Varenya’s: The New Dining Destination Of Bhubaneswar

Varenya’s: The New Dining Destination Of Bhubaneswar

The food industry has seen immense growth despite the wrath of the pandemic. It has a dominating edge over other business sectors for its consistent demand in the market. Varenya’s Food Arena is Odisha’s first and only ‘food mall’ that has tickled the taste buds of many. It is a perfect destination for foodies comprising different forms of dining, spread across varied cuisines. The uniqueness comes from the novelty of the concept, a food mall, which is an entire space for restaurants of different quintessence. My City Links paid a visit to the mall and caught up with the staff for an in-depth tour. 

The Executive Director, V Kannan, who has experience of over two decades in the food and hospitality industry threw light on the concept of a food mall. “Everything under one roof. From cuisine to affordability, we have it all. This is the basic concept. Bhubaneswar does not have a rich food affordability for the middle class people. We came with a one-stop solution for family gatherings and hangouts, providing the right ambience, food and prices,” he clarified. 

The Indian subcontinent is inextricably linked with aromatic herbs and a vibrancy of colored spices that makes its food stand apart. Nevertheless Indians have also taken to different cuisines from across the globe and liked it too. Varenya’s Food Arena is one such place in Bhubaneswar that has much more to offer. Teeming with top class chefs and staff all from Odisha, this culturally diverse setting boasts a wealth of unforgettable fine dining experiences to savor. Let’s take a look at the different restaurants under its wing. 

Satwik- A Complete Vegetarian Multi-cuisine Restaurant 

The vegetarian wing of the food mall, Satwik is a vegetarian restaurant as a part of the food mall. Just as the name evokes a feeling of piousness, this restaurant has a peaceful ambience that welcomes the guests. The purity in the intent and inclination of this restaurant can be seen in its white interiors. With a plethora of vegetarian options gracing the menu, Sattwik aces it with flavoursome food. Although it is challenging to offer a variety of vegetarian dishes that tickle the taste buds, Satwik does it with elan. 

“We offer vegetarian cuisine which includes North Indian, Chinese, Tandoor, Oriental and Continental options. For pure vegetarians, Jain cuisine, which excludes onion and garlic in its preparation, is also served. We also have separate kitchens for vegetarian and Jain preparation to ensure full credibility for our customers,” shared Pabitra Muduli, the head chef. 

The restaurant features eclectic furniture, unique lighting fixtures, a wooden wall-shelf with money-plants hanging on to it and a white peaceful ambience. The second floor is divided into sections with each having a different theme. With a more eccentric section themed with modern and elegant furniture, the crockery and platings give a contrasting effect. The plates and other dishes are designed under the theme of banana leaves to give the customers a more earthy feeling.

The dessert, Coconut Delight, takes the spotlight here. It is a sweet dish made out of tender coconut and curd. The arena is frequented mostly to try out this special dish. Sushmita who lives near the restaurant shared, “I often come here only to have Coconut Delight. It tastes so good and natural. It has the right amount of sweetness and the way it just melts in the mouth is delectable. I recommend everyone to give this a try for sure.” 

So, if you are looking for fresh and a variety of vegetarian fare, head to Sarwik at Varenya’s Food Arena to enjoy the best food and ambience. 

Daffodils- The Food Court 

Whether you want to hangout with your friends or want to satisfy your sweet tooth, Daffodils is your stop. A haven for foodies, it has bakery delicacies, continental fare, quick bites, beverages and refreshments, all under one roof. The ambience and architecture make the space an exciting platform for gatherings and parties. 

“Daffodils is a massive food court with a lot of good options to choose from. It also offers breads of different varieties and beverages too,” said Pabitra, the head chef. Already a favourite among college students, it is often filled with groups of friends casually hanging out. The ambience is again very lively and bubbly. The yellow-black themed atmosphere gives a fresh aura to the entire set-up. 

“Our aim is to ensure affordability but keep the quality high and we are adhering to it. The crowd seems to understand and acknowledge that, so the hype needed is good,” said Kannan, the Executive Director. 

“Food is the binding thread that connects businesses, families and friends. Hence, food joints become the ultimate socialising platform for the new age crowd. The modern crowd looks for a decent and affordable joint to have a good time. Daffodils provides that. Pastries, desserts, pizzas, burgers, beverages, we have everything to quench the need of a hangout,” added the head chef. 

Four Petals- The Multi-cuisine Restaurant #Gourmet’s Paradise 

The first floor of the arena has the multi-cuisine restaurant, Four Petals. A dramatic staircase with intricate designs links the two floors. This restaurant pulsates with the spirit of an energetic dining experience that takes guests on an eclectic culinary adventure through some of the most popular cuisines. The sleek and contemporary surroundings in gold, give a sophisticated experience to the diners. 

“Although our prices are affordable for the general public, we haven’t compromised on the quality of food or the five-star experience here. Whatever we serve, we serve authentic,” said the Executive Director. 

Commenting on the same, Pabitra, the head chef elaborated, “We decided to make a place which gives an experience rather than just a place for people to come and eat food. The designing elements, quality of the food, menu items and ambience are some vital factors contributing to this.”

The restaurant is attached to well-segregated kitchens of tandoor, Chinese, continental, oriental and Indian food. Utmost care has been taken to ensure topnotch hygiene and a clean environment is maintained in the kitchens as well as the dining spaces. Private dining rooms are also available for exclusive parties and functions. 

“Matching its standards with global malls, Varenya’s is designed with chic and trendy decor in each of its restaurants, making them unique and appealing,” said the Executive Director. 

“Unlike other restaurants, we also have dedicated parking spots for all the customers. Giving People often eat at Four Petals or Sattwik and then come to Daffodils to have a dessert. Gratefully the crowd is good,” he added. 

The pandemic has affected almost all businesses and the food industry has not been an exception. “This food arena was inaugurated in December 2019, but within a few months, it had to be closed down owing to covid restrictions. In between, it was again reopened, but that too lasted for a few months. Now, we have reopened and our hopes are high since the majority of the population is vaccinated and the coronavirus is at bay for now, although not completely under control,” he further shared. 

Set on a concept of good ambience, variety, speedy and quick service and mix of local and international cuisines, Varenya’s Food Arena offers a one-stop destination for all the foodies out there.