Chocolate needs no introduction, but the cacao plant has a few more delicious tricks up its sleeve. Cacao Salon, an intimate dinner in celebration of cacao and its surrounding biodiversity, is Chef Gresham Fernandes’ love letter to cacao. 

Gresham Fernandes is the Culinary Director of Impressario Entertainment & Hospitality, the powerhouse behind some of the most beloved eateries in the country including Smoke House Deli, Social, and Salt Water Cafe. For Cacao Salon, Chef Gresham brings his signature irreverent but thoughtful style to an ingredient that is deeply loved, yet little-known. Through Cacao Salon, featuring cacao and related produce, sourced directly from farms in the region, we hope to showcase the true versatility of the cacao plant.

Our small-business partners for the event included Kuruvinakunnel Tharavadu Farms, 6th generation farmers based in Pala, Kerala, and Kerehaklu, a biodiversity-friendly plantation in Chikmagalur, Karnataka, Mason & Co., as well as Mossant Fermentery.

We are also proud to have collaborated with Freedom Tree, our venue and decor partner, for Cacao Salon. Freedom Tree is a design and colour strategy studio with products ranging from designer furniture to home furnishings.

Goya’s Cacao Salon marks the celebration of India’s first Cacao & Craft Chocolate Festival.