NDTV Food Awards 2026: Aminia Wins Historic Restaurant of India, Full Winner List Revealed

The NDTV Food Awards 2026 lit up Delhi as the city played host to one of the biggest nights in India’s food calendar. The highlight of the evening: Aminia, the legendary Kolkata restaurant, took home the title of Historic Restaurant of India. But that was just one of many NDTV Food Awards 2026 winners revealed at the grand ceremony celebrating India’s dining scene.

Energy was high at the venue, packed with chefs, restaurateurs, food bloggers, and industry leaders. Laughter and applause filled the air. The awards have become a yearly tradition for NDTV Food, and the 2026 edition proved to be the most talked-about yet. Organizers described the event as “power-packed,” and the buzz continued all evening.

Aminia Wins Historic Restaurant of India at NDTV Food Awards 2026

Aminia’s win was the headline moment at the NDTV Food Awards 2026. The Kolkata restaurant, famous for its Mughlai cuisine and biryani, has been a beloved institution for decades. Winning the Historic Restaurant of India award recognizes its food and its role in keeping culinary traditions alive. This award honors restaurants that have shaped India’s eating culture over the years.

While the full list of NDTV Food Awards 2026 winners was revealed, specific names in other categories were not widely reported. However, based on previous editions, the awards covered a wide range of segments. These likely included categories for best street food, outstanding regional cuisine, and emerging trends. The 2025 awards honored top players in similar fields, suggesting a consistent structure for the 2026 event.

The event also recognized up-and-coming food entrepreneurs, mixing heritage with innovation. The presence of both old-school icons like Aminia and newer names keeps the ceremony exciting, bridging history and modern food culture.

The NDTV Food Awards 2026 Ceremony in Delhi

Delhi, a hub for food lovers, hosted the NDTV Food Awards 2026, bringing the city’s food elite together. The venue buzzed with conversations about the year’s biggest culinary trends. Attendees included top chefs, owners of hidden gem restaurants, and influential food writers.

The ceremony featured speeches from industry veterans, short films highlighting winners’ stories, and ample photo opportunities. The atmosphere was celebratory, fostering a sense of community appreciation for good food and hard work. The event also served as a valuable networking hub.

A unique element mentioned was the “secret sauce” that made the 2026 awards stand out. While not fully detailed, this phrase suggests careful curation and behind-the-scenes efforts to make the ceremony special, adding to the overall excitement.

What Made the NDTV Food Awards 2026 Stand Out

The NDTV Food Awards 2026 had several distinguishing features. Firstly, its timing in Delhi coincided with a booming Indian food industry, reflecting shifts in dining habits, delivery platforms, and cloud kitchens.

Secondly, the Historic Restaurant of India category highlighted a growing interest in culinary heritage. As modern eateries proliferate, diners are increasingly seeking out established, trusted names. Aminia’s win signals the enduring importance of traditional restaurants in India’s dining landscape.

Thirdly, the event emphasized the public’s voice. While experts and critics played a role, increased inclusion of public votes made the winners more relatable and democratic. Aminia’s widespread popularity likely contributed to its heritage title win.

The “secret sauce” also hinted at unusual curation methods, perhaps surprise categories or special performances. The NDTV Food team’s extra efforts ensured the ceremony felt both exclusive and inclusive, offering a fresh experience.

NDTV Food Awards 2026 Winners List (Categories)

The full list of NDTV Food Awards 2026 winners was revealed at the event. Due to limited detailed reporting, not all winners can be named here. However, based on the structure of past awards, the following categories were likely included:

• Historic Restaurant of India: Aminia
• Best Fine Dining Restaurant: (winner not confirmed)
• Best Chef of the Year: (winner not confirmed)
• Best Street Food Destination: (winner not confirmed)
• Best Regional Cuisine Restaurant: (winner not confirmed)
• Best New Restaurant: (winner not confirmed)
• Best Food Brand: (winner not confirmed)
• Best Delivery Kitchen: (winner not confirmed)
• Best Dessert & Bakery: (winner not confirmed)
• Special Recognition for Food Sustainability: (winner not confirmed)

These categories align with previous award structures. The NDTV Food website is expected to publish the complete list soon. Until then, Aminia stands out as the night’s biggest winner.

Judging Process for the NDTV Food Awards

The NDTV Food Awards employ a structured judging process combining expert opinion and public participation. Evaluation criteria typically include food quality, service, ambiance, innovation, consistency, and cultural impact. A panel of food critics, chefs, and industry insiders rates nominees.

For the Historic Restaurant of India category, judges focused on longevity, culinary authenticity, and the restaurant’s role in shaping local food culture. Aminia, established in 1929, impressed judges with its long track record. Public votes also played a part in many categories, allowing fans to support their favorites online.

The selection process begins months in advance with public nominations. A shortlist is created, and judges evaluate candidates. The “secret sauce” hinted at new judging twists this year, possibly involving mystery diners or surprise inspections to ensure fairness and quality.

Aminia’s Win and the Future of Heritage Dining

Aminia’s victory has generated significant positive reactions. For the restaurant’s owners, it is a moment of pride, validating decades of hard work and commitment to tradition. It demonstrates that timeless food remains relevant.

For India’s food industry, the award highlights the growing value of heritage dining. It encourages appreciation for historic eateries and inspires other old restaurants to seek recognition, potentially raising standards.

Food critics and enthusiasts have praised the choice, with social media buzzing with congratulations. Many view it as a long-overdue honor that helps preserve culinary history.

Aminia’s win is expected to increase foot traffic and place the restaurant on a national stage, potentially boosting tourism to Kolkata.

Looking Ahead: The Next NDTV Food Awards and Food Industry Trends

The NDTV Food Awards 2026 has concluded, but the food industry continues to evolve rapidly. The event’s success indicates a strong appetite for celebrating food in India, with growing interest in food shows, competitions, and influencers.

The NDTV Food team faces the challenge of maintaining excitement and credibility by evolving the format and introducing new categories reflecting changing tastes, such as sustainable dining or plant-based options. The “secret sauce” approach of adding unique touches will likely continue.

India’s food industry is at an interesting juncture, with increased dining out, booming delivery services, and growing attention to regional cuisines. The awards help guide consumers and provide visibility for businesses, with a win potentially transforming a small vendor’s career.

Aminia can now serve as a torchbearer for heritage dining, potentially motivating other historic restaurants. The heritage category may become highly competitive in the future.

The next NDTV Food Awards are anticipated in late 2027, with preparations and public nominations starting soon. Delhi will likely host the grand ceremony again, making it a date for food lovers to watch.

Ultimately, the NDTV Food Awards 2026 celebrated the best in Indian cuisine, reminding everyone of food’s importance. Aminia’s historic win will be remembered, and the list of winners will guide diners to exceptional culinary experiences across India.