As always, the season of love is here and people are getting ready to celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14. While many will be looking to indulge n lavish treats and even getaways, others will look to spend time at home with their partners or loved ones too. Over the decades, if there is one aspect of the festival that has been embraced wholeheartedly, it is the celebration of chocolate. While chocolate is usually used in desserts, Indian chefs say there are many other dishes that can be made. They say you can not only add chocolate to a martini but also other dishes like a fondue or even a cold brew. Here are some easy chocolate dish recipes to get you started this weekend: Spicy Chocolate MartiniSpice up this Valentine's Day by making a delicious cocktail, says Ajay Dwivedi, F&B Manager at ITC Grand Goa. Dwivedi says you can easily make a Spicy Chocolate Martini for you and your partner or simply celebrate with your loved ones while sipping on it during your meal. Ingredients: Vodka 60 mlChocolate liqueur (such as Godiva) 30 mlCreme de cacao 30 mlHeavy cream 15 mlChili powder 1/2 tspIce Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish) Optional: chocolate syrup for rimming the glass Method: 1. Prepare the glass: Optional: Rim a martini glass with chocolate syrup and set aside. 2. Mix the cocktail: - In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, chocolate liqueur, creme de cacao, heavy cream, and chili powder. Add ice to the shaker. 3. Shake and strain: Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into the prepared martini glass. 4. Garnish: Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder. Chocolate fondue If there is one classic dish that people can make on Valentine's Day, it is Chocolate Fondue, according to excutive chef Arun Kala at Radisson Blu Plaza in Karjat. He says, "Strawberry and dark chocolate are a classic combination of an aphrodisiac. So spice up this Valentine's Day with the chocolate fondue." Ingredients:50% dark chocolate 1 cup Cooking cream 1 cup eachStrawberries as per requirementHoneydew melon, cubes as per requirement Physalis as per requirementCheeses as per requirement Method:1. Take equal quantities of the dark chocolate and cooking cream and gently microwave for one minute and mixing in between until mixture turns glossy. Don't overheat. 2. Now keep this sauce on a fondue pot with a candle beneath.3. Dip the fruits like strawberries, honeydew melon and physalis in sauce with a bamboo stick and enjoy the treat. Chilli Mango Dark ChocolateShubhankar Chitrakar from the Bakery of Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa in Goa says you can indulge in some delicious goodness with your partner by making a Chilli Mango Dark Chocolate, which is a spicy dried mango infused into intense dark chocolate. Chitrakar even shares a tip saying, "For a sweeter version, drizzle with a little honey before setting. For extra crunch, add chopped almonds or toasted coconut flakes. If you wish for a smoky flavor? Use smoked paprika instead of cayenne." Ingredients:Dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) 200 gmDried mango (chopped into small pieces) 1/2 cupChilli powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 tspCayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat) 1/4 tsp Sea salt (flaky preferred) 1/2 tsp Cinnamon (optional, adds warmth) 1/4 tsp Coconut oil (for a smoother melt) 1/2 tsp Method:1. Chop the dried mango into small pieces. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.2. Melt the dark chocolate using the double burnerPlace a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water or use a microwave, heating in 20 seconds intervals, stirring in between, until it melts fully.3. Stir in the coconut oil for a smooth texture.4. Mix in the chili powder, cayenne (if using), and cinnamon. Stir well. Add the chopped dried mango to the melted chocolate and mix gently.5. Shape the chocolate as you desire : Spoon small dollops onto the prepared baking sheet or spread the mixture evenly into a thin layer to make a bark.6. Sprinkle sea salt on top. Let it cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then transfer to the fridge for about 30 minutes or until fully set. Black Garlic & Sea Salt ChocolateAt Continental Kitchen in Vivanta, Goa Panaji, Chef Vinamr Manocha says you can make the Black Garlic & Sea Salt Chocolate, which has has sweet umami notes of black garlic with a touch of sea salt. He explains, "This Black Garlic & Sea Salt Dark Chocolate combines the deep, umami richness of black garlic with the bittersweet intensity of dark chocolate and a touch of sea salt. The result is a gourmet chocolate experience that's both unique and indulgent. Complex & Umami: The black garlic brings a deep, molasses-like richness. The sea salt enhances the bittersweet notes of the chocolate. Pair with a glass of red wine, aged cheese, or espresso for an elevated tasting experience." Ingredients:Dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) 200 gmBlack garlic (mashed into a smooth paste) 2 clovesSea salt flakes (or to taste) 1/2 tspVanilla extract (optional, enhances depth) 1/2 tspCoconut oil (for smoother melting) 1/2 tspCinnamon or smoked paprika (optional, adds warmth) 1/4 tspChopped nuts or cacao nibs (optional, for crunch) 1 tbsp Method:1. Mash the black garlic cloves into a smooth paste using a fork or small food processor. If it's too sticky, add a few drops of warm water to help smooth it out.2. Melt the dark chocolate. Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until melted. Stir in the coconut oil for a silkier texture.3. Add the mashed black garlic into the melted chocolate and stir thoroughly until fully blended. Mix in the vanilla extract and optional spices if using.4. Shape the chocolate as you desire. Sprinkle the sea salt flakes and optional chopped nuts or cacao nibs on top. Allow to cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then transfer to the fridge for 30 minutes until fully set. Salted Caramel Cold BrewWhile indulging is chocolate is always a good option, chef Anurag Bainola, who is the executive chef of La Estoria, Candolim IHCL SeleQtions in Goa, says you can make a delicious Salted Caramel Cold Brew. He explains, "It is a smooth coffee with a perfect balance of sweet and salty. It is the perfect balance of smooth coffee, rich caramel, and a hint of sea salt. It’s creamy, refreshing, and easy to make. If you want it a little sweeter, add extra caramel or a little maple syrup. If you wish your drink a bit stronger, use coffee ice cubes to prevent dilution. If lactose intolerant swap heavy cream for coconut cream or oat milk. And if you desire it with extra frothy, blend with milk for a creamy texture." Ingredients: Cold Brew Coffee:Cup coarse ground coffeeCold water 4 cupsIce cubes (for serving) Salted Caramel Syrup:Brown sugar (or coconut sugar) 1/4 cup Water 2 tbspHeavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free) 2 tbspVanilla extract 1/2 tspSea salt (flaky salt for best flavour) 1/4 tsp Optional toppings: Milk or cream (dairy or non-dairy) 1/4 cupWhipped cream (optional, for extra indulgence)Extra caramel drizzle Method:1. Make the cold brew (12-24 hours ahead): Add coarse ground coffee and cold water to a jar or pitcher. Stir, cover, and let steep in the fridge for 12-24 hours. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter into a clean container. 2. Make the salted caramel syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and water. Stir until dissolved. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in cream, vanilla, and sea salt. Set aside to cool.3. Assemble the drink: Fill a glass with ice cubes. Pour in cold brew coffee (about 3/4 full). Add 2-3 tbsp salted caramel syrup (adjust to taste). Stir in milk or cream (if using).4. Add the finishing touch: Drizzle extra caramel on top. Top with whipped cream for a coffee-shop feel.
12 February,2025 09:54 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoZomato Ltd has announced that its board has approved the change of name of the company to Eternal Ltd., marking a significant transformation in its corporate identity. Deepinder Goyal, CEO, Zomato made this announcement on his official social media handle on X by posting the formal announcement letter. Announcement - https://t.co/UN3aL8XuR7 — Deepinder Goyal (@deepigoyal) February 6, 2025 The decision, approved by the company's Board, reflects Zomato's evolution beyond food delivery, with businesses like Blinkit, District, and Hyperpure now playing a crucial role in its future. In a heartfelt message to shareholders, Goyal shared his reflections on the company's journey. He recalled how Zomato--originally launched as Foodiebay in 2007--had its humble beginnings as a simple website to upload restaurant menus. Over the years, the company defied the odds to become India's first tech startup to be listed on the BSE Sensex, a moment he described as a source of both pride and responsibility. "This journey has created tremendous wealth -- not just for me, but for our employees, institutional investors, and retail shareholders. But I did not start Zomato to make money. I started it because I wanted to do something worthwhile with my life," Goyal stated. The decision to rename Zomato Ltd. to Eternal Ltd. stems from the company's broader vision of building an enduring institution that lasts beyond its current leadership. "We shape our institutions, and then they shape us," he said, emphasizing that Eternal is more than just a name change--it represents a mission statement. With Blinkit emerging as a major driver of growth alongside its core food delivery business, the leadership felt that the time was right for a rebranding that encapsulates the company's expanding portfolio. "To work at Eternal will be to wake up every day knowing that our forever is earned in moments of self-doubt, in acknowledging our limitations, in our constant hunger to be better than we were yesterday," he noted. Following shareholder approval, the company will transition its corporate website from zomato.com to eternal.com and change its stock ticker from ZOMATO to ETERNAL. The new entity, Eternal Ltd., will encompass four major businesses: Zomato (food delivery), Blinkit (quick commerce), District (B2B logistics), and Hyperpure (restaurant supplies). "A company has multiple founding moments, and I hope this change is another one in our journey into the future," Goyal concluded This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
06 February,2025 07:51 PM IST | New Delhi | ANIIndians love Chinese cuisine and what better way to savour it than on Lunar New Year, popularly known as Chinese New Year in Mumbai. As the Chinese community celebrates their new year on January 29 this year, Mumbaikars can join in the celebrations by relishing their delicious dishes through menus in Mumbai's restaurants. If you are looking to enjoy it, here is your complete guide to Chinese New Year menus in Mumbai: Cantonese flavoursIf you are a connoisseur or simply like to indulge in authentic flavours, diners can experience the rich heritage of Cantonese cuisine this Chinese New Year at The Oriental Blossom in Hotel Marine Plaza, which overlooks the iconic Marine Drive. Renowned for its authentic Cantonese and Sichuan flavours, the restaurant invites you to embark on a culinary journey to explore its uniqueness. Where: Oriental Blossom, Hotel Marine Plaza, Marine Drive, Nariman PointWhen: January 29 Time: 12:30–3 pm, 7:30–11:30 pm Five-day feast Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Dashanzi in JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, where they are hosting an exclusive Chinese menu for five days from January 29 to February 2. Diiners can indulge in the Hong Kong Style Wonton Soup and proceed to tantalising Dimsums and appetizers like the Shandong Crispy Garlic Bean Curd and Cantonese Crispy Garlic Tiger Prawns. Savour a selection of festive specialties, including Yuxiang Style Four Treasure Vegetables, Hainanese Chicken Rice and the Longevity Noodles. Creations like Beijing Style Peking Duck and Cantonese Steamed Pomfret promise a rich sensory experience, while sweet delights such as Date Pancakes, Sesame Honey Noodles and Dark Chocolate Panyu Mandarin. Where: Dashanzi, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, JuhuWhen: January 29 - February 2 Time: 7 pm - 1 am (dinner); 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm and 7 pm – 1 am (weekend) Celebration of flavours At Mayouchi in The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, the head chef, Golpin Sianipar has put together a special menu that offers an array of dishes that celebrate the finest ingredients and cooking techniques, offering everything from rich broths to delicate dim sum and flavourful large plates. It has a wide variety of soups including Winter Melon Soup and Classic Wonton Soup along with dim sum such as Chicken Green Chili Chives Dumpling and Black Cod Szechuan Dim Sum, and even has Dim Sum Puffs such as Chicken 5 Spice, Pork Char Siu and Prawns. The small plates include Chicken Salted Egg Floss and Wok Fried Xianjiang Cumin Lamb among others, and with large plates like Hangzhou Dongpo Pork, Broccoli Lamb Chop with San Pei Sauce and Salmon in Szechuan Sauce. Last but not the least, enjoy the celebration with Rice & Noodles (Non-Veg or Veg) such as Edamame Truffle Fried Riceor Corn Fried Rice or the menu. Where: Mayouchi, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, PowaiWhen: Till January 29Time: 5 pm – 1:30 amContact: 080101 66063 for reservations Two-week long celebrationCelebrate the festivities with Foo's specially curated menu in Mumbai, Expect dishes that delight the palate, like the Fat Choy Tempura Roll, Lantern Togarashi Roll, Longwei Dumpling, Hongbao Dumpling, Fortune Rice and last but not the least, The Golden Luck dessert. While enjoying the food, sip on cocktails such as Midnight Star, Balance Bloom, Twist of Fate, Dusk of Prosperity, Slither and Shine and Fortune Fizz. Beyond the food and drink, Foo brings the festive spirit alive with the Wishing Tree Rituals. Diners will receive golden wishing cards to share their hopes for 2025, which will be displayed on a beautiful Cherry Blossom Tree at each outlet (excluding Powai, Town and Pune). Fortune Cookies will also be handed out to guests, cracking open surprises and spreading little moments of luck and joy. The celebration is incomplete without the lion dance performances that will take place throughout. Where: Foo, Across outletsWhen: Till February 10Time: 12 pm - 1 am Savouring flavours of ChinaMarking the arrival of the Year of the Snake, KOKO presents a specially curated Chinese New Year till February 15. The menu includes sushi like The Imperial Unagi Maki and dim sum like Legacy Lotus Dumpling and even The Royale Dumpling. It also includes the likes of Gong Xi Cheung Fun and Prosperity Cheung Fun, along with Hot-Pot Cantonese-Style Fish and Longevity Noodles. End your meal with the Red Dynasty dessert. The cocktail menu has delicious creations like the Peach Fortune, Lucky Mandarin, Fortune’s Sip and Vanilla Bloom among others. Where: KOKO, Lower ParelWhen: Till February 15Contact: +91 77159 63030 for reservations
28 January,2025 05:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs Butterfly High celebrates its sixth anniversary, the restaurant has launched its sixth outlet in Goregaon on January 24. Founded by the brains behind Shiv Sagar, The Bigg Small Café + Bar, and Kyma, the restaurant continues its legacy of blending eclectic art décor with indulgent flavours, offering an unforgettable experience to food lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike. Designed by duo Nishant Desai and Umesh Desai, founders of UDA India, the interiors are a stunning mix of earthy tones, modern design, chic elements, and contemporary aesthetics. Adding to the allure is our exclusive private dining room, a cosy, cocooned space ideal for celebrating milestones and hosting exclusive gatherings. The highlight of the new outlet is undoubtedly its grandest bar, one of the largest across all Butterfly High locations. This impressive space not only adds to the visual appeal but also elevates the drinking experience with a new menu of cocktails, including new innovations such as Lychee Bliss on a Coconut Breeze, Liquid Gold, Whispering Waves, and Electric Blossom, all crafted with unique flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Nikhil Rochlani, managing partner of Shiv Sagar Foods & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Our Goregaon outlet boasts one of the largest and sophisticated bars across all our locations. We’re proud to introduce a curated selection of extensive spirits, innovative cocktails and exquisite dishes that promise to elevate the dining and drinking experience to an entirely new level for our discerning patrons.” The menu at Butterfly High promises a delightful selection of standout new dishes specially curated for this venue. Begin your experience with flavourful starters like Green Tea and Pumpkin Soup, Teriyaki Grilled Sesame Chicken, Corn Chilli Pepper, and the exotic Pandan Wrapped Fish. For the main course, indulge in mouthwatering options such as Nasi Goreng, Kung Pao Double Pan-Fried Noodles, Black Sesame Chicken with Mini Kulchas, and the rich, savory Mushroom Shammi Pao. End your meal on a sweet note with indulgent desserts like the crispy, golden Honey Noodles with Ice Cream or the decadent Nutella Pancakes, crafted to leave a lasting impression. Speaking about this milestone, Narayan Poojari, Founder of Shiv Sagar Foods & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., shared, “At Butterfly High, our goal has always been to deliver an exceptional dining experience. The opening of our new outlet in Goregaon reflects our unwavering commitment to creating spaces that not only inspire but also offer a truly indulgent experience for our guests.” Adding to this, Nikita Poojari, director of Shiv Sagar Foods & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., expressed, “We’re thrilled to bring the Butterfly High experience to Goregaon. This outlet encapsulates everything the brand stands for: art, innovation, and a love for food.” Ankita Poojari, director of Shiv Sagar Foods & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., noted, “Our 6th outlet reflects not just a milestone for us but also an evolution in our vision. From the interiors to the menu, every detail has been carefully crafted to offer a one-of-a-kind dining journey.” Detail: Where: Unit No 4, Gate no. 2 Nesco H2FC, Nesco Center, Western Express Hwy, Goregaon, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400063Price: Rs 2,000 for two peopleCall: +91-9987700348 and +91-9987700349 for reservations
24 January,2025 06:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIf you are looking to step out of your home for the Republic Day weekend, then there is a lot to do in Mumbai but more importantly, there is a lot of food on offer in various parts of the city. Among the many is a Republic Day celebration at ITC Maratha as its signature restaurant, Peshwa Pavilion, brings Mumbaikars an exclusive culinary experience, 'Chakh Le India'. Known for its immersive ambiance and delicious food, the restaurant at the five-star property promises a majestic dining experience infused with India’s rich culinary traditions. The 'Chakh Le India' feast is a tribute to royal Indian flavours, featuring traditional roasts, sweet delights, and a variety of exquisite dishes crafted to honour the country’s diverse heritage. With a wide array of Indian cuisine on offer, the culinary experience will include a chaat counter, Shrikhand Berliner live counter, Chole Kulcha live counter, Mithai thali and Biryanis. The celebrations include a lavish dinner on January 24 and 25 from 7 pm to 11:30 pm, starting at Rs 3,000 onwards per person. On January 26, diners can enjoy a grand Sunday Brunch from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm, priced at Rs 3,300 onwards per person. Details:Date: January 24 - January 26Time: Dinner (7 pm - 11:30 pm) and brunch (12:30 pm to 3:30 pm)Price: Rs 3,000 onwardsAddress: Sahar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099 Call: 022 40341800 for reservations or email: Restaurantreservation.Itcmaratha@itchotels.in
24 January,2025 04:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs India celebrates National Tourism Day on January 25, culinary tourism has emerged as a driving force, transforming how vacations are experienced in India. What was once a secondary element of travel itineraries, food is now at the heart of the modern vacation. For today’s adventurous traveller, culinary experiences are no longer just an add-on; they are essential to shaping the entire travel journey. As culinary tourism in India rises to prominence, it is capturing the attention of both food lovers and the travel industry, signalling a new era in how people explore destinations. In 2024, a marked shift in travel behaviour saw Indians taking vacations more frequently and for longer durations than ever before. This increase in travel was accompanied by a nearly 25 per cent surge in vacation spending, a significant portion of which was driven by a growing desire for unique and immersive culinary experiences. As travellers seek out food-centric adventures that connect them to local cultures, the demand for food-focused tours continues to rise, setting the stage for culinary tourism to play an even more pivotal role in 2025. In light of this transformation, the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024, curated by Godrej Vikhroli Cucina and crafted with insights from over 190 food experts including renowned chefs, travel professionals, food bloggers, and nutritionists has identified the top culinary experiences that shaped Indian vacations in 2024. The report highlights how food has evolved from a peripheral aspect of travel to the very core of vacation planning. With growing interest in food-focused journeys, experts predict that culinary tourism will continue to thrive, as more travellers seek experiences that immerse them in the local flavours and traditions of their destinations. Top travel trends of 2024:1. Street food and market tours: The allure of local and regional flavours dominated travel itineraries, with 94.1 per cent of experts identifying street food and market tours as the biggest attractions of 2024. From vibrant spice markets to bustling food streets, these tours offered travellers an authentic taste of India’s culinary diversity. 2. Culinary site tours: Nearly 92.3 per cent of experts predict that culinary site tours, where travellers learn about the production of their favourite foods, will continue to gain popularity. These tours offered behind-the-scenes insights into food production, from tea estates to artisanal cheese-making hubs. 3. Home dining experiences and interactions with local experts: A significant 87.5 per cent of experts noted the growing trend of travellers booking home dining experiences. These experiences allowed visitors to delve deeper into local food cultures, learn traditional cooking techniques, and enjoy intimate interactions with regional and community experts. Additionally, excursions to source signature regional products emerged as a must-have in itineraries. "Food is no longer just a part of the travel experience, but its very essence," says Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, managing director of A Perfect Bite Consulting and editor of the annual Godrej Food Trends Report. "Today’s travellers are not just seeking destinations but connections—immersive, authentic experiences that allow them to explore the heart of a place through its culinary heritage. Whether it’s walking through vibrant spice markets, learning traditional recipes from local experts, or savouring unique regional flavours, food has become the bridge that links people to cultures and stories. As we celebrate National Tourism Day, this rise of culinary tourism highlights not only India’s rich food heritage but also its capacity to captivate and inspire travellers in entirely new ways and create opportunities for local people and small brands to showcase culinary culture and cuisine." As India celebrates National Tourism Day, the growing trend of culinary tourism invites food lovers to discover the nation's vibrant food culture, whether by tasting street food in local markets or learning from community food experts. The fusion of food and travel is not just a fleeting trend; it is a movement that is reshaping the future of vacations, both in India and globally, and promises to redefine how we experience food, culture, and destinations in the years to come.
24 January,2025 01:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTo celebrate Chinese New Year, Bumipura is inviting Mumbaikars to ring in the Year of the Wood Snake with a menu that celebrates tradition, prosperity, and togetherness. Drawing from the rich cultural tapestry of Chinese communities in Singapore and Malaysia, this special Chinese New Year seasonal menu will be available from January 14 to March 9. It’s a celebration of heritage, brought to life through thoughtful dishes and inventive cocktails that capture the spirit of the season. This menu is specially curated around the idea of prosperity, a theme woven into every element of the Chinese New Year celebrations. The Auspicious Orange cocktail takes its cue from Mandarin oranges, cherished symbols of good fortune and wealth during Lunar New Year. The vibrant blend of Dewar’s 8 Japanese smooth whiskey, Nagpur orange distillate, cardamom, simple syrup, and citric acid is finished with a festive orange chewy. It’s bright, refreshing, and rooted in tradition. The restaurant push boundaries with another non vegetarian cocktail invention. The Porky Prosperity is a bold nod to Singapore’s iconic Bak Kwa, a barbecued pork jerky that’s synonymous with abundance and generosity. This adventurous creation combines bacon fat-washed Patron Silver tequila with campari, agave syrup, fresh lime, soya sauce, and chilli, topped with a slice of authentic Bak Kwa from Bee Cheng Hiang. It’s a daring and memorable mix that captures the essence of celebration and indulgence. The menu also offers two vegetarian dishes that bring comforting flavours with a festive twist. The Turnip Cake, made with radish, mushroom, and soya chaap, is a beloved dim sum staple that symbolises good fortune and prosperity. Meanwhile, the Lotus Leaf Rice—jasmine rice steamed with mushrooms, cashew nuts, and pumpkin and wrapped in a fragrant lotus leaf—represents unity and celebration, essential values of the Lunar New Year. Date: January 14 to March 9Venue: Bumipura, Kamala Mills, Trade Tower, Unit No.1, B Wing, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400013Call:+91 89761 06059 for reservations
22 January,2025 11:58 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUttar Pradesh's first double-decker bus restaurant, Pumpkin, near the media centre at Manveer Godra in Mahakumbh Nagar has been inaugurated on Monday. The eatery has a kitchen on the ground floor and the restaurant on the first floor, where 25 people can sit and enjoy pure vegetarian food. The Pumpkin brand being started from the Maha Kumbh will later be launched at religious places such as Varanasi, Mathura and Ayodhya. The cost of food has been kept economical and fasting food will also be available on special occasions. Interestingly, Maha Kumbh Nagar is a temporary city and the 76th district spread over 10,000 acres that has been created for four months for the event.The restaurant opens at a time when the Maha Kumbh Mela is underway in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. Occurring every 12 years, it is considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. As of today, more than 1.59 million devotees take dip in Sangam despite chilly weather, dense fog on day 9 of Mahakumbh. (With inputs from ANI and PTI)
21 January,2025 11:08 AM IST | Maha Kumbh Nagar (UP) | mid-day online correspondentSouth Mumbaikars can rejoice as there is another restaurant that they can visit in Churchgate with the opening of Quattro Bistro. It comes from the iconic Quattro Ristorante, renowned for its fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines. Nestled in Jamshedji Tata Road, behind Eros Cinema and opposite Satyam Collection, this new venue aims to charm SoBo diners with its signature offerings and inviting ambiance. Since its inception in 2011, Quattro Ristorante is known for its vegetarian culinary innovations for diners in the city by combining authentic Italian techniques with the bold zest of Mexican flavours. The new Churchgate outlet extends this legacy, offering beloved classics alongside inventive desserts and an array of great coffees and beverages to choose from. Quattro Bistro takes pride in its inclusive and thoughtful menu that also caters to Jain preferences. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes that appeal to diverse palates. Whether indulging in the delicate richness of Italian recipes or savouring the fiery, rustic flavours of Mexico, every dish is a culinary art. The quaint yet welcoming ambiance aims to be apt for a get together with family and friends. Located in the heart of South Mumbai, the new restaurant aims to help diners get an option to savour not just its celebrated Italian-Mexican fare but also an extensive selection of coffees and non-alcoholic beverages – perfect for a quick coffee break or an indulgent meal. Where: Jamshedji Tata Road, behind Eros Cinema, opposite Satyam Collection, ChurchgateContact: +91 9833725903 for enquiries
20 January,2025 03:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCafe Out of the Blue has unveiled its Fondue Festival, from starting today, and will go on till February 14, showcasing an irresistible array of savoury and sweet creations for diners in Mumbai. Each dish reflects the cafe's renowned culinary artistry, from the comforting Swiss Cheese Fondue and bold Peri-Peri Fondue to the aromatic Desi Curry Leaf Fondue. For the first time, Cafe Out of the Blue brings Tiramisu Fondue as part of its much-awaited festival, offering a rich, coffee-infused twist on the iconic Italian dessert. Sweet lovers can also indulge in the decadent Double Dark Fondue and luxurious Baileys Fondue. Rahul Bajaj, founder and director said, "Get ready to immerse yourself in an electrifying fusion of taste and creativity at our Fondue Festival. This high-octane celebration is packed with exciting flavours and unforgettable moments, guaranteed to leave every attendee thrilled and amazed." Highlights from the menu will include: Chocolate fondues:• Tiramisu Fondue: Dark chocolate infused with tiramisu flavors, paired with finger biscuits, fresh fruits, and tea cake—a dessert lover’s dream.• Double Dark Fondue: Decadent Vanhouten dark chocolate paired with brownie bites, fresh fruits, and tea cake.• Salted Caramel Fondue: Creamy Callebaut gold chocolate with salted caramel, served with an irresistible selection of brownies, fruits, and tea cake.• Baileys Fondue: A luscious blend of Vanhouten dark chocolate and Baileys, perfect for an indulgent treat. Cheese fondues:• Crispy Bacon Fondue: A heavenly blend of cheese with crispy bacon bits—pure indulgence!• Crab et Homard Fondue: A luxurious melange of gruyere and Emmenthal cheeses, served with crab cakes, sourdough croutons, and sautéed vegetables.• Swiss Cheese Fondue: A luxurious blend of Swiss cheese and Grover, served with crispy sourdough croutons and sautéed vegetables.• Desi Fondue: A bold curry-based fondue bursting with spices and cheese, paired with sautéed vegetables for a tantalizing twist.• Cracked Pepper Fondue: A zesty mix of homemade spice, Emmenthal, and cheddar that’ll leave your taste buds dancing.• Peri-Peri Fondue: A fiery take on fondue with bold Mexican flavors for that extra zing.• J.D. Melting Pot Fondue: Sharp cheddar meets Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7, served with pretzels, sourdough croutons, and sautéed vegetables—a true crowd-pleaser.• Curry Leaf Fondue: A chef’s masterpiece featuring fragrant curry leaf pesto, accompanied by sourdough croutons and sautéed vegetables. Details:When: Till February 14Where: Cafe Out of the Blue, Khar West
20 January,2025 11:56 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMany fans are travelling to Mumbai to witness Coldplay live this weekend at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The British band will be performing in the city on January 18, 19 and 21 before they go to Ahmedabad.While there is music in the air, food isn't far behind and even though it will be available inside the stadium for fans, some may reach early and want to enjoy good food nearby outside the venue. It is not only before the venue but also afterwards that fans will want to enjoy an after-party, and we have also got you covered for that. Here is your go-to food guide around Navi Mumbai during the Coldplay Mumbai concert: Mumbaikar Vishal Rao, who is a local, and lives in the neighbourhood suggests the best places to eat as follows: Legend's CaféFor those who don't want to travel too far from the venue, Rao suggest visiting Legend's Cafe, which is within the college premises. Café Patasa Cafe Patasa is a newly opened dining spot in the neighbourhood, but he believes has already become popular for its eggless desserts, which are a must try for all fans, and the gelatos are a local favourite, he says. PrithvishIf you are looking to enjoy some food and drinks at a cheaper place and a local hangout spot, then Prithvish is your place to be according to Rao. The local bar, which is the go-to for most D.Y. Patil students , has great tandoori food. Gourmet Burgers If you want to relish some burgers and are open to trying out new spots, then Gourmet Burgers has also opened up next to the stadium and can be your pre-concert meal if you are travelling from other cities or just want to grab a bite. While burgers are always an option, Rao says the fried chicken strips are a must-try. Venelicious Situated in Sector 4 Nerul, Rao says Venelicious is a very cute cafe with desserts if people want to feed their sweet tooth cravings before the concert any time during the day. Communion Cafe Last but not the least, Communion Cafe in Belapur, which is only 10 minutes from the campus, he says has amazing food and ambiance, and will be loved by all concert-goers who come for Coldplay's Mumbai performance. Midnight Memories - Late Night EditionNavi Mumbai Marriott Hotel is hosting a post-Coldplay experience under the midnight sky on January 18,19 and 21 Midnight buffet at 7 Isles Coldplay fans can delight in the lavish buffet spread crafted to satisy your late night cravings. Time: 11 pm to 1 amPrice: Rs 1,500 plus taxes per person Dance the night away at NazaaraConcert goers can head to Nazaara to keep the night alive with an electrifying after-party offering a panoramic view of the city. Time: 11 pm onwards Call: 022 6265 0000/8655707853
18 January,2025 01:38 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoADVERTISEMENT