Strong interest for Japanese cuisine
Strong interest for Japanese cuisine

The Indian F&B industry is changing rapidly, specifically with regard to specialty cuisines. And, as the consumer here becomes more aware and demands more authentic cuisines, the market becomes increasingly attractive for international players.

And to take advantage of these opportunities, Sakae Holding group has recently entered into an agreement with TCI Global Logistics Services to open a chain of specialised Sushi restaurants. Sakae Sushi has 10 brands, including Sakae Sushi and Sakae Teppanyaki, amongst others. Sakae Sushi also has 32 brand outlets in Singapore.

In a candid conversation with Baibhab Das, Lilian Foo, EVP, Sakae Sushi and Chandrima Agarwal, CEO, TCI Apex Pal Hospitality share their growth plans.

Baibhab Das (BD): Is the Indian market ready for speciality Japanese cuisine?

Lilian Foo (LF): Japanese cuisine is fast gaining popularity in India, especially amongst the youth who are keen to experiment and several fine dining restaurants have also started offering this. Earlier, Japanese cuisine was limited to five-star hotels only.

BD: What is the USP of your restaurant?

Chandrima Agarwal (CA): Sakae Sushi is well-known brand throughout Asia for the innovative Japanese and pan Asian cuisine we offer, and in an engaging setting. As part of that strategy, a conveyor belt often serves the food to our patrons in our restaurants, and it is often an attribute that the customer remembers.

 

BD: Who will be the target audience for your cuisine?

CA: We offer an elaborate and authentic Japanese menu including signature dishes like Spicy Kimchee Seafood Kaminabe and Salmon Yuzu Shirataki, amongst others. We also have a seasonal menu and a kids’ menu. Our team of global chefs specialises in authentic Japanese and Pan Asian cooking, and we target families, individuals and corporates.

 

BD: What is your take on the Indian consumer?

LF: The Indian customer has traditionally preferred value for money options, including for his meals. However, the economic growth of this country and growing sophistication of consumers has propelled interest in new cuisines. Apart from that, with Indians travelling overseas it has helped to ensure a greater awareness for Japanese cuisine here.

 

BD: Why did you select a mall as your restaurant location?

CA: We have chosen Ambience Mall for the first Sakae Sushi restaurant and we have no competition in this segment here. Also, malls are the preferred destination for families these days.

 

BD: Your expansion plans?

CA: We believe that there is a large market for Japanese and Pan Asian cuisine here, and we are planning several more outlets in time to come.

 

BD: Role of TCI Apex Pal Hospitality in this venture, and do you manage any other F&B brand?

CA: TCI Apex Pal Hospitality will manage the Sakai Sushi chain of restaurant in India, and this is also our first foray in the restaurant business.

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