Talented Young Chefs Compete in Bengaluru for IIHM Young Chef Olympiad

Talented Young Chefs Compete in Bengaluru for IIHM Young Chef Olympiad

By Author

Published on February 7, 2024

The culinary world witnessed an intense battle as 10 young chefs from 10 different countries showcased their skills in the final cook off of the 10th IIHM International Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) at the Bengaluru campus of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM). The event marked a significant milestone as part of the world's biggest culinary Olympiad.

The participants, hailing from diverse corners of the globe, included Stelian Genchev Ganchev from Bulgaria, Karl Joakim Erik from Sweden, Adrian Leroy Tomasi from Fiji, Adisa Wacu Maryanne from Kenya, Regina Losana Stoopen from Mexico, Chintaloo Rowin from Mauritius, Kamal Thapa from Nepal, Clifford Jeff Unabia from the Philippines, Baran Kalmaz from Turkey, and Itqua Ansari from the UAE.

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The culinary battle kicked off at 9 AM, with these talented chefs engaging in a 3.5-hour contest, featuring a skills test, preparation of a vegetarian dish, and crafting a dessert. The competitive spirit was palpable, and the contest concluded at 2:00 PM.

A distinguished panel of international chefs, including Prof Dato Abdul Wahab Zamzani, Chef Shaun Leonard, Chef Enzo Oliveri, and Chef Anupam Gulati, took on the responsibility of judging Round 1. The competition aimed to evaluate participants' culinary skills, creativity, knowledge of different cuisines, and their ability to perform under pressure.

Sanchari Chowdhury, Director of IIHM Bengaluru, highlighted the tough competition faced by the judges, who were impressed with the remarkable skill and creativity displayed by the young chefs. The 10th YCO promises to be an exciting edition, marking a decade of culinary excellence.

The winners were announced at the Closing Awards Ceremony on the evening of February 4, 2024. The prize amount for the gold winner would be USD 5,000, the silver winner USD 3,000, and the bronze winner USD 2,000.

The moment of culinary glory arrived at the Grand Finale, where Leyla Valiyeva from Azerbaijan secured the Gold Medal with her perfectly crafted Green Herb Chicken Roulade. Clifford Jeff Cadunggo Unabia from the Philippines and Kamal Thapa from Nepal shared the Silver, while Francesco Orsi from Italy claimed the Bronze with his outstanding Piatto Con il Pollo preparation.

In 2024, the theme centers around the UN Sustainable Development Goals, aligning with India's G20 Presidency. With over 60 countries participating, this edition witnesses the highest-ever global engagement.

Image Credits: YCO Official Website


DeVANS GianChand Manshaa Wins Big at ISW Germany, Crowned "International Whisky of the Year 2025"

DeVANS GianChand Manshaa Wins Big at ISW Germany, Crowned "International Whisky of the Year 2025"

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2025

In a landmark win for Indian spirits, DeVANS GianChand Manshaa has been crowned "International Whisky of the Year 2025" at the renowned Meininger’s International Spirits Award (ISW) held in Germany. The peated single malt not only secured the prestigious Grand Gold but also emerged as the top international whisky, outshining legendary competitors from whisky powerhouses like Scotland, Ireland, and the USA.

Out of 450 global spirit entries, only 11 earned the coveted Grand Gold, DeVANS GianChand Manshaa being the only Indian whisky to achieve this. This dual honour reflects the growing sophistication and recognition of Indian whiskies on a global platform.

The latest expression from DeVANS, GianChand Manshaa is the brand’s first peated single malt, crafted in the Himalayan region. The whisky impressed the international jury with its "long medicinal peat smoke, perfectly framed by citrus and spicy flavours." Esteemed whisky critic and author of the Whisky Bible, Jim Murray, praised it for its “charming smokiness, with peat in sparkling form.”

Crafted using pure Himalayan waters and shaped by the region’s distinct microclimate, GianChand Manshaa stands as a symbol of India’s potential in the premium single malt category. The win adds to the growing list of accolades for DeVANS, following their recent victories at the International Whisky Competition (IWC) in Las Vegas, where GianChand Adambaraa was named Best Indian Single Malt Whisky 2025 and Best Indian Whisky of the Year 2025.

“This prestigious Grand Gold and INTERNATIONAL WHISKY OF THE YEAR award at ISW Meininger, Germany 2025 is a great recognition of our passion, craft and commitment to quality,” said Prem Dewan, Chairman and Managing Director of DeVANS. “It’s not only a victory for DeVANS, but also a recognition of India’s growing role in the global whisky space.”

Speaking on the brand's journey, Dewan added, “GianChand Manshaa and GianChand Adambaraa represent two facets of our legacy, one bold and peated, the latter refined and elegant. Their success is a tribute to our team’s hard work and a reaffirmation of India’s place in the world of single malts.”

Currently available in Delhi and Hyderabad duty-free, both GianChand expressions will soon hit retail shelves in Haryana and Goa. These achievements underline DeVANS’ commitment to excellence and its vision to elevate Indian whisky to global acclaim.

For whisky lovers and industry insiders alike, this moment is not just a triumph, it’s a proud celebration of the craftsmanship and innovation coming out of India’s distilleries today.


Organic Bistro Redefines Clean Comfort Dining in Delhi’s Khan Market

Organic Bistro Redefines Clean Comfort Dining in Delhi’s Khan Market

By Hariharan U

Published on August 1, 2025

Organic Bistro has opened its doors in the heart of Khan Market, New Delhi, offering a refreshing take on clean, ingredient led dining. With seating for 40 and interiors awash in soft pastels and natural light, the space reflects the bistro's philosophy: serving thoughtful, flavour forward meals without giing in to dietary fads or trends.

Founded by Saru Khemka and Arjun Gupta, Organic Bistro isn’t chasing trends or packaging wellness in cliché. It’s a space designed for people who want to eat clean — without being preached to. The focus? Good food, clear intent, and zero compromise on flavour or warmth.

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Chef Nishant Choubey, along with in-house chef Gourav Singh Mahori, has created a menu that’s bold yet grounded. Highlights include Purple Potato Dahi Vada, Peri Peri Chickpea Hummus, Jackfruit Haleem, Urfa Chicken Kebabs, and Achari Rajma Khichri with Torched Portobello, every dish carrying a purpose but none trying too hard.

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“We’re not trying to fit into binaries — indulgent vs. healthy. Organic Bistro sits in the thoughtful middle”, shares Saru Khemka. “People can keep coming back — solo or social — and the food will always feel real and comfortin”.

The beverage menu is no less intentional, with cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and preservative-free teas and coffees, extending the brand’s commitment to clean comfort.

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Chef Nishant echoes this clarity: “Guests today want flavour and freshness without feeling excluded. They care, but they’re not buying gimmicks. We’ve kept the menu open, balanced, and intuitive — whether you're in the mood for a salad or something soul-soothing”.

With plans to expand seating upstairs and a Chandigarh flagship next, Organic Bistro’s journey seems to be just warming up  serving taste with thought and comfort without clutter.

Location: 38, Khan Market, Rabindra Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110003

Timings: 11AM - 11PM 


Celebrate Friendship Day with Flavours of Asia at Sampan, Novotel Juhu

Celebrate Friendship Day with Flavours of Asia at Sampan, Novotel Juhu

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2025

This Friendship Day, from comforting classics to contemporary innovations, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach invites you to indulge in an immersive dining experience perfect for reconnecting with friends over great food and a stunning sea view.

Sampan, the iconic Indo-Chinese fine dining restaurant at the hotel, now offers an elevated Pan-Asian experience with its bold and indulgent new menu. Paying tribute to East Asia’s rich culinary heritage, the refreshed menu excites the senses while preserving the nostalgic charm that has made Sampan a long-time favourite. With this modern twist, Sampan sets the stage for a memorable Friendship Day celebration.

From the fiery zest of Korean dishes and the soul-soothing warmth of Thai curries to the refined subtlety of Japanese cuisine and the bold spices of Sichuan flavours, Sampan 2.0 offers a journey through Asia on a plate. Signature dishes include Lemon & Coriander Soup, Wonton Soup, Prawns Egg Drop Soup, Yasai Tempura, Dragon Roll, Spicy Veg Miso Ramen, Spicy Scallop & Mushroom, Furikake Seasoning Corn Ribs, Crispy Duck Pancakes, Stir-fry Okra, Edamame, and Roast Lamb in a choice of sauces, each packed with authentic flavours.

The ambiance perfectly blends tradition and modernity, with live cooking stations and interactive counters that bring Asian street-style indulgence to life. Guests can enjoy watching the sizzle of teppanyaki, the finesse of hand-rolled sushi, and the warmth of umami-rich broths, all made fresh and served with flair. While mains are served at the table, the dynamic live counters add a multisensory dimension to the dining experience.

Whether you're craving comforting favourites or eager to explore bold new flavours, Sampan 2.0 offers a soulful dining experience that makes Friendship Day truly special. Surrounded by laughter, flavours, and friends, there's no better way to celebrate the bonds that matter most.

Details:
Location:
Sampan, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, Balraj Sahni Rd, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049

Time:

• Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM

• Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

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