New Delhi, Aug 27: Kerala-based chefs Jomon John and Tintu Mathew brought the flavours of their home state to Delhi with a traditional Onam Sadya curated specially for diners at ibis New Delhi Aerocity. Held at Spice It restaurant on August 26, the one-day celebration offered guests an opportunity to experience the flavours and food traditions associated with Kerala’s most important harvest festival.
With their expertise in Kerala’s festive cuisine, Jomon and Tintu created a menu that reflected the food traditions associated with Onam. The Sadya featured much-loved preparations including Avial, Sambar and Cabbage-Carrot Thoran, alongside other festive dishes, bringing together the variety, balance and simplicity characteristic of Kerala cooking.
For the chefs, the experience was an opportunity to introduce Delhi diners to the cuisine they have grown up with while staying true to its traditional character. Their approach focused on preserving the familiar flavours and techniques of Kerala cooking, with the menu drawing on regional ingredients and preparations that have long been part of the Onam celebration.
Beyond its variety of dishes, the Sadya also reflects the communal spirit of Onam. Traditionally served as a festive meal, it brings together multiple preparations on a banana leaf and is associated with sharing, togetherness, and celebration. Through the curated menu, Jomon and Tintu sought to offer diners not just a taste of Kerala, but also a closer understanding of the traditions behind the cuisine.
Commenting on the experience, A Bharat Gupta, Hotel Manager, ibis New Delhi Aerocity, said,
“We wanted this Onam celebration to be driven by the people and culinary traditions behind the food. Jomon and Tintu brought their expertise in Kerala cuisine to the experience, making the Sadya more than a festive menu. It gave our guests an opportunity to discover the flavours, traditions and stories that make Kerala’s food culture so distinctive.”
The Onam Sadya was served during lunch and dinner at Spice It, with the festive experience priced at ₹1,500 per person, inclusive of taxes.
The chef-led celebration is part of ibis New Delhi Aerocity’s ongoing efforts to bring diverse food traditions and regional culinary experiences to its guests. The property has previously hosted festive dining experiences including special Valentine’s Day and Navratri offerings.