Taj Bengal Kolkata to Host Italian-Meghalayan Culinary Fusion Dinner

Kolkata's Taj Bengal hotel will present a distinctive culinary evening titled "Italy Meets Meghalaya" at The Souk on May 9th, 2026, featuring the cuisine of Chef Niyati Rao, founder of the Shillong-based restaurant Nonna Mei.

The event merges the warmth of traditional Italian domestic cuisine with the vibrant, locally-sourced produce of Meghalaya. Nonna Mei, established in Shillong, operates as a concept rooted in ingredient authenticity and the interplay between Italian culinary heritage and North-Eastern Indian flavours. The restaurant's name draws from "Nonna," the Italian word for grandmother, and "Mei," which means grandmother in Khasi—a naming choice that underscores values of family, heritage, and home-prepared meals.

Chef Rao stands among India's emerging culinary talents, recognised for her commitment to seasonal and locally-sourced cooking practices. Her professional training includes a stint at Taj Mahal in Mumbai and experience at the internationally acclaimed Copenhagen restaurant Noma.

The Souk menu will present à la carte selections including the Nonna Mei Caprese Salad, Sourdough Pizzas, Meghalayan Pineapple paired with Homemade Mozzarella, Chicken Sausage Pasta, and house-prepared Gelatos featuring flavours such as Sohiong and Almond Praline.

Nonna Mei has earned recognition from Robb Report as among the "Best of the Best" new restaurants in India and has garnered praise from Condé Nast for its emphasis on the distinctive produce of Meghalaya.