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The Club Caters Bets on Live Stations and Global Menus for Mumbai's Festive Gatherings

hospemag.me — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 02:55:26 +0000

The festive season is when home entertaining peaks and hosts increasingly hand the kitchen over to professionals. Mumbai caterer The Club Caters is positioning itself for that demand with festive catering designed for gatherings of families, friends and communities, combining curated menus, service and event execution so that hosts can enjoy the occasion while the details are handled for them.

The menu range is broad. The Club Caters works across contemporary Indian, regional Indian, Italian, Mediterranean and global cuisines, with menus put together to suit the spirit and scale of each celebration. The brand says its approach centres on freshness and ingredient integrity, moving from comforting Indian flavours and festive favourites to contemporary global preparations.

Format is as much part of the pitch as food. Guests can expect live culinary stations, interactive counters and artisanal beverages, which the caterer presents as a way to add a sense of occasion to the festivities while accommodating varied tastes and preferences. For hosts, that kind of set-up turns the buffet into part of the entertainment, and for caterers it is a way to stand out in a crowded festive market.

The offering is built to scale in both directions, from intimate family festivities to larger-format celebrations. According to The Club Caters, each event is planned with an emphasis on warmth, generosity and attention to detail, with the aim of bringing people together around the festive table.

More information is available at theclubcaters.com, and on Instagram at @theclubcaters.

Images: courtesy of The Club Caters via Rainmaker Consults

Three Days, Six Stays: Long-Weekend Escapes from Delhi for 2 October

hospemag.me — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 02:48:37 +0000

With 2 October falling on a Friday this year, Delhi gets a three-day weekend, and hotels within a few hours' drive of the capital are competing for it. Six properties across Corbett, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Nainital and Kasauli are pitching short, unhurried breaks built around regional food, wellness and local ritual rather than packed itineraries, a reminder of how much of the drive-to leisure market now turns on experiences as much as rooms.

Taj Corbett Resort & Spa sits along the banks of the Kosi River in Jim Corbett. Guests can take nature walks, scenic mountain drives and birding trails, with seasonal Kumaoni flavours, aromatic therapies at J Wellness Circle, time by the river and evenings of local folk music.

Pilibhit House, Haridwar – IHCL SeleQtions is a restored century-old aristocratic mansion on the Ganges. Its 35 rooms and suites are arranged around a traditional courtyard, with select rooms looking out to the Ganges and the Shivalik Hills. The programme includes sunrise yoga, a private-ghat Ganga Aarti, J Wellness Circle therapies, heritage walks, spiritual trails and forest excursions. The Dining Room and The Terrace serve vegetarian and Satvik cuisine, while Tea Tales by The Ganges offers riverside high tea.

Hari Ganga Niwas, Haridwar – IHCL SeleQtions is a century-old haveli within walking distance of Har Ki Pauri, with Ganga-facing rooms, courtyards and a private bathing ghat. Guests can witness the evening Ganga Aarti at the private ghat, take part in sacred ceremonies and begin the day with yoga overlooking the river, alongside seasonal satvik cuisine made with local ingredients.

Aloha on the Ganges, Rishikesh overlooks the river and welcomes guests with regional beverages. Seasonal Uttarakhand dishes such as Patyur (Patude) feature on the table, with yoga, spa therapies and evening flute performances through the stay.

The Naini Retreat, Nainital overlooks Naini Lake. Days can start with sun-dried Buransh herbal tea and breakfast by the lake, building to an evening Kumaoni High Tea of Amritpur ke Bhutte, Rokhar ki Kakdi with sil-batta namak and Pahadi Pakodi. Stories of Nainital's history and the palace's royal legacy, an Aipan Art workshop, stone painting, board games and Kumaoni meals round out the stay.

Van Rāsa, Kasauli is a newly opened 16-key boutique retreat in the forests of Kasauli, with European-inspired design, private terraces and select rooms with heated plunge pools. Neer, its wellness space, has an indoor heated pool, jacuzzi and spa therapies, while Syāhi, the glass-walled restaurant, serves Indian and international cuisine. Nature walks, curated picnics, a traditional Himachali Dham and bonfire evenings complete the offer.

Images: courtesy of ElevenUp and the respective properties

Sip, Spoon or Shake: Four Mumbai Takes on Tiramisu for International Coffee Day

hospemag.me — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 02:42:08 +0000

International Coffee Day is giving tiramisu a second life beyond the dessert menu in Mumbai. Four restaurants and cafés are offering the Italian classic as a chilled latte, a warm latte, a traditional plated dessert and a cocktail, each built around the coffee-led character of the original. For operators, the line-up is a neat illustration of how one familiar flavour can be stretched across café, dessert and bar menus, giving a single calendar moment several price points and dayparts.

Vanilla Miel is serving an Iced Tiramisu Latte, which the café describes as a dessert-like sip that brings together chilled coffee and tiramisu-inspired flavours, aimed at those who like their coffee with a touch of indulgence. It is priced at ₹550, and Vanilla Miel is open from 8 AM to 11:30 PM.

Si Nonna's is keeping to the classic with its Tiramisu, a coffee-infused dessert of rich espresso, creamy mascarpone and delicate layers, which the brand pitches as a way to enjoy coffee in dessert form. It is priced at ₹449 and is available from 11 AM to 11:30 PM.

The Bluebop Cafe has a Hot Tiramisu Latte, combining warm coffee with the familiar flavours of tiramisu. The café positions it as creamy, comforting and just sweet enough, whether as an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-meal coffee. It costs ₹325, and the café's timings are 12 PM to 1:00 AM.

Millo takes the idea to the bar with its Tiramisu Martini, a coffee-forward cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur and espresso, topped with mascarpone cheese foam and finished with tiramisu-inspired flavours. The restaurant describes it as a dessert-style pour. It is priced at ₹725 and served from 12 PM to 12 AM.

Taken together, the four offerings run from ₹325 to ₹725 and cover trading hours from breakfast to well past midnight, showing how a coffee-day promotion need not be confined to the coffee counter.

Images: courtesy of Vanilla Miel, Si Nonna's and Millo via Rainmaker Consults

Pullman and ibis to Share a 450-Room Campus at Bengaluru Airport

prabhjot bedi — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 02:26:58 +0000

Accor is planning a two-hotel campus for Bengaluru's airport corridor. The group has signed Pullman Bengaluru Airport and ibis Bengaluru Airport, a dual-branded development with 450 rooms between them, due to open in 2032.

For hoteliers, the deal is a bet that the land around the airport is becoming a market of its own rather than a transit stop. Putting a premium and an economy brand side by side lets one site sell to very different guests, from executives and airline crews to MICE groups, long-stay project teams and leisure travellers.

The Pullman will have 200 rooms and the ibis 250. Both hotels will give guests access to a fitness centre and a swimming pool.

Pullman Bengaluru Airport is set to carry most of the meetings business. It will have about 1,500 square metres of meetings and events space, with pre-function and ancillary areas, plus three food and beverage outlets: a specialty restaurant, a lobby lounge bar and an all-day dining restaurant.

ibis Bengaluru Airport will add roughly 300 square metres of conference and event space, an all-day dining restaurant and a lobby lounge and bar. It will be run on the ibis 'Reliability Everywhere' promise, which focuses on comfort, cleanliness, breakfast and hassle-free service at good value.

Accor links the location to the growth of North Bengaluru, where aviation, technology, aerospace, logistics and commercial activity are all expanding.

Ranju Alex, CEO, Accor South Asia, said, "We are pleased to bring this dual-branded development to Bengaluru, catering to the needs of premium and economy travellers by integrating two distinct Accor brands in one location. The property will offer guests a diverse experience while creating a unified hospitality destination. The project reflects the evolving airport ecosystem in Bengaluru, where the convergence of business, technology, aviation and expanding commercial districts is driving demand for accommodation across a spectrum of traveller segments."

The developer is SLK Group, a Bengaluru-based, family-owned business with interests in technology, real estate and emerging industries. The project is an anchor for its hospitality arm, SLK Hotels & Resorts.

Manish Singhvi, CEO, SLK Hotels & Resorts, said, "Pairing Pullman and ibis on a single campus will let us serve every traveler the corridor attracts, from global executives to large MICE groups to airline crews and long stay project teams. This is an anchor project of SLK Hotels and Resorts, a platform we are building across India's high growth corridors and island destinations."

Accor India & South Asia currently operates more than 75 hotels across the luxury, premium, midscale and economy segments. Its brands in the region include Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, ibis and ibis Styles.

Image: courtesy of Accor

Evolve Back Takes 'Best Hotel Chain' at Karnataka's First State Tourism Awards

prabhjot bedi — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 02:16:35 +0000

Evolve Back has been named 'Best Hotel Chain' at the inaugural Karnataka Tourism Awards 2026, instituted by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, in association with the Karnataka Tourism Society.

The award matters beyond one brand. These are the state's first dedicated tourism awards, and according to the Karnataka Tourism Society, stakeholders had requested such a platform for more than six years. The inaugural edition received more than 175 entries across 35 categories and recognised 42 stakeholders, including hotels, resorts, tour operators, guides, naturalists, content creators, startups and tourism institutions. The awards were held on World Tourism Day at the Bangalore Palace Grounds.

Mr Thomas E Ramapuram, Director; Mrs Tessa Thomas Ramapuram, Manager - HR; and Mr Thomas Paul, Vice President Designate, received the award on behalf of Evolve Back from the Hon. Chief Minister of Karnataka, Mr D. K. Shivakumar.

Thomas E Ramapuram said, "We are honoured to receive the Best Hotel Chain award at the first Karnataka Tourism Awards. For us, hospitality has always been closely connected to the character of the places we are fortunate to operate in. Coorg, Kabini and Hampi each have a distinct landscape, history and culture, and that sense of place is central to how we welcome our guests. To have this approach recognised at the state's inaugural tourism awards is particularly meaningful, and we are grateful to the Department of Tourism and the Karnataka Tourism Society for this recognition."

The recognition is particularly significant for Evolve Back because its roots and primary presence are in Karnataka. Its Indian properties are Kamalapura Palace in Hampi, Kuruba Safari Lodge in Kabini and Chikkana Halli Estate in Coorg. Under the brand's 'Spirit of the Land' philosophy, each draws on the character, landscape, heritage and communities around it to shape its architecture, experiences and approach to hospitality. That means the coffee estates and Kodava traditions of Coorg, the forests and indigenous communities of Kabini, and the heritage of Hampi.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister said the government is committed to building world-class infrastructure, "including plans to construct a grand 'Karnataka Mandapa' modeled after the Bharat Mandapam."

Shri K. Syama Raju, President of the Karnataka Tourism Society, said, "We look forward to institutionalizing these awards annually to continuously elevate service standards and hospitality quality across Karnataka."

Evolve Back is owned by Orange County Resorts & Hotels Ltd. Beyond India, it operates Evolve Back Gham Dhao Lodge, a private game reserve in the Central Kalahari region of Botswana.

Images: courtesy of Evolve Back / Star Squared PR

The White Garba: Mumbai’s First All-White Pre-Navratri Celebration

Hospemag . — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:43:52 +0000

Mumbai is all set for The White Garba, a large-scale pre-Navratri celebration presented by Epitome Live on 4th October 2026 at Dome, SVP Stadium.

Bringing Mumbai its first all-white Garba experience, the evening will feature popular Gujarati singer Kinjal Dave, along with non-stop Garba, an all-white setting, a curated flea market and a gourmet food experience.

The celebration brings together the traditional spirit of Garba with a fresh, stylish setting, with music, décor, food and entertainment coming together for a complete festive experience. With a large venue and live entertainment, The White Garba is set to bring a new flavour to Mumbai’s pre-Navratri celebrations.

Event: The White Garba
Presented by: Epitome Live
Featuring: Kinjal Dave
Date: 4th October 2026
Venue: Dome, SVP Stadium, Mumbai
Tickets: BookMyShow & District by Zomato

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Expands North Goa Portfolio with 40-Key Hotel in Calangute

Hospemag . — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:38:54 +0000

Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier becomes the second property under the Sibaya portfolio, with further expansion planned across India

2026, Goa: Sibaya, in partnership with Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, has expanded its presence in North Goa with the opening of Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier, a 40-room hotel in Calangute. The property marks the second hotel under the Sibaya portfolio, with Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts providing hospitality management and operational expertise.

Located in Khobra Vaddo, Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier is positioned within the Baga–Calangute hospitality market, approximately a five-minute walk from Tito’s Lane and with convenient access to both Baga Beach and Calangute Beach. Despite its proximity to one of North Goa’s busiest tourism belts, the hotel is situated away from the more crowded stretches of the neighbourhood.

The property features 40 rooms across three categories: Deluxe Rooms with Balcony, Premium Rooms with Balcony and Pool View Rooms with Balcony. All rooms include private balconies.

Sibaya Courtyard also features a 1,507 square feet conference and banquet hall with a capacity of approximately 80 to 100 guests, allowing the hotel to cater to small corporate meetings, private functions and social celebrations. Other facilities include a swimming pool, an air-conditioned multi-cuisine restaurant with a bar and an open courtyard café.

The hotel is designed to cater to independent leisure travellers, families, small corporate groups and social gatherings, while its location provides convenient access to the wider Baga–Calangute tourism and entertainment district.

The design of the property draws from its Goa setting, with tropical influences incorporated through the colour palette, décor and bedroom wallpapers. The courtyard, private balconies and open social spaces have been designed to create a relaxed environment while maintaining the convenience of a centrally located North Goa hotel.

Commenting on the property, Shaminder Singh, Managing Partner, Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier, said: “While developing Sibaya Courtyard, our focus with the architects was on creating a hotel that reflects what travellers increasingly seek in North Goa: proximity to the action without having to compromise on comfort or privacy. We have carried a tropical character through the interiors, including the colour palette, décor and bedroom wallpapers, to keep the design connected to its Goa setting. The courtyard, private balconies and open social spaces add to that approach, while the banquet and dining facilities allow us to serve leisure guests, corporate groups and intimate celebrations.”

Shikhar Kumar, Managing Partner, Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier, said, added: “North Goa is a highly competitive market, and location alone is no longer enough to differentiate a hotel. Travellers are looking for better-designed stays that offer access, comfort and a sense of privacy. Sibaya Courtyard has been developed around that requirement. It also allows us to address small-format corporate and social events, which are becoming an important source of year-round demand in Goa.”

The opening of Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier marks another step in the development of the Sibaya portfolio, which began with Sibaya Beach Resort in Morjim.

Fairmont Mumbai Awarded the Prestigious Michelin Key 2026

Hospemag . — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:36:20 +0000

Mumbai, 2026: Fairmont Mumbai has been awarded the prestigious Michelin Key 2026, one of the world's highest honours in luxury hospitality. Announced as part of the Michelin Guide's global 2026 hotel selection, the recognition celebrates hotels that offer exceptional stays through outstanding design, service and a strong sense of place.

defining addition to Mumbai's luxury hospitality landscape since February 2025, Fairmont Mumbai brings together the brand's signature codes of timeless elegance, grand design, thoughtful service and immersive cultural experiences. Inspired by the city's rich Art Deco heritage while reflecting Fairmont's global legacy of iconic hotels, the property has established itself as one of Mumbai's most distinctive luxury destinations in a short span.

“Receiving the Michelin Key is a very proud moment for all of us at Fairmont Mumbai. We have put a lot of thought into creating a hotel that has its own character from the design and the spaces to the food, experiences and, most importantly, the way we look after our guests. But none of this comes to life without the people behind it. It is their passion, attention to detail and genuine care that bring the entire experience together. To have that recognized by the MICHELIN Guide is incredibly meaningful to our team and a wonderful milestone for the hotel.”

— Mr. Rajiv Kapoor, General Manager, Fairmont Mumbai & Roswyn, A Morgans Originals Hotel

The Michelin Key places Fairmont Mumbai among a select collection of hotels recognised globally for delivering exceptional and memorable guest experiences.

Angsana Velavaru Inspires the Next Generation Through Sustainable Tourism on World Tourism Day 2026

Hospemag . — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:27:33 +0000

Velavaru, Maldives | 2026 — In celebration of World Tourism Day 2026, Angsana Velavaru welcomed eight (8) students & three (3) teachers from the neighbouring islands of Hulhudheli for an educational and engaging day exploring tourism, resort operations, sustainability and marine conservation.

Held ahead of World Tourism Day on 27 September, this year’s theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” highlights the transformative role of technology and innovation in shaping a smarter, more competitive and sustainable tourism industry. At Angsana Velavaru, the occasion provided an opportunity to bring the spirit of the theme closer to the local community by introducing young islanders to the tourism industry and highlighting the importance of responsible practices in protecting the Maldives’ natural environment.

During the visit, students were given a direct tour of Angsana Velavaru, visiting different departments across the resort to gain a first-hand understanding of how a resort operates. From guest-facing teams to the departments working behind the scenes, students were introduced to the people, skills and processes that come together to create the overall guest experience. The tour also provided an insight into the diverse career opportunities available within the hospitality and tourism industry.

A key part of the programme was learning how sustainability is incorporated into the resort’s daily operations. Students were introduced to Angsana Velavaru’s waste management and resource conservation practices, including waste segregation, reduction, reuse and recycling. The session demonstrated how responsible waste management can reduce environmental impact and contribute to maintaining a cleaner and healthier island environment. It also highlighted that sustainability is built through everyday actions, with both associates and guests playing an important role in making responsible choices.

The students were also introduced to Angsana Velavaru’s ongoing marine conservation efforts through the resort’s Marine Lab. They learned about the importance of coral reefs to the Maldivian ecosystem and the role they play in providing habitats for marine life. The Marine Lab currently supports two coral rope nurseries and one coral garden within the lagoon, alongside ongoing conservation activities including coral planting and reef cleaning.

Through the experience, students were able to see how tourism and environmental conservation can work together. Beyond simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Maldives, the visit encouraged the students to understand the responsibility involved in protecting the marine environment and the natural resources that support the country’s tourism industry.

For Angsana Velavaru, World Tourism Day is an opportunity not only to celebrate the tourism industry, but also to connect with the young people who will help shape its future. By welcoming students from nearby islands and sharing the resort’s operations and sustainability practices, the resort aims to inspire greater awareness of tourism, encourage future career aspirations and nurture a stronger sense of environmental responsibility among the next generation.

Sterling Deepens Spiritual Tourism Strategy with Entry into Varanasi

Hospemag . — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:22:36 +0000

Sterling Varanasi opens near Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, strengthening the brand’s network across India’s high-intent spiritual destinations.

Chennai, 2026: Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited has announced its entry into Varanasi with the opening of Sterling Varanasi, adding one of India’s most significant spiritual destinations to its growing portfolio.

Located near the revered Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, the 33-room hotel offers convenient access to Assi Ghat, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University and the ghats of the Ganges, giving guests a well-connected base from which to experience Kashi.

The opening strengthens Sterling’s presence across destinations where faith and spirituality are powerful reasons to travel. With Ayodhya, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Guruvayur, Tiruvannamalai, Pushkar, Madurai and Puri already part of its network, Varanasi adds an important destination to the company’s growing spiritual travel footprint.

For Sterling, the opportunity goes beyond pilgrimage. Faith-led journeys are increasingly intersecting with family travel, culture, cuisine, heritage and discovery, while travellers seek greater comfort, reliability and quality hospitality.

Commenting on the opening, Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts (SHRL), said:

“Our strategy is to understand why India travels and build around those reasons. Spiritual travel has always been one of India’s most enduring travel motivations; what is changing is the traveller and the experience around the journey.

In Varanasi, the reason to travel may begin with faith, but the journey can extend into family, culture, cuisine, history and discovery. Our role is to make that experience more comfortable, reliable and meaningful. Kashi therefore becomes an important addition to Sterling’s destination-led growth strategy.”

Sterling Varanasi features 33 contemporary rooms, including the unique Premier Rooms with balconies offering views of Kashi.

Its vegetarian restaurant, RASA KASHI, draws inspiration from Varanasi’s food traditions while offering a wider menu for contemporary travellers, bringing together two elements deeply associated with the city—food and faith.

On the fifth floor, KASHI REGALIA, a partially covered glass-roof venue with 180-degree views across Varanasi, offers a distinctive setting for intimate celebrations, family gatherings and special occasions.

Guests can build their stay around the rhythms of the destination—from early-morning boat journeys on the Ganges and the evening Ganga Aarti to temple visits, Sarnath, Banarasi cuisine, silk and local craft traditions.

Mr. Arya Vishwajeet Singh, Aditi Group, Owner of Sterling Varanasi, said:

“Our vision was to create a contemporary hospitality address that understands why people come to Varanasi and makes that journey easier and more comfortable. Sterling brings the brand reach, operating expertise and distribution strength to establish the property as a trusted hospitality address in the city.”

The addition of Varanasi further advances Sterling’s Destination Architect strategy—building its network around why people travel, rather than conventional destination categories alone. A journey may begin with the hills, wildlife, wellness, culture or spirituality.

Series by Marriott Debuts in South Korea with the Opening of Anook Signature Seoul Guro

Hospemag . — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:20:00 +0000

Series by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced its debut in South Korea with the opening of 104-room Anook Signature Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott. The opening marks the latest milestone in the Asia Pacific expansion of Series by Marriott, following the brand’s global debut in India in 2025 and entry into Japan in April 2026. Three additional hotels are expected to join the portfolio in South Korea by the end of 2026, in Insadong (Seoul), Guwol (Incheon) and Haeundae (Busan).

“The debut of Series by Marriott in South Korea marks another important step in the brand’s expansion across Asia Pacific,” said Cristiano Rinaldi, Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Through Series by Marriott, we are bringing regionally recognized hotel groups into our portfolio while preserving the character and familiarity that have earned the trust of local travelers. Anook Signature Seoul Guro reflects this vision, combining a distinctly local hospitality experience with the quality, care and global connectivity guests expect from Marriott.”

Brand Milestone: First Series by Marriott hotel in South Korea, following the brand’s launches in India and Japan. Three further South Korea openings planned in Insadong, Guwol and Haeundae by the end of 2026.
Accommodation & Location: 104 guestrooms and suites, located near Guro Digital Complex, with convenient access to Gimpo International Airport and Incheon International Airport.
Dining & Wellness: Korean cuisine at Anook Restaurant, plus a sauna and fitness center.
Meetings & Social Spaces: Meeting facilities for intimate groups, a business center, rooftop lounge and outdoor terrace.

The 17-story hotel is situated in Seoul’s southwestern business corridor, near Guro Digital Complex, where technology, business and everyday local life intersect. Offering convenient access to meetings, dining and events across Guro, Gasan, Yeouido and other west Seoul destinations, the hotel is well suited to short business trips and extended stays. It is located approximately 16 km from Gimpo International Airport and 57 km from Incheon International Airport, providing a convenient base from which to explore the wider city.

A Korean-Inspired Approach to Rest and Renewal

The name Anook comes from the Korean word for coziness and comfort, reflecting the country’s long-standing culture of rest centered on warm water, nourishing food and restorative sleep. At the heart of the hotel experience is a continuous “Recovery Ritual” that takes guests from sauna, to dining, to sleep. Beginning in the hotel’s sauna, guests can ease the tensions of travel and city life before continuing their journey through comforting Korean cuisine and a restful night’s sleep. The experience unfolds within a “Layered Urban Retreat,” where clean lines, warm wood tones and indirect lighting create a calm contrast to the surrounding city. Together, the design and guest experience offer a contemporary interpretation of Korea’s culture of rest and renewal.

Comfortable Guestrooms and Spacious Suites for Business and Leisure Stays

Anook Signature Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott features 104 guestrooms and suites, ranging from Standard Rooms to spacious Junior and Penthouse Suites. Designed for both short business trips and extended stays, accommodations feature individual climate control, a 43-inch LED television and a dedicated work area. Select suites offer separate living areas or an in-room whirlpool, while accessible accommodations are also available.

Korean Dining, Sauna Facilities, and a Complimentary Fitness Center

Guests can enjoy Korean cuisine at Anook Restaurant, while their stay can be complemented by wellness facilities at the hotel including a sauna and fitness center. The hotel also offers meeting space for intimate groups, a business center, rooftop lounge and outdoor terrace, providing flexible settings for work, relaxation and informal gatherings.

Shin Hyun-wook and Kim Jun-ha, Co-CEOs of The Hyusik, said, “We are delighted to bring Series by Marriott to South Korea for the first time through our partnership with Marriott International. Travel demand in Korea is expanding beyond the city center into districts where daily life and business intersect, and Anook Signature Hotel Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott, will offer a new option for travelers seeking dependable, well-executed stays at a reasonable value.”

Anook Signature Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International, allowing members to earn points for their stay at the new hotel and at other properties across Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of extraordinary hotel brands. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

Designing for Slow Living: How Architecture Is Changing the Way We Experience Luxury

Hospemag . — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:16:31 +0000

Luxury design is increasingly moving beyond aesthetics to shape how people experience space, nature and time. At Awas Country Club, a patrons-only private club in Alibaug, architecture and landscape come together to create a setting centred around privacy, nature, well-being and a slower rhythm of living.

Set within mature mango trees and landscaped greens, the property is designed as a biophilic oasis, with natural light, open spaces and the landscape woven into the experience. The pool opens to the sky, while shaded pathways and dense greenery create a naturally calm setting.

The same approach extends into the three private five-bedroom villas, each spanning over 4,700 sq. ft., with garden-facing bedrooms, private terraces, generous living and dining areas, and contemporary coastal interiors. Natural light and handcrafted finishes add to the understated aesthetic, while the terraces create an open connection with the surrounding landscape.

Across the club, the Green Zone brings together squash, padel, pickleball, a golf simulator and fitness facilities, creating dedicated areas for movement and active leisure. The Blue Zone combines a Himalayan Salt Room, Saltstone Spa, jacuzzi, cold plunge, steam, sauna and open-to-sky areas for pause and recovery. Bringing these offerings within one estate allows patrons to move naturally between activity and downtime, without the need to follow a fixed pace.

The wider property also accommodates moments of gathering, with living and dining areas within the villas flowing into one another and private terraces extending the interiors outdoors. At the clubhouse, Drift’s multi-cuisine dining, private lounging areas and the Blue Mind Central Court sit alongside a mini theatre, karaoke room, card room and Mahjong room, offering settings for dining, recreation and socialising.

At Awas, architecture is therefore closely tied to the way the property is experienced: through natural surroundings, open areas, private residences and a considered mix of wellness, recreation and hospitality. Rather than imposing a single way to spend time, the property brings these elements into one setting, allowing patrons to shape their own rhythm within the club.

Sarah Todd Takes Over House of Akina, Bandra, for One Night with Dewar's

hospemag.me — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 13:33:45 +0000

Guest-chef nights backed by spirits brands have become a reliable way for Mumbai restaurants to create a sense of occasion, and House of Akina in Bandra is the latest to try the format. On Thursday, 1 October 2026, the restaurant will host Sarah Todd, the Australian chef, restaurateur and cookbook author, for a one-night-only, four-course dinner presented in association with Dewar's. Todd, whom the restaurant describes as a MasterChef Australia favourite, has built a career across restaurants, television and cookbooks and has a longstanding connection with India.

The pairing is a natural fit for the venue. House of Akina takes its cue from the story of Akina, a woman who travelled the world and returned home with the flavours, experiences and friendships she collected along the way. Todd's menu follows a similar line, drawing on her Australian upbringing, her time in India and her travels.

The dinner opens with The Harbour Tomato, a golden tomato and kokum consommé with heirloom tomato, cucumber and brun maska. The second course is The Bombay Coast, seasonal surmai in a Madras coconut gravy, or Carrots of Mumbai, a vegetarian dish of roasted carrot, savoury halwa and East Indian bottle-masala.

For the main course, Todd joins Armaan Jain in reimagining his family's Junglee Maas, or its vegetarian alternative, Junglee Sabzi, pairing the spiced preparation with handmade tortellini, curry-leaf herb oil, peanut-podi crumble and bajra. Dessert is a choice of Spiced Pumpkin Tart with Coca-Cola ice cream, or a Sweet Cheese Board with blue-cheese and dark-chocolate ice cream, caramelised fig and Dewar's 12 jaggery caramel.

Dewar's has created a cocktail pairing to run alongside the menu. The first course is paired with The Mumbai Melting Pot, a Dewar's 18 cocktail with Irani chai, kokum, ginger and sweet lime. The main course comes with The Konkan Blend, made with Dewar's 15, kokum, coconut, green chilli and ginger, clarified for a lighter finish. Dessert is matched with The Bombay Sunset, combining Dewar's 15, saffron and ice cream soda.

Tables are limited. The dinner begins at 8pm, and tickets are available exclusively on District at INR 5,500 + taxes per person. House of Akina is at Golden Palace, Turner Rd, opposite Mala Sinha Bunglow, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, and can be found on Instagram at @houseofakina.ind.

Images: courtesy of House of Akina via Sparkplug Inc.

Pralines, Baklava and Brass Diyas: Inside SMOOR's Six-Hamper Diwali Collection

prabhjot bedi — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 13:05:47 +0000

For hotels, restaurants and corporate teams, Diwali gifting is as much a part of the festive calendar as the celebrations themselves, and the brief is rarely simple: something that feels considered and works across a range of recipients and budgets. SMOOR, which describes itself as India’s leading luxury couverture chocolate brand, has released its Diwali Hamper Collection with that in mind, offering six hampers priced from ₹1,400 to ₹5,500.

The brand says the collection is built around artisanal couverture chocolates, confections and keepsakes, and is aimed at those gifting to clients, colleagues or family. Four of the six hampers include baklava and four include at least one diya, while SMOOR positions several of the containers, from a handwoven basket to a tray and a tin, as keepsakes to be used after the festival.

At the top of the range is The Leather Manor (₹5,500), which contains a Chikki Jar, SMOOR Signature Cookies, Choco Coated Nuts (50g), Stir It Up, a Single Peanut Butter Cup, Trail Mix (30g), Couverture Pralines Pack of 16, Baklava Box of 2 and two brass diyas.

Aura of Indulgence (₹3,950) brings together a Couverture Pralines Pack of 9, Baileys Assorted Chocolate Truffles Pack of 3, Gourmet Dried Coffee, United by Flavours Tin Thins Pack of 5, Choco Coated Nuts, a Pistachio & Kunafa 70% Dark Chocolate Bar, Roasted Almonds (30g) and a Shauq Pack of 15 Baklava.

The Artisanal Bounty Tote (₹3,500) combines Gourmet Dried Coffee, Five Grain Spicy Chips, Stir It Up, Couverture Pralines Pack of 9, Choco Coated Nuts, Chocolate Buttons, SMOOR Signature Cookies and a SMOOR 65g Indian Cacao Bar. The Arc Tray (₹3,350) includes Barks, a Nougat Collection Pack of 12, Almond Rocks Pack of 4, Millet Cookies, United Treats Pack of 16, a Unity Chocolate Bar, a Single Peanut Butter Cup and a diya, with the brand pitching the tray itself as a utility gift.

The Handwoven Festive Sustainable Hamper Small (₹3,250) arrives in a handwoven basket holding a Crunch Bar, Nibbles, Single Pc Honey Almond, Single Pc Peanut Butter Cup, Trail Mix, Stir It Up, Assorted Truffles 4 Pc Box, Baklava Box of 2, United by Flavours Thins Tin Pack of 5, a SMOOR 65g Indian Cacao Bar and a diya. The most accessible option, the Memoire Heritage Tin (₹1,400), holds Centre Filled Cookies, Dry Fruits (30g), Almond Snaps Pack of 6, Baklava Pack of 2, a Medley Bar, Choco Coated Nuts (30g) and two diyas.

The SMOOR Diwali Hamper Collection is available across all SMOOR Lounges in Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR and Chennai, on the brand’s website, and on Swiggy, Swiggy Instamart, Zepto and Zomato.

Images: courtesy of SMOOR

Dinner Is the Destination: Atmosphere Core's Four-Restaurant Pitch for the Maldives

prabhjot bedi — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 12:23:43 +0000

Atmosphere Core wants Indian travellers to see the Maldives as more than a beach escape. As they look for shorter, more experience-led premium holidays, the group is presenting four signature dining experiences across its island resorts as a reason to book in their own right.

For hospitality readers, the idea is to package restaurants as the reason to travel, not an amenity added to a room rate. Atmosphere Core describes the four venues as a compact culinary circuit aimed at couples, families and celebration travellers, with setting, flavour and storytelling as the centre of the holiday.

At RAAYA by Atmosphere, Seb’s Farm brings farm-to-table dining to a tropical island setting. Seasonal produce from the resort’s gardens shapes fresh, garden-led menus, and the open-air venue is pitched at travellers looking for provenance and purpose.

At VARU by Atmosphere, TEPPANYAKI OVER WATER turns dinner into a live performance above the lagoon, combining Japanese culinary theatre with panoramic ocean views. The resort is aiming it at honeymooners and milestone travellers.

Just Veg at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives is the most obvious draw for Indian guests. Described by the group as a pioneering vegetarian fine-dining restaurant in the Maldives, it overlooks the lagoon and serves refined Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Indian-inspired cuisine.

The fourth venue is Only BLU, which serves OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili. Located 6.8 metres below the surface and surrounded by coral reefs and marine life, it is billed as the Maldives’ largest under ocean restaurant, and turns a multi-course meal into a destination experience.

Taken together, the four venues form Atmosphere Core’s pitch to the Indian market: that the Maldives can be a culinary short break as much as a beach holiday, with dining as the reason to go now.

The group’s current portfolio comprises nine resorts in the Maldives and one heritage hotel in India. Its brands include THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts and ONE Atmosphere. Its pipeline includes hotels and resorts at Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Chandragiri, Coorg, Goa, Guwahati, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Kannur, Kolkata, Kufri, Kurseong and Shirdi in India, as well as projects in Italy, the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

Images: courtesy of Atmosphere Core / Criesse Communications

Greener, Healthier, More Purposeful: Rethinking the Business Meeting in Chennai

prabhjot bedi — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 11:17:46 +0000

Corporate meetings are no longer judged only on the venue and the technology. Organisations are increasingly looking for events that support sustainability, employee wellbeing and meaningful engagement, and that raises a practical question for hotels: how to make responsible meetings easy for planners to buy.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai is answering that with GReaT Green Meetings. The initiative combines environmentally conscious meeting setups, locally sourced cuisine and responsible operating practices. Tree planting is also offered to help offset the carbon footprint associated with meetings.

"Corporate meetings must deliver business outcomes while reflecting an organisation's responsibility towards people and the environment. GReaT Green Meetings makes sustainability practical, measurable and easy to implement, bringing together responsible practices, purposeful hospitality and delegate wellbeing without adding complexity for event planners," said Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts.

The commercial side is built around a residential MICE package that brings the essentials of a business gathering into one offering. It starts from INR 14,999 plus taxes per night on double occupancy, for a minimum booking of 10 rooms.

The package includes premium accommodation, Sunshine Breakfast, lunch and dinner for every night of stay, a conference hall and two tea or coffee breaks. Delegates also get round-the-clock access to the swimming pool and fitness centre, and a 15% saving on therapies at Bodhi Prana. Eligible planners can earn double Radisson Rewards points through the Book Your Meeting offer.

Wellbeing is also built into the rooms. The hotel's exclusive 74-suite Biophilia wing brings nature-inspired design into the business stay, giving delegates a calmer setting between sessions. Customised menus, curated dining, a dedicated vegetarian kitchen and personalised event support allow programmes to be shaped around each organisation.

The venues cover everything from focused meetings to large conventions. The pillarless Royal Ballroom accommodates up to 1,250 guests for receptions and 750 in a seated format. Royal Mile, with its 60-foot ceiling and natural daylight, can be combined with the ballroom to host large-format events of up to 2,000 guests.

Location is part of the pitch too. The hotel is approximately 10 minutes from Chennai International Airport and offers access to Guindy, Pallavaram, Tambaram, Chennai Trade Centre and the city's industrial and technology corridors.

The hotel's view is that the next phase of MICE growth will be defined not by scale alone, but by how effectively hotels unite sustainability, wellbeing and commercial purpose to create value beyond the conference hall. For planners weighing their next offsite, that is a useful brief to hold any venue to.

Images: courtesy of Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai

Harish Kumar Takes Charge of Rooms at The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace

prabhjot bedi — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:57:10 +0000

The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace has appointed Harish Kumar as Director of Rooms. The appointment was announced on 30 September 2026, and it puts the hotel's Front Office, Housekeeping, Spa & Wellness and guest experience initiatives under one leader.

For hotel operators, it is a reminder of how broad the rooms division brief has become. Wellness and guest experience now sit alongside the traditional front-of-house and housekeeping functions, and the hotel has chosen someone with a front office background to run them.

Harish brings over 15 years of experience across luxury and upper-upscale hospitality, with expertise in guest experience, operational excellence, team development and business performance. He has held leadership roles across India and the Middle East, with experience spanning Rooms Division, Front Office operations, guest experience and commercial performance.

Before this appointment, he served as Director of Rooms at The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat and as Front Office Manager at NH Collection Ibn Battuta Gate in Dubai. He was also recognised among Hozpitality's Best 30 Power Front Office Leaders in the Middle East 2023 for his contribution to service excellence, innovation and guest-centric leadership.

In his new role, Harish will lead all aspects of the Rooms Division. He will focus on enhancing service standards, driving operational efficiencies, developing talent and supporting the hotel's continued commercial growth and market leadership.

Commenting on his appointment, Harish Kumar said, "I am pleased to join The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and take on the responsibility of leading the Rooms Division. Hyderabad is a dynamic market with a diverse mix of business and leisure travellers, and I look forward to working closely with the team to further strengthen service standards, enhance operational efficiencies, and create thoughtful, consistent guest experiences."

He added, "I am also keen to contribute to the hotel's continued growth while fostering a culture of learning and development."

The 427-room Westin Hyderabad Mindspace is located in Raheja Mindspace IT Park and has a 20,000 sq. ft. convention area that can host up to 700 guests, along with six restaurants including Kangan, Prego and Seasonal Tastes.

Images: courtesy of The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace / PR Pundit Havas Red

Local Heroes Heads South: SOCIAL Brings Southern and Coastal Flavours to Bengaluru and Hyderabad

hospemag.me — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:49:08 +0000

SOCIAL has taken its Local Heroes menu south. A new edition, announced on 30 September 2026, is now available across SOCIAL outlets in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, with dishes and drinks inspired by the southern states and the coast.

For restaurant operators, the launch is a working example of a multi-city brand localising its menu city by city. Local Heroes is part of SOCIAL's wider hyperlocal approach, taking cues from the food culture around each neighbourhood and setting familiar regional flavours alongside the brand's own take on food and drinks.

From home kitchens to roadside favourites

The menu draws on flavours found in home kitchens, neighbourhood bars, roadside favourites and regional classics, moving between comforting, spicy, tangy and pepper-forward plates.

The spread includes Namma Ooru Avarekaalu with Nellikayi Pachadi, Mini Maddur Vada with Benne Chilli, Rural Karnataka Veg Cutlet with Pineapple Chilli, Ajji Mane Masala Nuts, Halli Mane Motte Mensu, Hyderabadi Coriander Chicken, TG Loose Prawns, Madurai Mutton Chukka, Kundapur Chicken Gassi and Pepper Chicken Keema Pottlam Biryani.

Seafood, meats and heartier regional preparations include Shetty Bar Silver Fish with Green Chilli Chutney, Turmeric Leaves Wrapped Anjal Fish and Malnadu Homestyle Pork with Kachampuli. Pepper Biryani Rice, Ghee Rice, Saanas and Paratha complete the menu as accompaniments.

Chef Shamsul Wahid, Group Executive Chef at Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., said:

"Local Heroes has always been about taking inspiration from the food culture of a region and bringing those familiar flavours into SOCIAL in our own way. For Bengaluru and Hyderabad, the menu draws from flavours and dishes found across the southern states, from home-style preparations and local favourites to ingredients people have grown up with. The idea was to keep that familiarity intact while giving each dish a distinct SOCIAL expression."

Gongura, peanut and coffee at the bar

The regional theme carries through to the bar. Kuluki Sarbath and Imli Bazaar feature on the zero-proof side, while cocktails including Halsu Panaka, Gongura Galli, Byadgi Boss, Shenga Margarita and Degree Kapi bring in ingredients and flavour cues such as gongura, chilli, peanut, jackfruit and coffee.

Local Heroes has long been SOCIAL's way of letting a city's character and food culture shape its menu. The Bengaluru and Hyderabad edition extends the format to a broader set of Southern flavours and references.

The new Local Heroes menu is now available across SOCIAL outlets in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

Images: courtesy of SOCIAL / Kaizzen Communications

Pick Your Pasta, Pick Your Sauce: BOSS Burger Widens Its Delivery Menu Across Nine Cities

prabhjot bedi — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 09:59:17 +0000

BOSS Burger by SOCIAL is adding a second pillar to its delivery-first menu. The burger brand from Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. announced on 23 September 2026 the introduction of BOSS Pasta, a build-your-own pasta offering available across select locations in nine cities: Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Dehradun, Pune and Hyderabad.

For operators watching the delivery space, the move is a familiar but telling one: rather than launching a new brand, BOSS Burger is widening what a single order can hold, and handing the combination decisions to the customer.

How the bowl is built

Prices start at ₹349. Diners choose between Penne or Spaghetti, pair it with Arrabbiata, Alfredo or Pink Sauce, and then personalise the bowl further with their preferred vegetables and chicken. There is no fixed combination to pick from; the format is built around choice, mood and a little experimentation.

The pasta is positioned as a complement to the burgers rather than a replacement. It can be ordered alongside a BOSS Burger, shared, or ordered on its own, with the brand pitching it at everything from quick desk lunches to easy weeknight dinners. BOSS Pasta can be ordered via Swiggy and Zomato.

Chef Shamsul Wahid, Group Executive Chef, Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., said:

“BOSS has always been about giving people bold, satisfying food that works for the way they order today. With BOSS Pasta, we wanted to add another element to that experience without taking away from what BOSS Burger is all about. It gives customers another option to add to their order, with the freedom to build their pasta around what they are craving. Whether it is alongside a BOSS Burger, shared at the table or enjoyed on its own, there is room to make it your own.”

Reading the younger diner

The launch ties into SOCIAL’s own consumer research. Its Voices From The Hood survey of India’s youth points to a generation increasingly curating its identity and experiences rather than subscribing to a single prescribed template.

In dining specifically, the report finds that food quality remains the strongest decision driver, followed by value for money. In other words, younger diners may be open to variety and discovery, but the food itself still has to deliver, a useful reminder for any brand betting on customisation to drive orders.

Burgers remain at the heart of the BOSS Burger offering. According to the brand, BOSS Burger by SOCIAL is available across 55 delivery locations in India through Swiggy, Zomato and Dotpe. BOSS Pasta is currently available at select locations in the nine launch cities.

Images: courtesy of BOSS Burger by SOCIAL / Kaizzen Communications

Juniper Hotels Signs MOU to Acquire Novotel Imagicaa for Rs 248 Crore

Hospemag . — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 16:20:37 +0000

Will add an established, cash-generating hotel with 287 keys in close proximity to Mumbai.

Diversified demand generators across leisure, social and MICE will drive multiple revenue streams.
Potential to rebrand the asset into the upper-upscale segment.
Juniper’s asset management and hospitality expertise to drive long-term value creation.

Mumbai, September , 2026: Juniper Hotels Limited (“Juniper” or “the Company”), one of India’s leading luxury hotel development and ownership companies, today announced that it has entered into a binding Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) with Imagicaaworld Entertainment Limited (formerly known as Adlabs Entertainment Limited) for the acquisition of an operating hotel, Novotel Imagicaa, for an aggregate consideration of ₹248 crore at approximately ₹86 lakh per key, subject to the terms and conditions of the definitive agreements.

Spread across approximately 11 acres in Khopoli, Maharashtra, Novotel Imagicaa is strategically located near the economic centres of Mumbai and Pune, with the airport accessible within a two-hour drive. The hotel sits adjacent to the Imagicaa Theme Park and Water Park. Spanning a built-up area of approximately 2,80,000 sq. ft., the hotel offers 287 well-appointed guest rooms complemented by a curated selection of restaurants, versatile banquet and meeting venues, spa and recreational facilities. It has established a distinct niche in the leisure and social segments, reinforcing the asset’s standing as a complete family holiday destination.

Strategic Rationale

The proposed acquisition advances Juniper's long-term objective of building a portfolio of large, high-quality hotels in India's most compelling business and leisure destinations.

The transaction offers several strategic advantages, including:

Addition of an established, operating 287-key five-star hotel expected to generate stable cash flows from day one, without any lead time of greenfield development;

Strategic presence in the Mumbai–Pune corridor catering to leisure, social and MICE segment;
Potential to add incremental banqueting and ballroom capacity immediately to strengthen its social and MICE, from the adjacent Imagicaa parks.
Opportunity to rebrand into the upper-upscale segment and drive higher revenue over the long term.
Diversified demand generators resulting in multiple revenue streams across leisure, social, MICE, and weekend travel; and
Opportunity to leverage Juniper’s asset management and hospitality expertise to drive long-term value creation.

Commenting on the proposed acquisition, Mr. Arun Kumar Saraf, Chairman & Managing Director, Juniper Hotels Limited said, "At Juniper, our growth journey has always been guided by a simple principle: grow with purpose and create value for the long term. Novotel Imagicaa represents the kind of asset we look for. It is an established hospitality property with scale, a strong destination proposition, and multiple demand generators.

Our upcoming developments will significantly expand the company’s scale. We remain focused on owning the ‘Right Assets’ in the right markets, large, capable of generating diversified revenue streams across rooms, F&B, MICE, serviced apartments, commercial spaces and other hospitality offerings. We intend to pursue this growth with capital discipline, strong internal cash generation and a healthy balance sheet, and selectively evaluate acquisition opportunities where we see a compelling strategic fit.”

Completion of the proposed acquisition pursuant to the MoU is subject to execution of definitive agreements, satisfaction of customary closing conditions, and receipt of any required statutory, regulatory, and other approvals.