New Delhi, August 2026: Food Exchange, the all-day dining restaurant at Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, invites guests to experience the distinctive cuisine of Akheraj Deolia through an exclusive ten-day showcase with Chef Akshraj Jodha, from 21st to 30th August 2026. Rooted in the kitchens of an erstwhile estate, the cuisine reflects a unique confluence of Mewar and Marwar traditions, shaped by the ingredients of the land and culinary knowledge passed down through generations.
The cuisine of Akheraj Deolia is distinguished by its resourceful use of indigenous grains, pulses, vegetables and spices, alongside a repertoire of meat preparations developed in the kitchens of the region. Its influences extend beyond geography, with the cultural exchanges and alliances that shaped the kitchens, eventually finding its way into the regions food.
The specially curated menu a brings together some of the lesser-known preparations associated with the cuisine, including Haro Murgo, Machli Bootan, Soya Bootan, Bhatta ro Saag, Akha Masala Ro Paneer, Laal Maas Deolia alongside familiar preparations such as Dal Bati Churma, Ker Sangri, Junglee Maas. The menu offers diners an opportunity to experience the breadth of the cuisine, from robust meat preparations to flavourful vegetarian dishes built around ingredients such as besan, bajra, makki, chana and indigenous produce.
At the helm of the showcase is Chef Akshraj Jodha, who brings over two decades of culinary experience and a deep personal connection to the cuisine of Akheraj Deolia. A 14th-generation descendant of Rao Akheraj, who founded the Akheraj Deolia estate, Chef Jodha has spent years researching, documenting and presenting the recipes and food traditions associated with his ancestral kitchens. His work has helped bring this relatively little-known culinary repertoire to a wider audience.
“We are delighted to bring the rare cuisine of Akheraj Deolia to New Delhi with Chef Akshraj Jodha. This showcase gives our guests an opportunity to experience a lesser-known culinary tradition through its distinctive recipes and cooking techniques. At Food Exchange, we are committed to creating meaningful dining experiences, and this collaboration allows us to bring a truly unique culinary repertoire to our guests,” said Manish Dayya, General Manager, Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity.
The showcase offers a rare opportunity to experience Akheraj Deolia through the heirloom recipes of Chef Akshraj Jodha, bringing a lesser-known culinary tradition to the table in New Delhi.
Details at a Glance
Venue: Food Exchange, Novotel New Delhi Aerocity
Dates: 21st – 30th August 2026
Dinner buffet and Sunday Brunches
About Novotel New Delhi Aerocity
Situated in the prime location of Aerocity, Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, adjoined to Pullman New Delhi Aerocity, features 670 contemporary rooms and suites. Seeking to inspire, entertain and create the warmth of new connections, the hotel brings together contemporary interiors, vibrant social spaces and a collection of dining experiences, including its all-day dining restaurant, Food Exchange, and its 24×7 sports bar, Quoin. Novotel New Delhi Aerocity is a destination where comfort, style and convenience come together seamlessly.
