Why the Best Restaurant in India Doesn't Believe in "Pin-Drop Silence."
โ Just announced today (Feb 11), Masque in Mumbai has officially been awarded the Art of Hospitality Award 2026. In the high-end world, 'hospitality' usually means white tablecloths and quiet whispers. But Masque is changing the game.
โTheir philosophy is rooted in an ancient Indian belief: Atithi Devo Bhava - 'The Guest is God.' Head Chef Varun Totlani explains that in India, hospitality isn't a 'service'; it's how you were raised. He wants Masque to feel like 'chaos, energy, and life' an authentic Mumbai experience; rather than a stiff, silent dining room. They use a dedicated R&D 'Lab' to interact directly with guests, letting them taste experiments before they even hit the menu.
โWhy this fits us:
We just hit 40 members, and that means we are building our own 'ecosystem of hospitality.' At Kitchen Passport, we believe the best meals aren't just about the salt and heat; they are about the 'energy' you bring to the table. Whether you are serving a 10-course meal or a simple bowl of pasta, your attitude is the secret ingredient.
โ What is the one thing you do to break the 'stiffness' when hosting a dinner? Do you let guests into the kitchen to help, or do you have a specific 'welcome drink' that sets the mood? ๐ฅ๐ฅ