Asmita Mukherjee | Hyderabad 
Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center has earned a reputation as a premier destination for exceptional culinary experiences, seamlessly blending global inspirations with the richness of local traditions. With a diverse array of dining venues, the property offers something unique for every palate.
Under the visionary leadership of Jatinder Pal Singh, Food and Beverage Director, these offerings have reached new heights. Singh has been pivotal in introducing innovative concepts such as themed food festivals, immersive chef’s tables, and sustainable practices like zero-waste cooking and responsible sourcing. In a conversation with Asmita Mukherjee, he delves into the intricacies of the hotel’s F&B offerings and the vision behind them.
How do you approach modernizing traditional Indian cuisine while preserving its authenticity to meet the expectations of today’s discerning diners?
At Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention center, we embrace a philosophy of “modern innovation rooted in tradition.” We carefully modernize Indian cuisine by refining techniques, and presentation, and incorporating global culinary trends while staying true to authentic flavors and time-tested recipes. Our chefs draw inspiration from regional delicacies, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and contemporary plating styles to deliver a dining experience that resonates with modern palates while honoring Indian culinary heritage.
What are some standout culinary concepts or experiences you’ve introduced at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield that have redefined the guest dining experience?
We have introduced several signature experiences that have transformed dining into a sensory journey. Feast, our all-day dining venue, offers curated live stations featuring regional specialties and international cuisines. Inazia, our Pan-Asian restaurant led by Chef Rungtiwa, our Thai specialty chef, brings authentic Asian flavors to life with a focus on fresh, bold ingredients. Zarf, our signature Indian restaurant, celebrates the rich culinary heritage of India with innovative dishes that highlight regional delicacies. Additionally, themed food festivals, immersive chef’s tables, and unique beverage pairings have set new benchmarks for guest engagement and elevated dining at our property.
With large-scale events often leading to significant food wastage, what measures have you implemented to minimize waste and ensure sustainable operations?
Sustainability lies at the core of our operations. We have adopted portion control strategies, optimised buffet layouts, and implemented zero-waste cooking practices to minimise food wastage. Additionally, we prioritise waste segregation and composting to reduce landfill contributions, in alignment with Marriott International’s Serve360 sustainability initiative. We have also transitioned from LPG to PNG for cleaner energy use and strictly adhere to sustainable seafood guidelines to promote responsible sourcing.
What major shifts in dining preferences and F&B trends have you observed over the years, and how is Sheraton Grand adapting to these changes?
We’ve observed a significant demand for healthier, plant-based options, sustainable dining, and experiential culinary journeys. Guests today are more conscious of ingredients, sourcing, and presentation. To adapt, we have introduced health-focused menus, locally sourced produce, and seasonal offerings. Interactive dining concepts & personalised experiences have also been integrated to create memorable engagements that cater to evolving preferences.
How do you foster creativity and excellence within your culinary and service teams to consistently deliver high-quality experiences?
Our focus is on building a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We encourage our chefs and service teams to experiment with new ideas, techniques, and global influences while participating in culinary workshops, competitions, and cross-property training programs. Regular feedback sessions and recognition initiatives motivate teams to deliver excellence consistently. At Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center, we believe that fostering passion and creativity translates directly into exceptional guest experiences.
