Redefining Ahmedabad’s culinary landscape

As the first-of-its-kind Mediterranean restaurant and 24-hour coffee lounge in the city, Bella Aroma stands as a bridge between cultures and tastes. Mediterranean cuisine is considered an acquired taste in a nation such as India. “We aim to make it a landmark where exceptional flavours, warm hospitality, and fine craftsmanship come together seamlessly. For us, it’s about redefining hospitality by combining culinary artistry with unforgettable service and inclusivity that Ahmedabad truly deserves,” states Suraj Kumar Jha, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre while expressing the vision behind the restaurant’s debut in the city.

Bella Aroma was born from a dream to bring the rich flavours and timeless charm of the Mediterranean to Ahmedabad. Jha elaborates his vision, stating, “We envisioned a place where people could experience not just food but a story on every plate—a story of sun-soaked shores, bustling markets, and cherished family recipes from countries like Italy, Greece, Morocco, and many more. Our vision also includes celebrating culinary traditions while giving them a contemporary twist, ensuring every dish feels both familiar and fresh.” Bella Aroma represents more than just fine dining; it is about creating memories. The restaurant crafts an environment where guests feel like they’re stepping into a serene Mediterranean escape. 

Redefining Ahmedabad’s culinary landscape
Bella Aroma is set to redefine Ahmedabad's culinary landscape by introducing a dining concept that is both unique and luxurious. With its Mediterranean roots and contemporary flair, it stands as the first fine-dining restaurant of its kind in the city, offering not just exceptional food but an immersive experience.

Shedding light on the signature dishes the restaurant offers, Jha says, “Our signature dishes are a true representation of our culinary journey. The Mezze Platter, with its variety of forest dips, is a visual and sensory delight, offering a beautiful combination of textures and flavours. The Syrian Tabbouleh with Quinoa is a fresh and healthy twist on a classic, with the quinoa adding a modern, nutritious touch to this traditional dish. Our Beetroot Tortellini brings a burst of colour and flavour, with the earthy beetroot filling complementing the delicate pasta perfectly.”

He adds that the guests who enjoy rich, savoury flavours, the Moroccan Lamb Tagine is a must-try, with its tender meat and aromatic spices offering a taste of the exotic. “The African Chermoula with Salmon is another standout, marrying vibrant North African herbs with the delicate, flaky salmon in a way that’s both refreshing and indulgent. And of course, the Pull Me Up Tiramisu—a playful take on the classic dessert—adds a touch of fun and elegance to the end of a meal,” shares Jha. These dishes don’t just stand out because of their bold flavours, they represent the fusion of tradition and innovation, and they tell the story of Bella Aroma's commitment to offering something extraordinary.

Ambience
Jha emphasises on the restaurant’s ambience, he notes, “Bella Aroma offers a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort, creating an atmosphere that caters to both fine dining and leisurely daytime indulgence. The moment you step in, you are greeted by warm hues, soft lighting, and thoughtfully curated decor that reflects the elegance of the Mediterranean. Every detail—from the subtle aromas of freshly prepared dishes to the gentle melodies playing in the background—has been designed to evoke a sense of refinement.”

He further describes the ambience of the restaurant offering insights on how the ambience changes throughout the day, “During the evening, Bella Aroma transforms into a fine-dining haven, ideal for special occasions, intimate dinners, or simply savouring the artistry of our chefs. The ambiance feels luxurious yet inviting, with impeccable service and beautifully plated dishes that turn meals into memorable experiences. In the daytime, Bella Aroma takes on a lighter, more casual vibe, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and engaging conversation. The sunlit interiors, coupled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and light bites, provide a serene escape from the city's hustle. It’s a place where fine dining meets relaxation, offering versatility without compromising on quality or charm.”

Culinary innovations
Culinary innovation and experimentation is crucial for a restaurant helping them to blend traditional dishes with innovative tastes and unique presentation. It is one of the most difficult tasks in the F&B sector, “Our culinary innovations focus on combining traditional flavours with contemporary techniques, creating dishes that surprise and delight at every bite.”

Offers insights into the culinary innovations at the restaurant, he states, “One of our highlights is the introduction of unique pairings, like our Syrian Tabbouleh with Quinoa, where the ancient grain elevates the traditional dish into a nutritious and flavourful masterpiece. Similarly, our Beetroot Tortellini showcases how humble ingredients can be transformed into visually stunning, gourmet creations with bold flavours.”

“We also experiment with global influences on Mediterranean staples. For example, our African Chermoula with Salmon marries vibrant North African spices with delicate seafood, creating a dish that feels both exotic and familiar. Another star is our Moroccan Lamb Tagine, where slow-cooked spices and tender meat are presented in an artistic, modern plating style. For dessert, innovations like the Pull Me Up Tiramisu bring playful theatrics to the table, inviting guests to engage with their food in new and exciting ways,” Jha adds.

Whether it’s incorporating locally sourced ingredients or reimagining classic recipes, Bella Aroma is committed to pushing boundaries while preserving the soul of Mediterranean cuisine. This combination of creativity and authenticity ensures that every visit feels like a culinary discovery.

Leveraging technology to offer unique experiences
With every passing day, technology is becoming more and more crucial especially in hospitality, the adoption of technology to provide unique guest experiences and offer penultimate guest satisfaction remains critical. Bella Aroma embraces technology in subtle yet meaningful ways to enhance the guest experience. From digital menus that allow guests to explore the stories behind each dish to a seamless reservation system that ensures a smooth dining journey, it aims to make every interaction effortless. The team also leverages social media to connect with patrons, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses and highlighting special creations to keep them engaged.

Jha unveils the restaurant’s plan to leverage technology to provide unique guest experiences, stating, “We’re introducing QR codes for menu access, reducing paper usage while making updates to our offerings more efficient. Future plans include integrating feedback systems that allow guests to share their thoughts digitally, helping us continually refine our services. While our approach to technology is simple, it aligns with our focus on blending tradition with modern convenience, ensuring a memorable and personalised dining experience.”

Culinary team
Bella Aroma’s culinary team is led by our talented Executive Chef Daksh Sirwani whose passion for Mediterranean cuisine brings authenticity and innovation to every dish. With years of experience in curating exceptional dining experiences, Chef Daksh combines his expertise with a deep understanding of the region’s diverse flavours, creating a menu that is both traditional and modern.

Jha expressing his gratitude towards the team opines, “Our kitchen is a blend of skilled hands and creative minds, with every team member dedicated to mastering the intricate techniques and bold flavours that define Mediterranean cuisine. From crafting delicate pastas to perfecting slow-cooked tagines, their attention to detail ensures each dish is a work of art. Chef Daksh’s leadership fosters a culture of creativity, where the team continuously experiments to bring new dimensions to the menu. Together, they are the heart of Bella Aroma, turning every meal into a culinary journey.”