Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s most cherished celebrations — when homes glow with oil lamps, rangolis brighten the floors, and the air fills with the aroma of festive sweets and savories. Rooted in history and legend, Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. Across regions, the stories differ, but everywhere Diwali is about family, togetherness, and joy.
In many Indian homes, the day begins with an oil bath and a sip of Diwali Legiyam, an herbal tonic before the feast. Kitchens buzz with the crackle of murukkus, bajjis, and golden mysorepak, while loved ones exchange gifts, wear new clothes, and gather around the table. A Diwali meal is never just food — it’s tradition, memory, and celebration woven together.
Kasturi Vishal & Deepthy Suresh of Tales & Tiffin invite you not just to taste Diwali but to experience it. Their menu has been lovingly curated to reflect the essence of the festival — from traditional recipes passed down through generations to playful twists on classic favourites. Each dish tells a story of how Diwali is celebrated in Indian homes, weaving together flavour, memory, and meaning.
This evening is an opportunity to savour Diwali the way it is cherished across India — a journey of tastes that comfort, excite, and celebrate. Guests are welcome to come dressed in Indian attire if they wish, or simply immerse themselves in the spirit of the season. More than just a dinner, this is a chance to experience Diwali through food, stories, and the joy of sharing.
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Welcome drinks
Diwali Legiyam (Herbal Digestive Tonic)
A traditional herbal tonic made with ginger, pepper, coriander seeds, tamarind, and jaggery — taken on Diwali morning after the oil bath to balance festive indulgence.
Nannari Sarbath (Herbal Cooling Drink)
A refreshing blend of nannari root, lime, and sugar — a festive cooler that balances the warmth of Diwali feasts.
Appetizers
Murukku Sandwich (Crispy Rice-Flour Spirals with Chutney Filling)
Crunchy rice-flour spirals filled with spicy chutney — a modern twist on a Diwali snack staple.
Kuzhipaniyaram (Savory Rice–Lentil Dumplings)
Peanut, Tomato & Coconut Chutneys. Golden dumplings, crisp outside and soft within, served with three festive chutneys.
Milagai Bajji (Stuffed Chilli Fritters)
Plump green chillies battered, fried, and sprinkled with Indian masala — bold flavors for the festive mood.
Dhaba Style Chole Masala (Chickpea Curry - Vegetarian Option)
Chickpeas simmered in a spiced tomato-onion base — a North Indian Diwali classic.
Sides
Jeera Rice (Cumin-Flavored Basmati Rice)
Fragrant basmati with cumin and ghee — the perfect festive pairing.
Appalam (Crispy Lentil Wafers / Papad)
Crisp, golden papads — a crunchy must-have on every Diwali thali.
Potato Onion Curry (Spiced Potato & Onion Stir-Fry)
Potatoes and onions tossed with mustard, curry leaves, and turmeric — humble yet comforting.
Desserts
Akkaravadisal (Sweet Rice & Lentil Pudding)
A traditional temple-style rice pudding with moong dal, milk, jaggery, and ghee — offered to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity.
Mysorepak (Gram Flour & Ghee Fudge)
The iconic Diwali sweet — rich gram flour, ghee, and sugar melting in every bite.
Palate Cleanser
Paan Shots (Betel Leaf & Rose Gulkand Drink)
A refreshing twist on paan — betel leaf, fennel, and rose gulkand blended into a cool festive shot.
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We are Kasturi Vishal & Deepthy Suresh – two South Indians who live by one simple belief: food makes everything better. From childhood kitchens filled with spices and stories to dinner tables overflowing with laughter, food has always been more than just a meal for us – it’s our love language. Hosting comes naturally; it’s where culture, comfort, and creativity collide.
At Tales & Tiffin, we bring together flavors that honor our roots while embracing a modern twist. Every dish tells a story, every gathering becomes a memory, and every guest leaves as family. Think: soulful curries, comforting classics, playful fusions, and a table set with love. But beyond the food, it’s about the vibe – warm smiles, heartfelt conversations, and a community that grows one supper at a time.
So come hungry, come curious, and come ready to share stories. With us, you’ll never just eat – you’ll experience. Because here, food isn’t served… it’s celebrated.
At Tales & Tiffin, we bring together flavors that honor our roots while embracing a modern twist. Every dish tells a story, every gathering becomes a memory, and every guest leaves as family. Think: soulful curries, comforting classics, playful fusions, and a table set with love. But beyond the food, it’s about the vibe – warm smiles, heartfelt conversations, and a community that grows one supper at a time.
So come hungry, come curious, and come ready to share stories. With us, you’ll never just eat – you’ll experience. Because here, food isn’t served… it’s celebrated.
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Every weekend The Depanneur invites an amateur or professional guest chef to host a fun, informal dinner party. @thedepanneur
SUPPER CLUB: Diwali: A Festival of Light, Food & Stories by Kasturi Vishal & Deepthy Suresh
Saturday, October 18, 2025
