HYDERABAD: Take a trip to Maharashtrian cuisine with The Westin Mindspace, Madhapur. The festival promises the real taste of Marathi food, simply the way it is. Seasonal Tastes, the hotel's buffet restaurant will offer dishes inspired from every nook and corner of the state. "The food is kept as authentic as possible. There isn't any compromise considering Hyderabad's demands. All you get is traditional Marathi food here," says Chef Uday Karmalakar, who is heading the food fest.
The week long fest puts forth ingenious dishes headed by a chef who specially prepares the menu. Chef Uday Karmalakar from Marriot, Mumbai has worked extensively on Marathi food and takes pride in the state's culinary history. "Marathi food is never complete without coconut, peanuts, onions and almonds," says Chef Uday. The buffet consists of at least 26 dishes per shift which changes twice a day. The buffet is carefully divided according to the 23 districts of Maharashtra. Each dish represents the culinary exclusiveness of their district. Fish from Koliwada is a definite try. Malvani Chhole, Kolhapuri Paneer, Narali Chicken, Bhendhichi Bhaji and Sangali mutton should make it to your list as well. The food ranged from mildly spicy to spicy, with chutneys for every dish.
One cannot overlook the snacks and chaat section in the buffet. Pav Bhaji and Vada Pao seemed to be an absolute crowd puller. Known for its own street food, Misal pao, Mirchi bhajji, Fish bhajj and Tava Pulao were an absolute delight to have. Though one might miss the spiciness and the tanginess in the buffet which had to be kept on check due to hotel's foreign guest list. In the dessert section Satyanarayan Prasad didn't seem appealing to the eyes but surprisingly pleasing to the taste buds. Move ahead and you will find Puran Poli, Modak and Seviyachi Kheer to your delight. The festival will be on till May 28. Time: 7 pm - 11 pm.