Avartana, a Chennai-based restaurant, has been honored as the ‘Most Innovative Indian Restaurant’ at the prestigious NDTV Food Awards 2026. This award specifically recognizes establishments that push the boundaries of Indian cuisine through creativity, original concepts, and bold new approaches. The accolade was presented by jury chairman and renowned food critic Vir Sanghvi, alongside NDTV CEO and Group Editor-in-Chief Rahul Kanwal. The award was accepted by Anil Chadha, Divisional Vice President of ITC Hotels, and the Avartana team.
Avartana Secures Top Honor at NDTV Food Awards 2026
Before announcing the winner, Vir Sanghvi shared a personal anecdote about Avartana’s inception. Sanghvi recalled that the idea of a modern South Indian tasting menu felt highly unconventional when he first experienced it at ITC Grand Chola. Presenting South Indian cuisine as a curated tasting experience, rather than through traditional à la carte options, was an unusual approach at the time.
Sanghvi emphasized that the team took a risk by offering solely a tasting menu format, a decision that fundamentally shifted perspectives on South Indian dining.
The inspiration behind Avartana’s distinctiveness was also highlighted. The chef revealed that many of their ideas stem from childhood memories, such as tamarind eaten with salt and pepper during play, or fresh tapioca gathered from rural South Indian fields. These humble recollections are transformed into refined, contemporary dishes now featured in a diverse range of tasting menus.
A Bold Concept Expanding Across Cities
Anil Chadha provided insights into Avartana’s journey, stating that the concept began as a bold experiment within ITC Hotels in 2017. This innovative approach, originating in Chennai, rapidly expanded to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and even Colombo. Chadha underscored that Avartana has never been a solitary effort but rather a collective endeavor driven by a team passionate about elevating South Indian cuisine beyond its conventional identity and presenting it in an entirely new light.
Today, Avartana is celebrated for its immersive dining experience, where each course is part of a meticulously crafted journey. With this award, Avartana continues to solidify its reputation as a restaurant that reimagines culinary possibilities.
