Pongal, Lohri, and Makar Sankranti are some of the happiest holidays in India. Now that the harvest is in, food becomes a symbol of gratitude, community, and abundance. Slow-cooked meals, festive sweets, and large tables are hallmarks of these festivities. This year, restaurants and hotels across the country are reviving these traditions with special menus.
Harvest Special Menus Across India
Pongal Special Menus Across India
1. The Verandah, ibis Styles Mysuru
At The Verandah, the Pongal special menu feels like a journey across the country’s winter kitchens. From the earthy comfort of Ven Pongal and Sakkarai Pongal to robust winter staples like Sarson ka Saag with Makai Roti, Millet Khichdi, and Undhiyo, every dish reflects the generosity of the season. Thoughtfully curated by Chef Gaurav Bansal, the experience is less about extravagance and more about warmth.
Where: Lobby level, ibis Styles, 17/2, KRS Rd, Metagalli, Mysuru
When: 9th – 18th January; 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: starting at ₹1,099++
2. The Square, Novotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road
Pongal Utsav at The Square is a gentle, soulful celebration of South Indian harvest traditions. Guests are welcomed with golden Medu Vadai and soft, spiced Kuzhi Paniyaram before moving on to the heart of the meal: Ven Pongal, slow-cooked with rice, lentils, ghee, and pepper, served with classic sambar and coconut chutney. The supporting dishes, like Avial, Kara Kuzhambu, and seasonal Poriyals, add depth without distraction. End with Sakkarai Pongal for the most authentic experience.
Where: Novotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, Opposite RMZ Ecospace Business Park, Marthahalli, Marathahalli – Sarjapur Outer Ring Road, Outer Ring Rd, near Novotel, Kariyammana Agrahara, Bengaluru
When: 10th – 14th January; 12:30 pm – 3 pm | 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹2,799++
3. Dakshin, ITC Grand Central, Mumbai
Dakshin’s Pongal Special Thali is a celebration of tradition, balance, and quiet indulgence. This thali unfolds slowly, starting with comforting rasam, crisp appalam, and festive paniyarams. The main spread features a beautifully composed selection of Tamil favourites, like Poondu Kara Kozhambu, Murungai Motchai Kootu, Poosinikai Sambar, and the much-loved Ven Pongal, prepared with freshly harvested rice and fragrant spices. The meal ends with Sarkarai Pongal and a cup of traditional filter coffee.
Where: 287, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Rd, Parel East, Parel, Mumbai
When: 10th – 18th January; 12:30 pm – 3 pm | 7 pm – 11:30 pm
Cost: starting at ₹3,250++
4. Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel
At Southern Spice, the Pongal Virundhu brings together festive classics like Kalkandu Pongal, Athirasam, and Kai Murukku, each prepared with a deep respect for ritual and tradition. Standout dishes like Vadu Mangai Stuffed Kuzhi Paniyaram add playful bursts of flavour, while rustic preparations such as Nattu Kai Sambar and Paruppu Usili ground the meal in everyday Tamil cooking. Traditional beverages like Nannari Sherbet and spiced buttermilk complete this immersive experience.
Where: Taj Coromandel, Uthamar Gandhi Rd, Anna Salai, Nungambakkam, Chennai
When: 14th – 18th January
Cost: starting at ₹2,500++ per person
5. JW Kitchen, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru
Pongal at JW Kitchen is calm, comforting, and deeply familiar. The menu focuses on food that nourishes both body and spirit, like Arisi Paruppu Sadam, Avial, and Mor Kuzhambu. Festive snacks like Medu Vadai and Kara Paniyaram bring texture and warmth, while desserts such as Sakkarai Pongal and tender Elaneer Payasam gently close the meal.
Where: 24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd, KG Halli, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru
When: 14th January
Cost: starting at ₹2,750++ per person
Lohri Special Menus Across India
6. Daryaganj
Lohri at Daryaganj feels like stepping into a North Indian winter kitchen where food is cooked slowly and served generously. The menu revolves around Sarson Ka Saag and Makki Ki Roti, a pairing that defines the season. Hearty additions like Sarson Saag Chicken and Saag Meat add depth, while Bathua Ka Raita brings freshness to the table. Starting with warming Bhutta Shorba and ending with soft Gulab Jamun, the meal captures everything Lohri stands for.
Where: Multiple Outlets
When: 12 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹1,800 (For two)
7. Singh Sahib
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At Singh Sahib, Lohri is celebrated with bold flavours and royal flair. Smoky tandoor starters set the tone, followed by rich mains like Dal Makhni, Patiala Rara Chicken, and Sarson Mahi Tikka, all paired with Makki di Roti. The meal leans into indulgence, ending with Jalebi, Rabdi and Dry Fruit Kulfi.
Where: M3M 65th Avenue, Sector 65, Gurugram
When: 11:30 am – 11:30 pm
Cost: ₹1,500++ (For two)
Also Read: Asian Takeovers To Coastal Flavours, 15 Best Food Pop-Ups & Festivals Across India This January
8. Ikk Panjab
Ikk Panjab’s Lohri celebration is deeply emotional and reflective, marking milestones while honouring Punjab’s winter food traditions. The Winter Chef’s Tasting Menu brings together Sarson da Saag with Makki di Roti, smoky Baingan Bharta, rich Saag Gosht finished with white butter, and comforting shorbas. Ending with Adrak ka Halwa, the experience feels intimate and thoughtful.
Where: Multiple Outlets
Cost: ₹2,500++
9. Loya, Taj Palace, New Delhi
Loya’s Lohri menu is rooted in provenance and the quiet richness of North Indian winter cooking. Dishes like Sarson da Saag with Challi ki Roti, Kadam Gosht, Rye Wala Murg, and Saat Anaj Khichdi reflect the region’s deep connection to seasonal produce. Nostalgic sweets such as Gud Wale Chawal and Gajrela add warmth and familiarity, making the experience soulful and grounding.
Where: Taj Palace, 2 Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi
When: 14th January; 12:30 pm – 2:45 pm | 7 pm – 11:30 pm
10. The Pavilion, ITC Maurya
The Pavilion turns Lohri into a lively, celebratory affair with a generous buffet inspired by Punjabi homes and highway dhabas. Live grills, Sarson ka Saag with Makki ki Roti, Pindi Chana, and Dhaba-style dals form the heart of the spread. Traditional sweets like Pinni, Atte ka Halwa, and Gajrela bring comfort and nostalgia, making them perfect for families and large festive gatherings.
Where: Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave-Chanakyapuri, Delhi
When: 13th January; 7 pm – 11:30 pm
Cost: ₹3,500++ per person
11. The LaLiT Jaipur
The LaLiT Jaipur’s Lohri celebration is grand and indulgent, offering a wide-ranging Punjabi buffet that spans regions and styles. From smoky starters to rich curries and an expansive dessert spread featuring Pinni, Besan Barfi, Jalebi Panna Cotta, and Ghewar Cheesecake, this is Lohri for those who love variety, abundance, and festive excess.
Where: The Lalit Jaipur Hotel 2B & 2C Near Jawahar Circle, Jagatpura Road, Malviya Nagar, Jaipur
When: 13th January; 12 pm – 3 pm | 7 pm – 11:30 pm
Cost: ₹2,200++ per person
12. Food Exchange, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre
Food Exchange brings the spirit of a traditional Punjabi Lohri to Hyderabad with live Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag counters, classic Punjabi mains, and festive sweets like Gajak and Rewri. With live Punjabi music, festive décor, and staff in traditional attire, the experience feels joyful, immersive, and perfect for a family night out.
Where: Novotel & HICC Complex, Izzathnagar, Kothaguda, Hyderabad
When: 13th January; 7 pm – 11 pm
Cost: ₹2,999++ per person
13. Street Storyss, Bangalore
Street Storyss offers a fresh, modern take on Lohri through its global vegetarian lens. Familiar winter flavours appear in inventive forms, Makki Roti Bun with Saag Butter, Dal Bhutta Khees, Sourdough Bhatoora with Pindi Chole, and Kali Gajar Halwa with a contemporary twist. It’s a celebration that feels playful yet respectful, ideal for diners who enjoy tradition reimagined.
Where: Multiple Outlets
When: 13th – 16th January; 12 pm – 11:30 pm
Cost: starting at ₹2,000++
Makar Sankranti Special Menus
14. Sheraton Grand Palace Indore
Makar Sankranti at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore is bright, joyful, and family-friendly. The brunch brings together harvest dishes from across regions, like Undhiyu, Puliyodharai, Bhogichi Bhaji, and sesame-inspired preparations, alongside festive sweets like Puran Poli and Nolen Gurer Payesh. Kite-themed décor, folk music, and children’s activities turn the celebration into a full-day festive experience.
Where: Bypass Road, Omaxe City 1, Mayakhedi, Indore
When: 14th January; 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
15. Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre
The Sankranti Lunch at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre captures the joy of new beginnings through food, colour, and tradition. Sweet and Ven Pongal stations, Pulihora, Avial, and festive desserts like Ariselu and Bobbatlu anchor the menu, while vibrant décor and live music add to the celebratory mood. It’s a warm, inclusive way to celebrate the harvest with family and friends.
Where: Novotel & HICC Complex, Izzathnagar, Kothaguda, Hyderabad
When: 14th January; 12:30 pm – 3 pm
Cost: ₹2,999++ per person
16. Kalpaney
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Kalpaney’s Makar Sankranti menu is quiet, thoughtful, and deeply seasonal. Drawing inspiration from harvest celebrations across India, the menu moves gently from small plates to comforting mains like Sarson ka Saag with Makki ki Roti and Kadala Curry with Bajra Khichdi. Ending with Dates and Nuts Holige and Coconut Milk, the experience feels slow and reflective.
Where: Outer Ring Road, 100 Feet Ring Rd, J P Nagar Phase 5, Bengaluru
When: 14th and 15th January
Cost: ₹1,600 (For two)
Together, these Pongal, Lohri, and Makar Sankranti special menus remind us why harvest festivals matter.
Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied
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