Chefs Sreekar and Prajwal Host Modern Italian Pop-Up at The Leela Hyderabad

A two-day culinary pop-up titled Modern Italian was hosted at REAN – The Chef Studio at The Leela Hyderabad, bringing a contemporary interpretation of classic Italian trattoria dishes to the city. The event was curated by Hyderabad-born chefs Sreekar Kapuganti and Prajwal Sannala.

The pop-up aimed to present classic Italian food through modern techniques while retaining the communal spirit of trattoria dining. The menu offered both set courses featuring salads, starters, mains, and desserts for individual diners, as well as a la carte options meant for sharing at the center of the table.

The collaboration marked the first joint pop-up in Hyderabad for Chef Sreekar and Chef Prajwal, who were school friends. Chef Prajwal recently returned from London, while Chef Sreekar built his culinary background working across Canada and Dubai. In Canada, Chef Sreekar spent approximately eight years working with the US Consulate and private families before choosing Italian cuisine for the pop-up over French culinary styles, citing Italian food's approachable, comfort-focused nature.

Dishes featured across the menu included House Focaccia made with 80 percent hydration sourdough served with pickles, and an Eggplant Parmesan blending North American and Italian influences. The mains included Lamb Pasta and Roast Chicken, alongside a dessert offering of Dolci - Chocolate Mousse.