Whatever it was, Café bai truly brought the spirit of the Festival of Lights to life, illuminating not just the afternoon but our hearts (and taste buds) too.
I’ve always had a soft spot for Indian cuisine. My fascination began decades ago when an Indian guest prepared chicken biryani for my family at home. I still remember how the flavors surprised me. The warmth of the spices, the fragrant rice, and the layers of textures made it unlike anything I had tasted before.
My appreciation for Indian food grew even more when I had a former boss from India who loved bringing our team to Indian restaurants for lunch. Every meal felt like a little culinary adventure. We got to discover different dishes, ingredients, and flavors, each offering a glimpse into India’s rich and diverse culture.
That’s when I realized that Indian food is more than just something delicious to enjoy. It’s culture, tradition, passion, and storytelling served on a plate.
So when I received an invitation from bai Hotel Cebu to the luncheon media preview of the Diwali Feast at Café bai, I didn’t think twice. This was definitely something I didn’t want to miss!
A CULINARY JOURNEY THROUGH INDIA’S DIVERSE REGIONS
Happening from November 6 to 8, 2026, the Diwali Feast at Café bai is more than an ordinary buffet. It’s a celebration of India’s vibrant culinary heritage, bringing together an exciting selection of authentic dishes inspired by different regions of the country.
Under the creative direction of Chef Jyoti Singh, bai Hotel Cebu’s talented Indian Cuisine Sous Chef, the feast showcased an impressive spread of traditional favorites and regional specialties. Each dish had its own character, allowing guests to experience the wonderful diversity of Indian cuisine without having to travel far.
Some of the dishes featured during the media preview were:
- Mughlai Chicken – a rich and flavorful chicken specialty inspired by Mughlai cuisine.
- Jackfruit Biryani – a fragrant rice dish that offers a delicious vegetarian take on a beloved Indian classic.
- Mutton Champaran – a traditional meat dish known for its bold spices and slow-cooked flavors.
- Achari Paneer Tikka – paneer infused with tangy, pickle-inspired spices.
- Fish Recheado – a flavorful fish preparation with a distinctive Goan influence.
- Vegetable Galouti Kebab – a vegetarian interpretation of the famously tender kebab.
- Tandoori Chicken Peri-Peri – a flavorful twist on the familiar tandoori favorite.
- Tawa Paneer – paneer cooked with aromatic spices on a flat griddle.
- Vegetable Malai Kofta – a comforting vegetarian specialty featuring soft dumplings in a creamy sauce.
- Jalebi – a bright, golden, syrup-soaked Indian sweet that makes for a delightful ending to the meal.
What I particularly appreciate about a spread like this is the opportunity to explore dishes beyond the usual Indian restaurant favorites. There’s something exciting about discovering a new flavor while revisiting the familiar ones that made you fall in love with a cuisine in the first place.
THE CHEF BEHIND THE FLAVORS
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Chef Jyoti Singh a few times during previous bai Hotel events, and he never fails to impress me with the way he brings India’s diverse culinary traditions together.
Originally from Uttarakhand, India, Chef Singh has built his culinary experience across Mumbai, Dubai, and Doha before bringing his expertise to Cebu.
His journey reflects years of dedication, experience, and a genuine appreciation for his country’s food heritage. You can see that passion in the way he approaches each dish. Every preparation feels like a little tribute to his roots, while giving Cebu diners an opportunity to appreciate the many flavors of India.
It’s always fascinating to see how food becomes a bridge between cultures, especially when someone is passionate about sharing the stories behind what they create.
MORE THAN A FEAST, A CELEBRATION OF LIGHT
Although Diwali isn’t part of my own cultural traditions, I’ve always found its message beautiful and meaningful.
Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair. It’s a time for families and loved ones to come together, welcome new beginnings, and share wishes for happiness, peace, and prosperity.
And I believe these are messages we can all embrace, regardless of where we come from or what traditions we celebrate.
In a world that sometimes feels a little too heavy, experiences like this remind us that joy can still be found in the simplest things. It can be in a beautifully prepared meal, a shared story, a gathering around the table, or an opportunity to learn about a culture different from our own.
That’s what made the Diwali celebration at bai Hotel special for me. Beyond the colorful spread and wonderful flavors, it was a reminder of how food brings people together and allows us to appreciate our differences.
If you’re looking for something different to enjoy with family and friends this weekend, here’s your invitation to experience a little taste of India!
The Diwali Feast at Café bai runs from November 6 to 8, 2026.
- November 6: Dinner – 6PM to 10PM – Php2,288 nett per person
- November 7–8: Lunch and Dinner
- Lunch – 12PM to 2:30PM – Php2,288 nett per person
- Dinner – 6PM to 10PM – Php2,288 nett per person
Indian nationals can also enjoy 40% off the buffet upon presentation of a valid Indian passport or ID.
Gather your loved ones, bring your appetite, and celebrate the Festival of Lights with an unforgettable Indian feast!
To our Indian friends and everyone celebrating, wishing you a beautiful and meaningful Happy Diwali! 🪔✨
May your days be filled with light, your homes with happiness, and your hearts with joy.
Shubh Deepavali!
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