PowerUp City

One Secret Deserves Another

Riza Castillo — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 18:37:37 +0000

The lobby doesn't announce itself. The painting does.

There’s a stretch of pavement beside Bab Al Bahrain where you smell the souq before you see it: cardamom, dried lime, and the warm dust that comes off a hundred open doorways at four in the afternoon. Most of us walk it head-down, aiming for somewhere else.

Which is exactly how the people who love The Merchant House want to keep it.

You find this place because someone who actually likes you told you about it. And the minute you step inside, you understand why. A good secret tastes better when it’s shared with the right person.

The noise stops when you enter, but nothing goes cold. A woman in a blue headwrap watches you from a gold-leaf canvas, half-smiling, paint running down her cheek like she’s been caught in rain. Someone’s book lies face-down on the coffee table. Nobody hurries you toward a desk. This is not a place that’s counting your minutes.

The Library. Where plans get quietly cancelled.

Turn into The Library and you may genuinely not leave. Not because you’re trapped, but because you’ve found where you were supposed to be. Coral walls. Almond blossom climbing the wallpaper. Shelves lined with books on art, design, culture and local heritage, gathered with the quiet confidence of a place that trusts you to belong there. The sofas are deep green velvet and low enough that standing up stops being automatic and becomes a choice. Tea comes in glass, the pot still warm. This is the room where you cancel your next thing and don’t feel guilty about it.

Afternoon arrives in one soft slab.

Upstairs, the light changes in a way that feels intentional. The Bahraini afternoon slides through the shutters in one soft white slab and lands on a bed you could lose a weekend in. And mean that as a love letter. A screen stands between the bed and the sitting room, wrought into branches and arrows, so a suite reads as two rooms without a single wall. Blue curtains that let the light come in without forcing itself. A floral armchair that has no business working and completely does. It’s the kind of room where conversations get deeper. Where nobody checks their phone just to look busy.

When the evening starts...

Then there’s the roof. This is where Manama shows you something true. Gold hour, then rose, then that specific blue that lasts about eleven minutes. Not long enough to take for granted, long enough to remember exactly why you wanted to see it. The call to prayer comes up off the streets below, and you realize you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

Indigo Terrace at that moment is why the people who know, know. Olive trees in terracotta. Fairy lights that come on before you need them, because someone was thinking ahead. Linen and cobalt glass. And the hotel’s own emblem: a pair of merchant’s scales glowing at the terrace edge as the city changes colour beneath you. It’s the kind of place where staying for all eleven minutes feels like the best decision you’ve made in months.

Those scales aren’t decoration, by the way. This building stands where Manama has traded for centuries: pearls, spices, cloth, stories. Weighing. Exchange. Give and take. A woman in a blue headwrap knowing your face. A secret passed from hand to hand because it matters too much to keep.

Which is exactly why we’re telling you any of this.

It's the kind of place where staying for all eleven minutes feels like the best decision you've made in months.

A secret passed from hand to hand because it matters too much to keep.

PASS THE SECRET ->

We’ve just handed you ours. We’d like yours.

Everyone in this country has a place they only tell people they actually like. A table at the back. A bench facing the water at the right hour. A shopfront that looks shut and isn’t. A stretch of road worth driving for no reason at all. Not the famous thing, the one you’d take a friend to first.

Tell us about it in around 150 words, written the way you’d text it. Where it is, what you do when you get there, why it stuck. A photo if you have one. No photo if you don’t.

DM us at @powerupcitybh. No follow, no tag, no comment needed. We read every one that lands.

The story we love most gets a night for two in a Signature Suite at The Merchant House, with breakfast on Indigo Terrace — so you can see what the rest of that eleven minutes looks like. Stories we love may run in the next issue of PowerUp City, with your name on the page.

Fair trade. Scales and all.

Open to residents of the Kingdom of Bahrain aged 21 and over. Submissions close 31 August 2026. Stay is subject to availability and excludes public holidays. Full terms via the link above. This activity is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by Instagram or Meta.

Bahrain’s first 5-star luxury boutique hotel, located next to the Bab Al Bahrain souq in regenerating downtown Manama, features 46 suites adorned with contemporary art by regional and international artists.

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+973 3401 8565

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Image Credits

Unless otherwise indicated, all photography is courtesy of and copyright © The Merchant House. Specific editorial imagery provided by PowerUp City. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from the respective copyright holders.

Bahrain Takes Center Court with FIBA 3×3 International Tournaments

Carl John Violeta — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 15:22:55 +0000

A Global Stage for Fast-Paced Basketball

Bahrain continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events as it hosts the FIBA 3×3 Summer Lite Quest 2026 and Summer Quest 2026 this week. Taking place at Sports City – Youth City 2030, the tournaments bring together elite athletes and rising talents in one of the world’s fastest-growing basketball disciplines. The events highlight Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to developing sports tourism while showcasing its ability to organize world-class competitions.

Homegrown Talent in Action

Adding to the excitement, fans will have the opportunity to watch members of Bahrain’s national teams alongside Al Seef Club, one of the country’s leading 3×3 basketball teams. Their participation offers local supporters a chance to witness Bahrain’s top players compete against international opposition while inspiring the next generation of athletes. The tournaments also provide valuable international experience as Bahrain continues investing in the growth of 3×3 basketball.

More Than Just a Tournament

The FIBA 3×3 competitions are more than sporting events—they represent Bahrain’s vision of becoming a regional hub for major international championships. With Sports City serving as a vibrant venue for youth and community engagement, the tournaments reinforce the Kingdom’s dedication to promoting active lifestyles, fostering sporting excellence, and attracting global events.

As teams battle for victory on Tuesday and Thursday, spectators can expect high-energy action, spectacular plays, and an electric atmosphere. With international talent sharing the court alongside Bahrain’s finest, the FIBA 3×3 Summer Quest events promise an unforgettable celebration of basketball in the Kingdom.

Bahrain’s Rising Stars Deliver Strong Medal Haul at Arab Athletics Championships

Carl John Violeta — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:13:49 +0000

Bahrain’s athletes once again showcased their growing strength on the regional stage by securing multiple medals at the Arab Athletics Championships held in Egypt. Competing against some of the Arab world’s top young talents, Team Bahrain delivered standout performances across track and field events. Their achievements reflect the Kingdom’s continued investment in developing athletes and strengthening its presence in international competitions.

Several Bahraini athletes stepped onto the podium with impressive results throughout the championship. Ahmed Sabri claimed gold in the men’s high jump, while Alreem Fahad earned gold in the long jump and silver in the women’s 80m race. Abdikani Ahmed secured silver in the men’s 10,000m with a time of 31:25.46, and Ali Haji added another silver in the men’s 100m. Bronze medals were won by Hassan Yaqoob in the men’s high jump and Abdilsamad Suleiman in the men’s 1500m after clocking 3:48.05. Layla Kamal also contributed with a silver medal in the women’s 100m sprint.

The results underline Bahrain’s growing depth across multiple athletics disciplines, from sprinting and distance running to jumping events. Beyond the medals, these performances demonstrate the effectiveness of the Kingdom’s long-term athlete development programmes. As Bahrain continues to nurture emerging talent, these young athletes are establishing themselves as strong contenders for future regional and international competitions. Their success in Egypt is another milestone in Bahrain’s expanding sporting legacy.

Bahrain Approves April Salary Payments via Insurance Fund

Carl John Violeta — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:09:10 +0000

Authorities in Bahrain have approved the disbursement of April salaries through the Social Insurance Organization (SIO), ensuring eligible employees receive their wages without delay.

The approval follows discussions within the Shura Council as part of ongoing oversight of labor and social insurance systems. The measure is aligned with Bahrain’s wage protection and unemployment insurance framework, which allows the fund to support salary payments under specific conditions.

The insurance fund is designed to cover wages when employers face temporary financial constraints or disruptions that affect payroll. By activating this mechanism, the government ensures continuity of income for workers while maintaining stability in the labor market.

The disbursement of April salaries is expected to support household financial stability and sustain consumer activity. Timely wage payments reduce the risk of financial strain on employees and help maintain confidence in employment systems.

Officials have indicated that the use of the fund is a temporary support measure. Companies benefiting from the scheme remain responsible for resuming full payroll obligations once their financial position improves. Authorities are expected to monitor compliance to ensure the system is used as intended.

The approval reflects Bahrain’s structured approach to labor protection, balancing employee welfare with business continuity while maintaining oversight of public funds.

Bahrain International Airport Climbs Global Ranks, Owns Service Game

Carl John Violeta — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:28:37 +0000

Bahrain continues to strengthen its position on the global aviation map, as Bahrain International Airport secures a place among the world’s top-performing airports in the 2026 Skytrax World Airport Awards.

The airport has been ranked 20th globally, a notable achievement that reflects consistent operational excellence and a steadily rising international reputation. More significantly, it has been named Best Airport Staff in the Middle East for the fifth consecutive year, reinforcing Bahrain’s commitment to service quality at every touchpoint of the passenger journey.

A Benchmark in Service and Efficiency

This recognition goes beyond rankings. It highlights a system that works from streamlined check-in processes to efficient security procedures and well-managed passenger flow. Travelers passing through Bahrain International Airport continue to experience a level of ease and professionalism that sets it apart in a highly competitive region.

At the core of this achievement is the airport’s workforce. The repeated recognition for staff excellence underscores a culture built on consistency, attentiveness, and operational discipline. In an industry where passenger experience often defines reputation, Bahrain has managed to maintain a standard that resonates globally.

Strengthening Bahrain’s Global Position

The accolade also reinforces Bahrain’s growing role as a regional transit hub. Positioned strategically within the Gulf, the airport serves as a key connector between East and West, with increasing importance for both business and leisure travel.

As neighboring hubs continue to expand aggressively, Bahrain’s approach stands out for its balance combining modern infrastructure with a service-first mindset. Rather than competing purely on scale, the focus remains on quality, efficiency, and human experience.

A Consistent Upward Trajectory

This latest recognition is not an isolated milestone but part of a broader trajectory. Since the airport’s modernization and expansion, Bahrain has steadily improved its global standing, attracting both airlines and passengers seeking a smoother, more refined travel experience.

Five consecutive years of recognition for staff excellence signals more than short-term success it reflects a sustainable standard that has been embedded into daily operations.

The Takeaway

Bahrain International Airport’s performance in the 2026 Skytrax Awards confirms what frequent travelers already know: this is an airport that delivers, consistently.

In a landscape dominated by scale and spectacle, Bahrain is proving that precision, professionalism, and people still define world-class travel.

Gargee’an Returns With a Message of Happiness

Cy — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:13:46 +0000

A cherished Ramadan tradition evolves for 2026

MANAMA, Bahrain — Before organized festivals and large-scale Ramadan activations, Gargee’an belonged to the neighborhoods.

Observed across Bahrain and the Gulf on the 13th, 14th or 15th night of Ramadan, Gargee’an, also known as Gerga’oon is a children’s tradition centered on generosity and community. Dressed in traditional clothing, children move door to door singing familiar chants and collecting sweets and nuts in small fabric bags.

The ritual is simple, but its meaning runs deeper, reinforcing gratitude, togetherness and shared identity during the holy month.

On March 3, 2026, Bahrain’s Gargee’an will take on a new structure under the theme “Best of Happiness.”

Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs, this year’s celebration introduces a mobile format designed to reach families across all four governorates. A specially themed bus tour will begin in Muharraq before traveling through the Capital and Northern Governorates and concluding in the Southern Governorate. Along the route, volunteers will distribute sweets and small gifts to children, bringing the celebration directly into neighborhoods.

The approach blends tradition with coordination. Rather than waiting for children to gather in specific locations, the celebration moves toward them.

The initiative aims to preserve the essence of Gargee’an, generosity, singing, sweets and shared laughter, while broadening its accessibility. Organizers have worked with relevant authorities to ensure smooth execution, underscoring the growing scale of what was once a purely grassroots ritual.

For families, the shift offers both nostalgia and novelty. Parents who grew up knocking on doors can now watch their children experience the tradition through a structured, nationwide celebration.

Gargee’an in Bahrain has always adapted to its era. From lantern-lit alleyways to organized cultural festivals, the night continues to evolve without losing its core purpose, to create moments of joy during Ramadan.

On March 3, the celebration will once again take place across the island, reinforcing what Gargee’an has always represented, shared joy and community spirit.

InterContinental Bahrain Turns Pearl Heritage Into a Ramadan Experience

Riza Castillo — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:34:24 +0000

Manama, Bahrain – The InterContinental Bahrain Ramadan Iftar 2026 opened with an immersive pearl-inspired experience inside the Regency Tent. As part of the invited media, I attended the preview evening to explore this year’s Ramadan theme..

The first thing I noticed was the glow. Soft lighting reflected off pearl-inspired details across the space, giving the entire setting a warmth that felt intentional and intimate.

This Ramadan, InterContinental Bahrain has drawn inspiration from one of the Kingdom’s most meaningful symbols. Pearls. And you feel that story unfolding from the moment you arrive.

Under the theme “Celebrating Heritage, Embracing Togetherness,” the hotel has shaped its Iftar experience around Bahrain’s pearling legacy. The atmosphere felt refined yet welcoming. Conversations flowed easily between fellow media guests, partners, and families as they gathered to break their fast.

The buffet stretched elegantly across live cooking stations, where chefs prepared Ramadan favourites alongside international dishes. The aroma of freshly grilled meats and warm Arabic sweets filled the tent. I found myself pausing more than once, taking in the details before even deciding what to put on my plate. Live Arabic melodies played gently in the background, adding rhythm to the evening without overpowering the room.

In the lobby, the pearl story continued through curated artistic installations. Miracle Publishing House presented a collection of books and photography capturing Bahrain’s maritime past. French-born artist Tiny Om showcased locally sourced pearls that highlighted craftsmanship and authenticity. Nearby, renowned Bahraini sculptor Mahdi AlBannai exhibited sea-inspired pieces that reflected the depth and beauty of the Kingdom’s underwater heritage.

InterContinental Bahrain Ramadan Iftar 2026 Highlights

Beyond the Media Iftar evening, the experience expands into a thoughtfully curated Ramadan calendar. InterContinental Bahrain has shaped the season around elevated hospitality and refined cultural celebration:

Signature Iftar and Ghabga evenings inside the Regency Tent, defined by pearl-inspired interiors, live culinary theatre, and polished service

Ladies Night experiences, offering an intimate and sophisticated Ramadan setting for curated social gatherings

Gergaoun celebrations, styled with festive elegance to honour tradition in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere

Private corporate soirées, fully customised with tailored menus and seamless execution for high-level hosting

Bespoke outdoor catering, extending the hotel’s culinary craftsmanship and Ramadan aesthetic beyond the property

What resonates is the continuity. The pearl narrative flows through every touchpoint, from ambience to presentation, creating a Ramadan season that feels cohesive, elevated, and unmistakably InterContinental.

As the evening drew to a close, what stayed with me was not simply the scale of the buffet or the elegance of the setting. It was the quiet pride woven into every detail. Pearls are formed through time, patience, and resilience. In many ways, that mirrors Ramadan itself.Walking out of the tent, there was a sense of calm reflection. A reminder that heritage is not only remembered. It is experienced, shared, and carried forward. And for one evening in Manama, that story felt beautifully alive.

For reservations and more information, contact +973 17227777 or WhatsApp +973 36967701.

Cherish Ramadan at InterContinental Bahrain.

Smart Iftar and Suhoor Choices for Better Health During Ramadan

Cy — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:23:01 +0000

How balanced Iftar and Suhoor can prevent common fasting issues

Ramadan changes more than meal times. It shifts sleep patterns, hydration habits and daily energy cycles. In the GCC, where fasting hours are long and temperatures are high, those changes can affect how the body performs.

Most health concerns during Ramadan are not caused by fasting itself. They are often the result of how Iftar and Suhoor are managed.

Dehydration and Headaches

One of the most common complaints during Ramadan is dehydration. Reduced fluid intake during daylight hours, combined with heat exposure, can lead to headaches, fatigue and muscle weakness.

The solution begins at Iftar. Breaking the fast with water and continuing to hydrate gradually throughout the evening is more effective than drinking large amounts at once. Water-rich foods such as soups, fruits and yogurt-based dishes also help restore fluids.

Suhoor plays an equal role. Including hydrating foods and limiting salty items reduces excessive thirst the following day. Spacing water intake between sunset and dawn supports better hydration balance.

Digestive Discomfort

Bloating, acid reflux and stomach discomfort are frequent issues after Iftar. These symptoms often stem from overeating or consuming heavy fried foods immediately after fasting.

A lighter start can prevent this. Breaking the fast with dates and water, followed by soup or a small salad, allows digestion to restart gradually. Waiting before eating a full main course helps regulate portion size and reduces digestive strain.

At Suhoor, overly heavy meals can also cause discomfort. Choosing moderate portions of protein and complex carbohydrates instead of rich or greasy dishes helps maintain comfort through the morning.

Energy Crashes

Many people report feeling exhausted by midday. In some cases, the cause is skipping Suhoor. Without a pre-dawn meal, the body relies entirely on the previous evening’s intake.

Suhoor should include slow-release carbohydrates such as oats or whole grains, paired with protein like eggs or yogurt. This combination helps stabilize blood sugar and reduces mid-day fatigue.

At Iftar, limiting sugary drinks and desserts prevents rapid spikes and crashes in energy later in the evening.

Sleep Disruption

Ramadan often shifts sleep schedules, especially with late-night gatherings and early Suhoor. Reduced sleep can lead to irritability, low concentration and weakened immunity.

Maintaining consistent sleep hours, even with adjustments, is important. Keeping Suhoor efficient rather than prolonged can support better rest.

Weight Fluctuations

Despite fasting, some individuals experience weight gain during Ramadan. This typically results from high-calorie evening meals, fried foods and desserts consumed in large quantities.

Balanced Iftar meals that emphasize lean protein, vegetables and moderate portions of grains can prevent unnecessary weight gain. Limiting fried appetizers and reserving sweets for occasional servings helps maintain equilibrium.

Pantry Essentials to Survive Ramadan

Category	Essentials	Why It Matters
Hydration	Dates, water, laban, yogurt, cucumbers, watermelon	Restores fluids and minerals
Slow-Release Carbs	Oats, brown rice, whole grain bread, barley	Sustains energy through the fast
Protein	Eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, Greek yogurt	Supports satiety and muscle balance
Fiber & Vegetables	Red lentils, chickpeas, leafy greens	Aids digestion and prevents bloating
Healthy Fats	Olive oil, nuts, avocados	Slows digestion and stabilizes energy
Flavor Without Excess Oil	Cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic, sumac	Enhances taste without heaviness

Balanced Iftar restores. Thoughtful Suhoor sustains.

When hydration, portion control and nutrient timing are prioritized, many common Ramadan health issues can be avoided. Preparation in the pantry often determines comfort throughout the month.

PowerUp Pick- Iftar Recipe

Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup

The lentil soup recipe is a Ramadan and a Lebanese staple, also referred to as crushed lentil soup it’s made with red lentils, onions, carrots, and rice! Nourishing staple after you fast.

PowerUp Pick- Suhoor Recipe

Mediterranean Egg Wrap

This Mediterranean Egg Wrap is a breakfast sandwich that is packed with protein, color and incredible flavor- perfect for on-the-go mornings!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE IFTAR AND SUHOOR RECIPES

DGC and BFLC Unite to Build One of Bahrain’s Largest F&B Platforms

Riza Castillo — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:02:33 +0000

Dividend Gate Capital and Bahrain Family Leisure Company formalize a landmark share-swap deal, creating one of Bahrain’s largest F&B platforms.

Seated (from left): Mohamed Khonji, Managing Director of Truffle Hospitality and Founder, Board Member and Managing Director of Dividend Gate Capital (DGC) and Managing Director of Truffle Hospitality, and Ahmed Janahi, Vice Chairman of Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC), Group Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Hotels Group. Standing (from left): Bader Al Shaaban, General Manager of SoleCorp; Khaled Al Hammadi, Director of Truffle Hospitality and Founder, Board Member and CEO of DGC; Farooq AlKhaja, Board Member of Bahrain Family Leisure Company; and Ayman Gadallah, Head of Investment Banking at SICO.

A Defining Moment for the Kingdom’s Hospitality Sector

Bahrain’s food and beverage industry has always been fast-moving. New concepts emerge regularly, and competition keeps operators sharp.

This week, the focus shifted from momentum to structure.

At a signing ceremony at the Gulf Hotel, Dividend Gate Capital and Bahrain Family Leisure Company formalized a share-swap agreement that brings Truffle Hospitality Holding under BFLC’s listed framework. It is the first consolidation of its kind in Bahrain’s F&B sector at a public-company level.

The mechanics are financial. The implications are structural.

From Vision to Platform

Mohamed Khonji, Managing Director of Truffle Holding and Founder, Board Member and Managing Director of Dividend Gate Capital (DGC) answering media questions

Dividend Gate Capital entered hospitality through targeted investments in restaurant concepts with potential. Over time, those assets were consolidated under Truffle Hospitality, forming a centralized platform designed to manage operations cohesively and support scalable growth.

BFLC contributes a listed structure, an established presence in the Kingdom, and a shareholder base closely tied to Bahrain’s hospitality legacy, including Gulf Hotels Group.

Together, the platform will operate more than 20 brands across over 60 outlets in four GCC markets, generating annual revenues exceeding USD 20 million. The scale is significant, but the framework behind it is what positions it differently.

“Transactions of this nature are rare in the hospitality sector, particularly at a listed-company level. This is an opportunity to bring institutional discipline and portfolio thinking into this segment.” — Mohamed Khonji

This Is Where the Game Changes

The agreement reflects a shift already taking shape across the sector. Growth remains essential, but resilience increasingly depends on coordination.

Bringing both portfolios under one listed entity introduces tighter governance, integrated systems, and shared operational oversight. Procurement gains leverage, and expansion becomes more deliberate.

The combined group also moves forward with a debt-free balance sheet, providing flexibility in an industry where margins can narrow quickly.

During the ceremony, Mohamed Khonji described Bahrain as one of the region’s most dynamic F&B markets and a testing ground for concepts with regional potential. That role continues. What evolves now is the operational structure supporting that ambition.

Creative energy built the market. Structure gives it staying power.

The Industry Levels Up

Bahrain’s dining scene has traditionally been driven by entrepreneurial ambition and distinctive brands. This consolidation introduces portfolio strategy as a parallel strength.

Subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, Dividend Gate Capital will become the majority shareholder of BFLC, positioning the combined entity for regional expansion with greater clarity and scale.

The shift is steady rather than dramatic. Hospitality in Bahrain is becoming more organized and more aligned with institutional standards. That evolution influences how capital is deployed and how growth is managed.

Creativity remains central. The systems around it are strengthening.

Closing Perspective

In established markets, scale usually reflects planning rather than chance.

This agreement suggests Bahrain’s F&B sector is entering that stage. The market remains competitive and concept-driven, now supported by stronger coordination and financial clarity.

The significance extends beyond the ceremony. It signals direction.

The industry is building for longevity, and longevity in hospitality depends on thoughtful structure as much as ambition.

Chef Pillai Sets the Table for a February of Flavor at Jashan

Cy — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:37:51 +0000

A media lunch at Jashan by Chef Pillai unfolded with the kind of calm confidence that usually follows a kitchen certain of its direction. Hosted by Wyndham Garden Manama on Jan. 31, the invitation-only gathering brought together media, vloggers and digital creators for a preview of what Chef Pillai has planned for Bahrain this February.

The lunch doubled as an introduction and a promise. Chef Suresh Pillai, in town ahead of a two-week culinary residency, spoke about his journey, the thinking behind Jashan’s menu, and how the restaurant balances tradition with contemporary presentation. The conversation flowed easily, punctuated by dishes that reflected the restaurant’s identity, rooted, expressive and unmistakably personal.

“This was about sharing the story behind Jashan by Chef Pillai and offering a preview of the experiences guests can expect,” said Mukul Mehta, Cluster General Manager at Wyndham Garden Manama. The lunch, he added, set the tone for a series of events designed to bring guests closer to the food and the chef.

That calendar runs from Feb. 1 to Feb. 14 and includes an Interactive Cooking Class, the Travancore Food Festival, a Chef’s Degustation Menu, Friday Brunch, a Nikah Biryani Festival and a Valentine’s Day Special Dinner. Each experience is built around access, opportunities for diners to engage directly with Chef Pillai while exploring menus that draw from regional Indian traditions and celebratory formats.

At the media lunch, that philosophy translated into a table that encouraged conversation as much as tasting. Guests asked questions, shared impressions and moved through the meal at an unhurried pace, offering a glimpse of how Jashan positions itself, less spectacle, more substance.

By the time dessert arrived, the message was clear. February at Jashan by Chef Pillai is designed not as a single headline moment, but as a sequence of thoughtfully curated experiences, each one extending the dialogue between chef, kitchen and diner.