In the heart of Pune, where history meets modernity, Conrad Pune invites gourmands and culture enthusiasts to embark on an unforgettable gastronomic journey with The Modern Peshwa—a month-long culinary celebration that redefines traditional Deccan cuisine with contemporary flair.
Presented under the banner of The Art of Experiential Dining, this unique event at Al Di La, the hotel’s signature dining venue, brings to life the forgotten tales of royal kitchens and heirloom recipes. This immersive culinary experience is available to all guests from 13th June to 13th July 2025, and has been curated in collaboration with renowned food historian, author, and storyteller Anoothi Vishal, alongside Executive Chef Pradeep Rao.
Honouring Tradition, Reimagined for Today
The Modern Peshwa is not just a meal—it is a cultural narrative plated with precision. Inspired by the legacy of Maratha royals and the culinary stories of the Deccan plateau, the menu artfully bridges the past and the present. Following its exclusive invite-only debut in April—which garnered acclaim from food critics and culture connoisseurs—this edition is now open to all, offering a refined dining experience that blends nostalgia with innovation.
Each dish in this curated pop-up is steeped in history and storytelling, making it much more than a typical fine-dining experience. It’s an ode to the rich culinary roots of Maharashtra, thoughtfully elevated with global techniques and a modern lens.
The Story Behind Every Bite
The curated tasting menu begins with inventive small plates that surprise the palate. The Thecha Bites, for example, feature chèvre cream and charred pineapple thecha delicately presented in a crisp savoury cone—an elegant reinterpretation of a fiery Maharashtrian staple. Another early showstopper is the Deccan Burst, a goda masala brie choux pastry filled with jackfruit—a daring fusion of French finesse and local flair.
As the experience unfolds, guests are treated to dishes that echo Pune’s heritage, such as Vegetable Dhansak Tortellini and Pulled Mutton Dhansak Raviolo, layered with burnt pinenut butter and parmesan foam—a tribute to the city’s cosmopolitan Camp area.
A palate-cleansing Aamras-Elaichi Sorbet paves the way for the showpiece of the meal: the Peshwai Plate. This centerpiece features an opulent spread of Bharli Vangi, Kothimbir Wadi, Indrani Rice, and traditional Bhakri—each component reflecting a chapter of Maratha culinary heritage.
For those who crave heartier fare, the menu also offers From Nagpur with Love, a deeply comforting bowl of Saoji Lamb Rassa served with Indrani rice, Bhakri, and baby root vegetables. It’s spicy, soulful, and utterly satisfying.
The meal ends on a poetic note with the Modak Melange—a tribute to the quintessential festive sweet. It combines coconut jaggery modak, raspberry coulis, and nutty gelato in a delightful interplay of textures, paying homage to tradition while embracing invention.
A Curated Culinary Theatre
Speaking about the concept, Chef Pradeep Rao, Executive Chef at Conrad Pune, says
“This Modern Peshwas menu is an expression of culinary storytelling presented in a fresh, modern way. Bringing this experience to everyone is our way of sharing a story of ingredients, culture, and creativity.”
The collaboration with Anoothi Vishal adds intellectual depth and narrative richness to the dining experience. Known for her work in reviving traditional cuisines across India, she brings authenticity and scholarly nuance to each dish and the tale it tells.
Luxury Meets Legacy at Al Di La
Nestled within the opulent surroundings of Conrad Pune, Al Di La serves as the perfect stage for this gastronomic performance. Known for hosting avant-garde culinary concepts, the restaurant once again positions itself as a sanctuary of sensory discovery, where every detail—from the plating to the music to the ambiance—is meticulously curated.
This edition of The Art of Experiential Dining is more than just a special menu; it is a journey through time, culture, and creativity, making it an unmissable event for Pune’s discerning diners and visiting gourmets alike.
Reserve Your Seat at the Royal Table
The Modern Peshwa experience at Conrad Pune is available for a limited time only, from 13th June to 13th July 2025. With limited seating each evening, early reservations are highly recommended to ensure a front-row seat at this feast of flavour and heritage.
📍 Venue: Al Di La, Conrad Pune
📅 Dates: 13th June – 13th July 2025
📞 For Bookings: +91 91686 03631
About Conrad Pune
Part of the globally acclaimed Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Pune blends bold design with culturally immersive experiences. Each property under the brand champions thoughtful luxury, local storytelling, and world-class service—making it the ideal canvas for events like The Modern Peshwa.
Conrad Pune continues to lead the city’s luxury hospitality landscape by offering curated moments that go beyond conventional travel. With this event, it reaffirms its commitment to celebrating heritage through innovation and transforming meals into meaningful experiences.
