January in India is turning into a full-blown celebration of food, drinks, culture, and stories from across the world. From global bar icons flying in for one-night-only takeovers to slow, soulful food festivals rooted in tradition, this month is packed with experiences that are not just about eating or drinking but about being part of something special. Here are the most exciting pop-ups and food festivals to attend this January.
Best Food Festivals Across India
Food Festivals In Bengaluru
1. The World’s No. 1 Bar Comes To Bengaluru: Bar Leone Takes Over ZLB23
For one night only, Bengaluru plays host to the world’s best bar. Bar Leone from Hong Kong, currently ranked No. 1 on both The World’s 50 Best Bars and Asia’s 50 Best Bars, is taking over ZLB23, the iconic speakeasy at The Leela Palace Bengaluru. Led by celebrated bartender Lorenzo Antinori, the takeover focuses on what he calls cocktail popolari. The menu is tight and thoughtful, featuring just four cocktails, each telling a story. There’s Milan With A View, Olive Oil Sour, Coconut OF, and Caffè Paradiso.
Where: ZLB23, The Leela Palace, HAL 2nd Stage, Kodihalli, Bengaluru
When: 17th January; 8 pm – 10 pm | 10 pm onwards
Cost: ₹5,000++ per person
2. SIP, DIP ‘n’ DINE At Mulberry Shades, Nandi Hills
Some experiences are about slowing down, and SIP, DIP ‘n’ DINE at Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills is exactly that. This Sunday brunch series at Terra is designed for long afternoons, good food, live music, and absolutely no rush. Running across three Sundays in January, each brunch follows a different theme. The Mediterranean Freshness Brunch feels light, sunny, and coastal, with mezze like hummus and baba ghanoush, warm breads, live grills, and more. The Konkan Brunch celebrates India’s western coast with bold flavours, seafood grills, Mutton Vindaloo, Goan Fish Curry, and cooling Sol Kadhi.
Where: Survey No: 28, 29 & 30, Kemathimmanahalli Village, Kundane Hobli, Devanahally, Bengaluru
When: 4th, 11th, and 18th January
Cost: starting at ₹2,500++ per person
3. Nara Thai’s 3-Day Pop-Up At Yauatcha Bengaluru
For three days, Yauatcha Bengaluru turns into a warm, familiar Thai kitchen. Nara Thai’s limited-time pop-up menu opens with Thai classics like Tom Yum and Tom Kha soups, along with fresh, zesty salads such as spicy raw papaya and pomelo. Gai Yang chicken, crispy black pomfret, chicken satay with peanut sauce, and betel leaves with chilli lime dip are some of the appetisers. Desserts like Mango Sticky Rice and Tub Tim Grob bring back happy memories, and mocktails and cocktails with Thai influences complete the experience.
Where: Level 5, Lido Mall, 1 Mg, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Halasuru, Someshwarpura, Halasuru, Bengaluru
When: 9th – 11th January
Cost: ₹3,500 (For two)
4. Taste Of Saigon At JW Marriott Prestige Golfshire
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JW Marriott Prestige Golfshire brings Taste of Saigon to Bengaluru for two nights, showcasing the energy of Vietnam’s vibrant food and bar culture. The experience is led by Thep Dinh, one of Vietnam’s most respected bartenders and the mind behind Stir, a bar consistently featured on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. His cocktails are designed like stories. Paired with this is a Vietnamese menu curated by Chef Nhan Ngo, whose food celebrates balance, freshness, and bold flavours.
Where: Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Bengaluru, PRESTIGE GOLFSHIRE, Nandi Hills, Bengaluru
When: 16th and 17th January; 6 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹3,000++ per person
5. Saffron Trails At Courtyard By Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal
Hosted at Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, this week-long showcase celebrates saffron as a symbol of luxury, warmth, and tradition. Curated by Master Chef Asif Qureshi, the menu revisits slow-cooked techniques and forgotten recipes from India’s regal kitchens. The experience reaches its peak with a special Saffron Brunch, where highlights like Zaffrani Murgh Biryani, Saffron Risotto, and Saffron-infused French Toast are served alongside live music and refreshing mocktails.
Where: 2/55, Outer Ring Rd, Jogappa Layout, Nagavara, Bengaluru
When: 12th – 18th January
Cost: Brunch starting at ₹2,499++
6. Seafood Festival At Maize & Malt, Bengaluru
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Maize & Malt’s Seafood Festival is bold, indulgent, and perfect for seafood lovers. The menu brings together flavours from India’s coastal regions and global cuisines, offering plenty of variety. From Crispy Chilli Baby Octopus and Mangalorean Pepper Prawns to Goan-style Prawns Balchão and Thai Red Curry Mussels, every dish is packed with flavour. There are also comforting classics like Beer-Battered Fish Fingers and Soft Shell Crab in Chilli Garlic Sauce.
Where: 3, 4th Cross Rd, near Whitefield, Vigneshwar Nagar, Kaveri Nagar, Krishnarajapuram, Bengaluru
When: 5th January – 31st January; 12:30 pm – 1 am
Cost: ₹1,200 (For two)
7. Stories From India’s Kitchens At JW Kitchen, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru
Some meals remind you who you are and where you come from. Stories from India’s Kitchens at JW Kitchen does exactly that. Each week focuses on a different region of India, making the experience feel like a culinary journey across the country. From the earthy comfort of Uttarakhand’s Aloo ke Gutke to Rajasthan’s fiery Laal Maas, Punjab’s winter favourite Sarson da Saag, and Assam’s soulful fish curry, every dish carries a sense of place. Desserts like Malpua with Rabri, Hot Roshogolla, and Kumaoni Halwa feel like the perfect ending to the meal.
Where: 24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd, KG Halli, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru
When: until 31st January; 7 pm – 10:30 pm
Cost: ₹3,250++ per person
8. A Grills Odyssey: Uncovered At Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Bengaluru
If you love the smoky aroma of food cooked over fire, A Grills Odyssey: Uncovered at WelcomCafe Jacaranda is one festival you shouldn’t miss. This limited-time showcase celebrates grilling in all its forms, from familiar favourites to global creations you may not have tried before. The buffet is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who enjoys robust, flame-kissed flavours.
Where: WELCOMHOTEL BY ITCHOTELS, 46, Richmond Rd, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru
When: 17th January – 31st January; 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹1,750++
9. Bhatkali Food Festival By Chef Fathima Riyaz At Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel At Brigade Gateway
Hosted at Feast and led by Chef Fathima Riyaz, the experience brings together Middle Eastern influences and Konkani traditions that define Navayath cuisine. Every dish feels deeply personal, inspired by family recipes and home kitchens. Highlights include Vermicelli Biryani, Mudkale, Matta Appo, and dishes made with Lonmeri spice blends that give Bhatkali food its distinctive flavour. Desserts like Khubusa Poli and Shaala Pudding add a gentle sweetness to the meal.
Where: 26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Malleswaram, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru
When: 18th January – 27th January; 12:30 pm – 4 pm | 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: starting at ₹2,699++
10. Taste Of Paradise Kashmir At Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield
Taste of Paradise Kashmir is all about slowing down and savouring subtle, refined flavours. Curated by Chef Abdul Hameed War, this Kashmiri food pop-up celebrates Wazwan traditions with respect and authenticity. Gushtaba, with its soft meatballs in yoghurt gravy, feels comforting and rich, while Tabak Maaz offers crispy, indulgent bites of lamb ribs. The meal ends with Kong Phirin, a classic Kashmiri dessert that’s simple yet deeply satisfying.
Where: Prestige Shantiniketan, Hoodi, Whitefield, Bengaluru
When: 16th January – 25th January; 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm | 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: starting at ₹2,649++
11. The Soul Of Punjab At The Market, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore
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Punjabi food is known for its warmth and generosity, and this special showcase at The Market captures that spirit beautifully. The menu draws inspiration from both rustic village kitchens and royal households of Punjab. Live stations serve winter favourites like Sarson da Saag with Makki di Roti, while comforting classics such as Pindi Chole and Patiala-style Chicken Curry bring familiar flavours to the table. One of the highlights is the Sharabi Raan, inspired by the royal kitchens of Patiala. Paired with nostalgic welcome drinks like Sardai and Gud ki Lassi, the experience is hearty.
Where: 99, Residency Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru
When: 19th January – 25th January; 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm | 7 pm – 11:30 pm
Cost: starting at ₹3,000++
12. Global Cuisine – Africa At Courtyard By Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal
This food festival offers a chance to explore Africa’s diverse culinary landscape without leaving the city. You can expect dishes like Jollof Rice, Injera with Dible, Moroccan Chicken Tagine, and Bobotie, each prepared with care and authenticity. The festival is thoughtfully curated, making it both exciting and approachable even if you’re new to African cuisine. It all comes together with a lively African-themed Sunday brunch, complete with music and mocktails.
Where: No. 2, The Hebbal Cafe, Level- 1, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, 55, Outer Ring Rd, Nagavara, Bengaluru
When: 19th January – 25th January
Cost: starting at ₹2,050++
Food Festivals In Pune
13. Coastal Crossings At Farro, Pune
Coastal Crossings is a seven-course tasting menu that brings together Mediterranean flavours and South Indian coastal comfort in a beautifully restrained way. The meal begins gently with tzatziki and smoked cucumber, moves into Pul Biber Manti, mezze-inspired courses, and then shifts to a Malabar-influenced plate with raw mango and coconut. A reimagined moussaka is served before the evening ends with a Chikmagalur coffee tiramisu made with filter coffee and dark chocolate.
Where: Shop 1/2, 357/1, Lane No. 6, Meera Nagar Garden Society, Meera Nagar, Koregaon Park, Pune
When: 18th January; 8 pm onwards
Cost: ₹4,500 per person
Food Festivals In Mumbai
14. YouMee’s Winter Ramen Festival Across India
Winter is ramen season, and YouMee knows it. Starting mid-January, YouMee’s Winter Ramen Festival rolls out across all its outlets in India. The menu caters to everyone, from vegan and vegetarian diners to those who love bold, meaty flavours. Expect options like Exotic Mushroom Ramen, Koji Tofu Ramen, Spicy Lamb Ramen, Shoyu Bacon Ramen, and the fiery Tantanmen. Each bowl is built with slow-simmered broths, springy noodles, and carefully chosen toppings that make every spoonful satisfying.
Where: Multiple Outlets
When: 15th January onwards
Also Read: From Amritsar To Guwahati, 8 Best Bars In Tier 2 Cities Levelling Up India’s Cocktail Culture
15. SAMVAAD: The Tribal Festival At Ishaara, Mumbai
SAMVAAD at Ishaara is one of the most meaningful food pop-ups you’ll find this January. Instead of reinterpreting tribal food, the restaurant invites members of India’s indigenous communities to cook and present their own festival dishes. Food from the Negi, Santhal, Koya, and Karbi communities takes centre stage. From bamboo shoot preparations and Pahari momos to rice-and-lentil dishes cooked with alkaline extracts, every plate tells a story of seasonality, community, and tradition.
Where: 3rd Floor, Palladium Mall, High Street Phoenix, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai
When: 22nd January onwards; 12 pm – 11:30 pm
16. SALUD At The St. Regis Mumbai
The St. Regis Mumbai kicks off the year with SALUD, a global mixology series that brings world-class bars to the city. Bee’s Knees from Kyoto, renowned for its elegant balance and precision-driven Japanese bartending, is featured in the first edition. The takeover at Koishii / By The Mekong is positioned to become a must-follow series for cocktail enthusiasts, with upcoming editions showcasing bars from cities like Milan, Tokyo, Bangkok, and Mexico.
Where: 462, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai
17. Winter Harvest Feast At The Square, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach
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The Winter Harvest Feast at The Square is built around winter produce, slow cooking, and flavours that feel familiar but never boring. This is the kind of meal where you’re encouraged to slow down, take your time, and enjoy each course without watching the clock. Plates of Murgh Zafrani Tikka, Beetroot and Carrot Tikki, brown rice pilaf, and other winter-forward dishes arrive as comforting companions.
Where: Novotel Hotel, Juhu Beach, Balraj Sahani Marg, Juhu, Juhu, Mumbai
When: until 31st January
Cost: starting at ₹2,399++
18. Malacca Food Festival At IRA By Orchid Hotel
This January, Mumbai gets a delicious introduction to one of Malaysia’s most flavour-packed culinary regions with the Malacca Food Festival at IRA by Orchid Hotel. Malaccan cuisine is known for its deep, layered flavours, and the buffet captures that beautifully. Think comforting bowls of Melaka Laksa, Chicken Rendang, Ikan Asam Pedas, and home-style dishes like Ayam Pongteh and Sambal Chicken. The meal is concluded with traditional desserts like Kuih Lapis and Sago Gula Melaka.
Where: Andheri Kurla Road, Marol, Mumbai
When: 9th – 17th January; 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹2,200++ per person
19. Torii Takeover Nights: Fatboy Izakaya Bangkok x Torii
For two special nights, Fatboy Izakaya Bangkok takes over Torii in Mumbai, bringing with it the electric energy of Bangkok’s modern izakaya scene. Led by Chef Andrew Martin, the takeover is all about breaking rules and having fun with food. The menu is playful and packed with dishes like Ume and Chicken Fried Rice, BKK Spider Rolls with soft-shell crab, fish & chips karaage, and inventive vegetarian dishes like Japanese-style Portobello sandos. Signature cocktails like the Sumo Sour and Hot Mess mix Japanese flavours with Indian herbs and Thai-inspired elements.
Where: 21, Pali Hill Rd, Union Park, Khar West, Mumbai
When: 29th and 31st January; 11am – 11:30 pm
20. Shabu Shabu Pop-Up At The Dimsum Room
Mumbai’s winter may be short, but The Dimsum Room makes it count with its Shabu Shabu Pop-Up at the beautiful open-to-sky Zen Garden in Kala Ghoda. A simmering pot sits at the centre of the table, inviting everyone to cook, share, and eat at their own pace. Diners can choose between a spicy Korean gochujang broth with buldak butter or a comforting Japanese white miso broth. From seafood and meats to dumplings and vegetarian favourites, you can build your own perfect bowl.
Where: 3rd floor, building 30, K Dubash Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai
When: until 31st January
Cost: ₹900 onwards per person
21. An Evening With Keir Williams: Ballantine’s Takeover At Le Bar, Sofitel Mumbai BKC
Sofitel Mumbai BKC starts the year with a stylish whisky-led evening at Le Bar Diamantaire. Led by Keir Williams, a third-generation whisky professional, the takeover focuses on making whisky approachable and enjoyable. Guests can sip on Ballantine’s signature serves like the Speyside Berry Sour and Ballouvardier, paired with Pondichéry Café’s popular barbecue offerings. The evening is relaxed, social, and perfect for unwinding midweek.
Where: C 57, G Block BKC, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai
When: 23rd January; 7 pm onwards
Food Festivals In Hyderabad
22. Maharashtrian Comfort Food Evenings At Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad
Home chef Swati Mawlankar brings authentic Maharashtrian flavours to Mazzo at Marriott Executive Apartments for four special evenings. Her food feels like it comes straight from a family kitchen. The menu features classics like sabudana vada, kothimbir vadi, batata vada, matki usal, and bharli vangi. Non-vegetarian dishes include fiery Kolhapuri chicken and mutton, along with coastal-style prawns. Live counters serving thalipeeth and pithla bhakri add a rustic, homely touch. Desserts are just as nostalgic, with options like puran poli, shrikhand, modak, and orange burfi.
Where: LN terminus, Gachibowli, Marriott Executive Apartments, Level ST (Super Terrace, Survey No. 133, SLN Terminus Rd, Kondapur, Gachibowli, Hyderabad
When: 7th – 10th January
Cost: ₹2,200++
Food Festivals In Delhi NCR
23. Chef Davide × Chef Huber Italian Pop-Up At Prego, The Westin Gurgaon
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Chefs Davide Di Domenico and Christian Huber come together to tell Italy’s north–south food story through a thoughtfully crafted menu. Expect comforting northern classics like Ossobuco alla Milanese with saffron risotto and duck ragout with bigoli, alongside southern favourites that celebrate fresh produce and bold flavours. Live elements such as Prego’s much-loved tiramisu add a touch of theatre to the experience.
Where: The Westin, The Westin Gurgaon New Delhi Number 1, MG Road Sector 29, New Delhi, NCR, Gurugram
When: 14th – 16th January
Cost: ₹3,500++ (For two)
24. Mughal And Awadhi Food Festival At Eros Hotel, New Delhi
At Singh Sahib, Eros Hotel New Delhi, this royal food festival brings back the grandeur of Mughal and Awadhi kitchens. The focus is on slow cooking, aromatic spices, and rich flavours that were once reserved for royalty. The menu features indulgent biryanis like Murgh Mughlai, Gosht Yakhni, and Awadhi Korma Biryanis, each layered with flavour and aroma. Traditional breads such as Sheermal, Taftaan, and Roomali Roti complete the experience.
Where: EROS HOTEL, The Eros Hotel, American Plaza, Nehru Place, New Delhi
When: 16th January – 31st January; 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Cost: ₹1,795++
25. Maybe Sammy Bar Takeover At Rubicon Bar, The Leela Ambience Gurugram
For one special evening, Rubicon Bar brings Sydney’s iconic cocktail culture to Gurugram. Maybe Sammy, one of the world’s most celebrated cocktail bars, takes over with a menu that’s playful, creative, and expertly crafted. Cocktails like Willy Wonka, Mad Men, and James Bond are designed to tell stories through flavour.
Where: Lobby level, The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences, Ambience Island, National Highway 8, Ambience Island, DLF Phase 3, Sector 24, Gurugram
When: 30th January
26. A Kashmiri Culinary Sojourn At Capital Kitchen, Taj Palace, New Delhi
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This week-long showcase at Capital Kitchen is a heartfelt tribute to Kashmir’s rich food heritage. The menu features beloved classics like Rogan Josh, Rista, Tabakh Maaz, and Nadru Ke Kebab, paired with saffron rice and traditional breads. Thoughtful details like Kahwa and Noon Chai service add authenticity and warmth.
Where: 2 Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi
When: 17th – 24th January; 7 pm – 11:30 pm
27. Kashmiri Food Festival At Food Exchange, Novotel New Delhi Aerocity
Curated by Chef Archana Dhawan, this Kashmiri food festival celebrates the depth and simplicity of traditional Kashmiri cooking. The buffet features slow-cooked gravies, comforting vegetarian dishes, and authentic accompaniments that reflect the region’s hospitality. Every dish feels rooted in memory and tradition, making the experience both emotional and satisfying.
Where: Asset No 2, Aerocity, New Delhi, Delhi
When: 18th – 25th January
From once-in-a-lifetime bar takeovers to food festivals rooted in culture, January across India is packed with experiences worth stepping out for.
Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied
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