The 11th edition of The Big F Awards, held at The Westin, brought together food enthusiasts, chefs and restaurateurs to celebrate culinary excellence in Delhi-NCR. This prestigious event not only recognised outstanding talent in the food and beverage industry but also created a sense of community among those who share a passion for food, writes SAKSHI PRIYA
There’s an undeniable magic in the air when food enthusiasts, restaurateurs and chefs converge to celebrate the art of culinary excellence. That magic was visible at the 11th edition of The Big F Awards, an event that has become synonymous with recognising the finest talent in Delhi-NCR’s vibrant food and beverage industry. Hosted at The Westin, a venue befitting the grandeur of the occasion, the evening was a glittering spectacle of joy, honour and of course, delectable delights.
This year, The Big F Awards took a significant leap forward, expanding its footprint beyond its traditional stronghold of Gurgaon to include Delhi and Noida. This expansion symbolises more than just geographical growth, it represents the evolution and broadening of Delhi-NCR’s culinary horizons. As the venue filled with the buzz of excitement and the clinking of glasses, it was evident that this was more than just an awards ceremony, it was a celebration of a community bound by a shared passion for the culinary arts.
As guests filtered into the grand ballroom of The Westin, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Esteemed chefs, celebrated restaurateurs, and influential food critics filled the space, their conversations creating a lively backdrop that set the tone for the evening. Among them were culinary legends like Chef Kunal Kapur, Chef Manish Mehrotra and Chef Ajay Chopra, each a revered figure in the culinary world.
Seeing such icons in one room was nothing short of inspiring. Their warmth and camaraderie were evident as they exchanged hearty greetings and laughter, showcasing a genuine connection that went beyond the competitive nature of their industry. It was a beautiful reminder that, despite the pressures and challenges of the restaurant business, this community thrives on mutual support and shared achievements.
The gathering was a true celebration of talent and creativity, reflecting the deep bonds formed over years of hard work and dedication. Each interaction felt meaningful, as if everyone was there not just to celebrate their own successes but also to uplift their peers. This sense of kinship, where every award felt like a shared victory, filled the air with a spirit of joy and collaboration, making the evening feel like a family reunion of sorts.
The Evolution of the Big F Awards Since its inception in 2014, The Big F Awards have grown exponentially in both scope and influence. What began as a modest endeavour to spotlight Gurgaon’s dining scene has transformed into a beacon of excellence that shines across Delhi-NCR. Over the years, it has evolved into a platform that not only recognises the heavyweights of the industry but also provides a stage for home chefs, bakers and small delivery outlets. It is this inclusivity that has set The Big F Awards apart, making it a coveted recognition for anyone striving to make a mark in the culinary world.
The 2024 edition was no exception. With categories spanning Indian Cuisine, World Cuisine and Nightlife, the awards showcased the diversity and dynamism of the region’s food scene. From the iconic Dum Pukht and Indian Accent, both winners of the League of Legends award, to emerging names like IKIGAI Cafe Delhi Heights 2.0 and Inja, the evening celebrated a wide range of talents, each contributing to the rich story of Delhi-NCR’s culinary landscape..
Honouring Tradition and Innovation
One of the standout features of The Big F Awards is its commitment to celebrating both tradition and innovation. In a city rich with culinary history, it’s all too easy to cling to the past. Yet, the awards succeed in honouring the timelessness of iconic institutions while also providing a platform for those brave enough to experiment and push boundaries.
Take, for example, Chef Adit Grover, who received the Young Chef Award for his innovative take on classic Indian dishes. His success is a tribute to the new generation of chefs who are willing to blend tradition with modern techniques. Similarly, the recognition of Dum Pukht and Indian Accent for their enduring excellence highlights a profound respect for culinary heritage, while the emergence of modern concepts showcases the ever-evolving nature of Indian gastronomy.
Adding to the evening’s excitement was a delightful surprise for the audience. As guests entered the venue, they were invited to drop their visiting cards into a bowl, a common practice that many assumed was just a formality. However, this was no ordinary collection of business cards. The twist was that attendees had the chance to win a staycation, creating a sense of engagement and anticipation throughout the night. As names were drawn, the joy of winning added an extra layer of festivity to the event, ensuring that everyone felt included in the celebration. It was a memorable touch that enhanced the overall atmosphere, making the evening even more special.
A Night of Achievements
The atmosphere grew increasingly vibrant as the awards were announced. Each winner walked up to the stage to a chorus of applause, their smiles reflecting a mixture of pride and disbelief. It was an evening marked by genuine happiness, with every accolade feeling well-deserved. Each celebration brought a sense of unity, as everyone in the room felt connected to the successes of their peers.
The World Cuisine segment was particularly exciting, showcasing the cosmopolitan flavours that define Delhi-NCR. Establishments like Tamra (Shangri-La) and Culina 44 (Taj City Centre) took home awards for All-Day Dining, while Shang Palace and YouMee stood out in the Chinese Cuisine category. The variety was astounding, a true reflection of a city that embraces culinary diversity.
The nightlife segment was equally thrilling, with venues like Lair, Viet and Saga receiving accolades for their exceptional cocktail offerings. The recognition of Studio XO Bar as the best Place for Gigs spoke to the evolving culture of dining and entertainment in the region. It was evident that Delhi-NCR is not just about food, it’s also a hub for socialising and nightlife, making the city a dynamic place to enjoy life.
Beyond the Awards
But The Big F Awards are more than a celebration of winners, they also shine a light on the entire community that supports the culinary landscape. They are also a celebration of the unsung heroes of the food world - the PR professionals, the restaurateurs and the nightlife entrepreneurs who work tirelessly behind the scenes. This year, special recognition was given to individuals like Parinita Samanta (Shangri-La) and Veta Ratra (Brand Creators) for their outstanding contributions to in-house PR and agency work. Their recognition serves as a reminder that every role within this ecosystem is vital to its success.
As the evening progressed, the speeches were filled with heartfelt sentiments, laughter and even a few tears. Pawan Soni, Founder and Host of the Big F Awards, reflected on the event’s journey, saying, “It is an honour to celebrate the dedication and creativity of these exceptional individuals and establishments who continue to set new standards of excellence.” His words resonated throughout the room, reminding everyone of the shared passion and commitment that brought them together.
A Celebration of Community
What truly sets The Big F Awards apart is the sense of community that permeates the event. Guests gathered not only to celebrate their own achievements but also to uplift one another. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, reflecting the strong bonds that have formed within the industry. Rahul Puri, Cluster General Manager for The Westin Gurgaon and The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa, echoed this sentiment in his remarks, expressing pride in hosting an event that builds relationships and encourages teamwork.
The Big F Awards have solidified their role as a pillar of Delhi-NCR’s culinary landscape, inspiring both established chefs and newcomers to continue innovating and raising the bar. Winners left with more than just their trophies, they departed with a renewed sense of purpose and community. The event’s spirit of celebration remains, leaving everyone feeling part of something far greater than just one evening. Conversations continued, with ideas for new collaborations and culinary projects already taking shape.
The buzz from the awards will undoubtedly fuel fresh inspiration across the industry, reminding everyone that the journey in the culinary world is just as important as the destination. As the culinary journey continues, one thing is certain, The Big F Awards will remain a cornerstone of this vibrant community, celebrating the past, embracing the present and looking forward to a future filled with delicious possibilities.
