Onam on a Plate: Where to Relish Sadhya in Mumbai & Bengaluru

One of the most cherished traditions of Kerala, Onam is incomplete without the grand Onam Sadhya: a lavish vegetarian feast served on banana leaves that symbolises prosperity and abundance. With over 20 dishes balancing sweet, savoury, tangy, and spiced notes, the Sadhya is as much a cultural experience as it is a culinary one. As Onam 2025 approaches, luxury hotels across Mumbai and Bengaluru are hosting indulgent Sadhya spreads that bring Kerala’s flavours to the fore.

Whether you’re a Sadhya loyalist or sampling it for the first time, here are some of the finest places to celebrate this festive feast. For newcomers:

What is an Onam Sadhya?

Onam Sadhya is a traditional vegetarian feast served during Kerala’s harvest festival, Onam. Typically laid out on a banana leaf, the meal can feature anywhere from 20 to 30 dishes, each with symbolic and seasonal significance. Expect an elaborate spread of avial, thoran, olan, sambar, rasam, pachadi, erissery, crisp banana chips, and an indulgent finish with payasam (sweet pudding). Beyond just food, the Sadhya represents community, abundance, and celebration: a true sensory experience of Kerala’s culinary heritage.

Now the crux: Where to feast?

Dakshin, ITC Grand Central, Mumbai

Known for its authentic South Indian fine dining, Dakshin at ITC Grand Central is laying out an elaborate Sadhya this season. Expect a colourful spread of Avial, Olan, Erissery, Payar Thoran, and Palada Payasam, served with festive favourites like Sharkara Upperi, Kaya Varuthathu, and crisp Papadam. With every dish cooked in true traditional style, this meal celebrates the essence of Kerala’s harvest festival.

• Where: Dakshin, ITC Grand Central, Mumbai

• When: 28th August – 7th September 2025; Lunch: 12:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Dinner: 7:30 pm – 11:45 pm

• Price: ₹3,250 + taxes onwards

 Sante at Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield

Bengaluru Marriott Whitefield invites guests to a lively Onam celebration, complete with Pookkalam at the entrance, the beats of Chenda Melam, and the vibrant Pulikali dance. The Sadhya here unfolds with Pachadi, Olan, Erissery, Avial, Kootu Curry, and ends on a sweet note with Palada Payasam and Parippu Pradhaman. Families can also take home a festive takeaway Sadhya from 1st to 6th September, ensuring the joy of Onam extends beyond the banquet.

• Where: Sante, Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield

• When: 5th & 6th September 2025; 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm (four seating slots)

• Takeaway Sadhya: 1st – 6th September 2025

• Price: On request

Chef Rebecca’s Onam Feast at Derby, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

In collaboration with Chef Ammu Rebecca, known for her Travancore-style cooking, Renaissance Bengaluru brings an intimate, homely Onam feast to Derby. On the banana leaf, expect comforting classics like Puli Inji, Koottu Curry, Sambar, Olan, Avial, and the festive Ada Pradhaman. Each dish reflects Rebecca’s philosophy of cooking with heritage and heart, transporting diners straight to Kerala’s family courtyards.

• Where: Derby, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

• When: 5th & 6th September 2025

• Price: Veg: ₹1,199++ per person | Non-Veg: ₹1,499++ per person

Saffron, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu

Saffron transforms the Onam feast into a regal dining experience with “A Royal Sadhya.” This abundant spread celebrates the return of King Mahabali with traditional dishes like Avial, Olan, Pachadi, and Payasam, elevated with Saffron’s signature presentation. With live music and elegant décor, the celebration promises to be both soulful and festive- making it a perfect choice for Mumbai’s luxury-seeking diners.

• Where: Saffron, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu

• When: 5th September 2025; Lunch: 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm | Dinner: 7:00 pm – 11:30 pm

• Price: ₹4,000++ per person

Spice Terrace, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru

JW Marriott Bengaluru’s Spice Terrace is hosting a vibrant Onam feast that pairs Kerala’s timeless flavours with festive flair. The grand spread includes over 20 dishes- Avial, Erissery, Kootu Curry, Moru Curry, Sambar, Rasam, and a trio of payasams (Ada Pradhaman, Palada Payasam, and Chakka Pradhaman). Complemented by blooming Pookalams and traditional music, the experience is a poetic ode to Kerala’s cultural richness.

• Where: Spice Terrace, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru

• When: 5th September 2025; 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm

• Price: ₹2,200 + taxes per person

From the refined plates of Mumbai’s JW Marriott Juhu to the homely warmth of Chef Rebecca’s feast in Bengaluru, this year’s Onam Sadhyas offer a chance to celebrate tradition with a touch of luxury. Whichever spread you choose, each banana leaf brims with dishes that honour Kerala’s heritage and the festival’s spirit of abundance, joy, and community. Happy Onam from us to you and yours!

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