In a groundbreaking move that is set to change the way hospitality awards and ratings are perceived globally, Jimmy Mistry, Founder & CEO of Della Leaders Club, unveiled the DLC Guide 2024 in Mumbai, marking a revolutionary moment in the world of culinary and hospitality excellence. With its bold, transparent approach, the DLC Guide is redefining the criteria for what makes a restaurant or hotel truly exceptional. TheGlitz pick!

What is the DLC Guide?

By employing a voting system led by celebrity entrepreneurs rather than anonymous critics, and allowing the voting process to unfold in real time, the DLC Guide is not just an award – it’s a movement. This new format guarantees that only the most deserving establishments achieve recognition, setting a new standard for transparency, credibility, and uncompromising quality in the global hospitality landscape.

An evening of Glitz ‘n’ Glamour

It was indeed a night to remember… as the bustling metropolis of Mumbai was treated to a spectacular evening of glitz, glamour, and gastronomic excellence on December 17, 2024, as the Mumbai Edition of the prestigious Best of Best Restaurants & Hotels – DLC Guide 2024 was unveiled at the iconic JW Marriott in Juhu. This event marked a significant milestone in the culinary world, bringing together industry moguls, celebrity chefs, and cultural icons to celebrate the pinnacle of luxury dining and hospitality.

Inspired by the world-renowned Michelin and Forbes Guides, the DLC Guide sets itself apart with a unique approach that redefines the way we celebrate culinary excellence. Unlike traditional restaurant rankings, the DLC Guide’s transparent voting system brings together a select group of celebrity entrepreneurs—including names such as Malaika Arora, Zyed Khan, and Hansal Mehta—to cast their votes on a live digital panel. The transparency of this process ensures that every vote is visible to all auditors in real time, creating an open and honest evaluation system. This innovative approach has earned the DLC Guide a reputation for being the most respected and sought-after gastronomy award globally, where only excellence can guarantee a win.

As the who’s who of Mumbai’s elite gathered at the event, the ambiance was nothing short of mesmerizing. The evening was graced by Bollywood royalty and industry stalwarts, including Madhur Bhandarkar, Tanisha Mukherjee, and many more. This stellar gathering set the stage for an unforgettable celebration of India’s best culinary talent, all of whom were honored for their remarkable contributions to the world of food and hospitality.

The new additions to the DLC Guide’s prestigious panel of auditors only heightened the event’s excitement. This year’s cohort included Sajid Meetha, Sabbas Joseph, Simone Khan Arora, Hrishikesh Kanan, and many more, all influential figures in their respective fields who have helped shape the global gastronomic landscape. The inclusion of such distinguished individuals ensures that the DLC Guide remains a true reflection of the finest in the hospitality industry.

The night also saw the announcement of the culinary winners whose culinary artistry and innovative approach to food have earned them a place among the elite. Among the celebrated names were:

• Amadeo by Chef Kayzad Sadri, known for his creative take on modern gastronomy.
• Americano by Chef Alex Sanchez, delivering a bold fusion of flavors.
• Avartana, helmed by Chef Deepti Jadhav at ITC Maratha, showcasing the best of South Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
• Baglami, Chef Sameer Bhalerao’s creation, which stood out for its incredible blend of traditional and avant-garde flavors.
• Bastian, an iconic name in the Mumbai culinary scene, led by Ranjit Bindra and Bollywood’s very own Shilpa Shetty.

Other notable winners included Celini, Gigi, Indian Accent, Masque, and Tresind, all of whom exemplify the fine art of cooking and impeccable hospitality that have set new standards in India’s culinary world.

The night also acknowledged the legendary establishments that have consistently delivered exceptional experiences. Among them were the prestigious Taj Mahal Hotel, ITC Maratha, JW Marriott, Four Seasons, and The Oberoi, each known for their timeless elegance and world-class service.

Reflecting on the immense success of the Mumbai chapter, Jimmy Mistry, Founder & CEO of Della Leaders Club, shared his pride in creating a global guide that showcases India’s culinary excellence on the world stage. “It gives me immense joy to have created a truly global guide for hotels and restaurants that puts India on the map,” said Mistry. “We are proud to feature globally recognized restaurants like Zuma New York by Chef Daniel Su and Bungalow by Celebrity Chef Vikas Khanna, whose international acclaim speaks volumes about the caliber of talent India is producing.”

Mistry also expressed his gratitude toward the auditors, who come from a diverse range of industries and geographies, making the DLC Guide an authentically independent and non-biased platform for rating the world’s best restaurants. With auditors like David Melzer and David Schwartz from New York, Smita Tharoor and Susana Ecclestone from London, and Saher Sheikh from Dubai, the guide’s credibility is unparalleled.

TheGlitz Verdict

The DLC Guide 2024 is not just a list of restaurants; it is a celebration of excellence, a testament to the passion, creativity, and innovation that drive the hospitality and culinary industries forward. As Mumbai continues to rise as a global culinary capital, the DLC Guide is sure to remain at the forefront, guiding connoisseurs toward the best dining experiences in the world.