New Delhi is set to host the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13, welcoming leaders from Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE, alongside other partner countries. Beyond the diplomatic discussions at Bharat Mandapam, a significant aspect of India's hospitality will be showcased through an elaborate and distinctly Indian culinary experience prepared by the capital's luxury hotels.
A Taste of India's Regions
The Taj Mahal, New Delhi, has curated a special collection dubbed 'Tradition to Table'. This culinary journey features recipes inspired by the chefs' earliest mentors—their mothers—and aims to highlight India's rich regional food traditions.
Delegates will have the opportunity to sample a variety of traditional savory bites representing six different regions of India. These include:
- Kashmiri Spiced Walnuts: A unique flavor from the northern region.
- Purani Dilli Maida Kaju: A classic snack from Old Delhi.
- Maharashtra's Bhakarwadi: A crispy, spicy roll from the western state.
- Rajasthan's Mini Kachori: Small, savory pastries from the desert state.
- Bengal's Kucho Nimki: A popular fried snack from the east.
- Tamil Nadu's Murukku: A crunchy, spiral-shaped snack from the south.
According to Dr. Anmol Ahluwalia, Area Director - Operations and General Manager at Taj Mahal, New Delhi, this selection underscores the diversity of India's food heritage and reflects the warmth and spirit of Indian hospitality.
The Symbolic Edible Lotus
At The Leela Palace New Delhi, the culinary team has crafted a visually stunning and symbolically rich offering: an edible lotus. Inspired by India's national flower and its role in the identity of BRICS India 2026, this handcrafted delicacy is made with rose, saffron, and cardamom, paired with indigenous Indian fruits.
This edible lotus serves as a representation of India's heritage and The Leela's commitment to exceptional hospitality. The menu also includes 'Aujasya by The Leela' millet cookies, handmade granola bars, and various wellness infusions, blending traditional Indian ingredients with a contemporary approach to healthy nourishment.
Executive Chef Karan Thakur noted that these offerings provide international guests with a refined experience rooted in Indian ingredients and The Leela's signature hospitality.
Indian Classics with Global Flair
The LaLiT New Delhi has adopted a broader culinary strategy, merging refined Indian regional cuisine with international influences. Their BRICS menu features beloved Indian favorites such as succulent galouti kebabs and freshly baked tandoor breads, alongside a strong emphasis on millets, incorporating these traditional Indian grains into a modern menu.
Adding an international twist, the menu also includes unique preparations like Braised Eggplant with Miso Paste, Simmered Chinese Cabbage, and Kidney Bean Sweet Japanese Style with Amber Sauce. Vishal Sharma, General Manager of The LaLiT New Delhi, explained that these additions aim to harmoniously blend diverse culinary influences while preserving the distinct character of Indian hospitality.
The extensive and varied menus prepared for the BRICS delegates go beyond standard luxury hotel fare, offering a true taste of India's regional food traditions while embracing global culinary inspirations. They reflect a passion project for the hotels' culinary teams, embodying a warm, dignified, and unmistakably Indian approach to hospitality.