Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is almost here, and the excitement is real folks. No matter where you find yourself this Diwali, there’s a way to embrace the festivities. Whether you’re dining out at one of incredible food spots or cooking up a traditional meal at home, the spirit of the festival is all about togetherness and joy.
Diwali in both the US and UK is also shaping up pretty well this year with something for everyone. From vibrant dinners to family-friendly activities, several restaurants are going all out to make this Diwali unforgettable. Here’s our roundup of some hot spots to check out.
Kricket, Canary Wharf
We’re starting with Kricket at Canary Wharf, where the celebration is set for November 2. This spot has curated a special menu just for Diwali, featuring a delicious autumnal root vegetable biryani.
For £30 per head, guests can also enjoy bottomless chai and refreshing nimbu pani. Well, sign us up. It gets even better as there will be henna tattooing and custom screen printing workshops led by Natasha Kumar, an acclaimed Anglo-Indian artist. This place promises not just a meal but an experience that celebrates both the flavours and artistry of Indian culture.
Courtesy: By the brand
TIYA, San Francisco
TIYA is hosting a special Diwali Dinner on November 3. Chef Pujan Sarkar has crafted a stunning five-course menu for $125 per person—definitely a must for food lovers. The menu includes canapés like Kokum & Kala Jamun Sphere and Masala Jackfruit Bomb to start the evening.
The courses are where it gets seriously appetizing. You could start with a Butter Nut Squash & White Truffle Shorba (yes, please), and then choose from options like a Rajma and Mushroom Kebab or a Tiger Shrimp Koliwada for your second course.
Let’s not forget the highlight—Butter Chicken Roulade, served with a rich Red Pepper Makhani. For dessert, we are partial towards the Baked Rasgulla Tart. Reservations are already live, so snag a spot before it’s too late.
Courtesy: Audrey Kuhn
Relais & Châteaux Farlam Hall Hotel and Restaurant, Hallbankgate
For those looking to extend their celebrations, Farlam Hall Hotel and Restaurant offers a lavish three-day Diwali package from October 31 to November 2. The experience starts with a warm welcome featuring garlands and kumkum, followed by a quirky afternoon tea with a spiced champagne cocktail. Guests can indulge in a buffet dinner showcasing classic Indian delicacies, including vegetarian options that honour the essence of Diwali.
Day two brings a leisurely breakfast and a scenic walking tour of Lake Talkin Tarn. In the evening, there’s a Laxmi Pujan ceremony followed by a spectacular 7-minute fireworks display. Guests can then enjoy a street food feast featuring favorites like Bhel and Pani Puri.
The grand finale is a black-tie dinner on the last night, complete with a 7-course meal and engaging stories about the dishes. This luxury experience starts at £2,290 per couple for a three-night stay.
Courtesy: By the brand
Saffron NOLA, New Orleans
This Diwali, Saffron NOLA is throwing a Diwali celebration with a vegetarian dinner Thali for $40 on Thursday (10/31) and Friday (11/1). The restaurant will be all decked out with candles, creating the perfect cozy vibe for the festival of lights. The thali packed with delicious dishes like Eggplant Hyderabad, Saag Paneer, Zucchini Masala, Chole, house-made pickles, pappadum, and basmati rice. Seriously, it’s a feast that celebrates the rich flavours of Indian cuisine while keeping the Diwali spirit alive.
The dining room will be all lit up with candles, creating that cozy, festive atmosphere we all love. At home, we usually go all out with diyas and dress up to welcome guests and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. It’s all about sharing good times and traditions and we can’t wait to celebrate with everyone at Saffron NOLA—come through for a night of amazing food and community.
Courtesy: Saffron
Vaasu by Atul Kochhar
Not everyone wants to head out for Diwali, and that’s totally fine! Chef Atul Kochhar is here to inspire at-home celebrations with a recipe for Bengali Cauliflower & Potatoes. This comforting dish is not only simple but packed with flavour, making it perfect for any Diwali dinner. The ingredients are easy to find, and the method is straightforward, allowing anyone to whip it up without a hitch. However, if you do want to step out to celebrate this wonderful occasion, Vaasu in Marlow, Buckinghamshire has curated a special menu to ring in the festivities.
Courtesy: Vaasu Marlow
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