Zanotta Introduces New Italian Menu with Chef Daniele Di Sacco

Si Nonna's, India's most popular destination to get real sourdough Neapolitan pizzas, has inaugurated its 23rd location, its first in Thane at Mumbai location after successfully winning over customers in seven cities. The rich aromas of Naples are brought to one of India's most vibrant and inventive culinary scenes by Si Nonna's, which is well-known for creating artisanal pizzas with a 48-hour fermented sourdough crust.

Why Thane? A Place That Craves Innovation
Thane is the ideal setting for Si Nonna's next chapter because of its longstanding reputation for valuing innovation and creativity.  With a dedication to authenticity, the well-liked pizzeria has introduced its superb dining experience to The Walk in Hiranandani, Thane. The city offers an ideal setting for gastronomic exploration because its foodies are always looking for new eating experiences.

 “We are excited to bring our signature offerings to Thane,” shared Ayush Jatia, the visionary behind Si Nonna’s. “Thane’s vibrant food culture thrives on innovation and authenticity. We believe our handcrafted sourdough Neapolitan pizzas, combined with immersive dining experiences, will strike a chord with the city’s food lovers.”

Beyond a Meal: An Engaging Dining Experience with Pizza Making 
Si Nonna's Thane is unique because of its live open kitchen, an enthralling culinary stage where patrons can observe the skill that goes into each pizza. This sensory encounter is given a distinctive twist by the establishment's entertaining "Make-Your-Own-Pizza" activity. Foodies can take on the role of a pizzaiolo, create their own customized pizzas, and select from a range of premium ingredients.

Innovative Offerings Tailored for Thane
Every palate will be delighted by Si Nonna's Thane menu, which expertly combines classic dishes with modern ingredients. The famous Pizza No. 3, an experimental dish including tomato sauce, Fior di Latte mozzarella, thinly sliced garlic, pitted Greek Kalamata olives, capers, oregano, fresh basil, and EVOO, is one of the most popular dishes. These freshly made Neapolitan pizzas are a celebration of taste and authenticity. Si Nonna's promotes the idea that pizza can be a component of healthy food for people looking for wholesome options. 

Options for Every Dietary Preference
Understanding the diverse preferences of Thane’s diners, Si Nonna’s offers Jain-friendly pizzas, with several options available on request. Vegan diners can also indulge in plant-based offerings crafted without compromising on taste or quality.

With this launch, Si Nonna’s now operates 23 outlets across 8 cities, including Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Indore, Ahmedabad, Surat, and Bangalore. The brand continues its mission to bring the authentic taste of Naples to food lovers across India.
 

Nestled in the lush embrace of Santha Bagh, 1932 Trevi is more than a restaurant—it is a passage through time, where Italian grandeur meets the soul of Indian heritage.

Inspired by the Maharaja’s travels to Italy in 1932, Trevi is a tribute to his dream of bringing the splendor of Roman artistry and culinary excellence to Jaipur. The newly launched restaurant invites guests into a world where every detail tells a story, every flavour holds a piece of history, and every experience weaves into one beautiful tale.

A Space Where History and Design Converge

Designed by Shantanu Garg, 1932 Trevi’s interiors echo the romance of Italy with the regality of India. The intricate Padma motifs and natural elements weave a narrative of culture and artistry, while the centerpiece—a magnificent fountain reminiscent of Rome’s iconic Trevi—invites guests to partake in the age-old ritual of tossing a coin, symbolizing hope, wishes, and shared moments. “1932 Trevi isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an immersive space where design and storytelling coexist,” says Shantanu Garg.

An amalgamation of Italian and Indian Flavors

Guided by the Maharaja’s passion for food, 1932 Trevi’s menu brings to us the best of Italian finesse and Indian richness. Each course is a carefully curated experience:
•    Appetizers introduce herbaceous, delicate flavors that set the stage.
•    Mains balance the boldness of Indian spices with the refinement of Italian craftsmanship.
•    Desserts offer notes of sweetness infused with aromatic depth.
•    Cocktails, inspired by gemstones, blend sophistication and surprise, mirroring the opulence of both cultures.

The Food & Beverage Program at 1932 Trevi

1932 Trevi’s menu is an exploration of tradition and innovation, showcasing the vibrancy of Indian ingredients and the depth of Italian culinary philosophy. Signature dishes like the Corn Tempura Cake with Gondhoraj Lemon Gel, the Trevi Fried Chicken with Gribiche Sauce, and the classic Cacio e Pepe pay homage to flavours both familiar and new. The desserts, including the Vanilla and Hibiscus Wild Rice Kheer, add an unexpected yet comforting end to the experience.
The beverage program at 1932 Trevi is equally immersive, featuring handcrafted cocktails that draw inspiration from regional elements married with global techniques. The Trevi Paloma, made with Patron Silver and Plum Mathania Cordial, brings a bright and sour playfulness, while Symphony No. 41 blends Dewar’s 12yo with cherry vinegar and mint for a refreshing yet complex profile. For those who prefer a richer indulgence, the Cat’s Eye, featuring toasted hazelnut aged rum and vegan foam, is a velvety, nutty delight.

A Vision Realized

1932 Trevi stands as a testament to passion, legacy, and the pursuit of beauty. “1932 Trevi isn’t just a place—it’s a dream realized,” shares Namokar. “It’s a space where wishes are made, moments linger, and every detail transports guests to a world of magic and beauty.” Jai, who brought this vision to life, adds, “Building 1932 Trevi was about turning an ambitious dream into reality—a space where tradition meets modernity in perfect harmony.”

Pomodoro opens its door in Bandra which is a delicious gastronomic adventure through the heart of Italy. Pomodoro, which takes its name from the Italian word for "tomato," is tucked away in the bustling center of Bandra. 

Pomodoro is a 28-seater pasta bar, bringing the real Italian cuisine to life by fusing innovation and tradition in a warm, chef-focused environment. Pomodoro promises an unmatched dining experience that honors Italy's love of comfort cuisine and community with its open kitchen, handcrafted artisanal pasta, and menu based on freshness and tradition. 

The interior design reflects the coziness of Pomodoro's characteristic red; the room effortlessly combines comfort and elegance. Enthusiasts are served at a separate coffee counter, and monthly specials provide an intriguing selection of unusual pasta forms, sauces, and creative desserts, such as seasonal gelatos and constantly changing tiramisu variations. 

Under the direction of Chef Afshaa Rajqotwala, Pomodoro honors Italy's culinary legacy while adding a unique touch. Chef Afshaa, a Le Cordon Bleu alumnus with a solid background and an exceptional career in hospitality, carefully selects their cuisine. Her goal is very clear: "to introduce her neighborhood in Bandra to the delights of impromptu, informal Italian cooking."

Another addition to Pomodoro besides their culinary offerings is their Espresso Corner which celebrates coffee culture with a curated menu of brews for every palate. From the classic Un Caffè to the bold Sunshine Espresso with orange juice, and indulgent options like Cinnamon & Vanilla Dolce Latte, each cup offers a moment of warmth and indulgence, adding a unique flavor to your visit. 

Commenting on the launch, Chef Afshaa said, “Pomodoro is not merely a restaurant, but a celebration of the simplicity, warmth, and joy food brings. Our vision is to lead the industry in pasta craftsmanship. Future plans include expanding with additional locations, launching a retail line of artisanal sauces and pasta, and hosting unique events such as guest chef takeovers and curated tasting menus. We aim to offer our guests the experience of dining at a neighborhood Italian bar, where every dish is made with love and care.” 

Fine Dining Italian restaurant Toscano has entered Hyderabad by opening its first outlet at Hitech city. 

Known for its award-winning legacy, the restaurant and wine bar is right on track to grow across major cities nationwide. 

Bringing the best of flavours with a genuine tactic of serving a high-quality dining experience, Toscano brings a slice of the Tuscan countryside to customer’s table. Its specialty is the authenticity from a menu made using the finest local ingredients and cheeses imported straight from Italy. With a full bar menu including unique house-crafted cocktails, Toscano promises a cheerful vibe.

“We are delighted to announce the opening of our latest Toscano outlet in Hyderabad. Hyderabad’s diverse and dynamic population appreciates quality and flavour, and we are excited to offer them the true taste of Italy. We look forward to welcoming them and becoming an integral part of the local community,” shared Chef Goutam, CEO, Toscano.
 
Indulge in soft-stretched sourdough pizzas, handmade pasta, and a constantly evolving menu with the seasons to add more innovative dishes. The unique events like interactive wine dinners, chef’s tables, and cooking masterclasses invite one to dive into the flavours and stories behind each dish.

The newest Toscano outlet captures the essence of Italy in its design, with sophisticated artwork, vintage pieces, and lush indoor plants creating a welcoming ambience. The open bar invites you to be a part of the culinary action while enjoying the comfort of a well-designed space. There’s a well-lit outdoor seating for those who wish to enjoy alfresco wine and dine in the evening.

Hauz Khas in Delhi has got a new address for customers to try Italian cuisine, ‘Trattoria Hugo’.

Hugo is the story of two cousins, Prateek and Rachit, a story that travels through the cobblestone streets in the interiors of the Italian countryside, a place the brothers would visit for business other than ‘food’ but they always found themselves unwinding over a spectacular culinary adventure at every trip they made. 

Hugo as a concept took shape in October 2023 and has come to fruition in April 2024. A chef centric space that aspires to be dynamic in a way that allows the kitchen to be in a constant state of creation and development of new dishes. 

The menu has been designed exclusively by the partners, Prateek and Rachit along with the in-house chefs at Hugo. The brand showcases classics done like an Italian Nonna, Chicken Parmigiana, Meatballs in Bisque and the eternally decadent Brioche Bun Lobster Rolls & Fried Chicken Rolls. The most unique selling point here lies in the synergy of good coffee, good food, good prices, all in one gorgeous bistro.

Osteria, is Noida's newly designed location blending with the coziness of home.

This establishment not only offers genuine Italian fare but also serves as a center for communal gatherings and artistic expression.

"Our mission at Osteria is to create a space that feels like home—a place where guests can come together, enjoy exceptional food, engage in meaningful conversations, and simply relax, We've focused on comabining high-quality food and outstanding service to provide a welcoming atmosphere where every guest feels cherished." said Ashish Saggu, founder of Osteria.

At Osteria, the menu pays homage to the rich tapestry of Italian culinary heritage, showcasing an array of pastas, wood-fired pizzas, desserts, and a selection of meticulously crafted mocktails.

Osteria has a flexible environment tailored for professionals seeking a space to work, collaborate, and build connections and Offers amenities that foster productivity and networking, it serves as the perfect venue for meetings, workshops, and cultivating new relationships, all within a welcoming atmosphere that exudes the warmth of home.

Prego, the specialty Italian restaurant at The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi has appointed Chef Davide Di Domenico as its new Chef De Cuisine. 

With over 12 years of culinary experience spanning across Italy and internationally acclaimed establishments, Chef Davide brings a wealth of expertise in traditional Italian cuisine to the vibrant culinary canvas of The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi.

“With my stint at Prego, guests can look forward to a blend of authentic Italian classics infused with innovative twists, presented in contemporary styles. Additionally, I believe that food should satisfy not only the palate but also captivate the eyes. It's more than just nourishment; it's a journey back to cherished moments spent with loved ones,” he shared.

With a diploma in Human Sciences and a Diploma in Culinary Arts obtained at the 'Gambero Rosso' Culinary Academy, Chef Davide is dedicated to excellence and culinary innovation, reflecting in every dish he prepares. Chef Davide attributes his passion for cooking to his grandmother and mother, who cultivated his love for food through their daily family cooking rituals, where he eagerly lent a hand from a young age.

Hailing from Napoli, Italy, Chef Davide's culinary journey began in his hometown, where he honed his skills in traditional Italian cooking before venturing into the realm of luxury hospitality. His professional odyssey includes stints at esteemed establishments such as Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, and renowned Michelin-starred restaurants.

His expertise lies in traditional Italian food and creative pasta making, a skill he has refined through years of experience and culinary exploration across Europe. His culinary philosophy revolves around a harmonious fusion of traditional Italian flavours with innovative culinary techniques. His love for Lazio Region comes from the richness of recipes, Sicilia region for the large choice of amazing products and beautiful landscapes, and Emilia-Romagna Region for the fresh pasta culture.

Chef Davide's signature dishes, meticulously crafted to perfection, promise to transport diners on a culinary journey through Italy's rich gastronomic heritage. These include “One Day In Amalfi Coast” (lemon & burrata risotto with prawns & oregano dust), “Seabass a la Scapece” (slow cooked seabass, zucchini, black olives, mint and chilli pepper), “Parmigiana Napoletana” (his take on the classic eggplant parmigiana served with a delicate puff pastry and basil mashed potatoes) and a dish that he fondly calls “Childhood Memories” (cocoa cake, red wine & chocolate sauce, strawberry & truffle).

NUVO at Sheraton Grand Pune has announced the introduction of Itameshi cuisine to the vibrant city of Pune. 

Originating from the post-World War II era, Itameshi is a unique culinary gem that intertwines the rich traditions of Japanese and Italian cuisines, creating a distinctive and delectable fusion.
 
The cuisine emerged in the aftermath of the war when Japanese society encountered a wave of Western cultural influences. European soldiers, serving as ambassadors of their rich heritage, introduced the Japanese locals to various aspects of their culture, including the tantalizing world of Italian cuisine. This marked the beginning of a culinary fusion that would later be known as Itameshi.
 
Driven by curiosity and a deep-rooted commitment to their culinary traditions, the Japanese embraced this new influence, embarking on a journey of flavour exploration with Western ingredients and cooking techniques. The result was a harmonious fusion of Japanese and Italian culinary elements, creating a distinctive and evolving gastronomic landscape.
  
“It is with immense pride that we bring Itameshi cuisine to Pune, a city known for its appreciation of diverse culinary experiences. Our dedication to the fusion of flavours in Itameshi is a tribute to the resilience and adaptability of the Japanese people, showcasing how history has shaped our appreciation of diverse culinary influences. NUVO's commitment to delivering a unique dining experience is reflected in every aspect of our Itameshi offerings, from the carefully sourced ingredients to the thoughtful adaptation of century-old recipes," shared General Manager, Supreet Roy of Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel.

Embark on an epicurean journey that bridges cultures and indulges your palate in the best of both worlds. Guests can look forward to a dining experience steeped in tradition and innovation with delightful creations like Japanese-Style Pasta, where miso, soy sauce, bonito flakes, or seaweed fuse seamlessly; Matcha Tiramisu, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert infused with Japanese matcha green tea powder; Tempura-style Fried Caprese, to Sake Risotto, and the tantalizing Volcano Crab Roll, a delightful fusion of soft shell crab, avocado, cucumber, crab sticks, and Italian chili sauce NUVO invites you to experience the magic of Itameshi cuisine, a celebration of history, tradition, and the art of culinary fusion.

The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru has recently appointed Chef Roberto Apa as the Executive Sous Chef.

The team eagerly anticipates Chef Roberto Apa contributing his expertise and distinctive culinary perspective to their kitchen.

Chef Apa has worked at well-known hotels like Marriott International. His last job was being the head chef at Scalini Restaurant in Doha.

 “All my commitment and aim is to give a superlative culinary experience for the guests who dine with me and etch on their memories a truly unique experience for which they would love to come back and relive the moments of joy and happiness. Even though the property is relatively new, it has already established itself with its culinary repertoire. Its relentless efforts to offer the best in class, and maintain standards and perfection aligns perfectly with my working style and approach.” said Chef Roberto Apa, Executive Sous Chef.

Chef Roberto further expresses, "My culinary style is intricately tied to my personal experiences and memories. Each dish reflects a piece of Italian culture, embodying the rich tradition of family recipes passed down through generations within the familial kitchen from the farm to the countryside and the ocean. These recipes have been further shaped by my diverse global culinary experiences and innovative cooking techniques.

Chef has completed his education at IPSAR Lucio Petronio and ALMA of the National Academy of Italian Cuisine.

Chef Roberto Apa knows a lot about the restaurant business and has vast experience in running big kitchens. He makes sure the food is always excellent for the customers and maintains high-quality standards.

The sourdough pizzerias is rapidly expanding and has recently inaugurated two additional outlets in Phoenix Market City, Kurla, and another in Inorbit Mall, Vashi.

With these new additions, Si Nonna's now has a presence in Mumbai at Kamla Mills, Jio World, and Fun Republic, along with one store in Pune on FC Road.

"We're thrilled to bring the essence of Si Nonna's to Kurla and Vashi and we can't wait to showcase our passion for authentic Italian food with their communities. Come gather at our tables, let the warmth of our hospitality envelope you, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of Si Nonna's." said Ayush Jatia, Founder, Si Nonna's.

Every sourdough pizza is carefully prepared using traditional methods. The recently opened establishments are poised to delight taste buds with their dedication to Neapolitan heritage.

Beyond Sourdough Pizzas, brand provides a variety of options including salads, starters, homemade dips, desserts, and beverages.

Nonna's is set to launch India's inaugural Neapolitan Sourdough Pizzeria on Fergusson College Road in Pune.

Nonna's is embarking on an expansion venture, with Pune as its newest destination.

The restaurant will present an array of handcrafted delicacies that are certain to enchant the refined tastes of this city.

Restaurant is established by Ayush Jatia, this pizzeria represents a voyage to Naples, Italy. Nonna's sourdough starter has its origins in mother dough that traces back to the 18th century and has been cherished and passed down through generations of the Galliano family in Naples.

“Nonna’s has embarked on a mission to bring Pune the ultimate pizza experience, boasting our signature sourdough pizzas which has a legacy of a 500-year-old recipe. We believe in crafting exceptional dining experiences, and our passion for perfection shines through our artisanal creations. With a blend of traditional techniques and innovative flavours, we are sure that Pune will love Nonna’s as much as it’s been adored in Mumbai.” said Ayush Jatia, Founder.

Nonna's menu offers the sourdough pizzas, particularly Pizza No. 2, Pizza No. 3, and Pizza No. 6, which is popular among customers.

The menu is designed to cater to a wide range while maintaining authenticity. The menu comprises a selection of fried appetizers, salads, oven-baked starters, and desserts, including Eggplant Parmigiana, Garlic Sourdough, Tomato and Mozzarella Focaccia and Nonna's renowned Tiramisu.

Nonna's pizzeria offers a range of beverages including wines, Aperol, Campari, and beer.

Grand Hyatt Gurgaon has launched new Italian restaurant Cena Pranzo.

The restaurant offers a delightful journey to the heart of Italy. With the aroma of freshly baked pizza and the sizzle of eggplant parmigiana, it effortlessly combines traditional Italian cuisine with a stylish yet relaxed dining ambiance.

Translating to "Dinner Lunch" in Italian, Cena Pranzo invites diners to experience unpretentious and authentic Italian flavors. The restaurant is led by Chef Mauro Ferrari, a third-generation Italian Chef with over 4 decades of culinary experience. The restaurant's unwavering dedication to sourcing the finest Italian ingredients ensures every dish narrates a tale of Italian heritage. Their signature Burrata, Homemade Tagliatelle and classic Tiramisu are must-try.

"Cena Pranzo is an embodiment of my love for Italy's culinary traditions. It's a privilege to share the simple yet profound flavors of my homeland with our guests. Each dish is a heartfelt tribute to the soul of Italy,” shared chef Ferrari.

Tarun Seth, General Manager of Grand Hyatt Gurgaon, shared his excitement about Cena Pranzo, stating, "Cena Pranzo to me is ‘Simply Italian’. It is fuss free and unpretentious, offering a refreshing approach to Italian cuisine. Striving for perfection in simplicity is a formidable challenge, as it requires a delicate balance. We look forward to welcoming guests seeking a remarkable dining experience, where elegance meets comfort."

Whether it's their signature dishes or a variety of offerings, this cozy restaurant promises a fresh taste of Italy that will leave diners craving for more. 
 

ViVi Italian Bar and Kitchen is an Italian restaurant takes its name from the Italian word for "live" or "be alive," reflecting its core philosophy.

Vivi Italian Bar and Kitchen combines the ambiance with the flavours of wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted garlic bread, freshly made pasta, artisanal gelatos, and delightful tiramisu.

Vivi lies an authentic wood-fired oven, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of traditional pizzerias in Naples.

Brand is renowned for its exceptional pizzas, the menu goes with a range of options to suit various tastes and preferences.

Restaurant has pasta varieties like cannelloni and tortellini with flavors of cheesy garlic dough ball and their signature Nutella pizza. It also offers a selection of beers, Italian wines, and cocktails.

Ankita Sharma, the mind behind Vivi's design, sought inspiration from the captivating Amalfi and Sicilian coasts to infuse the interiors with an inviting elegance and cozy warmth.

Ankita expresses, "Working on this project has been an absolute delight. The core concept for the design revolves around blending the rustic elements of Italy with a modern understanding. We strive to create a colorful and vibrant bar and kitchen, providing a fun and casual atmosphere for our valued customers."

Vivi aims to capture the essence of this lively atmosphere by blending the poolside surroundings, a crafted menu, and an immersive ambiance. It strives to be the ultimate choice for Italian food enthusiasts.

Quattro Ristorante, Bengaluru recently reopened its doors after months of renovation.

The chic new ambience is inspired by the diners in Italy and the space spells all things elegant and minimalistic. The newly revamped spaced is super Instagram friendly with perfect lighting.

“Quattro Ristorante is a concept that speaks of innovation, culinary excellence and premium offering. We take pride in our menu as we believe that it encompasses parts of Italy and Mexico, which by far is a tough fusion, but at Quattro, we are always open to experimentation and innovation,” shared Pramod, Partner, Quattro Ristorante Bengaluru.

The franchise specialises in Italian and Mexican cuisine. Apart from their presence in Bengaluru, the franchise has outlets in Chennai, Mumbai and Dubai.

The culinary innovations on the menu are prepared keeping Jain sensibilities in mind. The extensive menu includes an array of dishes that have elements of surprise and culinary craftsmanship.

Quattro Ristorante is committed to offering its patrons an authentic fine dining experience by using techniques of Molecular gastronomy and introducing guests to liquid nitrogen experiences, Quattro is the epitome of advances in Food technology.

Packaged food brand Habanero Foods announced that it is strengthening its presence in Tamil Nadu.

Currently, the brand is available across 150 stores in Chennai including department stores, supermarkets, hypermarkets and convenience stores.

“Indian consumers are well-travelled and have a discerning taste for global cuisine. Restaurant-goers continuously seek new flavours and spices for the palate, and millennials are leading the way. They’re looking for bold, spicy and adventurous characteristics in ingredients. Tamil Nadu is the hub for automobiles, manufacturing and electronics – attracting talent from across India. And these people are looking to bring the restaurant experience home. That is where our products come in – offering international flavours at affordable prices.” said Griffith David, Founder and MD, Habanero Foods International.

The aim is to make it available across every store to help people ‘Cook like a Chef’ in the comfort of their homes.

It has also doubled its sales in the region and plans to deepen its presence in the state. The company recently expanded into Vellore, Coimbatore and Puducherry, and will be expanding further across Tamil Nadu in the coming months.

The company is currently present across 13 cities in India, and available pan-India on www.habanero.in , Amazon, Flipkart and Big Basket.

Habanero is an Indian brand that manufactures a wide range ready to cook sauces, salsa (dips), pasta and tortilla wraps that are full-flavoured, vegan and gluten free - helping consumers make a healthy yet flavoursome choice. The USP is to offer import quality products at affordable prices. The company aims to target both the B2B and the B2C segments in Tamil Nadu, to provide easy and convenient cooking options for the HoReCa (hospitality) and consumer segment.

“For commercial kitchens, convenience is key and time is premium. Our products are the perfect solution for anyone looking for a convenient option that provides the right flavours, at the right price point. Our endeavour has always been to offer import quality products at affordable prices,” he added.

Vegetarian gourmet food delivery brand Ignite Foods has launched Cinque – their latest Italian cuisine cloud kitchen.

Named after the Italian number 5, Cinque – the only vegetarian Italian delivery kitchen, strives to awaken your fifth sense with its delicious Italian delicacies ranging from not just the widely available fresh dough and hand-rolled pizzas and pasta's but also a selection of nutty salads, cheesy appetisers and tiramisu for the sweet tooth.

Its handmade menu by Ignite Foods’ culinary director, Chef Amit Puri, Cinque ensures that the right chords are struck when it comes to presenting seasonal and handpicked ingredients.

Also Read: Cloud-kitchen player Ignite Foods welcomes Chef Amit Puri as Partner and Director

“While we Indians relish continental foods and kept stepping out in 2019 to experience it at the best of the restaurants located in the neighbourhood, the pandemic certainly shelved our culinary desires and love for European dishes, especially the Italian ones,” shared Vaibhav Lodha, Founder & CEO, Ignite Foods who came up with this brand to fulfill the needs of the customers craving for scrumptious Italian delicacies in the comfort of their homes.

Ignite Foods is a pure vegetarian gourmet food delivery company with multiple brands offering a range of cuisines including Indian, Pan Asian, Continental and Healthy Food.

South Asia's largest hospitality company, Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)  signed an agreement with Ristorante Paper Moon S.R.L, to launch the globally acclaimed Italian cuisine restaurant, Paper Moon, at its marquee hotels across key locations.

"In our endeavor to bring the latest international trends and experiences for our guests, we are privileged to join hands with Ristorante Paper Moon S.R.L for an exclusive partnership. IHCL will be opening five Paper Moon restaurants over the next few years. I am delighted that after Milan, Istanbul, Manila, Doha and Hong Kong, the first Paper Moon in India will open at Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa," said Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL.

The first Paper Moon was opened in Milan's fashion district in 1977. It offers a wide selection of Italian cuisine in a vibrant contemporary atmosphere allowing guests to enjoy mouthwatering meals. Its seasonal menu is curated with the finest quality ingredients that takes care of everybody’s palates.

Paper Moon in Goa is warm, clean and simple. It is bestowed with comfortable furniture and good lighting that adds to the overall ambience. The restaurant will be offering authentic Paper Moon flavours. Not just this, widest selection of the finest wines will also be available.

Commenting on this partnership, Claudio Bertoni and Stefania Galligani, Owners, Ristorante Paper Moon S.R.L said, "We are incredibly proud to partner with IHCL, an iconic hospitality company, on a project that will take our family brand to amazing destinations. Paper Moon created an authentic culinary experience, which guests from all over the world understand and love. We look forward to offering new experiences to guests."

Paper Moon will be first launched at Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, India's first luxury beach resort that is spread over 42 acres. Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa is built as per 16th century Portuguese fortress. The quintessential Goa with rice paddies, spice plantations, and the striking blend of Goan and Portuguese culture, offers a unique taste of India. All those who are Italian food lovers, come visit this restaurant.

Prego – the Italian specialty restaurant at The Westin Mumbai Garden City recently hosted an authentic gastronomic sojourn with two Italian chefs coming together for a culinary face-off.

Clash of the Italians, a one-of-its-kind event celebrating the nuances of the popular cuisine, witnessed a camaraderie of like-minded guests who appreciate exquisite food.

Hailing from Genoa - the capital city in the coastal region of Liguria in Italy, Antonello Cancedda, Chef De Cuisine, Prego - The Westin Mumbai Garden City showcased his expertise in seafood, while Marouane Rahali, Chef De Cuisine, Alto Vino - Bengaluru Marriott Whitefield hailing from Milan–located in the Lombardy region, - presented the specialities of this hilly province.

The menu during this 10-day festival, features a unique amalgamation of sinfully scrumptious creations from the two talented chefs. Chef Marouane’s menu highlights dishes dalle colline (from the hills) like Pollo tonnato (chicken slow cooked and served with tuna and capers sauce), Beetroot gnocchi, sweet blue cheese sauce toasted walnut,  Polenta croccante cuore di Gorgonzola dolce, lenticchie e salsa alle, (crispy polenta with heart of sweet Gorgonzola cheese, puy lentils stew vegetable jus). This medley can be finished with a delectable Tiramisu decomposto (deconstructed Tiramisu, mascarpone, coffee Ice cream), and Tartufo al cioccolato Belga zabaglione al liquore di nocciola frutti di bosco (Belgian dark chocolate truffle, hazelnut liquor, zabaglione, wild berries).

While Chef Antonello’s menu, dal mare (from the sea) offers prime seafood delights, well-known in Genoa like; Cappon magro (traditional Genovese antipasto, with fish, shellfish and salsa verde) Spaghetti allo scoglio, (seafood, frutti di mare homemade spaghetti, lemon zest), Grigliata mista di pesce (grilled sea bass, prawns, baby octopus, calamari, and grilled vegetables. To balance this exquisite menu, the dessert offerings include Zuppa Inglese (vanilla and chocolate cake flavored with rose syrup) and Sorbetto al arancia e al limone (orange sorbet and lemon sorbet).

Commenting on the launch of the festival, Rahul Dhavale, Executive Chef – The Westin Mumbai Garden City, said “At The Westin Mumbai Garden City, it is our constant endeavor to host exciting events which not only appeal to guest palates but also create memorable experiences. The Clash of the Italians is one such event with two Italian maestros showcasing their culinary fortes and offering guests the best of Italia.”

With food that sings sonorously to the tune of everything passionately Italian, Prego at The Westin Mumbai Garden City is sure to tantalize guest palate amidst an elegant setting.

Piveta Estates, being led by billionaire Analjit Singh, has acquired 51 percent stake in Riga Foods, a chain of Italian-cuisine restaurants in Delhi-NCR.

Billionaire Analjit Singh, also the founder of the Delhi-based diversified Max Group, which underwent a major organizational restructuring earlier this year, which saw the split of the firm into three separate companies subjected to different businesses – life insurance, health and allied businesses and manufacturing.

Founded by celebrity chef Ritu Dalmia and Gita Bhalla in 2000, apart from a chain of Italian- cuisine restaurants, Riga Foods runs a catering service, also known as 'Diva'.

According to reports of The Economic Times, Piveta has owned a majority stake, which is why Riga's founders will retain management control.

Delhi-based Piveta Estates provides services including facilities management, brokerage and lease management, thus Riga Foods will use the funds mainly to expand its operations across the country. Other than expanding in the country, the company is also eyeing opportunities to expand in the international market such as South Africa and the UK.

With a motto to deliver high quality and mouth savoring healthy pizzas, Green House & Hestoft Foods Pvt. Ltd., is looking at an aggressive plan to penetrate its Slice of Italy brand in 2016-17.

One of the leading brand in Italian food as well as Italian signature cakes, has announced its plans to open 10 outlets in and around Delhi-NCR (Saket, Greater Kailash, Gurugram & Noida) and tier II cities, which includes Chandigarh, Shimla, Mussoorie, Haridwar, Dehradun, Amritsar and Jaipur.

“We will be reinforcing our distinctive niche in the segment with our expansion plans. We are looking at adding 10 more outlets in this fiscal year, taking the total count to 25 outlets. We are also planning to launch an interactive and user friendly App for customers in the near future for order bookings, safe & secure transactions and quickest deliveries. We are happy with the continuous growth and getting excellent response from our customers so far,” shared Tarun Chaudhary, Managing Director, Slice of Italy.

“Our next destinations include regions such as Chandigarh, Shimla, Mussoorie, Haridwar, Dehradun, Amritsar, Jaipur, along with Delhi and NCR (Saket, Greater Kailash, Gurugram & Noida). We believe our commitment to provide quality, excellence in services, an obsession for Pizza, dedicated customer service will make our brand successful in the competitive multinational food service industry,” he added.

The brand has in-house Business Development Team, which guides the franchisees through the design, permitting, bidding and construction process and offers a thorough training and support to its franchisees.

The brand known for its Italian menu carrying 66 varieties of Pizzas (Veg & Non Veg) presently, runs 15 outlets in various formats (large and small) in Asian Games Village, Vasant Vihar, Okhla, Lodhi Road, Prashant Vihar, Janakpuri, Dwarka, Mayur Vihar, Hudson Lane, Dilshad Garden, Gurugram Sec-15, Noida, Indirapuram, Jewar and HCL. Out of these 15 outlets, one is a franchise outlet.