Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The prestigious 11th edition of the Big F Awards, known for its integrity concluded with grandeur and excitement, honoring the pinnacle of excellence in the food and beverage industry. Hosted at The Westin on 18th September 2024, the event convened industry luminaries, esteemed chefs, distinguished restaurateurs, and prominent influencers Chef Kunal Kapur, Chef Manish Mehrotra, Chef Ajay Chopra, Chef Saby, Chef Rakesh Sethi, Chef Nita Mehta, Rocky Singh, and Mayur Sharma, among many more for an unforgettable evening of recognition and celebration. While the Big F Awards have long been a hallmark of Gurgaon’s culinary scene, this year, they have now expanded to Delhi and Noida, broadening their reach and engaging a larger audience.
Since its inception in 2014, The Big F Awards has become the premier recognition for culinary excellence, celebrating the exceptional talents flourishing in the industry. This award has played a pivotal role in spotlighting home chefs, home bakers, and small delivery outlets from its very first year, providing them with a prestigious platform to stand alongside established industry giants. The awards recognized outstanding achievements in innovative culinary experiences, service, and hospitality.
The awards spanned across categories like Indian Cuisine, World Cuisine, The Big F Awards Special, and Nightlife. In Indian Cuisine, Dum Pukht (ITC Maurya) and Indian Accent won the League of Legends award, while Rocky Mohan was recognised as Culinary Icon. The Young Chef Award went to Chef Adit Grover for his culinary innovation.
In the world Jury, Sanadige and Dakshin (Sheraton Delhi) tied in Coastal Cuisine, while Punjab Grill, Daryaganj, and Sandoz led in North Indian. Loya (Taj Palace) won in Other Indian Regional Cuisines, and Bhawan and Kaansa (Crowne Plaza) shone in Modern Indian.
In World Cuisine, Tamra (Shangri-La) and Culina 44 (Taj City Centre) won All Day Dining. Café Delhi Heights and United Coffee House Rewind excelled in Cafe (With Alcohol), while Cafe Peepal, B-Ten Café, and Grotto won in Cafe (Without Alcohol). Shang Palace and YouMee led in Chinese Cuisine, Orient Express and United Coffee House in European Cuisine, and Megu and Eest in Japanese/Korean Cuisine.
In Nightlife, Lair, Viet, and Saga dominated Cocktail Bar & Wine Collection, while Studio XO Bar won for Place for Gigs. Khubani and Fort City Brewing took home awards for Theme Restaurant/Bar and Microbrewery, respectively, while Molecule topped the Pub/Bar category, and Sunset Story (The Westin) was recognised for Rooftop Bar.