Innovation of food

Bringing on fresh flavours from the US, Chili’s American Grill and Bar has announced their all new Fresh Mex menu, which will launch in March. Speaking of the menu, Micheal Winkelmann, The Global Culinary Contact for Chili’s says the menu will include a brand new freshness that will not only be visible but fresh to taste as well.

“The menu will have enchiladas and rice bowls now. We will also renovate our burgers calling them craft burgers, which will essentially have house pickles on a potato bun. Also, the new ‘handhelds’ will take over the famous sandwiches.”

Speaking of his own source of inspiration for 30 years in the restaurant and leisure industry, Michael says, “My love of all foods from around the world keeps me going. Being blessed with the opportunity to try them all first hand when I am in the countries during my travels and indulging in the innovation of food is a wonderful thing!” Unfortunately, he states, on his recent visit to Hyderabad, he didn’t have the opportunity to taste much of the famous Hyderabadi dishes.

The love for flavours other than Indian has increased in recent times with many willing to experiment and savour the best of all worlds. The Tex-Mex spices may then be a favourite for many Hyderabadis as well. About the similarities between the cuisines, Michael says, “There are similarities in the use of spices in both Indian and Tex-Mex. They both incorporate chillies, rubs, herbs and marinades.

The Tex-Mex core spice is our South Western spice mix.” But will some of our most loved Indian flavours get featured on the Chili’s menu in the future? “No, we have incorporated an extensive two-page vegetarian selection specifically for the Indian market, but we are an American brand delivering unique flavours that our guests crave for so we don’t plan on including the Indian tastes.”

Food sure seems to be a big part of Michael’s life, what with his 14 years with Chili’s. But Michael also enjoys playing the guitar, golf and football. “I love music and have 8 guitars,” he states. Nishant Dholakia - Business Head - Chilis West and South India said that they have a third branch of Chili’s on their radar set to open the next fiscal year.

“We are exploring potential sites, but we might think of opening one in the Gachibowli area,” said Nishant. As for the idea of Tex-Mex popularity growing in India and Hyderabad more specifically, Michael signs off by saying, “Watch this space!”