that seamlessly fits into daily routines, making hair wellness simple and effective. We hope consumers experience not only healthier hair, but also the confidence that comes from adopting healthier everyday habits."

Speaking about the brand's vision, Daisy Morgan, Brand Architect & Investor, Hair Dare You Rituals, said:

"Consumers today are increasingly looking for solutions that combine innovation with everyday wellness. The Korean Beauty Water Filtration Solution represents our commitment to introducing globally trusted technologies that solve real consumer concerns while making self-care simpler and more effective."

Founded by Nidhhi Agerwal, Hair Dare You Rituals focuses on bringing globally inspired beauty innovations to India through products designed to address everyday hair and skincare challenges. With an emphasis on quality, authenticity and long-term wellness, the brand aims to transform daily routines into meaningful self-care rituals.


Ramee Group of Hotels Introduces Monsoon Staycation Offers Across India

Ramee Group of Hotels Introduces Monsoon Staycation Offers Across India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 24, 2026

Ramee Group of Hotels has introduced its Monsoon Staycation Package and Monsoon Snacking Package, offering guests a cosy seasonal getaway across its properties in India. Available until August 2026, the special packages are designed to make monsoon holidays more comfortable with curated experiences and exclusive benefits.

Ideal for weekend breaks as well as longer stays, the Monsoon Staycation Package includes:

  • Early check-in and late check-out for added flexibility.

  • Daily complimentary breakfast.

  • 20% discount on food and beverages.

  • Complimentary high tea featuring seasonal treats.

  • Complimentary stay for children below 12 years.

  • Airport transfers on request.

Adding to the seasonal experience, guests can also enjoy the Monsoon Snacking Package, which offers unlimited servings of chai with pakoras, coffee, cookies and biscuits. The package is designed to bring together the simple pleasures of the rainy season, making it perfect for relaxed conversations with family and friends. Terms and conditions apply.

Commenting on the launch, Saurabh Gahoi, Senior Vice President – India, Ramee Group, said:

“The monsoon brings a slow, sensory magic,  the sound of rain, fresh air and a chance to unwind. Our Monsoon Staycation Package is crafted to amplify that feeling: thoughtful inclusions that let guests relax, indulge and create warm memories regardless of the weather.”

Whether guests are planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation or a peaceful solo break, Ramee Group's hotels offer a welcoming retreat during the rainy season. For reservations and complete details of the package, guests can visit the Ramee Group of Hotels website.


ROHL Launches Iconiqa Collection with Laxminarayan Palace Resort in Vadodara

ROHL Launches Iconiqa Collection with Laxminarayan Palace Resort in Vadodara

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 24, 2026

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) has unveiled its new collection brand, Iconiqa Collection, with the launch of Laxminarayan Palace Resort – Iconiqa Collection in Vadodara. Through its subsidiary, Royal Orchid Goa Private Limited, the company has signed a revenue-sharing agreement, marking the next phase in the evolution of Iconiqa from a standalone hotel brand into a curated collection of distinctive upscale hotels.

The new collection brings together hotels that stand out for their unique identity, architectural character and strong connection to their destinations. As part of ROHL's asset-light growth strategy, the Iconiqa Collection aims to expand with properties that offer authentic experiences rather than following a standardised design approach.

The first addition to the collection, Laxminarayan Palace Resort, reflects this vision with its palace-inspired architecture and deep connection to Vadodara's cultural heritage. Located near the iconic Laxmi Vilas Palace, the resort combines royal-inspired design with modern hospitality, creating an urban resort experience for leisure travellers, business guests and celebration seekers.

The resort features 106 rooms and suites, spread across the Palace Wing and Heritage Wing. Each room showcases handcrafted Thikri artwork, carved woodwork, authentic antiques and thoughtfully designed interiors inspired by royal residences, while offering modern comforts such as high-speed Wi-Fi, smart entertainment systems, premium bath amenities and luxurious bedding.

Designed as a destination for celebrations, the property offers one of Vadodara's largest collections of event spaces. It features six indoor venues, landscaped lawns, grand courtyards and a ballroom adorned with antique jharokhas, hand-painted ceilings and oversized crystal chandeliers. The resort is equipped to host destination weddings, receptions, social gatherings and corporate events, supported by customised event planning and curated culinary experiences.

Guests can also enjoy a range of wellness and leisure facilities, including a freshwater swimming pool, spa, salon, yoga studio and fitness centre, offering a relaxing retreat within the city.

The resort's dining experiences celebrate both Indian heritage and international flavours. Mayur Pankh, named after the peacock feather, serves royal Indian cuisine inspired by palace kitchens along with regional specialities from Gujarat. Cafe Nirvaan, an alfresco all-day café surrounded by landscaped gardens, offers artisanal coffees, premium teas, desserts and international favourites in a relaxed setting. The resort also features a signature vegetarian Italian restaurant, serving handcrafted pastas, wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian comfort food.

Commenting on the launch, Chander K. Baljee, Chairman & Managing Director, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., said:

"The Iconiqa Collection represents our vision of bringing together exceptional hotels that stand apart because of their individuality and the experiences they create. Laxminarayan Palace Resort is a remarkable addition to this portfolio. Its palace-inspired architecture, expansive celebration spaces, refined hospitality, and deep connection to Vadodara's cultural identity make it far more than a hotel-it is a destination in itself. As we continue to expand across India, our focus remains on creating hospitality experiences that are authentic, differentiated, and memorable for every guest."

Arjun Baljee, President, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., added:

"Every hotel within the Iconiqa Collection is chosen because it offers something truly distinctive. The Collection is not defined by a shared design philosophy but by a shared commitment to exceptional experiences rooted in the identity of each destination. Laxminarayan Palace Resort perfectly reflects this vision. Its unique architecture, expansive event infrastructure, immersive culinary offerings, and strong connection to Vadodara's heritage make it an ideal addition to the Collection. We believe it will redefine hospitality in the city while offering guests a destination that is equally compelling for celebrations, leisure, business, and everyday experiences."

With the launch of the Iconiqa Collection, ROHL is expanding its portfolio of destination-led hotels, beginning with a property that blends heritage-inspired architecture, contemporary luxury and personalised hospitality in the heart of Vadodara.

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