How to host a thoughtful dinner for guests at home

India’s luxury hospitality landscape is evolving as travellers increasingly seek experiences that feel personal, culturally grounded, and emotionally resonant. Beyond opulent interiors and premium amenities, the focus has shifted towards storytelling, authenticity, and moments that connect guests more deeply to a destination.

At one of New Delhi’s landmark luxury hotels, this shift is reflected in how hospitality, dining, and festive celebrations are being reimagined. From personalised stays and immersive culinary journeys to menus that respond to changing diner preferences, the emphasis is on thoughtful engagement rather than spectacle.

Insights from the hotel’s leadership and culinary team reveal how heritage-led luxury can remain relevant in a contemporary context by balancing tradition with innovation, and consistency with evolution.

Together, these perspectives offer a closer look at how luxury hospitality in India is adapting to the expectations of today’s globally aware, experience-driven traveller.

REDEFINING LUXURY THROUGH EXPERIENCES

According to Ms. Preeti Makhija, General Manager of The Leela Palace New Delhi, modern luxury is increasingly defined by meaningful experiences rather than material indulgence alone. The focus has shifted towards creating moments that feel intimate, personalised, and rooted in a sense of place.

Curated city immersions, bespoke wellness journeys, and highly personalised in-room experiences form part of this approach. These elements are designed to reflect the philosophy of Indian luxury—where hospitality is not only about comfort, but also about emotional connection and cultural depth.

FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS ROOTED IN TRADITION

Festive periods are viewed as an extension of this philosophy, offering an opportunity to showcase Indian hospitality through a contemporary lens. Seasonal dcor, curated dining experiences, and personalised rituals are designed to evoke warmth and togetherness while staying aligned with cultural traditions.

Rather than focusing solely on grandeur, the emphasis remains on intimacy and relevance whether through special menus, handcrafted offerings, or family-oriented stay experiences that reflect the spirit of celebration.

BALANCING HERITAGE WITH CONTEMPORARY EXPECTATIONS

Preserving palatial elegance while remaining relevant to modern travellers requires constant reinterpretation. The approach combines traditional craftsmanship with thoughtful refurbishments, updated technology, and curated art and culinary collaborations.

This balance allows heritage to remain dynamic rather than static, ensuring that the property reflects both India’s past and the evolving sensibilities of today’s luxury traveller.

The philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava underpins the hotel’s dining experiences across cuisines and formats. Whether Indian fine dining, Italian cuisine, or global comfort food, the emphasis remains on warmth, attentiveness, and personalised service.

While each restaurant maintains its distinct identity, a shared service ethos ensures consistencythrough gestures such as customised menus, tableside interactions, and an attention to individual guest preferences.

CURATING A REGIONAL INDIAN MENU AT JAMAVAR

Head Chef Rajesh Rana explains that Jamavar’s menu draws inspiration from India’s diverse culinary regions, bringing together flavours and techniques from the North, Central, and South of the country. Slow-cooked dishes, regional breads, coastal preparations, and traditional classics are presented with a refined, contemporary sensibility.

The intent is to showcase India’s culinary depth while maintaining familiarity and balance on the plate.

SIGNATURE DISHES AND FIRST-TIME RECOMMENDATIONS

For first-time diners, the focus remains on dishes that best represent the restaurant’s culinary philosophy. Signature preparations such as slow-cooked lamb, regional kebabs, long-simmered lentils, and traditional biryanis are positioned as anchors to the menu.

These dishes offer a rounded introduction to India’s regional diversity while reflecting time-honoured techniques and layered flavours.

RESPONDING TO EVOLVING DINER PREFERENCES

Chef Rana notes a clear shift in diner behaviour over the years, with guests showing greater curiosity and openness to lighter, cleaner preparations alongside traditional flavours. This has influenced menu development, including the introduction of plant-based and health-forward options that remain rooted in regional taste profiles.

The aim is to respect culinary heritage while adapting to changing consumption patterns and dietary awareness.

MAINTAINING DISTINCT IDENTITIES ACROSS RESTAURANTS

With multiple restaurants offering varied cuisines, consistency is achieved through shared standards rather than uniformity. Each dining space retains its individual character, while quality, ingredient sourcing, service, and attention to detail remain common threads.

This approach allows each restaurant to express its own identity while aligning with the broader hospitality philosophy.

SEASONAL MENUS AND FESTIVE TOUCHES

During festive periods such as Diwali and Christmas, limited-edition menus are introduced to reflect seasonal ingredients and celebratory traditions. These offerings are designed to complement the festive mood, adding a sense of occasion without overwhelming the core dining experience.

Through these seasonal touches, dining becomes an extension of the celebration rather than a departure from it.