The Radisson BluBanjara Hills came alive with the vibrant flavors and aromas of Sri Lanka on a balmy summer evening in Hyderabad. The hotel is hosting a food festival titled, “The Taste of Sri Lanka”. Food enthusiasts from across the city are flocking the place to sample the authentic Sri Lankan fare.
Deccan Chronicle sat down with the mastermind behind the festival, Chef John Biswas, Director of Culinary, amid all the buzz. We wondered why a Sri Lankan food festival now, especially in summer? “Well, it’s not about the timing. We have been planning this festival since last year.
The idea was to bring a Sri Lankan chef from within our own brand to promote our chefs and strengthen our brand internationally. It’s about celebrating our own talent,” says Chef John smilingly. He also underscored the need for promoting inhouse talent.
“Home brand chefs are becoming rare with the surge of pop-ups taking them outside. We wanted to showcase our own talent. Two months ago, we hosted a Mexican food festival with an external chef, but then we thought, why not use our own resources?” There is also a cultural aspect behind hosting showcasing Sri Lankan cuisine.
“Telangana is part of South India, and Sri Lankan food shares influences from Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The flavours are familiar and acceptable to the local palate. Plus, it’s an opportunity for those who can’t travel to Sri Lanka to experience its cuisine here,” he says.
Chef Biswas also added that backing Sri .
