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Good News

Indian Restaurants Shine in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants List

Indian restaurants have once again made their mark on the global culinary stage, securing top spots in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list. The prestigious list, curated by anonymous industry experts, recognizes the finest dining establishments across the continent. Let's take a closer look at the Indian gems that have earned this remarkable achievement and what awaits food enthusiasts who visit them. Masque, Mumbai: Innovations in Indian Cuisine Ranked at #23, Masque in Mumbai has claimed the title of the Best Restaurant in India. Led by Chef Varun Totlani, this progressive fine-dining establishment offers a ten-course tasting menu that showcases his innovative take on Indian cuisine. Guests can expect playful reinventions of classics, such as the reimagined "makkai mathri" (corn and hemp seed crisps) served with a medley of chutneys and charred corn. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list and creative Ayurvedic-inspired cocktails. Prepare for a luxurious experience, with tasting menus starting from INR 4,583. Indian Accent, New Delhi: Modern Interpretations of Indian Flavors A mainstay on the list, Indian Accent in New Delhi secures the #26 spot this year. Founded by celebrated Chef Manish Mehrotra in 2009, Indian Accent is renowned for its inventive and modern interpretations of Indian flavors. Nestled within the elegant setting of The Lodhi Hotel, the restaurant offers a tasting menu (starting from INR 4,167) that allows guests to experience Chef Mehrotra's culinary prowess. Prepare for a symphony of textures and tastes, from unusual breads alongside traditional options to artfully crafted cornets filled with unique spiced fillings and showstopping mains like tamarind crab with coconut curry. Food enthusiasts can also experience Chef Mehrotra's artistry at the restaurant's outpost in New York. Avartana, Chennai: A Modern Homage to South Indian Cuisine Making its second appearance on the list, Avartana is located within the opulent ITC Grand Chola Hotel in Chennai. Under the guidance of Chef Ajit Bangera, Avartana crafts a modern homage to South Indian cuisine. Diners can choose from a variety of set tasting menus (starting from INR 2,916), featuring an array of vegetarian options and ranging from seven to thirteen courses. Each tasting menu presents a delightful procession of small bites, showcasing innovative techniques like molecular gastronomy alongside playful touches. Imagine cracking open a panna cotta "egg" nestled in a bird's nest with a miniature hammer. Avartana invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions of South India. Celebrating India's Culinary Landscape While all three Indian restaurants saw a slight dip in their rankings compared to the previous year, their inclusion in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list highlights the vibrant and ever-evolving culinary landscape of India. These establishments serve as ambassadors of Indian cuisine, showcasing the country's rich culinary heritage and pushing the boundaries of gastronomic innovation. Indian Chef Gaggan Anand's Bangkok-based restaurant continues to impress, securing the coveted #3 spot on the list. This recognition further solidifies India's presence in the global culinary scene. The Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list is a unique platform where over 300 anonymous industry experts cast their votes. It allows establishments, ranging from street food stalls to fine-dining restaurants, to compete on an equal footing. Published by the UK-based William Reed Ltd, the list serves as a valuable guide for adventurous gourmands seeking exceptional culinary experiences across Asia. Visiting these Indian restaurants promises a memorable gastronomic journey, where diners can savor the creativity, flavors, and artistry of Indian cuisine. Whether it's the innovative dishes at Masque, the modern interpretations at Indian Accent, or the homage to South Indian flavors at Avartana, these restaurants invite guests to indulge in a culinary adventure that showcases the best of Indian fine dining.

28 Mar 2024
Good News

India's Ras Malai Secures Second Position in '10 Best Cheese Desserts' Worldwide

India's delectable dessert, Ras Malai, has made a significant mark on the global culinary stage. Securing the second position in the prestigious list of '10 Best Cheese Desserts' worldwide, Ras Malai has garnered widespread recognition for its unique flavors and mouthwatering appeal. Ras Malai's Exquisite Position Amidst a remarkable lineup of cheese desserts from various countries, Ras Malai, a sweet delicacy originating from West Bengal, India, has emerged as a top contender. The dessert, which combines soft cheese with a cardamom-infused milk syrup, has captivated taste buds with its rich and spongy texture. A Celebration of Cheese Desserts Cheese desserts have long been celebrated for their indulgent nature and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. These desserts go beyond the traditional blueberry and chocolate cheesecakes, encompassing a diverse range of flavors and ingredients from around the world. Taste Atlas, a popular food guide, recently unveiled its list of the '10 Best Cheese Desserts,' showcasing the global appreciation for these luscious treats. Ras Malai: A Sweet Symphony Ras Malai, meaning "juice cream" in Hindi, is a cherished Indian sweet with roots in West Bengal. The dessert features soft fresh cheese called 'chhena,' created by curdling milk with lemon juice and water. The chhena is then cooked in a sugar syrup and soaked in 'rabdi,' a sweet milk syrup infused with cardamom, almonds, and pistachios. Best enjoyed chilled, Ras Malai is often relished during festive occasions such as Holi and Diwali. Global Recognition The recognition of Ras Malai as the second-best cheese dessert globally is a testament to the dessert's exceptional taste and cultural significance. It stands alongside renowned cheese desserts like Sernik from Poland, which claimed the top spot on the list. Ras Malai's unique combination of flavors and the artistry involved in its preparation have captivated food enthusiasts worldwide. An Array of Cheese Delights The list of '10 Best Cheese Desserts' encompasses a delightful variety of sweet treats from different corners of the globe. Notable inclusions are the New York-style cheesecake from the United States, the Japanese cheesecake, and the Basque cheesecake from Spain. Each dessert showcases the creativity and skill of culinary traditions worldwide. The Complete List: 10 Best Cheese Desserts 1. Sernik, Poland 2. Ras Malai, India 3. Sfakianopita, Greece 4. New York-style cheesecake, USA 5. Japanese cheesecake, Japan 6. Basque cheesecake, Spain 7. Rakoczi turos, Hungary 8. Melopita, Greece 9. Kasekuchen, Germany 10. Misa rezy, Czech Republic As food enthusiasts around the world continue to appreciate the rich flavors and textures of cheese desserts, Ras Malai stands tall as an epitome of Indian sweet delights on the global stage.

19 Mar 2024
Good News

Revolutionary Digital Food Court – Get the Best of All Cuisines in One Place

India’s fastest growing internet restaurant company, Rebel Foods  opened Pune's first "smart food court” through the online meal delivery service "Eatsure." The food court houses 15+ brands from a variety of cuisine categories. The flagship store, which spans 3000 square feet and offers a comprehensive digital consumer experience, is located on Law College Road in Erandwane, Pune. In Eatsure's food court, customers can use iPads and kiosks to place orders from well-known brands by scanning QR codes on the devices. When the order is prepared, the customer will be informed through a WhatsApp message or one of the digital screens in-store. Eatsure is home to brands with a variety of food missions in addition to the numerous brands that fans adore, such as Behrouz Biryani, Slay Coffee, Oven Story, Wendy's, etc. Eatsure is distinct from other food courts because it is the first food court of its sort offered by a QSR or food-tech company in the country. In December, Eatsure also unveiled a 360-degree nationwide campaign, `#FoodCourtOnAnApp`. This encouraged people to order, eat, and celebrate together through a unique concept of group ordering on their platform. With a versatile food ordering option, Eatsure's smart food court has definitely gone a step ahead to give consumers the freedom to order more with ease. Allowing customers to place orders through different devices, have the order delivered to them, or even collect it from the store gives the customers more freedom and convenience. The digital screens used for notifications and the option of group ordering make it an even more convenient and enjoyable experience for everyone.

6 Feb 2023
Good News

India’s Cuisine Stands Fifth on the List of Best Cuisines of the World

Every country has its own unique tastes and flavors which are popular among its citizens. Then there are dishes that are loved by people all over the world like pizza, noodles, burgers, and many more. India is listed as having the fifth-best food in the world for 2022 by Taste Atlas. Italian food came in first on this list, followed by Greek, Spanish, and Japanese food, which took third and fourth, respectively. The ranking is determined by how many people voted for the components, dishes, and beverages. The top three foods were Italian, Spanish, and Greek. According to the rating, "garam masala, malai, ghee, butter garlic naan, and keema" are some of the greatest foods among the total 460 items on the list. India obtained a score of 4.54 points while the highest was Italy with 4.72 points. There was also a list of the best restaurants to try Indian cuisine. It includes Shree Thaker Bhojanalay (Mumbai), Karavalli (Bengaluru), Bukhara (New Delhi), Dum Pukht (New Delhi), and Comorin (Gurugram) among 450 others. Among the top 10 nations with the best cuisines were Japan, the United States of America, Turkey, France, and Peru. The most popular cuisine in the world, Chinese, was ranked 11th on the list. Following are the top 5 “Best Traditional Dishes” in the world: Kare (Japan), Picanha (Brazil), Ameijoas a Bulhao Pato (Portugal), Tangbao (China), Guotie (China) The report created a buzz on Twitter with many users disagreeing with the ranking as they felt that their country’s cuisine was the best.

29 Dec 2022
Good News

Positive Reads

Veeraswamy: The Oldest Indian Restaurant in London, Witness to History and Culture

London is home to Veeraswamy, the oldest surviving Indian restaurant in the UK, which has been serving culinary delights since its establishment in 1926. With a prestigious guest list that includes political leaders, royalty, and celebrities, Veeraswamy holds a special place in the heart of Londoners and visitors alike. Let's delve into the captivating history and cultural significance of this iconic culinary institution. Preserving Indian Culinary Heritage: Veeraswamy owes its origins to Edward Palmer, the great-grandson of General William Palmer, the first Governor-General of India. Arriving in London in 1880, Palmer aimed to introduce authentic Indian flavors to the city. Initially selling pickles, pastes, and chutneys under the brand name 'Nizam,' Palmer eventually opened Veeraswamy on Regent Street, creating a haven for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. A Glittering Guest List: Over the years, Veeraswamy has welcomed distinguished guests from around the world. Notable figures such as Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, and Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, have savored the restaurant's delectable offerings. Even legendary actor Charlie Chaplin frequented Veeraswamy, adding to its star-studded allure. The restaurant's association with influential personalities has left an indelible mark on its history. Culinary Innovations: Under the ownership of Sir William Steward MP, who acquired Veeraswamy in 1934, the restaurant underwent significant transformations. Steward traveled extensively to India, exploring its cuisine, collecting recipes, artifacts, and even staff. He introduced the tandoor oven to London, making Veeraswamy the first Indian restaurant in the city to do so. Prince Axel of Denmark also played a role in Veeraswamy's legacy by associating curry with beer in Britain. A Timeless Ambience: Veeraswamy's ambience exudes a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary elegance. The restaurant's plush interiors, adorned with Venetian-style chandeliers and Indian art from the 1920s, create a captivating dining experience. Visitors are transported to the era of Maharaja Palaces in India, surrounded by hand-woven carpets, glass paintings, and sculptures. The attention to detail and the meticulous design of the dining room have impressed even Michelin Star inspectors. A Gastronomic Journey: Veeraswamy's menu reflects the diversity of Indian cuisine, offering a fusion of classic and contemporary regional dishes. The restaurant's brigade of specialist chefs, hailing from various parts of the Indian subcontinent, prepare each dish with utmost care. From Kashmiri Roghan Josh to Chettinad potatoes, guests can savor a wide range of flavors that represent the rich tapestry of Indian culinary heritage. Veeraswamy prides itself on importing spices from India to ensure an authentic taste. Revitalizing Tradition: In the 1980s, Veeraswamy underwent a transformation under the ownership of Namita Panjabi, Camellia Panjabi, and Ranjit Mathrani of MW Eat. The menu and decor were revamped, combining classical influences with contemporary elements. The restaurant's interior now pays homage to the grandeur of Maharaja Palaces, with floral carpets, Kalighat paintings, and other exquisite details. This revitalization has cemented Veeraswamy's position as a contemporary Indian culinary destination. With its rich history, renowned guests, and exquisite flavors, it continues to captivate diners from all walks of life. As Londoners and visitors indulge in the culinary delights of Veeraswamy, they become part of a legacy that embraces both tradition and innovation, making this iconic restaurant a cultural icon and a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

16 Feb 2024
Positive Reads

Ganesh Chaturthi: A Flavorful Journey Through Five Traditional Delicacies

Ganesh Chaturthi, the joyous festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, is not only a time for grand processions and elaborate decorations but also a feast for the taste buds. In Maharashtra, this festival is synonymous with indulging in a delectable array of traditional dishes that hold a special place in the hearts of devotees. Here are five must-try delicacies that grace the tables during this auspicious occasion: 1. Modak: Often referred to as Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet, the Modak is a steamed or fried dumpling made from rice flour or wheat flour. It's filled with a mixture of grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. The sweet, coconut-infused filling inside the soft shell is a divine treat. 2. Puran Poli: This flatbread, stuffed with a rich and sweet lentil filling made from chana dal and jaggery, is a Maharashtrian classic. The combination of the sweet stuffing and the thin, slightly crispy outer layer is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. 3. Coconut Ladoo: Often referred to as Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet, the Coconut Ladoo is a delightful treat made from grated coconut, condensed milk, and cardamom. These sweet, coconut-infused balls are pure bliss in every bite. 4. Sheera: Also known as Suji Halwa in some regions, Sheera is a semolina-based dessert cooked with ghee, sugar, and flavored with cardamom. Its warm, comforting taste makes it a beloved choice during the festivities. 5. Poha: This light and fluffy flattened rice dish is a breakfast favorite that also finds its way to the Ganesh Chaturthi menu. Seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and garnished with fresh coconut and cilantro, it's a savory delight loved by all. This Ganesh Chaturthi, immerse yourself not only in the festive fervor but also in the rich culinary heritage of Maharashtra by savoring these traditional delicacies. Each bite is a tribute to tradition and a celebration of Lord Ganesha's blessings. Ganpati Bappa Morya!

19 Sep 2023
Positive Reads

Padayal: Redefining Healthy Dining with Raw, Nutritious Delights

Step into Padayal, a unique restaurant that challenges the conventions of traditional cooking. Nestled in the heart of Uppilipalayam, this two-year-old establishment offers a one-of-a-kind experience—a full-course South Indian meal that is completely raw. With its tagline "no oil, no boil," Padayal brings to life the founder R Sivakumar's philosophy that "food is medicine." Here, one might be intrigued by the unconventional flavors and textures. The flattened rice (aval) with slivers of shredded carrots replaces the usual rice, while finely chopped beetroot tossed with shredded coconut serves as a refreshing "poriyal."  Sivakumar, the mastermind behind Padayal, has spent a decade researching and developing these raw recipes. He embarked on a journey across Tamil Nadu, meticulously perfecting each dish. The secret ingredient lies in the cashew and coconut paste, lending the curries their unique consistency. Beyond the restaurant, Sivakumar shares his knowledge through the Padayal Academy, offering recipes and techniques to those interested. With his creations, he aims to challenge the notion that healthy food is bland, proving that raw, nutritious cuisine can be equally tantalizing. Despite the variety and abundance of dishes, the meal leaves diners feeling light and satisfied, a testament to the health-conscious approach of Padayal's raw cuisine. Departing the restaurant, patrons are left with a profound appreciation for the innovative and flavorful possibilities of uncooked dishes. For those seeking an extraordinary dining adventure that nourishes both body and soul, Padayal beckons. With its raw, unadulterated flavors and a commitment to providing a truly unique culinary experience, this restaurant is poised to leave a lasting impression on the taste buds and minds of all who dare to explore the raw revolution. So, step into Padayal, open your mind, and savor the exquisite flavors of South India's raw cuisine—where health meets innovation on every plate.

3 Jul 2023
Positive Reads

Wanderlust

Experience a Winter Wonderland at the World's Largest Igloo Cafe in Gulmarg

In the heart of the picturesque ski resort of Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir, a unique cafe has become the new talk of the town. Known as Snowglu, this cafe is not just an ordinary one but an igloo cafe, the world's largest of its kind. The Igloo Café is divided into two areas: one for dining and the other for wall carvings and art. To further enhance the feeling of authenticity, the seats are wrapped in sheepskin. The cafe measures 37.5 feet tall and 44.5 feet in circumference, and its construction took two months to complete.  Visitors can enjoy traditional Kashmiri cuisine here while soaking in the mesmerizing beauty of the surroundings. The Igloo Cafe has become a popular tourist attraction in the union territory and is known for its unique concept. Tourists are spellbound by this place. A visitor from Pune named Ekta thanked the person who thought up the idea and said the cafe is nothing short of heaven. Another traveler, Swapnil Khandore, was astounded by the elegance of the cafe and its entire concept, from the building of the ice tables to the architecture. The Igloo Cafe has not only added to the tourist attractions of Gulmarg but has also provided an opportunity for the locals to showcase their culture and traditions. The cafe has put Gulmarg on the global map and has become a source of pride for the people of the region. As the sun sets behind the snow-capped mountains, the Igloo Cafe's enchanting beauty and unique experience leave a lasting impression on its visitors, making it a must-visit place for anyone traveling to Jammu and Kashmir.

27 Feb 2023
Wanderlust

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