The Big F Awards Celebrates Culinary and Hospitality Excellence at its 13th Edition

A rigorous, independent evaluation process continues to define the credibility of The Big F Awards

New Delhi, 2026: The 13th edition of The Big F Awards concluded at The Westin, Gurgaon, bringing together accomplished professionals, emerging talent and enterprising brands from across India’s culinary and hospitality landscape. More than a celebration of achievement, this year’s edition reaffirmed the platform’s core principle: recognition must be earned through a credible and rigorous evaluation process.

At the heart of The Big F Awards is a jury-led approach designed to place merit ahead of visibility, reputation or commercial scale. The awards follow a structured and independent evaluation process, with entries assessed through successive rounds of screening and scoring against defined parameters including originality, execution, consistency, quality and sectoral relevance. The framework is designed to ensure that every participant is assessed on the strength of their work, rather than their profile, popularity or market presence.

The jury for the 13th edition comprised Chef Nita Mehta, Chef Manisha Bhasin, Chef Ashish Bhasin, Chef Sabyasachi Gorai, Pawan Soni, Diwan Gautam Anand, Siddharth Jalan, Zorawar Kalra, Sameer Bawa, Khurafati Nitin, Sourish Bhattacharya, Rocky Singh and Anirudh Singhal. Bringing together experience across cuisine, hospitality, media and business, the panel applied a common evaluation framework to assess the nominees and arrive at the final results.

Importantly, the process is built to create a level playing field. Commercial size, public visibility and geographical location do not determine recognition. The platform actively seeks to bring deserving work into consideration, including independent ventures, emerging professionals, newer businesses and establishments that may not always receive the same visibility as larger or more established names.

The awards also maintain a clear separation between participation and recognition. There are no nomination fees and no pay-to-participate mechanisms, reinforcing the principle that an award should be a result of merit rather than commercial participation. Winners are not disclosed in advance, with the final results remaining confidential until they are announced at the awards ceremony.

Speaking after the ceremony, Pawan Soni, Host, The Big F Awards, said, “Thirteen editions have reinforced our belief that credibility cannot be created through a trophy or an announcement; it comes from the process behind it. This year, in the 6-month long process the jury evaluated nominations with the same discipline across categories, looking closely at the work, its consistency, execution and relevance. What stood out was the diversity of talent—from established names to smaller ventures and professionals receiving national recognition for the first time. That is precisely what we want The Big F Awards to stand for: a platform where deserving work has an opportunity to be recognised on merit, irrespective of visibility or scale.”

The 13th edition saw participation from independent ventures, established organisations, chefs, restaurateurs and emerging businesses across multiple regions and formats. The broad participation model reflects the awards’ continued effort to identify and recognise excellence beyond conventional industry circles.

The recipients included Megu, who won League of Legends Awards, followed by Nisaba in the Noteworthy Newcomer category. Inja received the Restaurant of the Year distinction, while Best Cocktail Bar, Cocktail Menu of the year and Best Debut Bar were presented to AaBbCc.concept. Further honours went to Porus Arora for Restaurateur of the Year and Sahil Sambhi for Nightlife Entrepreneur of the Year.

Highlights from the evening included Chef Manish Mehrotra, Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi, Rocky Mohan, Chef Manisha Bhasin, Siddharth Jalan, and Zorawar Kalra, amongst other dignitaries attending the presentation ceremony.

As The Big F Awards closes its 13th edition, its focus remains unchanged: to build recognition around work that stands up to scrutiny. The platform will continue to expand its outreach for the next edition, bringing a wider pool of professionals, establishments and businesses into a process where credibility, consistency and merit remain at the centre of recognition.

Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati Wins Best Luxury Hotel Award at Global Tourism Excellence Awards 2026

New Delhi, , 2026: Cementing its position in Northeast India’s luxury hospitality sector, Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati, has been honoured with the title of “Best Luxury Hotel” at the Global Tourism Excellence Awards 2026. The recognition was conferred at the awards ceremony held on August 29 in Noida. Presented by Mrs. Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, CMD, Pride East Entertainments, the award marks a significant milestone for the resort as it continues to establish a distinctive identity for luxury hospitality in the region.

The recognition comes as Northeast India continues to gain attention among travellers seeking destinations that combine natural beauty, distinctive cultural experiences and high-quality hospitality. Mayfair Spring Valley Resort has positioned itself at the forefront of this evolution, bringing together luxury, thoughtful service and the character of the region to create experiences for travellers from across India and around the world.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Pardeep Siwach, General Manager, Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati, said, “This recognition is a proud moment for the entire team at Mayfair Spring Valley Resort. We have always believed that luxury is about more than beautiful spaces; it is about creating thoughtful, personalised experiences that guests remember. This recognition belongs to our entire team, whose passion, commitment and attention to every detail make exceptional guest experiences possible every day. We are grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey and look forward to continuing to raise the bar for luxury hospitality in the region.”

The award reflects Mayfair Spring Valley Resort’s larger vision of going beyond conventional luxury hospitality to showcase the extraordinary beauty, culture and warmth of Northeast India on the global tourism map. By creating a luxury destination rooted in its regional identity while maintaining contemporary standards of hospitality, the resort is contributing to the growing visibility of Guwahati and the wider Northeast as a premium travel destination.

Luxmi Estates and Makaibari Recognised at the Bean & Leaf Asia Awards 2026

October 2026: Luxmi Estates and Makaibari have been recognised at the Bean & Leaf Asia Awards 2026, held as part of Coffee & Tea Asia at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Luxmi Estates was named Specialty Tea Brand of the Year, while Makaibari received the title of Heritage Tea Brand of the Year. The awards recognise the distinct strengths of the two brands, from the diversity of teas across Luxmi Estates’ growing regions to Makaibari’s longstanding legacy in Darjeeling.

The Bean & Leaf Asia Awards celebrate contributions across the tea and coffee industry, recognising brands that demonstrate quality, innovation and a strong understanding of their craft. The dual recognition reflects the breadth of the Luxmi Group’s tea portfolio, spanning diverse growing regions and generations of tea-making expertise.

Commenting on the recognition, Rudra Chatterjee, Managing Director, Luxmi Tea Co Pvt Ltd, said, “Every tea has a story shaped by the land it grows on and the people who nurture it. At Luxmi Estates, we are committed to bringing the diversity and character of our teas to a wider audience, while Makaibari represents a heritage that has been nurtured across generations. These recognitions are meaningful milestones for us, acknowledging both our continued focus on quality and craftsmanship and our commitment to preserving the traditions, knowledge and natural environments that make each of our tea-growing regions distinctive.”

With a legacy dating back to 1912, Luxmi Estates brings together tea gardens across India and Rwanda. Its estates in Darjeeling, Assam and Rwanda reflect the influence of varied landscapes, climates and growing conditions on tea, offering a portfolio characterised by distinct aromas, flavours and regional identities.

Established in 1859 in Kurseong, Darjeeling, Makaibari is the region’s oldest continuously operating tea estate. Its history of cultivation includes becoming the first tea garden to receive organic certification in 1988, followed by Fairtrade and Demeter biodynamic certifications in 1993. The estate continues to draw on more than 160 years of tea-making expertise, combining traditional knowledge with organic cultivation, biodynamic principles and permaculture.

The Serai Resorts Chikmagalur Ranked No. 9 Resort in India in Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026

The Serai Resorts Chikmagalur has been ranked the No. 9 Resort in India in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, announced on 7 October.

The awards drew more than 296,356 survey responses from readers across the United Kingdom, rating their travel experiences around the world. The 2026 results are published on [Condé Nast Traveller’s website](https://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/best-resorts-world-2026) and will be celebrated in the November issue.

Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said, “Being ranked #9 among India’s Best Resorts by Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 is a proud moment for us. It reflects the trust of our guests and the unwavering commitment of our teams to create Living Sanctuaries, where a deep connection with nature is complemented by graceful hospitality.”

The Chikmagalur property is the brand’s flagship and sits in the coffee country where The Serai Resorts began nearly two decades ago. The collection now spans three destinations in Karnataka, Chikmagalur, Bandipur and Kabini, each combining locally inspired cuisine, wellness offerings and curated experiences shaped by its landscape.

The resort was also named Best Staycation Resort in India at Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025 and Best Retreat in India at the TravTour MICE Awards 2025, and features in the Condé Nast Traveller Black Book 2026.

Fairmont Mumbai Awarded the Prestigious Michelin Key 2026

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.

The Ritz-Carlton, Pune Receives ONE MICHELIN KEY in the MICHELIN Guide 2026 Hotel Selection

Pune, September 2026: Some milestones are measured by a moment. Others are built through a journey. The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, part of Ventive Hospitality’s luxury hospitality portfolio, has been awarded One MICHELIN Key in the MICHELIN Guide 2026 Hotel Selection, announced on 18 September 2026. The distinction marks a significant milestone for the hotel and recognizes its continued commitment to exceptional service, thoughtful hospitality and memorable guest experiences.

The recognition follows a period of deliberate evolution and sustained pursuit of excellence. In July 2026, The Ritz-Carlton, Pune was included in the MICHELIN Guide's curated hotel selection, marking an important moment for the hotel. Proactive engagement and the introduction of The Ritz-Carlton, Pune to MICHELIN led to its recognition within the Guide’s global hotel ecosystem. 

The recognition reflects the hotel’s distinctive character, attentive service and attention to detail. From the way guests are welcomed and cared for to the expression of the hotel's sense of place, its Ladies and Gentlemen consistently bring the brand's Gold Standards to life. The One MICHELIN Key is a meaningful affirmation of the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service, thoughtful design and gracious hospitality. 

Ishwinder Gill, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Pune, said:

Receiving One MICHELIN Key is an incredibly proud moment for all of us at The Ritz-Carlton, Pune. The credit for this recognition truly belongs to our Ladies and Gentlemen, whose passion, dedication and commitment to excellence shape the guest experience every day.

What makes this recognition particularly special is the journey behind it, our constant pursuit of excellence, our willingness to evolve and, most importantly, the spirit of our people. At the heart of The Ritz-Carlton, Pune is a culture of empowerment, pride and genuine hospitality, where our Ladies and Gentlemen are encouraged to take ownership, anticipate our guests’ needs and create meaningful moments. It is this culture, lived consistently across every touchpoint, that transforms service into an experience and a stay into a lasting memory.”

For Ventive Hospitality, which owns and operates a portfolio of luxury hospitality assets, the recognition is also a reflection of its long-term approach to creating differentiated hospitality experiences.

Ranjit Batra, Chief Executive Officer, Ventive Hospitality, said:

“A MICHELIN Key is a significant recognition for The Ritz-Carlton, Pune and a proud milestone for Ventive Hospitality. It reflects the strength of the hotel, the commitment of our teams and partners, and the consistency with which exceptional hospitality is delivered. This recognition reinforces our focus on building distinctive hospitality assets that create enduring value and memorable guest experiences.”

The recognition reflects The Ritz-Carlton, Pune’s continued commitment to creating distinctive, deeply personal and memorable stays, while building on its presence within the MICHELIN Guide. 

One Key. A milestone in luxury hospitality. A celebration of the experiences created together.

Three Years, Three Keys: Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Retains Michelin Guide’s Highest Level of Distinction

Ultra-luxurious resort in Krabi named as one of only six MICHELIN 3-Key hotels in Thailand

 Krabi, Thailand: September 2026 – Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the ultra-luxurious seafront sanctuary in Southern Thailand’s Krabi province, is delighted and deeply honored to have been awarded three MICHELIN Keys – the highest level of excellence in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide – for the third consecutive year. This makes it the only property in Krabi, and one of just six hotels and resorts in Thailand, to achieve this distinction.

 MICHELIN Keys are awarded after countless hours of evaluations by the expert team of MICHELIN Inspectors. Having undergone these rigorous reviews, the MICHELIN Guide 2026 judged that Phulay Bay was “one of the most luxurious resorts anywhere”.

 “What sets it... apart from the norm is its exquisite tastefulness, from the traditional-style welcome pavilion to the thoughtfully localized interiors of the hotel’s villas and pavilions, which all open onto ocean views and come with 24-hour butler service as standard,” the MICHELIN Guide states.

 It went on to praise Phulay Bay’s “extravagant spa, stunning infinity pool… and restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood and Thai favorites to elevated Mediterranean classics”.

 Nestled directly on the pure shores of Thailand’s Andaman coast, overlooking the island-studded seascape, Phulay Bay transports guests away from their daily lives and into a world of wonder. Whether travelers want to uncover the secrets of Krabi with immersive day trips and excursions, or unwind in luxurious serenity at The Spa at Phulay Bay and sea-facing infinity pool, everything is possible. Exceptional gastronomy can be savored at a choice of restaurants and precious moments can be created with private dining experiences under the stars.

 Naturally, couples and families who crave privacy can simply connect in their spacious suite or pool villa, all of which are blessed with traditional Thai design, state-of-the-art amenities and outdoor spaces that blur the boundaries with the tropical surroundings.

 The resort’s third consecutive MICHELIN 3-Key rating is not only a testament to the quality of Phulay Bay’s facilities, however; it is a reflection of the personalized service that underpins every guest journey. At the heart and soul of the resort is a team of Ladies and Gentlemen – including the dedicated Reserve Hosts – who take pride in delivering genuine Southern Thai hospitality and showcasing the authentic essence of the destination.

 “We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded three MICHELIN Keys for the third consecutive year. I would like to pay tribute to our wonderful Ladies and Gentlemen, who work tirelessly to ensure that every guest who walks through our doors enjoys a truly unique experience, all deeply rooted in Southern Thailand’s cultural charm and heritage. We look forward to introducing even more of our distinguished global clientele to the wonders of Krabi,” said Ruby Garcia, General Manager, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

The St. Regis Mumbai Earns MICHELIN Key and Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Recognition

Mumbai, September 2026: The St. Regis Mumbai, the city’s best address, has been awarded One MICHELIN Key in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Hotel Selection and a Four-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide 2026, marking a significant year of recognition for the hotel and its approach to luxury hospitality.

The two distinctions recognise different facets of the experience at The St. Regis Mumbai, from the character of its spaces and the quality of its service to the details that shape a stay. The MICHELIN Key is awarded to hotels that stand out within the MICHELIN Guide’s hotel selection, with inspectors considering architecture and design, service, personality and character, value, and the hotel’s connection to its setting. Forbes Travel Guide’s Four-Star rating recognises hotels that demonstrate high standards across service and facilities.

At the heart of The St. Regis Mumbai is a sense of place that is distinctly its own. Rising above Lower Parel with views across the Mumbai skyline, the Arabian Sea and Mahalaxmi Racecourse, the hotel brings the city into its experience while staying true to the timeless traditions of St. Regis. Its signature 24-hour St. Regis Butler Service adds a deeply personal dimension to the stay, with each guest experience shaped around anticipation, attention and the art of service.

That same spirit extends across the hotel’s dining and social spaces, from Koishii and By The Mekong on the Penthouse to Sahib Room & Kipling Bar, Seven Kitchens, The Drawing Room, Koi Bar and Café by The St. Regis. The St. Regis Spa, Athletic Centre and pool complete an address designed for both the energy of Mumbai and the ease of an elevated stay.

GM Quote: “For The St. Regis Mumbai, the recognition is ultimately a reflection of the people behind the experience. It is found in the details guests may remember long after their stay, the familiarity created through Butler Service, a meal that becomes an occasion, a gathering that takes on its own character, or simply the feeling of being known and cared for. As The Best Address, the hotel continues to bring together the heritage of St. Regis, the energy of Mumbai and an enduring commitment to exceptional service.

Two Raffles Hotels in Cambodia Awarded MICHELIN Keys Once More in 2026

Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor again earn the coveted distinction

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept. , 2026) – Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor have once again been recognised with prestigious MICHELIN Keys, placing them among just 12 hotels in Cambodia to receive the honour in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal is “Phnom Penh’s top hotel by far,” the editors write, in addition to being “the best located, just steps away from the Royal Palace.”

The editors praise Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap, saying, “This is an authentic French Colonial hotel, palatial, filled with ‘30s Art Deco furnishings, claw-footed bathtubs, and an antique (though refurbished) cage elevator. Beneath this exterior, though, are all the conveniences needed for survival in the competitive Asian luxury hotel market.”

The 2026 MICHELIN Keys were unveiled in September. MICHELIN Keys highlight the Guide’s “most exceptional hotels,” similar to how MICHELIN Stars spotlight the best restaurants.

“Receiving a MICHELIN Key for a second consecutive year is an affirmation of the passion and precision our entire team brings to every guest experience,” said Dagmar Lyons, General Manager of Raffles Hotel Le Royal. “It reflects both the enduring elegance of this historic landmark and our unwavering dedication to delivering hospitality that feels both timeless and deeply personal.”

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, which originally opened in 1929, today features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019. The hotel’s elegant past has been reinterpreted in a bold, contemporary style that is inspired by French colonial, Khmer and Art Deco influences.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor opened its doors three years later, in 1932, as a rest stop for archeologists and adventurers exploring the ancient kingdom of Angkor Wat. The hotel features an authentic expression of 1930s French Art Deco style with beautifully refined rooms, suites and villas blending old-world charm with Cambodian influences and contemporary detail.

Joseph Colina, General Manager of Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, said: “To be recognised again by the MICHELIN Guide is both an honour and a responsibility. It underscores our commitment to safeguarding the soul of this iconic property while continually elevating the experiences we create for every guest who walks through our doors.”

Earlier this year, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor unveiled an immersive new permanent exhibition, the ‘Grand Path of History’. Featuring rare photographs, video footage, architectural drawings and other vintage artefacts, it celebrates a golden age of travel in Southeast Asia and the enduring legacy of the two iconic Raffles hotels in Cambodia.

The two Raffles Cambodia hotels came together last year to unveil an exclusive 7-day stay package, “A Tale of Two Cities,” billed as “a journey like no other, where grand history, enchanted glamour and extraordinary adventure entwine.” The experience takes in the wonders of both destinations, including the iconic luxury hotels.

Banyan Tree Krabi Wins at Sustainable Green Awards Expo

KRABI, Thailand (Aug., 2026) — Banyan Tree Krabi, one of Thailand’s torchbearers in the fields of sustainability and eco-friendliness, proved its credentials once again when it took home first prize in Barista Mixology and second place in the culinary category at the “Hotel Expo Krabi Go Green 2026” challenge in Krabi on 24 July, 2026.

The winning drink in the mixology contest was a harmonious blend of locally-grown coffee mixed with seasonal fruits, concocted by Dawadee Songprasert, affectionately known as Khun Dao, of Banyan Tree Krabi’s beachfront Kredkaew Bar.

She said her “Soil to Soul” entry was inspired by Krabi's rich natural resources and the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, adding that her creation also follows a zero-waste concept. “We reuse coffee grounds and mango peels to make a cordial, giving these ingredients a second life,” she said.

The mocktail was blended with roselle, mangosteen and natural honey, infused with coconut oil, all of which are locally produced.

Additionally, the resort’s culinary team took second place in the “Local Taste Competition” with a recipe of Chargrilled Prawns with Tom Yum Emulsion, showcasing local ingredients and the authentic flavors of southern Thai cuisine.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the event, the Deputy Governor of Krabi Province said the development of qualitative tourism along with the conservation of natural resources was of great importance to Krabi as its strove towards becoming a green tourism destination.

Krabi in southern Thailand is renowned for its natural wonders, including the iconic towering karst cliffs that jut from the Andaman Sea, hidden lagoons, limestone caves, and islands ringed with white-sand beaches. The region and its dramatic scenery was recently the backdrop for Hollywood blockbuster Jurassic World: Rebirth and previously hosted Leonardo DiCaprio and the crew of hit movie The Beach.

Banyan Tree Krabi has been at the forefront of the local ecological movement and has been recognized with several significant national and international accolades, including a Green Hotel Award - Gold Certification, presented by Thailand’s Department of Environmental Quality Promotion. Last year, it won a Thailand Tourism Sustainability Award in the category of Health & Wellness Tourism at the national Thailand Tourism Awards 2025.

The Award-winning Resort

Banyan Tree Krabi offers 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom beachfront Presidential Villa. Each of the rooms faces the sea and the sunset as the property tiers into the hillside.

Facilities include two restaurants and a beach bar, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and — in harmony with Banyan Tree’s wellbeing branding — a tropical spa with Rainforest hydrotherapy facility.

Banyan Tree Krabi was awarded Two MICHELIN stars by the MICHELIN Guide in 2024 and 2025, and lauded by Fodor’s Travel 2026 as the only hotel in Thailand listed in The 100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World.

Nisha Sachin Honoured as “Hotel HR Manager of the Year – Upscale” at FHRAI Hospitality Awards 2026

Varanasi, August 2026: Nisha Sachin, Associate Director – People & Culture at Radisson Gurugram, Udyog Vihar, has been honoured with the prestigious “Hotel HR Manager of the Year – Upscale” award at the FHRAI Hospitality Awards 2026, held during the 56th FHRAI Annual Convention in Varanasi.

The award recognises Nisha’s contribution to shaping people practices, strengthening employee engagement, developing talent, and creating a culture where people and business grow together. Her approach to Human Resources goes beyond traditional HR functions, with a strong focus on building capable teams, nurturing leadership, enabling learning, and creating meaningful employee experiences.

With extensive experience across key areas of Human Resources—including talent acquisition, learning and development, performance management, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, employee relations, payroll and compliance—Nisha has played an integral role in driving people-centric initiatives at Radisson Gurugram, Udyog Vihar.

Her leadership has contributed to several notable achievements, including the property’s exceptional 99% score in the Radisson Hotel Group Global Engagement Survey, reflecting a strong culture of engagement, trust and enablement.

Speaking about the recognition, Nisha said, “This award is deeply meaningful to me because HR is ultimately about people—their aspirations, their growth and the environment we create for them to succeed. I accept this recognition with immense gratitude to everyone who has been part of my journey. It is a reflection of the collective efforts of my team, colleagues, mentors and leaders who have continuously supported and challenged me to grow.”

She further added, “I believe the future of hospitality will be shaped by organisations that invest in their people. When employees feel valued, empowered and inspired, they create extraordinary experiences for guests. My endeavour will always be to build workplaces where people can learn, contribute, grow and take pride in what they do.”

The FHRAI Hospitality Awards are among the prominent recognitions in India's hospitality industry, celebrating individuals and organisations that have demonstrated excellence and made a meaningful contribution to the sector.

For Nisha, the recognition marks another significant milestone in a career dedicated to people, culture and hospitality, while reinforcing her belief that sustainable business success begins with putting people at the heart of the organisation.

Cravings at Sayaji Hotel Vadodara Wins 'Family Restaurant of the Year 2026' at the Restaurant India Awards

Vadodara, 2026: Sayaji Hotel Vadodara is delighted to announce that Cravings, its signature all-day dining restaurant, has been honoured with the prestigious 'Family Restaurant of the Year 2026' at the Restaurant India Awards 2026. The recognition celebrates Cravings' unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, exceptional service and its ability to create memorable dining experiences for families and guests across generations.

A flagship dining destination at Sayaji Hotel Vadodara, Cravings has become synonymous with quality, variety and warm hospitality. Known for its expansive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, the restaurant offers an impressive selection of Indian and international cuisines, thoughtfully curated menus, seasonal food festivals and live culinary experiences that cater to every palate. Its inviting ambience and focus on comfort make it a preferred destination for family celebrations, festive occasions, business lunches, and casual dining alike.

Expressing his delight on the occasion, Anand Mishra, Director of Operations, Sayaji Hotel Vadodara, said, "We are honoured to receive the 'Family Restaurant of the Year 2026' award at the Restaurant India Awards. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and the trust of our guests, who inspire us to continually elevate our dining experiences. We remain committed to delivering exceptional hospitality and creating memorable moments for every family that dines with us."

The Restaurant India Award is a testament to the passion and dedication of the hotel's culinary and service teams, whose commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction has consistently elevated the dining experience at Cravings. Whether through curated regional food festivals, interactive dining concepts, or impeccable service, the restaurant continues to redefine family dining in Vadodara while upholding the signature hospitality that Sayaji Hotels is renowned for.

As Sayaji Hotel Vadodara continues to introduce innovative culinary concepts and guest-centric experiences, this recognition further strengthens Cravings' position as one of Gujarat's leading family dining destinations. With its blend of exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality and memorable experiences, Cravings remains committed to delivering dining moments that guests cherish and return for, time and again.

CHEF HARSH SHODHAN WINS SILVER AT WOW AWARDS ASIA 2026 FOR BEST F&B EXPERIENCE

Founder of The Gourmet Kitchen & Studio recognised for creating an immersive showcase experience that brought food, hospitality and storytelling together

Mumbai: Chef Harsh Shodhan, Founder & Culinary Director of The Gourmet Kitchen & Studio, has been honoured with the Silver Award for Best F&B Experience – Social Event at the prestigious WOW Awards Asia 2026. The recognition celebrates his vision and the team's execution of a showcase event designed to bring together food, hospitality and meaningful guest experiences.

The award-winning showcase brought together leading food creators, lifestyle influencers and members of the media for an evening that offered a closer look at the world of The Gourmet Kitchen & Studio. Conceptualised and led by Chef Harsh and his team, the experience brought together thoughtfully crafted dishes, engaging presentation and warm, personalised hospitality, reflecting his approach to creating food experiences that go beyond the meal.

With over 14 years of experience across catering, bespoke dining and hospitality, Chef Harsh has built The Gourmet Kitchen & Studio around the idea that every event should have its own character. From intimate celebrations to large-scale occasions for some of the country's most prominent families and organisations, his work focuses on bringing together food, presentation and service to create memorable experiences.

Speaking on the achievement, Chef Harsh Shodhan, Founder & Culinary Director, The Gourmet Kitchen & Studio, said, “This recognition is incredibly special because it celebrates the kind of experiences we have always wanted to create. For us, it is never just about the food, but about how every element comes together to make guests feel welcomed, engaged and part of the experience. I am extremely grateful to my team and everyone who has supported us on this journey. This award encourages us to keep experimenting, creating and finding new ways to make every occasion memorable.”

The Silver Award at WOW Awards Asia 2026 adds to Chef Harsh Shodhan's recognition on the platform, following his Gold Award for Best F&B Experience at the WOW Awards Asia 2020. The latest honour marks another milestone in his journey of creating bespoke food and hospitality experiences through The Gourmet Kitchen & Studio.

Ramee Group’s Saurab Gahoi Honoured with ‘Young Achiever of the Year’ Award at the 13th National Awards of Excellence and Leadership 2026

Mumbai, August 2026: Saurab Gahoi, Senior Vice President – India, Ramee Group of Hotels, has been honoured with the Young Achiever of the Year Award 2026 at the 13th National Awards of Excellence and Leadership 2026, held in July 2026 at Taj Lands End, Mumbai. The award recognises his leadership in driving growth and excellence in the hospitality sector.

Commenting on the recognition, Gahoi said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. It reflects the collective efforts of my colleagues, mentors and the entire Ramee Group team. I remain committed to fostering a culture of excellence and creating meaningful experiences for our guests.”

With over two decades of experience in hospitality, Gahoi joined Ramee Group in 2022 as Vice President – India and was elevated to Senior Vice President – India in 2024, since when he has been driving the group’s expansion and business strategy in India.