Navratri thalis & Durga Puja bhoj at Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata

Ismat Tahseen

The nine-day Navratri festival has swung in full fervour, marking it as the official Garba and dandiya season. We’re sure your energy levels are at an all-time high as you groove to the peppy music and dances. The much-awaited Durga Pujo is also here with the fragrance of kaash phool in the air, and folks have been visiting pandals with their family and friends. This is also a time where a fabulous feast awaits foodies. Here’s a round-up of the best restaurants where you can tuck into the traditional thalis and specially curated menus, in between your visits to garba-dandiya celebrations and the well-decorated pandals. It makes for a lovely trail of culture, heritage and food.

MUMBAI
The Westin Garden City Mumbai

This Navratri, embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the spirit of festivity and devotion at The Westin Garden City Mumbai. In honor of this sacred occasion, the hotel presents its meticulously-crafted Navratri Thali, a delightful gastronomic experience. Open your Navratri fast with an amazing and delicious thali that has been specially curated to cater to fasting preferences by Kangan Restaurant at the hotel. The flavoursome fare includes Roasted Makhana, Banana Chips, Jackfruit Chips, Sabudana Khichdi, Sabudana Vada, Sabudana Thalipeeth, Kuttu Paratha and an array of other delectable dishes. Complete your vrat with desserts like Badam Halwa, Makhana Kheer, Seasonal Fresh Cut Fruit and more.
On until October 24.
Venue: Kangan Restaurant, The Westin Mumbai Garden City
Time: Saturday & Sunday for lunch and dinner
Cost: INR 2100 plus taxes
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Khandani Rajdhani’s special Vrat Thali

As the festive spirit of Navratri fills the air, Khandani Rajdhani invites you to savor a special treat designed for those observing the fasts. The exquisite Vrat Thali is prepared using sendha namak (rock salt), and features satvik dishes such as Kuttu ke Pakode, Kaccha Kela Nu Shak, Paneer Tomato, Jeera Aloo, Samo Rice, or Ratalu Nu Kis, with a healthy fruit salad, savory farsan, scrumptious vegetarian sabzis, and fresh puris or thali peth made using rajgira or kuttu atta. Crispy papads, rajgira rice, and kadhi add to the delightful spread. A comforting serving of Dal, refreshing Fruit Curd, and Khopra Chutney are also included, alongside Pulao and Farali chewda. The Thali reaches its sweet end with fruit shrikhand and halwa.
On until October 23.
Where: Across all pan-India outlets
Cost: INR 625 + taxes

Durgotsav Bhoj & Navratri Thaali experience at Ishaara

This festive season, Ishaara has two thali experiences for all its patrons. The first is a Navratri special thali curated by Chef Jagdish Naidu. It offers dishes like Sabudana Khichdi, Jeera Aloo Methi, Falhari Paneer, Rajgira Kadhi, Kuttu ki Puri, fruit salad and several other accompaniments.
Where: Across all Ishaara locations – Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Lucknow & Bangalore.

The restaurant also has an exclusive Bengali food experience called ‘Durgotsav Bhoj’ curated by Miss Anasuya Banerji for all dinners until October 24. The inspiration behind Ishaara’s Bengali Thali this festive season draws from the roots of East Bengal, particularly the Dhaka & Comilla region. It encompasses a rich array of cooking ingredients, recipes, and cooking techniques.
Get set to relish a diverse range of appetizers, including Machher chop, Kochuri and Shukno Aloor Dam, fish fry, and more. The main course features authentic dishes such as Bhapa lish, Machher Kalia, Chingri Phookopi, and Jhuri Aloo Bhaja. Conclude your meal with the sweet indulgence of Bengali specialties like Mishti Doi and Nolen Gurer Rasogulla.
Where: The Bengali Thali experience will be exclusively available in Mumbai Ishaara, Palladium, and Kurla Market City.

Sofitel offers a delicious Navratri thali 

Sofitel Mumbai BKC is offering a Navratri Thali specially curated by Maharaj Pratap Giri at Tuskers, the specialty vegetarian restaurant and bar.
Guests who opt for the thali spread will begin with starters such as Sabudana Vada and Farari Pattis. The delcicious main courses include dishes like Farari Aloo, Suran ka Bhaji, Rajgiri Singdana Kadi. Dahi-Vala Arvi and Sabudana Khichdi. The thali will also offer salad, sweet curd, singada poori and Kuttu ki roti. Go for a sweet ending to the festive meal with desserts like Sabudana Kheer; Sarkarkand Ka Halwa and cut fruits.
On until October 23.
Where: Tuskers, Sofitel Mumbai BKC, C 57, G Block BKC,
Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai – 400051
Contact: +91 91673 91130 
Cost: INR 2000 plus taxes (for lunch only)

Badmaash presents a curated Navratri menu in a theme setting

It’s officially Garba season and the city’s energy levels are peaking at an all time high! This Navratri, Badmaash has curated an exclusive Navratri thali catering to anyone fasting during the nine days or just enjoys indulging in the festive delicacies.
Kick start your appetite with Kadi patta chaas, refreshing buttermilk infused with the flavors of curry leaves while nibbling on tidbits like crispy Senda Namak Aloo Chips and Cholai ke Ladoo sweet and nutty finger millet laddoos, perfect for your sweet tooth! Indulge in the crisp and flavorful Saboodana Tikki, a beloved snack during fasting days or dig into Samak ke Chawal ki Khichdi,a wholesome and comforting dish made from barnyard millet. Enjoy a filling meal with Paneer Tamatar Rassa accompanied by the delightful Singhare ke Atte ki Poori along with a spice kick of Teekha Aloo Jeeraa and the calming Bhuna Jeera Raita. A Navratri delight, the classic Saboodana Masala spicy and tangy sago dish made to perfection, is a truly must have this season! End your meal on a sweet note with Saboodana Kheer or a variety of Fresh Cut Fruits to culminate on a sweet note.
On until October 24.
Address: B 12, Ghanshyam Chamber, Veera Industrial Estate, Andheri Link Rd, Lokhandwala Complex, Andheri West, Mumbai.
Time: 12 noon – 1:30 am
Cost: INR 999 plus takes per person
Contact: +91 74004 91473

DELHI

Shangri-La Eros presents a culinary extravaganza for Navratri

Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, renowned for its culinary excellence, has unveiled its exclusive Navratri menu for Tamra and in-room Dining. The opulent buffet at Tamra is a treasure trove of culinary delights, featuring an exquisite array of Satvik delicacies. To begin, tantalising appetisers such as Aloo ki Tikki, Falahari Aloo Papdi Chaat, and Shakarkandi ki Chaat set the tone for a memorable dining experience.
Sagodana khichdi. Photo courtesy: Tamra, Shangri-La Eros
Guests can then savour the rich and diverse main courses, including aromatic Dum Aloo, Velvety Paneer Bhurji, and scrumptious Arbi ka Kofta. For those with a sweet tooth, the buffet offers a divine experience with treats like Sama Kheer and Kiwi Badam ki Phirni. The special Navratri buffet spread is available for lunch and dinner.
On until October 23.
Cost: Lunch buffet – INR 3,000 plus taxes per person
Dinner buffet – INR 3,200 plus taxes per person.
Guests can also enjoy Satvik cuisine with a delectable thali  in their rooms.
Cost: INR 1,800 plus taxes per person.
Contact: (91 11) 4119 1010

Navratri Thaal at The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences

The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences, best known for its luxury and excellence is thrilled to present a specially curated ‘Navratri Thali’ for all devotees to delight in the festive spirit of Navratri.

The menu is available at our Indian specialty restaurant ‘Diya’ & hotel’s award winning restaurant ‘Spectra’ from 15th to 24th October, 2023.  The Navratri Thal consists of Shakarkandi ki Chat which has cubes of sweet potatoes tossed in tangy imli sauce, the mouth-watering Sabudana Aloo ki Tikki, Paneer Bhujia sauteed in Indian spices, Kaddu Ki Sabji cooked in fresh ground spices, Dhaniya Chonke Aloo and in house special Samak Ke Chawal Banana Chips. Alongside, smooth and tangy Plain Curd, crisp Sabudana Papad made with Tapioca Pearls, Sabudana Kheer cooked in condensed milk and nuts.
On until October 24.
Contact: +91 9717596088
Cost: INR 2000 per person+18% GST (no service charges levied)
Time: Diya – Lunch 12:30-14:30 and Dinner 18:00-23:00
Spectra – Lunch 12:30-15:30 and Dinner 19:00-23:00

Vrat-friendly menu at Khoya Mithai, The Chanakya

There’s an indulgent treat in store for you at Khoya, purveyors of India’s finest Mithai. This is where mithai is made fresh and hand-rolled, with high-quality natural ingredients, zero artificial colouring or preservatives. Its vrat-friendly mithais includes an assortment of Date & Nut Barfi, Pista Barfi , Rose Coconut Barfi, Kesar Peda, Pink Coconut Ladoo, Khoya Malai Ladoo, Pista Longe, Badam Longe, Walnut Peda, Kaju Pista Roll and Badam Tokri.

Also unmissable is the range of select mithais that embody the spirit of togetherness:

Misri Mawa Mithai, a fusion of the richness of maawa with misri’s crystalline charm is a must-have.
Cost: INR 1,100 + 5% GST (Box of 10)

Premium Mithai is an assortment of Pista Longe, Mewa Tokri Badam Longe, and Kaju Pista Roll. Crafted using only the finest natural ingredients and made gluten-free and 100% vegetarian.
Cost: INR 2,400 + 5% GST (Box of 16)

Sugar-Free Pink Coconut Ladoo & Bikaneri Barfi is part of Khoya’s recently-launched range of sugar-free mithai. Each piece is crafted using certified sugar substitutes derived from stevia. Price: INR 1100 + 5% GST (Box of 10)

Where: Available at the flagship store at The Chanakya, New Delhi; on order on website for PAN India delivery

BENGALURU

Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel curates exclusive
Navratri Thali

Experience the exquisite flavours of the season as Chef Somasundaram expertly crafts the ‘Navratri Thali’ at Lush, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel. It pays homage to Satvik cuisine and is thoughtfully-curated to adhere to age-old customs. The delicious spread includes Kaddu Ki Subzi, Sabudana Wada, Aloo Aur Singadhe Ki Subzi, and Lauki Ki Subzi, each dish brimming with authentic flavors. And for those sweet cravings, the must-try desserts are Seb Aur Sabudana Ki Kheer, Kache Papite Ka Halwa, Paneer Mawa Roll, and Kache Kela Kofta Curry, a symphony of flavors that will warm your heart and soul.
On until October 24, for lunch and dinner.
Where: Lush, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, No 17 And 17, 1, Race Course Rd, Madhava Nagar, Extension, Bengaluru – 560001
Cost: INR 900 + taxes per person
Contact: +91 95139 44520

Navratri special flavours at Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Outer Ring Road

Courtyard by Marriott Outer Ring Road Bengaluru invites patrons to experience Flavours of the Divine – a special culinary offering in honour of the auspicious Navaratri festival. The exclusive Thali menu has an array of delightful flavours. Guests begin with a refreshing welcome drink of either buttermilk (chaas) or nariyal pani. The meal continues with Shakar Kandi ki Chaat salad, followed by a selection of vegetables. For the appetizers, indulge in the crispy Singhare ke Pakore. The meal is complemented by a variety of bread options, including Rajgira Poori and Kuttu Atte ka Thepla. End your culinary journey on a sweet note with the rich and flavourful Ghee Makhana kheer and Shakarkand ka Halwa desserts.
On until October 25 for for lunch and dinner.
Where: Momo café, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Outer Ring Road and Kava, Fairfield by Marriott Bengaluru Outer ring road
Cost: INR 1200+ taxes
Contact: +91 88841 61699, +91 95136 53156

KOLKATA 

Pujor Mahabhoj at The Westin Kolkata, Rajarhat

The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat is celebrating the arrival of Maa Durga with ‘Dhol Dhak Dhunuchi 4.0’. Pujor Mahabhoj, a 5-day long food festival will be hosted at Seasonal Tastes, Westin Ballroom, Nori, 31 & 32. Here, you’ll be greeted by a spectacle of live food stations, each one being a tribute to Kolkata’s iconic street food and showcasing the city’s rich culinary heritage. The heart of this grand feast will be a sumptuous spread of authentic Bengali dishes from classics like Kosha Mangsho, a slow-cooked, tender mutton delicacy to Basanti Pulao,  a fragrant, saffron-infused rice dish, Kolkata Style Chicken Biryani, Aloo Posto and Chanar Dalna, a rich and creamy paneer curry. Enhancing this grand feast will be the harmonious backdrop of live music.

This jubilant celebration will further be elevated by live entertainment, featuring the rhythmic beats of dhol, the resounding resonance of dhak drums, and the mesmerizing performance of dhunuchi dancers.

You can also indulge in a divine Asian feast at Nori from Sashti to Dashami (until October 24) and delight the palate with an array of authentic Asian flavors, including a wide selection of salads, Sushi, Dim Sum, and other beloved favorites. Some highlights from our menu include Som Tam Salad, Indonesian Rainbow Bakwan, Crispy Fish Salt and Pepper, and Hakka Style Veg Chilli Garlic Basil Noodle, among others. The culinary journey will conclude with a gourmet dessert buffet, a true delight for all those with a sweet tooth. The grandeur of Durga Puja would be lacking without indulging in some sweet delights. Bengali desserts will take center stage, featuring a delectable array of sweets like Chhena Jalebi, Kheer Kadombo, Pantua, Chamcham, Komala Bhog, Seetabhog, Rosogolla and Mishti Doi that will leave you longing for more.

Additionally, guests can experience a lavish 5-day celebration featuring a 5-Star Pujo Mandap alongside an opulent staycation, complete with daily breakfast.
On until October 24.
Where: Plot No cbd/2, AA II, Newtown, New Town, West Bengal – 700156
Cost: +91 9073323290

JW Marriott Kolkata unveils ‘Maa Durga’s Griffin Odyssey’

 Experience a wonderful blend of luxury and cultural extravaganza this Durga Puja at JW Marriott Kolkata. This celebration offering includes expansive stay options, traditional culinary delights, and a carefully curated line-up of cultural events including live performances from the rock music band ‘The Mutineers’.

The opulent Puja Mahabhoj is at Grand Ballroom from Saptami to Navami. Indulge in delectable offerings that span across Continental to Asian culinary traditions such as Hanoi Hannah (Tempura veg roll topped with rock corn and mango relish), Chicken Tom kha soup, Mapo tofu with Shiitake and Pak choy and Wild mushroom Risotto, to name some. To enrich the overall Puja experience, the Mahabhoj will be complemented by the performances of Abriti, Dhaaki, Dhunuchi dance, and Puja Parikrama. The interior will be adorned with intricate decorations and thematic lighting that capture the essence of Durga Puja along with stunning Durga idols, handcrafted by renowned artisans. On until October 23.

Guests can also savour a sumptuous feast at JW Kitchen showcasing a diverse selection of freshly prepared, authentic Bengali dishes. It features classics like Kolkata-style mutton biryani, Kochi Panthar Jhol Aloo Diye, Sorse Bhapa Mach, Dhokar Dalna, Kasundi-marinated fish fry, Labra, Chingri Macher Malai Curry and more. Conclude the Durga Puja Mahabhoj on a sweet note with traditional Bengali desserts like Sandesh, Mihi dana, Roshogulla, and the classic Mishti Doi. This selection will be available for both lunch and dinner.

JW Marriott Kolkata also offers a luxurious JW Celebration staycation ‘The Maa Durga’s Griffin Odyssey’ package from October 20-24. The staycation package includes Buffet Breakfast at JW Kitchen and access to the ‘Durga Puja Mahabhoj at Grand Ballroom, among other things. The guests can also indulge in rejuvenating spa services in preparation for the festive Puja season. On until October 24.
Address: 4A, J.B.S Haldane Avenue, Kolkata – 700 105
Cost: +91 70 4444 0711

Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata Welcomes Maa Durga with ‘PujorBari’ Feast

To capture the authentic essence of Pujo, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata will be adorned with the rhythmic beats of the dhak, the fragrant swirls of dhunuchi, and the divine presence of Maa Durga’s idol. In the spirit of celebrating happiness, unity, and serenity, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata is excited to present ‘Pujorbari’ in collaboration with globally-acclaimed artist, Prithviraj Choudhury. The feast will be available at the all-day dining restaurants, Kava, Vertex – the liquid restaurant, and The Mangrove.
The menu has been thoughtfully curated to showcase a diverse array of freshly prepared Bengali dishes, featuring Posto Murgi, Dhokar Dalna, Mutton Dak Bunglow, Chanar Tarkari, Dhonepata Bata Murgi, Potoler Dolma and more. No Bengali meal is truly complete without a sweet finale. And this presents a delightful ending with irresistible Bengali desserts including Baked Roshogolla, Rosh Mallai, Sita Bhog, Mishtidoi, and Sandesh.
On from October 20-24.

Where: Kava, The Mangrove and Vertex, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata, CB 218, Action Area 1C, New Town, Kolkata – 700156
Contact: +91 76050 86818