Thompson Hotels Launches 'A Taste of Thompson' Chef Series with Renowned Culinary Talent

Thompson Hotels Launches 'A Taste of Thompson' Chef Series with Renowned Culinary Talent

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 25, 2024

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the launch of A Taste of Thompson Chef Series, an innovative dining and content series featuring renowned chefs Ludo Lefebvre, Quentin Garcia, and Enrique Olvera. Hosted at various Thompson Hotels, this exclusive series offers a unique glimpse into the lives and culinary journeys of these acclaimed chefs, blending storytelling with fine dining.

The series, part of Thompson Hotels' Culture Lives Here platform, is designed to connect guests with the rich culinary cultures shaped by these chefs. Crystal Vinisse Thomas, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for Hyatt’s lifestyle and luxury brands, emphasized that the series showcases the chefs’ personal stories and how their experiences have influenced their cooking styles. “This series pulls back the curtain on prolific chefs... and how they are shaping today’s culinary landscape within and beyond the walls of their kitchens,” she said.

Meet the Chefs and Their Stories

The chef series will be showcased through digital content, available on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. Each chef’s personal journey is at the core of the series, offering insights into their techniques, inspirations, and life stories.

Chef Ludo Lefebvre (Chez Maggy at Thompson Denver): Known for his bold take on French gastronomy, Chef Ludo's chapter will explore themes of family and sacrifice. His episode is already live and offers a glimpse into his journey from learning to cook with his grandmother to becoming an acclaimed chef in the U.S.

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Chef Quentin Garcia (Lola Rose Grand Mezze at Thompson Palm Springs): Chef Quentin’s story focuses on the importance of hustle and balance. A native Californian with French culinary training, his narrative will spotlight his journey, from starting his culinary career at 11 to shaping his vision for modern Levantine cuisine.

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Chef Enrique Olvera (Manta at The Cape, Cabo San Lucas): Chef Enrique will share his philosophy, "Lo viejo es nuevo, lo nuevo es viejo" (what’s old is new, and what’s new is old), exploring how he marries Mexican heritage with modern dining experiences.

In addition to the content series, each chef will host a special dining event, offering guests the opportunity to experience their culinary talents firsthand. These exclusive ticketed dinners will include multi-course meals, wine pairings, and a chance to hear stories from the chefs themselves. The events will take place between December 2024 and early 2025:

Ludo Lefebvre’s Dinner at Chez Maggy in Denver on December 10, 2024, will feature his signature French gastronomy with a personal twist.

Quentin Garcia’s Dinner at Lola Rose Grand Mezze in Palm Springs on January 15, 2025, will focus on his modern take on Levantine cuisine.

Enrique Olvera’s Dinner at Manta in Cabo San Lucas, scheduled for early 2025, will bring his innovative approach to Mexican flavors.

The series invites food lovers and travelers to engage deeply with the stories and talents of chefs who are shaping the global culinary scene. Guests can also redeem special dining packages through Hyatt’s FIND Experiences platform, further enriching their stays at Thompson Hotels.

For those eager to attend these once-in-a-lifetime dinners, reservations will open soon on the Thompson Hotels website, with tickets available through the FIND Experiences platform for World of Hyatt members.


Skydeck Restro Bar at Novotel Vijayawada Varun Unveils a Bold New Menu and Cocktail Experience

Skydeck Restro Bar at Novotel Vijayawada Varun Unveils a Bold New Menu and Cocktail Experience

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 27, 2025

Skydeck Restro Bar at Novotel Vijayawada Varun is turning up the heat with a bold new food menu designed to complement its lively cocktail scene. Known for its stunning rooftop views, stylish ambience, and energetic vibe, Skydeck now offers an elevated dining experience featuring diverse flavors from around the world with a local twist.

Whether you're here for crafted cocktails, a laid-back sundowner, or a lively night out, the new menu serves up an irresistible mix of bar bites, indulgent mains, and signature dishes, each carefully curated to pair perfectly with Skydeck’s dynamic drink offerings.

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A Menu That Brings Global Flavors to Vijayawada

The refreshed menu brings together international influences and regional flavors, offering an exciting culinary adventure. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Bunny Chow – A South African favorite featuring hearty curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread, delivering the perfect balance of spice and comfort.

  • Beer Battered Calamari – Crispy, golden calamari rings deep-fried to perfection and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

  • Tawa Vanjaram – A smoky, tawa-cooked vanjaram fish marinated with an aromatic spice blend.

  • Magic Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms in a rich, flavorful spice mix, perfect for vegetarians.

  • Paneer Velli Ulli Karam – Succulent paneer cubes in a fiery garlic-based sauce, bringing bold flavors to every bite.

  • Lahori Murgh Tikka – Char-grilled chicken marinated in Lahori spices, offering a rich and smoky taste.

Each dish has been meticulously crafted to enhance Skydeck’s vibrant atmosphere, making every meal a memorable culinary experience.

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The Ultimate Rooftop Dining Destination

With its panoramic city views, stylish ambiance, and diverse menu, Skydeck Restro Bar continues to be Vijayawada’s go-to spot for a perfect night out. Whether you're a food enthusiast, cocktail lover, or just looking for an elevated dining experience, the new menu promises something special for everyone.

The new menu is available now, and guests are invited to indulge in these exciting flavors while enjoying breathtaking views of the city.

Event Details:

  • Venue: Novotel Vijayawada Varun, Skydeck Restro Bar
  • Timings: Lunch & Dinner
  • Reservations: 866 668 8999

The Ultimate Party Planning Checklist for Perfect Celebrations

The Ultimate Party Planning Checklist for Perfect Celebrations

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 27, 2025

Planning a celebration should be a source of joy, not stress. However, with so many details to manage, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, an anniversary gathering, or a corporate event, the key to success lies in meticulous planning. Here’s your step-by-step guide to organizing a memorable and stress-free celebration.

1. Planning with Purpose: The Foundation of a Great Party

Every great party starts with a clear vision. Define the purpose of your event—is it a casual get-together, a milestone celebration, or a corporate gathering? This helps shape decisions regarding the venue, decor, and menu.

  • Budget & Guest List: Set a realistic budget and allocate funds wisely. A well-defined guest list ensures the right venue size and adequate food and drinks.

  • Timeline & Invitations: Work backward from the event date to create a schedule. Send out invitations early, book vendors in advance, and finalize menus ahead of time.

2. Food & Drinks: The Heart of Every Celebration

A well-planned menu enhances the guest experience. Keep these factors in mind:

  • Diverse Menu: Offer a mix of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and dietary-friendly options.

  • Signature Drinks: Create a unique cocktail or mocktail for a special touch.

  • Presentation & Hygiene: Use elegant plating, fresh garnishes, and maintain proper food safety standards.

3. Setting the Mood: Decor, Lighting & Music

Ambience is key to making your party feel special. Tailor the decor, lighting, and music to match the event’s vibe.

  • Anniversaries: Warm, dim lighting with romantic music (jazz or piano).

  • Birthdays: Colorful LED lighting with upbeat pop or Bollywood hits.

  • Corporate Events: Neutral lighting with soft instrumental music.

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4. Entertainment & Engagement: Making It Memorable

A party is only as good as its entertainment. Choose activities that align with your event:

  • Birthdays: DJs, photobooths, and games like bingo or karaoke.

  • Anniversaries: Live singers or a string quartet for a classy feel.

  • Family Gatherings: Fun elements like a live cooking station or a magician for kids.

5. Guest Comfort & Post-Party Cleanup

  • Ensure ample seating, accessible refreshments, and clean restrooms.

  • Consider hiring service staff so you can focus on hosting.

  • Have a post-party cleanup plan in place—trash bags, cleaning supplies, or a cleaning crew.

  • A simple thank-you message to guests adds a thoughtful finishing touch.

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By following these essential steps, you can host a stress-free and memorable celebration that allows you to enjoy the moment with your guests.

For More Information:


Big Bowl Heats Up Cricket Season with Special Deals and Contests

Big Bowl Heats Up Cricket Season with Special Deals and Contests

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 27, 2025

Big Bowl, a popular name for flavorful Indian and Chinese bowls, is embracing the cricket fever with a lively campaign designed to engage fans and elevate their match-day experience. The brand has rolled out a multi-platform initiative featuring enticing deals, contests, and strategic collaborations that aim to strengthen its presence in the food industry.

To capture the excitement of the season, Big Bowl is airing a 20-second advertisement throughout the cricket tournament. The ad highlights its signature bowls at attractive prices, making it a preferred choice for those looking for delicious and budget-friendly meal options during the matches.

Adding to the excitement, Big Bowl has introduced interactive contests on its Instagram page (@official_bigbowl), encouraging fans to participate and engage with the brand. These contests offer a fun way for customers to connect, share their experiences, and win exciting rewards. 

Here are the links to watch the Instagram and YouTube campaigns.

YouTube Video Link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii29SdeT8Jw

Instagram Video Link: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHnV1j4AyCx/?igsh=Z3h1MnpxcXBuY2xu

Beyond ads and social media engagement, the campaign includes a series of cricket-themed content and promotional activities set to roll out throughout the season. From exclusive deals and influencer partnerships to creative digital initiatives, Big Bowl is leaving no stone unturned to keep cricket enthusiasts entertained. The brand has already teamed up with popular figures like Anupama and Jannat Zubair, expanding its reach to a broader audience.

Big Bowl, a cloud kitchen brand under Lenexis Foodworks, is known for its commitment to delivering delicious and convenient meal options. Having recently crossed INR 100 crore ARR within just four years, the brand is on track to surpass INR 150 crore ARR by FY26, reinforcing its strong market position.

Lenexis Foodworks, the powerhouse behind Big Bowl, Chinese Wok, and The Momo Co., has redefined India’s quick-service restaurant (QSR) landscape with its focus on quality, affordability, and innovation.

“Cricket is not just a sport—it’s a national celebration. At Big Bowl, we believe good food makes these moments even more special. As fans come together to cheer for their teams, we want Big Bowl to be an essential part of their celebrations. This campaign reflects our passion for bringing people closer through great food,” said Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & Director of Lenexis Foodworks.

With its growing footprint and commitment to customer engagement, Big Bowl’s cricket campaign highlights its strategic approach to strengthening brand loyalty and making match-time meals even more enjoyable.

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