Stunning Bengali Gastronomy Extravaganza: Traditional and Tasteful Festive Celebrations at Crowne Plaza, Pune.

In a splendid homage to the cultural richness of Bengal, on 14th April 2024, Crowne Plaza, Pune, embarked on an extraordinary culinary odyssey to commemorate the Bengali New Year. Within the elegant confines of the hotel’s most famous outlet “Mosaic”, guests in-house and walk-ins were transported to the vibrant streets of City of Joy - Kolkata, where the air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of authentic Bengali cuisine and the echoes of festive cheer.

The celebration unfolded with an exquisite showcase of Bengali food specialties, each dish meticulously crafted to embody the qualitative characteristics that define the essence of Bengali gastronomy. From the vibrant colours to the intricate flavours, every element reflected the culinary heritage of Bengal, evoking a sense of nostalgia and reverence for tradition.

Under the skilled leadership of Executive Chef Subhajit Sadhukhan, whose culinary expertise knows no limits, and Executive Sous Chef Nitish Chandra Roy, celebrated for his inventive reinterpretation of classic dishes, the kitchen team, including Chef Debashri Patra, Chef Amulya, Vikrant, and Roshan Thapa, embarked on an unparalleled culinary journey. Standing alongside them were Chef Anushri Haldar and Chef Biswajit, Sipra, and Komal, each a master in their own right, whose command over Western Cuisine brought a distinctive flair to the festivities.

The entire brigade of chefs, akin to virtuosos composing a gastronomic symphony, lavished their creations with layers of authentic flavour, texture, and aroma. With every meticulously crafted dish, they invited diners on a journey of sensory delight, where each bite unfolded like a chapter in a captivating novel, revealing nuances and subtleties that delighted the palate and ignited the imagination.

Among the constellation of culinary stars, there were certain dishes that shone with an incandescent brilliance, leaving an indelible imprint on my memory.

Aampora Sarbat: This refreshing starter delighted me with its harmonious blend of tangy ripe mangoes and invigorating mint, offering a burst of sunshine with each sip.

Kathal Cutlet: Crispy perfection awaited guests as they bit into the golden-brown exterior of the Kathal Cutlet, revealing tender jackfruit pulp within. The medley of spices tantalized the taste buds, while the crisp coating added a satisfying crunch.

Maach Er Paturi:

Unwrapping the banana leaf parcel revealed delicate fish fillets infused with mustard paste, coconut, and green chillies. The aroma alone was enough to transport diners to the banks of the Hooghly River, while each bite offered a symphony of flavours that lingered long after the meal was finished.

Kosha Mangsho: Tender chunks of slow-cooked mutton, steeped in a rich blend of spices, offered a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary traditions of Bengal. Each succulent bite was a testament to the chefs' mastery of their craft and left guests craving for more.

 Echorer Dalna: This vegetarian delight featured tender jackfruit simmered in fragrant gravy, offering a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. The comforting flavours of home resonated with every spoonful, leaving me feeling warm and content.

Kosha Dum Aloo: Indulging in this decadent dish, guests savoured each forkful of tender baby potatoes bathed in rich, aromatic gravy. The blend of spices coated the palate, leaving behind a lingering sensation of comfort and satisfaction.

For the sweet tooth, the exclusive Patishapta was an outright winner. This quintessential Bengali dessert, with its unique taste and flavour, evoked memories of traditional festivities. Each bite unveiled a symphony of sweetness and warmth, capturing the essence of Bengali culinary artistry.

What I also loved were:

Misti Doi: This timeless Bengali classic enveloped me in its velvety smoothness, with the creamy sweetness of caramelized sugar offering a moment of pure indulgence. Each spoonful was a journey to sweetness and serenity, leaving me and guests craving for more.

Chana Er Payesh: Luxuriously creamy rice pudding infused with jaggery and cottage cheese offered a journey of comfort and joy with every spoonful. The perfect balance of sweetness left me feeling cocooned in a blanket of contentment.

Undoubtedly, the festival’s menu was a tapestry of flavours, woven with the finest spices, freshest produce, and the skilful techniques honed over generations. From the fragrant aromas of mustard-laced curries to the delicate sweetness of mishti, or sweets, each dish bore the unmistakable imprint of authenticity and craftsmanship.

But it was not just the food that left an indelible impression; it was the meticulous attention to detail, the impeccable service, and the warm hospitality that defined the Crowne Plaza experience. From the moment guests stepped through the doors, they were enveloped in an atmosphere of refinement and sophistication, where every need was anticipated and every desire fulfilled.

Yes! Amidst the culinary extravaganza, the F&B service personnel especially Purna Sarmah (RM), Ashwini, Bhakti, Sayan, and Sauvik, led by the consummate professional Maruti Havaldar (F&B Manager) showcased their impeccable skills and unwavering dedication to hospitality. With grace and precision, they attended to every need, ensuring that each guest felt like royalty from the moment they arrived.

Special accolades are reserved for Mr. Santanu Sarkar, the esteemed General Manager of Crowne Plaza, Pune, whose visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Alongside him stood the entire marketing team, whose tireless efforts and creative ingenuity transformed the Bengali Food Festival Dinner into a resounding success.

The Bengali Food Festival at Crowne Plaza, Pune, has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who attended, transcending mere dining to become a cherished memory.

If truth be told - it was not just a festival; it was a reverent tribute to Bengal’s cultural richness and an unparalleled showcase of culinary excellence, elevating the experience to a level beyond compare.

Crowne Plaza’s impeccable hospitality and attention to detail ensured that every moment was steeped in elegance and delight, making it an event that will be fondly reminisced and celebrated for years to come.

Yes! You may indulge your senses with delightful culinary creations at Mosaic, where every visit promises an enchanting experience, whether it's a festive occasion or just a casual outing. Treat yourself to an array of tantalizing delights that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy, making every moment a celebration of flavour and harmony.

Images-n-expression by Manav Kaushik

DWF (Don’t Waste Food please)