Unveiling Varchas Whiskey: Where Elegance, Heritage, and Innovation Converge

Unveiling Varchas Whiskey: Where Elegance, Heritage, and Innovation Converge

By Author

Published on August 22, 2023

Shankar Distilleries, a name synonymous with a rich whiskey heritage, proudly unveils their latest masterpiece – Varchas Whiskey – in India. This exquisite creation is grounded in elegance, tradition, and innovation, embodying the timeless artistry of whiskey-making that transcends both geographical boundaries and eras. As of now, Varchas Whiskey is available in Karnataka, Goa, and Gurgaon, marking its arrival with a promise of exceptional taste and experience.

Varchas Whiskey is more than a drink; it's a symphony of flavors that gracefully unfolds with each sip. Crafted by master distillers who pour their passion and expertise into every bottle, Varchas Whiskey is the embodiment of generations of commitment and mastery. From the meticulous distillation process to the final touches, this spirit captures the essence of time-honored practices, resulting in a product that stands out with its distinctiveness and excellence.

At the helm of Varchas is the visionary founder and president, Varchas Shankar, who brings his profound passion for whiskey and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Leveraging a heritage steeped in whiskey and spirits distillation, Shankar Distilleries has harmoniously combined tradition with contemporary craftsmanship to create a unique spirit. Shankar's personal journey is a testament to his dedication to whiskey. Originally hailing from Mysore, Karnataka, and now residing in the United States, his trajectory evolved from the technology sector to his true calling – the world of whiskey. Fueled by his unwavering passion and guided by his vision, Shankar embarked on the journey of establishing Varchas. This brand is a tribute to both his American home and his Indian roots, exemplifying the essence of premium whiskey that bridges cultures and continents.

Having solidified Varchas as a premium whiskey brand in the United States, Shankar now aims to share his creation with his motherland, India. The introduction of Varchas to the Indian market marks a historic moment, allowing whiskey aficionados across the nation to indulge in an extraordinary experience. Shankar's aspiration to introduce India to the allure of premium whiskey resonates deeply, reflecting his commitment to enhancing the palates and experiences of fellow countrymen.

The narrative that envelops this exceptional whiskey is poised to captivate hearts and taste buds alike, leaving an indelible mark on India's whiskey culture. With Varchas making its debut on Indian shores, available in Karnataka, Goa, and Gurgaon, a new era of whiskey appreciation is dawning. This era is one where elegance, heritage, and innovation intertwine harmoniously, creating a remarkable tapestry in the world of spirits. As you raise a glass of Varchas, you're not just savoring a drink; you're immersing yourself in a story that celebrates the art of whiskey-making and the passion that drives it forward.


Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen Unveils Bold New Fusion Dinner Menu

Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen Unveils Bold New Fusion Dinner Menu

By Hariharan U

Published on May 28, 2026

Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen has introduced a new dinner menu that brings together bold Indian flavours and Persian-inspired culinary traditions, curated under the leadership of Executive Chef Mahesh Dhami.

The refreshed menu reflects the restaurant’s focus on modern fusion dining, combining regional Indian tastes with Middle Eastern influences and a global presentation style. Known for its contemporary approach in McAllen’s dining scene, Zaya continues to position itself as a destination for creative and experience-led cuisine.

The new offerings feature a wide mix of dishes across categories, including street-food inspired starters, charcoal-grilled specials, Persian mezze, handcrafted breads, and innovative fusion handhelds designed to enhance the overall dining experience.

Highlights from the grill section include Chipotle Chicken Tikka, Burrah Lamb Chops, Tandoori Octopus, and Kesari Paneer Tikka. The street-style selection brings a modern twist to familiar flavours with dishes such as Delhi-style Paani Puri, Tuna Passionfruit Paani Puri, Samosa Chaat, and Beetroot Chaat.

The menu also introduces creative fusion handhelds like Chapli Kebab Smash Burger, Roganjosh Birria Tacos, and Persian-inspired shawarma wraps, offering a cross-cultural dining experience.

Main course dishes include a mix of traditional Indian recipes and modern plating styles, featuring Ruby Chicken, Chicken Chettinad, Goat Korma, Moilee Salmon, Palak Saag Paneer, and Pistachio Malai Kofta. Classic biryanis such as Hyderabadi Goat Dum Biryani and Kolkata Vegetable Biryani further highlight India’s regional diversity.

Speaking about the launch, Executive Chef Mahesh Dhami shared that the menu is designed as a storytelling experience through food, combining authentic flavours with modern culinary techniques to create a memorable dining journey for guests.

With this launch, Zaya Indian & Persian Kitchen strengthens its position as one of McAllen’s most innovative dining destinations, offering a menu rooted in tradition while embracing contemporary creativity.


Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Launches ‘The Southern Treasures’ Food Festival

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai Launches ‘The Southern Treasures’ Food Festival

By Hariharan U

Published on May 28, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Madurai is set to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of South India with the launch of The Southern Treasures, a specially curated food festival at Madurai Kitchen this June.

Designed as a month-long gastronomic experience, the festival will take guests on a flavourful journey across four South Indian states Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu through a series of weekend showcases led by master chefs.

Each weekend will focus on one state’s cuisine, highlighting traditional recipes, authentic ingredients, and regional cooking styles deeply rooted in local culture and heritage. Guests can expect a diverse spread of signature dishes that reflect the unique culinary identity of each region.

The festival aims to bring together the bold spices of Andhra cuisine, the comforting flavours of Karnataka, the coastal richness of Kerala, and the timeless classics of Tamil Nadu under one roof, offering diners an immersive regional dining experience.

Hosted at Madurai Kitchen inside Courtyard by Marriott Madurai, the event will run across all weekends in June 2026. Dining experiences will be available during Friday dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner, along with Sunday brunch.

With The Southern Treasures, the hotel continues to strengthen its focus on celebrating regional Indian cuisine while offering guests authentic and thoughtfully curated dining experiences


POIZ Gurgaon Redefines Dining with Design, Food and Experiences

POIZ Gurgaon Redefines Dining with Design, Food and Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 28, 2026

Nearly two years after its launch, POIZ Gurgaon continues to stand out in the city’s dining landscape by offering more than just a place to eat. Spread across a 10,000-square-foot space, the restaurant has built a loyal following by focusing on thoughtful experiences rather than short-lived trends.

Founded by entrepreneur Ansh Gupta, POIZ was created around the idea that food, entertainment, and design should work together rather than compete with one another. The result is a space that brings together striking interiors and a carefully planned atmosphere.

The restaurant features statuario marble walls, rich textures, fine veneers, and layered tapestries that create a visually distinctive setting. Complementing the interiors is a sunlit terrace with palm trees and a French-inspired patio, while the lounge offers a more intimate setting suited for relaxed conversations and after-dinner drinks.

Speaking about the vision behind the concept, Ansh Gupta, Founder, said:

"We didn't want Poiz to feel like it was chasing a moment. The intention was always to build a place that feels considered, where the design, the food, and the energy of the room work together rather than compete. A place you come back to."

Alongside the setting, the culinary experience remains a key focus. The menu takes inspiration from global flavours with a contemporary approach, offering dishes that appeal both to adventurous diners and those who prefer familiar favourites. The cocktail programme follows a similar direction, featuring classics and signature creations designed to complement the overall experience.

POIZ also keeps its calendar active beyond regular dining hours. Live music performances add energy to Friday and Saturday evenings, while Sunday family brunches have become a favourite for guests looking for a more relaxed way to spend time together.

Whether it is a quick business lunch, an evening with friends, or an extended dining experience, POIZ Gurgaon continues to create a space that balances food, ambience, and hospitality without compromise.

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