Telangana Chefs Association Marks 6th Anniversary with a Visionary Culinary Conclave

Telangana Chefs Association Marks 6th Anniversary with a Visionary Culinary Conclave

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 26, 2025

The Telangana Chefs Association (TCA) celebrated its 6th Anniversary in grand style with the Culinary Conclave 2025 at The Park, Hyderabad. With the theme “Roots to Robots – The Evolution of Culinary Craft,” the event was inaugurated by the esteemed Chef Manjit Singh Gill, President of the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA), and drew culinary experts, academicians, students, and hospitality professionals from across the country.

Gracing the occasion as Guests of Honour were notable figures including Chef Vijayabaskaran, General Secretary, IFCA; Chef MS Gupta, Treasurer, IFCA Presidium; Chef Sudhir Sibal, Board Member, IFCA Presidium; Chef Dharmendra Lamba, President, TCA; Chef Vimal Dhar, President, Royal Rajasthan Chefs Association; Chef Nimish Bhatia, Indian Cuisine Custodian; Mr. Kamal Krishnan, Strategic Marketer; and Ms. Maud Miquau, Director, Alliance Française.

A panel discussion titled “AI – Ruin or Rule the Kitchen?” sparked vibrant exchanges about balancing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics with the timeless culinary wisdom passed through generations. Another highlight was the dynamic presence of culinary students from Telangana, especially from Tier-2 cities, who brought fresh energy and perspective to the event.

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One of the key competitions leading up to the conclave was the Telangana Culinary League 2.0, which saw participation from budding chefs across the state. Regency College of Culinary Arts and Hotel Management was crowned Overall Champion, earning applause for their creativity and skill.

The conclave’s lineup of inspiring sessions included:

  • Future Kitchens by Chef Nimish Bhatia

  • Rise of Regional Cuisine by Chef Mandaar

  • Beyond Biryani by Begum Fatima Shahanaaz

  • Food from Telangana Homes by Mrs. Radamma

  • Social Media & Chef Branding by Chef Jerson Fernandez

  • Chef Wellness & Mindfulness by Mr. Jiteesh Mogli

In his keynote, Chef Manjit Singh Gill emphasized the importance of preserving India’s culinary heritage while embracing innovation. “Our kitchens are not just places for cooking—they are classrooms and temples,” he said, reminding the audience of their responsibility in carrying forward the wisdom of ancestors while shaping the future of food.

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Chef Dharmendra Lamba, President of TCA, called the event a movement rather than a celebration. “It’s about building a future-ready culinary community—rooted in tradition and driven by innovation.”

In a touching moment, TCA recognized the Youngistan Organization and Regency College for conducting impactful life skills and culinary training programs for children in government safe homes. The initiative was applauded as a strong step toward social responsibility in the hospitality industry.

The event also saw lively cultural performances from hospitality college students and concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating culinary mentors and the TCA Culinary League winners.

Leading exhibitors such as Monin, Goldee, Chefmate, Damati Foods, Spreaders, GHA, Excellent, and Agromach showcased innovative tools and products, adding a vibrant commercial dimension to the conclave. A standout moment was a live culinary performance by Chef Sanjeev Kumar Patra, drawing admiration from both young students and seasoned professionals.

As TCA steps into its seventh year, the association continues to strengthen its foundation with a blend of tradition, mentorship, and future-focused thinking.


Brigade Hospitality Relaunches The Baking Company with a Fresh, Contemporary Vision

Brigade Hospitality Relaunches The Baking Company with a Fresh, Contemporary Vision

By Hariharan U

Published on April 6, 2026

Brigade Hospitality has relaunched its flagship bakery brand, The Baking Company (TBC), introducing a refreshed concept tailored for today’s fast-paced, quality-conscious urban consumers.

Currently operating from two key locations - World Trade Center Bengaluru and The Woodrose Club JP Nagar — the brand continues to focus on premium quality and freshly baked offerings within high-end commercial and lifestyle spaces.

Strengthening its footprint further, The Baking Company is set to open its third outlet in late April at Brigade Tech Gardens Whitefield, with plans to launch three additional outlets across Bengaluru within the year. This expansion reflects the brand’s strategic growth approach in one of India’s most dynamic urban markets.

At the core of this growth is a central kitchen model supported by a hub-and-spoke distribution system, ensuring consistency, operational efficiency, and freshness across all outlets. This structured approach enables the brand to scale while maintaining quality standards.

Commenting on the relaunch, Gurmeet Singh said, “The Baking Company holds a special place in our portfolio, and this relaunch reflects our effort to reimagine the brand for today’s fast-paced, quality-conscious consumer. With a strong focus on freshness, convenience, and design, we aim to create a bakery experience that fits seamlessly into everyday urban life.”

The refreshed menu features an extensive range of bite-sized offerings, including sandwiches, sliders, doughnuts, macarons, tartlets, and gourmet cakes, along with a curated selection of beverages. The brand is also expanding its focus on healthier options, incorporating fresh ingredients and select superfoods to align with evolving consumer preferences.

By combining Brigade Hospitality’s industry expertise with a contemporary product approach, the relaunch positions The Baking Company as a scalable and modern bakery concept. The move marks a new phase for the brand as it aims to become a preferred destination for premium bakery experiences in urban India.


Punjab Grill Relaunches in Chennai with a Refined Dining Experience

Punjab Grill Relaunches in Chennai with a Refined Dining Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on April 6, 2026

Punjab Grill has unveiled its refreshed avatar in the city with a relaunch at Phoenix Marketcity Chennai, marking a new chapter in its culinary journey.

Previously located on the ground floor, the restaurant now reopens on the first floor with a renewed concept designed to offer a more immersive and contemporary dining experience. The relaunch reflects a strategic move by Lite Bite Foods to strengthen its presence in Chennai while aligning with evolving consumer expectations.

The new space brings together timeless elegance and modern design sensibilities, creating an ambience that feels both familiar and refreshed. With enhanced interiors, a reimagined layout, and a sharper focus on guest experience, the restaurant aims to elevate indulgent North Indian dining in the city.

Staying true to its roots, Punjab Grill continues to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of undivided Punjab. The menu retains its focus on robust flavours, time-honoured recipes, and signature dishes, while introducing a renewed emphasis on presentation, innovation, and storytelling.

Commenting on the relaunch, Rohit Aggarwal, Founder and Managing Director, Lite Bite Foods, said, “Chennai has always been a significant market for us, and Phoenix Mall holds a special place in our journey. With this relaunch, we wanted to go beyond just a new location within the mall. We've reimagined the entire dining experience. From the ambiance to the menu curation, every element has been thoughtfully elevated to resonate with today’s diners while staying true to our rich culinary legacy.”

The reopening signals more than just a change in location within the mall—it reflects the brand’s intent to offer a more refined and memorable dining journey. With its updated identity, Punjab Grill invites Chennai’s diners to rediscover its iconic offerings in a setting that blends tradition with contemporary appeal.


Sanjay Dutt Unveils Alta Stella, A Sky-High Restro-Bar in Andheri

Sanjay Dutt Unveils Alta Stella, A Sky-High Restro-Bar in Andheri

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

Sanjay Dutt has introduced Alta Stella, a new rooftop restro-bar in Andheri West that brings a fresh perspective to Mumbai’s nightlife scene. Located 30 floors above the city, the space offers a setting where the pace slows down, allowing guests to ease into the evening rather than rush through it.

Meaning “closest to the star,” Alta Stella is built around an idea that goes beyond just being a rooftop destination. The experience here changes with time. Afternoons are calm and relaxed, perfect for long conversations, while evenings gradually build in energy with warmer lighting and music that evolves naturally with the mood.

Spread across 12,000 sq. ft. and designed to host up to 250 guests, the space balances openness with a sense of comfort. The design features layered textures, sculpted lighting, and subtle celestial elements that tie the theme together. One of its most striking features is the mirrored rooftop, which reflects the night sky and creates a unique visual effect where the stars seem to surround you.

Sharing his thoughts, Sanjay Dutt said, "Being a celebrity comes with a lot of noise and chaos around you, so I've learned to appreciate spaces that feel calm and real. Alta Stella has that feeling. You're up close to the sky, you see the stars above, and somehow everything slows down - aur phir bas dil karta hai thoda aur ruk jaayein. There's a quiet strength here, and that's what makes the place special for me."

The concept is led by founder Abhimanyu Jakhar, who envisioned the space as more than just a nightlife spot. "Alta Stella was born from a very personal belief that when you place yourself under the stars, you naturally begin to look inward. The idea of being 'closest to the star' isn't about height or grandeur for us; it's about creating a space where people feel aligned with themselves. We wanted to design an experience guided by the universe, through constellations, light, and atmosphere, where the sky becomes part of the journey. The space is meant to move with you, slowly and intuitively, allowing moments of reflection before the energy builds. Every night feels different, because every mood and every person brings something new. Alta Stella isn't about spectacle; it's about presence, and the quiet connection you feel when you look up and feel exactly where you're meant to be."

In the kitchen, Chef Manoranjan presents a menu that blends global influences with Indian flavours. The dishes are familiar yet creatively reworked, offering a balance between comfort and newness. Highlights include Beetroot & Whipped Feta Croquettes, Tangra Chicken Pops, and Podi Butter Prawns, along with options like Chicken Thecha Kulcha and Chicken Parmesan Milanese. Desserts such as the Chenna Pod Cheesecake round off the experience with a unique twist.

Behind the bar, Mixologist Sidharth has curated a cocktail menu inspired by zodiac signs and celestial themes. Each drink is crafted to reflect a mood or personality, with options like Enki (Aquarius), Jasper (Aries), Chimera (Leo), Themis (Libra), and Ebisu (Pisces), making the bar experience both personal and expressive.

Blending thoughtful design, curated food and drinks, and a setting that evolves through the evening, Alta Stella positions itself as a distinctive addition to Mumbai’s hospitality landscape. It’s a space that encourages guests to slow down, connect, and enjoy moments that unfold naturally.

Alta Stella is located at 30th Floor, Parinee I, Shah Industrial Estate, Veera Desai Area, Andheri West, Mumbai 400053, and is open from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

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