There are luxury hotels, and then there are destinations that leave an imprint long after checkout. True luxury is no longer defined by opulent interiors, lavish suites or award-winning dining alone. It is defined by people. It is measured by genuine emotions, thoughtful experiences and the lasting memories a destination creates.
As Harshit Hundet, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief of Face Magazine, I have had the privilege of experiencing some of the finest luxury hospitality brands across India and internationally. It takes something truly remarkable for me to describe a stay as exceptional, and my recent stay at The Westin Pune was exactly that—an experience that quietly reaffirmed why hospitality remains one of the most beautiful expressions of human connection.
From the moment I arrived until the time I departed, every interaction reflected an unwavering commitment to excellence. There was no sense of routine professionalism or scripted service. Instead, every member of the team displayed warmth, authenticity and an innate passion for making guests feel genuinely welcomed.
Luxury today isn’t about perfection. It is about people who genuinely care. And The Westin Pune understands this remarkably well.
During my visit, I had the privilege of engaging in insightful conversations with Victor Chen, General Manager of The Westin Pune Koregaon Park, and Shruti Sengupta, Director of Marketing & Communications. Through these discussions, I gained a deeper understanding of their shared vision for the property and their unwavering commitment to continually elevating the guest experience. Their focus on introducing innovative concepts, curating meaningful experiences, and setting new benchmarks in luxury hospitality reflects a forward-thinking approach that distinguishes The Westin Pune in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Aafreen: Where Every Plate Tells a Story
One of the highlights of my visit was discovering Aafreen, The Westin Pune’s newly introduced signature Indian dining destination, inspired by India’s extraordinary culinary diversity. The moment you enter Aafreen, you realise this is not simply another fine-dining restaurant. It is an immersive journey through India. Every corner reflects thoughtful design. Every detail has intention. Every course carries a story.
Rather than restricting itself to one regional cuisine, Aafreen celebrates India’s incredible culinary heritage by bringing together flavours, traditions and techniques from across the country into one beautifully curated experience. The concept blends regional authenticity with contemporary craftsmanship, allowing every dish to honour its origins while embracing modern presentation.
The menu features standout dishes such as the legendary Kakori Kebab, flavourful Chicken Vepudu, aromatic Dum Pukht Gosht Biryani and Kerala-inspired Seabass Moilee, alongside indulgent desserts like the Brioche Shahi Tukda. Each dish reflects the unique flavours, traditions and stories of its region
A Conversation with Chef Mohd. Mahtab Shaikh
One of the most memorable moments during my visit was my exclusive interaction with Master Chef Mohd. Mahtab Shaikh, the culinary force behind Aafreen.
As we discussed the restaurant’s philosophy, it became increasingly clear that this menu wasn’t created simply to satisfy hunger. It was created to create memories.
Chef Mahtab passionately explained how every dish has been carefully researched, thoughtfully developed and emotionally connected to its region of origin. From the ingredients to the plating… From the cocktails to the storytelling… Every element has meaning.
What resonated with me most, however, was one heartfelt thought that perfectly captures his culinary philosophy.
“Whatever I feel, I want every person whom I serve food to take back an experience from my dishes. Beyond simply satisfying hunger, I want every guest to leave with a memory.”
Few chefs articulate hospitality with such simplicity, Yet those words perfectly define what dining at Aafreen truly feels like.
The Chef’s Personal Recommendation
When I asked Chef Mahtab which dish best represents Aafreen, his answer came without hesitation.
The Galouti Kebab.
It is his signature recommendation and the dish he believes every guest should experience. The classic Galouti Kebab showcases the richness of Awadhi culinary traditions with extraordinary finesse.
My Personal Recommendations
As someone who experienced the complete dining journey, a few dishes genuinely stood out. If I were recommending only a handful of must-try experiences at Aafreen, these would undoubtedly be at the top of my list.
Starter of the Visit
Veg Galouti Kebab Delicate. Silky. Beautifully balanced. A vegetarian interpretation that delivers all the richness and depth traditionally associated with the iconic Galouti. It was, without question, my favourite starter.
Main Course Favourite
Dal Aafreen Comforting yet luxurious. Slow-cooked to perfection, every spoonful reflected patience, tradition and craftsmanship. Sometimes the simplest dishes become the most memorable. Dal Aafreen was exactly that.
My Favourite Beverage
Without any hesitation— Jamun Bar Mocktail. Perfectly balanced with refreshing flavours and just the right amount of complexity, it complemented the meal beautifully. It is undoubtedly my personal recommendation for every guest visiting Aafreen.
More Than a Meal
Restaurants often serve food. Great restaurants create memories. Aafreen belongs firmly in the latter category. Every dish, every aroma, every conversation and every presentation collectively narrate India’s culinary story in a refreshingly contemporary way. The restaurant doesn’t merely celebrate Indian cuisine. It celebrates India’s cultural identity.
As Editor-in-Chief of Face Magazine, I frequently encounter brands that promise luxury. Only a handful truly deliver it. The Westin Pune Koregaon Park does. Not because of its architecture. Not because of its luxurious rooms. Not because of its restaurants. But because of its people. Hospitality can be copied. Luxury can be purchased. Infrastructure can be replicated. But genuine warmth cannot.
The greatest luxury offered by The Westin Pune Koregaon Park is not found inside its suites or restaurants. It is found in the people who make every guest feel seen, welcomed and remembered. And perhaps that is what true luxury has always been. As I departed, I didn’t leave merely with photographs or notes for another editorial. I left with memories. And in today’s world, that is the finest hospitality any luxury hotel can offer.
Editor’s Picks
Hotel: The Westin Pune Koregaon Park
Restaurant: Aafreen – Inspired Indian
Must-Try Starter: Veg Galouti Kebab
Must-Try Main Course: Dal Aafreen
Chef’s Signature Recommendation: Galouti Kebab
Editor’s Favourite Mocktail: Jamun Bar
A benchmark in modern luxury hospitality where heartfelt service, visionary leadership and unforgettable culinary storytelling come together to create an experience worth returning for.
IG: @westinpune
