Coolberg looks to enhance market penetration

Pasta Street, Bengaluru’s renowned premier Italian dining chain, expands its footprint in the National Capital with the opening of its first-ever outlet in Delhi. Known for serving authentic Italian flavors, Pasta Street is all set to elevate the Italian cuisine experience in Delhi.

Pasta Street was established in 2011 by Italian businessman Massimiliano Gini out of a strong desire to introduce real Italian food to India. With eight locations in Bengaluru and the most recent addition in Delhi, Pasta Street started its adventure in Bengaluru and has since swiftly spread throughout the city.

With plans to open more locations in Hyderabad, Pune, Noida, and Gurugram, the brand's growth narrative is still ongoing. They have an open-kitchen concept where people can watch the food being prepared by the chef.

Talking about the expansion to Delhi, Manish Kumar, Executive Director, Pasta Street said, "Having achieved remarkable success in Bengaluru with 8 outlets, we are excited to delight Delhi Guests with our signature Italian flavors. Just as we did in Bengaluru, we aim to expand further in Delhi-NCR by adding 5 new outlets, with additional plans to establish our presence in Gurugram and Noida by the end of 2025, bringing a true slice of Italy to the region. Delhi is an excellent market for the Hospitality sector, and we want to capture a good size of this pie. Led by our top management and Head Chef GianlucaZorco, our mission is to bring an authentic Italian experience to every table in Delhi—where every meal and every bite will take Delhiites on a journey to Italy.”

Bastian Hospitality has opened 'Bastian Chinois', its first progressive Szechuan restaurant, helmed by legendary Chef Hemant Oberoi in Mumbai.
 
Bastian Chinois, a 6000-square-foot restaurant with 200 seats and an outdoor mezzanine level perfect for pre- or post-dinner beverages, is located in Peninsula Corporate Park in Parel. The décor of Bastian Chinois, like those of all Bastian brand restaurants, are eye-catching as soon as patrons enter. 

The restaurant is designed by Ranjit Bindra, the CEO of Bastian Hospitality Private Limited, and Minal Chopra of ineedspace, who has long been the group's restaurant designer. The space is dominated by a black and white theme, which is consistent with the theme, from the striped ceiling to the mosaic flooring that features Chinese dragons.
 
The kitchen is led by renowned chef Hemant Oberoi, who brings with him years of unmatched experience. His menu highlights the distinctive and highly flavorful Szechuan cuisine while also showcasing chef-driven twists on traditional Chinese dishes.

“I always envisioned the Bastian Hospitality brand being at the forefront of bringing the most unique, and always the most exciting dining and nightlife experiences to patrons across the country and soon, internationally. The launch of Bastian Chinois heralds a new wave of us introducing different culinary concepts that don’t waver from what we consider the most important when building our brands – top quality, international-level programming, constant innovation, and a commitment to always offering the best," says Ranjeet Bindra, CEO of Bastian Hospitality Private Limited.

The Chicken Tien Chilli Bowl is available to diners, who are urged to use their chopsticks to pluck delicious pieces of chicken from beneath a heaping portion of real Tian chilli, which gives the dish an amazing flavor boost. For the Hoisin sauce, the Beijing Duck Artisanal Plate dish will be presented on a painter's palette with a paintbrush; the Chef's Crispy Flying Noodles dish, which is served with chopsticks that appear to be floating in midair, is guaranteed to become an Instagram sensation.

In addition, the menu has some of Bastian's best-known dishes, such as Teriyaki Broccoli and BBQ Prawn Robata, along with cold dishes like Salmon Jalapeño and Tuna Crispy Rice. The dessert menu creates decadent yet elegant offerings by combining the skills of Chef Oberoi and Pastry Chef Dhiraj Jankar. Bastian Chinois has a high-end cocktail bar that focuses on contemporary mixology and drinks made with flair and drama.

With the opening of Bon Mama, a fine eating establishment on the second floor of the complex, Reach 3Roads, one of Gurugram's most popular shopping and entertainment destinations, has added another feather to its cap. With a blend of Indian and European flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and excellent service, this exciting addition enhances the local culinary scene.

The addition of Bon Mama strengthens Reach 3Roads' standing as a top culinary destination by broadening its selection of varied eating options and attracting both foodies and families searching for special occasions.

Nandini Taneja, Regional Director - Leasing, Reach Group, shared her thoughts, "We're delighted to welcome Bon Mama to Reach 3Roads. Our goal is to consistently offer visitors a diverse and memorable experience, and Bon Mama perfectly embodies this vision. Its unique menu and inviting atmosphere will undoubtedly resonate with food lovers and families looking for something special."

Harneek Singh, Director, Bon Mama, added, "The launch of Bon Mama at Reach 3Roads is an exciting chapter for us. Our philosophy has always been about crafting dining experiences where exceptional cuisine meets heartfelt hospitality. We're excited to bring this vision to life here, offering a space where casual meals and cherished moments blend seamlessly."

With a variety of choices catered to different palates, Bon Mama's menu promises to be a culinary joy. In addition to enjoying trademark sizzlers like Roast Leg of Chicken and Stuffed Cottage Cheese Steak, guests can also have soups, salads, chaats, and kebabs. In addition to classic North Indian dishes, there is a wide variety of pizzas, pastas, and burgers for those who enjoy comfort cuisine. Dessert aficionados can end the meal with creamy mousse, brownies with ice cream, or Nutmeggy Pancakes.

Hundo Pizza, the city's favorite cloud kitchen for creative and customizable pizzas, has launched their sixth outlet in Lower Parel, Mumbai.

With its innovative approach to pizza-making, Hundo Pizza, which is renowned for providing strong flavors and premium ingredients, keeps winning hearts. Hundo allows its customers to customize their pizzas or select from a carefully curated menu of unique creations—all made with quality ingredients and unparalleled precision—by fusing traditional Italian techniques with international culinary influences.

Speaking about the new outlet, Kabir Moorjani, Founder of Hundo Pizza, said, “We are beyond excited to expand our footprint to Lower Parel. This area is a melting pot of professionals, creatives, and families who are always on the lookout for fresh, high-quality, and convenient dining options. With our new outlet, we aim to cater to their cravings while bringing our unique flavours to this vibrant community.”

While the Greca, which is created with San Marzano Tomato Sauce, Hundo Mozzarella mix, and Funghi, is constantly the star among the vegetarian selections, the Classic Pepperoni, Spicy Barbecue Chicken is one of the best-selling dishes for non-vegetarians. Every dish is made to accommodate different dietary requirements and tastes, whether it's the healthy Ragi-Whole Wheat base or the Vegan Margherita with a selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian toppings.

Apart from its delicious menu, Hundo Pizza is committed towards sustainability. By utilizing primarily environmentally friendly packaging, the brand is making significant progress toward sustainability.

India's top destination for real sourdough Neapolitan pizzas, Si Nonna's, is thrilled to announce the opening of three new locations in Bengaluru: Marks Square, Koramangala, and Utopia. This marks a major milestone for the brand's growth as they bring the original flavors of Naples closer to Bengaluru's vibrant foodies.

The brand is thrilled to bring its famous pizzas to three exciting new areas in Bengaluru after the success of its first location in JP Nagar, Bengaluru. It will do so with the same dedication to quality and authenticity that has earned it a household brand in Mumbai, Pune, Indore, Delhi, and Surat outlets.

Si Nonna's famous sourdough pizza, which is made using a 48-hour fermentation technique that produces a delicate, airy crust, is the centerpiece of its menu. This method guarantees that every bite captures the spirit of Italy's culinary traditions and was inspired by a fortuitous discovery of Nonna Galliano's mother-dough recipe in Naples.

 “We are thrilled to expand our presence in Bengaluru with Marks Square, Koramangala, and Utopia. Bengaluru has a discerning food culture, and these new locations offer an opportunity for us to connect with more food enthusiasts who appreciate the art of sourdough pizza-making,” said Ayush Jatia, the visionary behind Si Nonna’s.
 

The brand provides immersive dining experience. They also have culinary activity like “Make your own pizza” for all the ages. They also serve vegan-friendly pizzas and kids-focused dishes.
 

Dough As You Like is expected to have generated over ₹10 crore in revenue, establishing itself as a prominent patisserie chain in Kolkata to double its financial accomplishments by the end of its second full fiscal year (2024–25).  

The brand was originally introduced on February 8, 2023, and has grown quickly. They have their presence in 30 locations and plans to open 45 more outlets by March 2025, which is a noteworthy accomplishment in just one year.

"Our journey has been nothing short of incredible. From the opening of our first store to now operating 30 stores, the overwhelming response from our customers has been our greatest motivation. As we aim for 45 stores by March 2025 and cross ₹10 crore in revenue this year, we are focused on delivering exceptional quality and innovation that resonates with our audience. This is just the beginning of our vision to bring personalized, delightful experiences to every corner of the city and beyond," said Pradeep and Sudeeip Sharma, Founders of Dough As You Like. 

Expressing their thoughts, Ankit Rai and Mriganka Ghosh, Co-Founders, Dough As You Like added, “Dough As You Like is more than just a brand—it's a dream built on passion, innovation, and the desire to create memorable experiences for our customers. Every milestone we've achieved is a testament to our dedication and the trust our customers place in us”.

Pass Code Hospitality, a leading boutique firm in India’s F&B industry has launched ATM Members Bar in Kolkata. This is an exclusive private members club located in the luxurious heritage building.

Pass Code Hospitality is known for its acclaimed brands like PCO, Ping’s, SAZ, Mister Merchant’s and Jamun. This is the second outlet of ATM Members Bar after the success of their flagship outlet in Delhi.

ATM, an acronym for "À Ta Maison," which translates to "At your own home" in French, is a private club exclusively for members that aims to offer an unmatched haven of elegance, seclusion, and individualized attention.

ATM Kolkata's interior design embraces contemporary design principles while exquisitely capturing the city's Victorian past. The 1,700 square foot, two-story venue can accommodate up to 60 people in a cozy yet welcoming setting.  

ATM Kolkata is the brainchild of Rakshay Dhariwal, the Founder and Managing Director of Passcode Hospitality, and his sister, Radhika Dhariwal. The meticulously chosen meals were crafted by Chef Rahul Gomes Pereira which is European-inspired menu which strike a balance between tradition and creativity.

 “This is an incredibly exciting venture for us. ATM is one of Pass Code Hospitality’s most special and exclusive brands and we are very excited to open our doors in Calcutta. We think this city will really appreciate what we are trying to bring—elevated experiences in an intimate and refined supper club. We look forward to hosting our members and catering to their needs," commented Rakshay Dhariwal, Founder and Managing Director of Pass Code Hospitality.

From the founders of Shiv Sagar, Butterfly High & Kyma, here comes the announcement of the expansion of their second outlet of The Bigg Small Cafe + bar, an all-day modern neighbourhood cafe and bar is all set to open on 12th December at Lower Parel, Mumbai.

With a cozy 3000 square feet, the team is introducing their distinctive concept to a new audience after the success of their original location in Saki Naka. Nishant and Umesh Desai, Founders of UDA India, designed the whimsical interiors of Bigg Small Cafe + Bar, which will enhance its charm with rustic stone walls and communal tables.

Shared his vision for Bigg Small Cafe + Bar as an evolution of the brand’s legacy, Narayan Poojari, Founder of Shiv Sagar Foods & Resorts Pvt. Ltd, said, “Bigg Small Cafe + Bar is a place where generations can come together, where the young and the old can feel at home while discovering something fresh.” 

"We’ve created Bigg Small Cafe + Bar as a place where people can gather to enjoy not just great food, but an experience. We’re proud of the menu, which offers a fusion of global and local flavours, making sure every palate is satisfied,” explained Ankita Poojari, Director of Shiv Sagar Foods & Resorts Pvt Ltd.

Highlighting about the balance between tradition and innovation, Nikita Poojari, Director of Shiv Sagar Foods & Resorts Pvt Ltd said, "At Bigg Small Cafe + Bar, we wanted to give people a space that feels like home but with a lively twist. Our menu is a reflection of that—combining comforting flavours with new, exciting dishes that we can’t wait to share with our community."

The menu will also include best-selling dishes from Mahesh Lunch Home, which is run by the same founding team in three locations and combines tradition and contemporary as an homage to its origins.

Spice Grill Flame (SGF), India's leading 100% vegetarian dining brand, proudly celebrates a significant turning point in its nationwide expansion with the grand opening of its first site in Jaipur.

Since its founding in 2012 by visionary entrepreneur Kewal Ahuja, SGF has grown from a modest two-restaurant operation to over 100 locations around India, winning over patrons with its innovative soy-based chaaps, tandoori appetizers and North Indian flavors.

“We are thrilled to bring SGF to Jaipur, a city known for its rich culinary heritage. This is a proud step in our journey to make vegetarian dining exciting and accessible to more communities across India. Jaipur's vibrant food culture aligns perfectly with SGF’s mission to deliver quality, flavor, and nutrition in every bite,” commented Kewal Ashwani Ahuja, Founder & CEO of SGF India.

With the launch of its Jaipur outlet, SGF continues its ambitious expansion plan, aiming to reach 200 locations by 2025. The brand has consistently set a high benchmark in vegetarian dining, serving over 1 lakh meals monthly across its outlets.

The much-anticipated debut of KOKO, the renowned luxury Asian restaurant from Pebble Street Hospitality, as Hyderabad's first independent premium Asian eating destination has finally arrived. With its unique fusion of refinement and contemporary charm, KOKO, this has its roots in Mumbai’s renowned culinary scene and is renowned for its inventive Cantonese and Japanese cuisine, promises to redefine the city’s culinary scene with its superb cuisine and iconic design.

Traditional Asian grandeur and sleek, contemporary elements are balanced in KOKO's interior design and carefully selected materials. The entrance's striking red archway welcomes guests and serves as a strong visual cue for the opulence inside. The room features marble floors and lacquered wood accents, which are contrasted with brass fixtures and luxurious velvet furnishings.

The 10,000 square foot area is modeled after the grandeur of Chinese imperial architecture and style. One of the most notable features is the Red Tunnel, a curved hallway with gentle red LED lights that is meant to evoke mystery and suspense. Sarah Sham, an award-winning architect and interior designer from Essajees Atelier, created the room.

Commenting on the same, Ryan and Keenan Tham, Founders of Pebble Street Hospitality, said, “KOKO means grand, and the brand was conceived as a celebration of luxury and grandeur in the Asian dining scene. We set out to create a space that feels larger than life—a destination where every detail invites guests to revel in a sense of exclusivity and sophistication. Every element, from the craftsmanship of the cuisine to the detail in the design, speaks to our commitment to offering an elevated, immersive experience for our guests.”

The latest chapter in Chef Kunal Kapur's Pincode epic saga, which has taken place in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai, the busy streets of Delhi, and now the breathtaking skylines of Abu Dhabi, will take place at The Galleria Mall on Al Maryah Island. Kapur will serve his passionate interpretation of India's undiscovered flavors, created for the city's cosmopolitan pulse.

A gorgeous veil installation greets you as soon as you enter Pincode. The design, a masterwork by IDAG's Chetana Vij and Vikram Sharma, skillfully combines modern international inspirations with traditional Indian craftsmanship. India's rich legacy is reflected in the vivid color scheme of saffron, indigo, ruby, and emerald, while muted hues foster a chic yet inviting ambiance.  

By reworking traditional recipes, emphasizing ingredient-forward dishes, and reconstructing classic fare in new, inventive avatars that appeal to all senses, Chef Kunal is pushing the boundaries with this most recent endeavor. 

Chef Kunal Kapur, a global Culinary icon and the founder of Pincode, excitedly stated, "I’m absolutely thrilled to be expanding the Pincode family to the stunning city of Abu Dhabi. The energy and diversity of this city are infectious, and I can’t wait to share our passion for Indian cuisine with the people here."

The first launch of Malt Plant Phase II at John Distilleries in Goa marks a major expansion of operations for the company, which produces Paul John Single Malt Whisky. This significant growth opens a new chapter in the company's international journey and is a significant turning point in India's craft distilling history.

The Goa facility's production capacity will be tripled from 1.3 million to 3 million liters per year as a result of the development, satisfying the rising demand for Paul John's premium whiskies across the globe.

With an investment of INR 500 crores, this development has increased the distillery's production and storage capacities. The Honorable Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, graced the inauguration and joined us in commemorating this historic event.

“The expansion of our distillery in Goa is more than just a milestone in increasing the capacity of production but is a forward-thinking investment in the future of global whisky. With the commission of Malt Plant Phase II, we hope to set the stage for long term growth and meet the rising global demand for our single malts,” said Paul P John, Chairman, John Distilleries.

 

Fabbrica is now thrilled to open its newest flagship location on Park Street at Kolkata which is ready to provide a fine dining experience. Fabbrica Originale has been a mainstay of real Italian dining since its founding in 2017, skillfully fusing traditional Neapolitan roots with a contemporary twist.

Fabbrica, which started out as a little pizzeria and has since expanded into a beloved dining destination with two well-known locations on Allenby Road and City Centre, was founded by three friends who have a strong love for Italian food.

The business has undergone a substantial transformation with Fabbrica Originale on Park Street, which combines modern sophistication with classic style. With 94 seats and 3000 square feet, the new location offers a sophisticated setting that blends traditional European design features with contemporary aesthetics.

More than just a restaurant, Fabbrica Originale promises to be an immersive experience that skillfully combines innovation and tradition. The superb cuisine and well-designed setting provide a gastronomic experience that captures the essence of Italian culture.

First Coffee, an Indian specialty coffee brand that is perfect for on-the-go, announced today that BEENEXT lead a $1.2 million seed fundraising round for the company. Other prominent investors included Ashish Gupta (Helion Venture Partners), AngelList India, Dr. Ritesh Malik (Founder, Innov8), Sahil Malik (Founder, Da Milano), Chandini Purnesh (Owner, Harley Coffee Estate), Aman Bahel (Apex Group), Nakul Dev Chawla (Art Mumbai), Aman Arora (Co-Founder, Board - Keventers), and Dr. Shriram Nene participated in the round as well.

First Coffee wants to increase the number of its stores in strategic locations throughout New Delhi, the National Capital Region, and Tier 1 cities in North India. First Coffee's primary concentration will be on small format QSR locations in busy locations including shopping centers, corporate parks, main streets, and metro districts.

By the second quarter of the following fiscal year, the company plans to open 35 locations nationwide. The money raised will also go toward expanding marketing initiatives and recruiting new staff.

“First Coffee is uniquely placed where they are not just selling a product but rather a coffee experience, blending tech, sustainability and coffee. Under the abled leadership of Sohrab and Shiv, industry veterans in the space of quick service restaurants, the brand is creating a new standard in India's specialty coffee market,” commented Anirudh Garg, Partner at BEENEXT, on First Coffee and its offerings. 

Sohrab Sitaram, Co-founder of First Coffee and CEO of Keventers said, “My background in the Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) has taught me the importance of efficiency without compromising on quality. Our grab-and-go model, combined with a focus on sustainability and tech-driven customer engagement, is enabling us to carve a strong niche. Our current four stores have seen 25% month-on-month growth,” who added that each outlet serves around 100 cups of specialty coffee every day, showcasing consistent customer loyalty and engagement.

Punjabi by Nature, a leading Indian restaurant chain with a 26-year legacy, is set to expand its presence with the opening of 20 new outlets over the next five years. The brand, known for its North Indian cuisine, will open one outlet every quarter, along with a similar number of food courts and cloud kitchens. This strategic move aims to blend the brand’s traditional heritage with modern dining experiences, reflecting recent upgrades in its interiors, ambiance, and menu.

Currently operating seven outlets across Gurugram, Noida, Delhi, and Dehradun, as well as three cloud kitchens in Noida and Delhi, Punjabi by Nature is preparing for a nationwide and international expansion. The brand anticipates a 25-30 percent annual revenue growth with the expansion, aiming to surpass the Rs 250 crore mark by 2029.

In addition to driving revenue, the expansion will generate significant employment opportunities within the hospitality sector. "We are thrilled to expand Punjabi by Nature, bringing our legacy and modernized dining experience to more cities," said Krishan Girdhar, Chairman of Punjabi by Nature. "With the opening of 20 new outlets, we aim to not only meet the growing demand but also provide employment opportunities, particularly for chefs and staff who share our passion for North Indian cuisine."

Manoj Rai, CEO at Punjabi by Nature, added, "We’re excited to offer a fresh, modern take on our classic cuisine and molecular cocktails across all locations. Our target is to create over 750 new jobs in the next five years."

As part of its expansion, Punjabi by Nature plans to strengthen its operational capabilities with additional cloud kitchens to meet the rising demand for delivery services. This growth strategy aligns with the brand's vision of maintaining its leadership in the North Indian cuisine segment while contributing to the hospitality sector's development in India.

Gola Sizzlers, a renowned haven for sizzler enthusiasts and global cuisines, announces an ambitious growth effort aimed at enhancing its culinary footprint throughout India and beyond.

Having previously expanded into Delhi-NCR and other states, including Maharashtra, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh (MP), Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh (UP), and Haryana, Gola Sizzlers wants to establish stronger ties in its existing markets while exploring new ones.

With 24 locations currently in high-traffic areas such as Khan Market, Connaught Place (CP), Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj, and DLF Avenue Saket, Gola Sizzlers is well-positioned to continue its commitment to providing top-notch dining experiences across the country with the opening of a new location at Elante Mall in Chandigarh.

The expansion plan is based on a thorough market identification process and a well-crafted roadmap. Numerous variables, such as the post-COVID socioeconomic boom, better supply chain efficiencies, and a developing market environment, are driving this important expansion.

In the future, Gola Sizzlers plans to launch fresh culinary creations that combine regional Indian flavors with global inspiration and elements of health consciousness. This strategy not only accounts for changing consumer tastes but also upholds the brand's leadership in the sizzler dining market. Redefining the sizzler eating experience and growing its influence both nationally and worldwide, Gola Sizzlers is positioned to do so with an uncompromising dedication to quality, creativity, and customer happiness.

Manik Kapoor, Director of Gola Sizzlers said, "Through this expansion, we envision Gola Sizzlers not only growing its footprint but also solidifying its impact on the culinary landscape. Our goal is to enrich our brand's future by bringing our unique blend of tradition and innovation to more discerning palates worldwide."

 "We are excited about the prospects that lie ahead as we embark on this journey of growth,” said Rajat Kapoor, Director of Gola Sizzlers who said that commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction will continue to drive our expansion efforts.

Say Fontina, the European all-day cafe known for its luxurious ambiance and culinary excellence, has announced plans to open 10 new outlets across the region by 2027. This expansion is projected to increase the company’s revenue by 50 percent, reaching Rs 50 crore by the end of 2027.

The expansion is expected to positively impact the hospitality and retail sectors in India by creating over 200 jobs and boosting local economies. Say Fontina’s commitment to culinary excellence and superior customer experience aims to set a new standard in the industry, promoting healthy competition and driving overall growth and improvement.

Say Fontina is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and desserts like Tiramisu, all prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Chef Ashish Bhasin’s expertise is evident in every dish, from traditional classics to innovative creations, all made in-house daily. This dedication to quality has cultivated a loyal customer base, making Say Fontina a preferred destination for a distinctive dining experience.

"We are excited to take our culinary expertise and passion to new heights and share it with a broader audience," said Chef Ashish Bhasin. "Our goal is to create a warm and inviting space for communities to come together and enjoy unforgettable meals."

Say Fontina’s strategic growth plans highlight its dedication to enhancing the dining landscape and reinforcing its position as a leader in the hospitality industry.

Lucky Chan, the beloved destination for Dim Sum and Sushi in Bangalore, has opened its third outlet, situated in the heart of the bustling Forum South Bangalore mall. 

This expansion marks a significant milestone for the brand, solidifying its commitment to bringing its unique blend of comfort food and vibrant ambiance to a wider audience.

Since its inception, Lucky Chan has established itself as a one-of-a-kind dining destination. Pioneering the introduction of India's first Sushi Belt, the brand has consistently raised the bar for innovative Asian cuisine, while also offering an extensive menu that caters to diverse palates, featuring a delightful array of non-vegetarian, vegetarian, and vegan options. 

Stepping into the new Lucky Chan is akin to stepping into a vibrant dreamscape. Designed by Neha Sapre of Studio Taan, the space embodies fun and casual vibes, bursting with vibrant energy, a perfect balance between liveliness and sophistication, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your culinary journey. Featuring neon accents reminiscent of downtown Tokyo, the ambience evokes a sense of excitement, while layered colors, patterns, and textures like brick on edge, terrazzo, birch ply, and rough granite create a visually dynamic environment. Oversized custom light fixtures, paired with delicate globes, add drama, while the abundance of natural light offers an alfresco feel. Adding depth to the ambiance, iridescent film enhances the visual appeal. 

With a vision to establish 10 outlets across Bangalore by the end of the financial year, the brand aims to sprinkle its magic in every corner of the city. 

Lucky Chan, a brand under AA Hospitality, led by Amit Ahuja is a leading force in Bangalore's F&B industry. With a dedication to creating distinctive and user-friendly spaces, AA Hospitality has brought to life successful restaurant brands like MISU, Lucky Chan, Brassa, and Prequel.

Ramee Group is gearing up to introduce numerous food and beverage establishments and hotels in various Indian cities by year-end.

This expansion will encompass key locations like Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai, and Indore."

Ramee Group commands an expansive network of more than 40 cutting-edge hotels and upscale serviced apartments.

The company has experienced remarkable growth this year and is poised to unveil 16 fresh food and beverage outlets and hotels by year-end.

Among these, Pune will welcome two, Bangalore four, Indore three, and Mumbai six.

“As we embark on this new phase of expansion, we are driven by our commitment to create exceptional experiences and extend our legacy in the hospitality industry. The future is brimming with opportunities, and Ramee Group is set to illuminate new destinations with our unique blend of service and excellence,” stated Managing Director, Mr. Rajit Shetty.

The Ministry of Tourism has reported a remarkable 259.4% growth in Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in February 2023 compared to February 2022, with 240,896 arrivals noted in the latter.

Looking ahead to 2028, the global tourist influx is expected to surge to 30.5 billion, with anticipated revenues exceeding US$ 59 billion. Given this, Ramee Group envisions establishing a branded hotel presence in every Indian state.

“Ramee Group's expansion plan will create significant employment opportunities, contribute to local economies, and elevate India's profile as a global destination for luxury hospitality and entertainment. Through innovative concepts, impeccable service, and a commitment to excellence, Ramee Group is set to leave an indelible mark on India's hospitality landscape.” said, Mr Saurabh Gahoi, VP India, Ramee Group.

According to a CBRE report, the total investment in the tourism sector during the post-COVID-19 period (2020-2023) surpasses USD 400 million, and there are plans for investments exceeding USD 2,300 million.

The Tourism Policy sets an ambitious target of achieving USD 400 billion in foreign exchange earnings from tourism by 2047, a significant leap from the projected USD 30 billion for 2023.

As Indian hospitality continues to exhibit steady growth, Ramee Group takes pride in its contribution and role in the nation's progress.

Punjab Grill has recently launched three additional restaurants in different locations.

One of them is situated at Worldmark 65 in Gurgaon, while the other two are located in Advant and Gaur City in Noida

Punjab Grill's new outlets have a distinct and modern appearance that combines the elements of sophistication and elegance.

Executive Chef Sareen Madhiyan has curated the menu at Punjab Grill.

“Our aim is not only to serve authentic North Indian dishes but also to introduce food lovers to some of the undiscovered gems of the cuisine” said, Mr Rohit Aggarwal, Director of Lite Bite Foods

The restaurant offers a diverse selection of dishes, including a variety of kulchas, tempting kebabs, and an extensive range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Popular dishes such as Murgh Makhani, Tandoori Chicken, Dal Punjab Grill, and Salmon Tikka. Restaurant offers a wide range of options from appetizers to main courses, side dishes, and desserts like Kesariya Phirni and Gulab Jamun.

Armaan Aggarwal, the Brand Manager of Punjab Grill, expressed his delight about the five upcoming restaurant openings within the next six months.

He also shared that the restaurant aims to open over 100 outlets by the end of the financial year 2027-28, with the goal of becoming the top North Indian F&B brand with the widest presence.

Casual dining chain The Barbeque Company is gearing up for an explosive expansion.

With the success of its recent launch in Zirakpur, the company is all set to open two more outlets in Gurgaon this month, and plans to open a total of 10 new outlets in India this year.

“Our commitment to serving the best barbeque cuisine and Buffet coupled with exceptional dining experiences, has led to a high demand from customers across India. With our explosive expansion plans, we aim to make our brand accessible to more customers, and offer the ultimate barbeque experience,” shared Director of The Barbeque Company Shashank Misra.

The Barbeque Company offers affordable, pocket-friendly, and lavish buffets along with grilling and fine dining experiences.

In addition to domestic expansion, The Barbeque Company is also in talks to expand internationally, with plans to target Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

“We have big plans for the next 5 years, and we are committed to investing not less than 100 crore to support our expansion plans. While we are focusing on the north and northeast regions of India this year, we will soon be planning a major expansion in the south with a bang,” added Misra.

Wat-a-Burger is looking at launching 40 outlets by end of the current fiscal to increase its footprint across India.

As a part of its FY21-22 plan, the burger chain aims to accelerate its expansion in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Most of the new outlets will be targeted for Bihar, Telangana, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

Farman Beig, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Wat-a-Burger, said, “The pandemic has hit the restaurant industry. Amidst this the states that had the maximum number of restaurants and cafes also saw most of them shutting down, Karnataka and Maharashtra being two of them. Hence, post-pandemic we see a huge scope in these states.”

Currently, Wat-a-Burger has 60 outlets across 16 cities and 9 states in the country. It has a presence in all the major locations including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad, Vadodara, Surat, Panchkula, Guwahati, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Gorakhpur, Faridabad, Ahmedabad, Ranchi, and Jhansi.

Wat-a-Burger targets to create new entrepreneurs in tier 2 and tier 3 cities through the franchisee model.

Cross Border Kitchens (CBK), a multi-brand, multi-kitchen, multi-format internet-driven F&B company, is planning to have a multi-city presence. It projected to be present in 7 major cities in India with different formats.

The brand expects to have 570 live PoS and plan to deploy CAPEX of Rs 18 crore. It hopes to create 2000 to 2500 employment opportunities. 

Launched in early 2019, CBK is 3 kitchens strong in Delhi-NCR and operates 6 incredible food delivery brands across multiple cuisines.

CBK’s Offerings

CBK is committed to providing consistent high-quality food across multiple cuisine types, at every possible price point, and via every possible format. The team is guided by achieving excellence in all large and small processes that go into achieving the core objective.

Operational excellence, marketing expertise, and technology backbone support, each of these key processes helping the company bring to market 7 operational brands (with an additional 4 launching in the next 30 days) in 4 different cuisine type at a wide range of price points.

CBK’s brands are deeply integrated with all the aggregators including Zomato and Swiggy and provide customers with a wide variety of choices across price & cuisine spectrums.

Currently, CBK service in anywhere between 10-12 thousand orders every month and is on the path to register Rs 4 crore in revenue by end of the financial year with 3 live kitchens operational in Delhi NCR.  

Recent Fundraise

Cross Border Kitchens has raised an angel round led by Shreedhar Gupta. Shreedhar has invested in CBK in his personal capacity and also joins in as a board member.     

Shreedhar Gupta comes with over 20 years of experience in setting up, running and expanding various businesses in the start-up and automotive sector.

Ishita Yashvi, Mayank Singh, Ahsan Qureshi and Mohit Mehta, Co-Founders, Cross Border Kitchens, said, “We are an Inventive Culinary Community that utilizes technology, culinary art, marketing, and operational excellence to deliver a memorable gourmet experience. Shreedhar comes with a string of successful investments in start-ups. His business acumen will help us scale at an accelerated rate and in achieving our mission to deliver a wholesome food experience at every doorstep at the click of a button.”  

Shreedhar Gupta added, “I am very excited to be part of a team with such energy, excitement, and integrity. I play very safely with my investments and I’m confident that investing in CBK is one of the safest yet best investments I’ve made so far. Not only am I positive of multifold returns but also grateful that this investment in CBK will help me get involved with good food, something I’m very passionate about.”

Cookie brand Sweetish House Mafia has secured Rs 12 crore in its pre-Series A funding round from investor Adar Poonawalla, Chief Executive Officer at vaccine manufacturer Serum Institute of India. The funding round has been facilitated by an investment banking firm under Ashika Group, Ashika Capital Limited.

Founded by Neha Sethi and Aakash Sethi in April 2013, the company currently has 12 stores in Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.

Sweetish House Mafia’s bestsellers include its signature Nutella Sea Salt, Double Chocolate Chip, and classic Chocolate Chip cookies.

Mihir Mehta, Senior Vice President, Ashika Capital Limited, said, “Sweetish House Mafia has the status of an iconic neighborhood brand that has immense growth potential, and investment from Adar comes as a great validation.” 

Future Plans

The fresh capital will be used by the company to strengthen its reach in the cities they are present in. It will further be utilized to foray into new cities, including Delhi, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Chennai, in India by the end of 2020.

The Mumbai-based company also aims to expand the current product line. It is planning to deploy newer business verticals, including planning to unveil its e-commerce platform soon.

Apart from retailing its mouth-watering cookies via foodtech aggregators like Swiggy and Zomato, Sweetish House Mafia further eyes to unveil more stores.

Aakash Sethi, Founding Partner of Sweetish House Mafia, said, “With the help of the funds raised, we want to further our brand outreach via new experiential stores in more than seven cities across India, including Delhi, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Chennai.”

“We will continue to deepen our reach in existing cities where we have a strong presence and also increase our product range and categories across these geographies. We will deploy some funds to strategically build our team, as we plan to launch our own e-commerce platform shortly,” he added.

Flower Burger, an Italian vegan burger chain, is planning to launch 45 outlets across UK. The brand has signed a master franchise agreement that will see the new sites unveil in key cities across the UK within the next decade.

Founded in 2015, Flower Burger presently has sites across Italy, France, and the Netherlands.

Flower Burger is targeted at both vegans and omnivores. It provides a range of burgers, on buns dyed with food-based colorings like a turmeric yellow bun and cherry-dyed red option.

As per the brand, “In October 2015, Flower Burger was born in Milan as the first gourmet vegan burger restaurant in Italy, a new destination for burger lovers, vegans and simply those who cannot resist the trends and want to try new flavors. A year after its opening, Flower Burger doubled in Milan, and expanded to Rome, Monza, and Turin.”

“The bread is homemade, just like our sauces and patties. From pink cherry-based bread through an iconic black bun, to the turmeric-based yellow one. The restaurant has colorful and kaleidoscopic colored walls of Yellow Submarine, mixed with natural wood furnishings and enameled iron,” it added.

As part of its pan-India expansion, Dineout is venturing into several tier-2 cities in the country. Dining out and restaurant technology solutions platform is also strengthening its international presence.

The company is catering to four million diners a month through 40,000 restaurants in 20 cities.

Dineout operates in overseas markets like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates and Kenya. It is live in these countries with B2B software with plans to launch B2C software soon.

The firm is foraying into strategic partnerships in global markets with local partners.

Ankit Mehrotra, CEO & Co-Founder, Dineout, said, “We have emerged today as the largest F&B tech support system in India. Through the B2B channel, we are processing about six million diners a month. And overall, we are seating about 10 million diners every month and this number is set to grow. We are not only catering to consumers, but also large corporates across banking, financial institutions, consulting, and other verticals.”

Offerings by Dineout

Dineout raised $50 million so far. It offers B2B and B2C services that include Dineout Pay, Gourmet Passport, Torqus POS and InResto.

The Noida-based food-tech company provides solutions to 10,000 restaurant partners through its software as a service (SaaS) platform, providing 10 software modules such as customer relationship management, billing, supply chain and feedback management.

Through its B2C vertical, Dineout last year catered to 40 million diners resulting in cumulative savings of $200 million to them.

“We have partnered with OYO and are working with aggregators such as MakeMyTrip and Goibibo. We have made acquisitions in the B2B space and are building in-depth consumer profiles on our platform. We are working with restaurants using millions of data points to help them create menus intelligently with the help of machine learning, and recommend consumers with interesting combos with the help of artificial intelligence,” Mehrotra added.

Chaayos is aiming at expanding its presence to 300 stores from 80 currently over the next three years. The tea cafe chain further targets to have 100 stores by the end of the current fiscal year.

The brand is looking to go deeper into Delhi-NCR, Mumbai and Bengaluru, where it is present now, rather than spreading itself thin by entering new markets.

At present, Chaayos has 8 stores in Bengaluru, and 72 in Delhi and Mumbai combined.

Nitin Saluja, Founder of Chaayos, said, “Every store we open becomes profitable in 3-5 months, with no store taking more than 6 months to become profitable. The focus on stores making money is linked to Chaayos becoming profitable by the time it hits the 300-store mark.”

In the current financial year, the New Delhi-based company aims to grow revenue by 60%, without disclosing the revenue number.

“The company has been able to boost its bottom line by 5% due to use of technology, which has helped reduce wastage, improve consistency and improve stock keeping,” Saluja added.

The company has served more than 1.7 million customers, with the average repeat rate of ordering tea standing at 3.5 times a month.

Chaayos Recent Fundraise

Chaayos has recently secured $21.5 million in a mix of equity and debt funding led by Silicon Valley-based Think Investments. The round has also seen participation from existing investors SAIF Partners, Tiger Global and others. It further includes a $3 million debt investment from Innoven Capital.

Prior to its latest funding round, the company had raised $20 million.

Saluja stated, “We will use the capital to do three things, open new stores, building technology and hiring. We’ve also picked up some debt, as a business like ours where stores make a profit, servicing debt makes sense.”

Indian tea café market

Chai is more than just a cup of tea to start the day in India. It is a drink that Indians can’t live without. Indians have been obsessed with tea for almost forever. The obsession can be seen by the fact that Indians drink around 30 cups of tea for every cup of coffee. The country consumes 837,000 tonnes of Tea every year. With such high consumption of the drink, Chai QSR franchises are emerging as a huge business opportunity.

Tea Franchise: A lucrative business model

A tea franchise is a lucrative business model because of the fewer requirements it needs to start it as a business. For instance, a tea stall requires tea leaves, water, sugar, and other kitchen equipment as their basic requirement. And, in a franchise model, you just have to add up the costs of decor, seating inventory, and employees’ salaries, which also do not require much of an investment.

As per sources, a small tea franchise can be started in an average investment of Rs 9-15 lakhs (investment amount increases with the size of the outlet) for the area of about 100-500 sq ft. All of this together makes tea franchise everyone's cup of tea. 

Indian snacking startup Samosa Singh is aiming to expand in 100-plus cloud kitchens by end of 2020. Currently, it operates in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, with plans to establish and consolidate its presence in South India.

Since its founding, Samosa Singh has partnered with leading national brands such as INOX, PVR Cinemas, and Café Coffee Day, among others. In 2019, the startup entered into strategic partnerships with multinational retailers for the launch of its ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook samosa ranges. Recently, it opened the flagship outlet at Bangalore International Airport. 

The brand has recently raised a total of $2.7 million in a Series A funding round led by SHE Capital, along with continued participation from follow-on investors Fireside Ventures. The funding round also saw participation from early-stage fund Equanimity Investments, Japan-based AET Fund, and the AL Trust.

This amount will enable the Bengaluru-based brand to scale up its operations, increase its production capabilities, and expand in multi-cities, while also allowing it to enter the households through their quick delivery via the cloud kitchen model. Samosa Singh was founded in 2016, with the objective of reinventing the king of Indian snacks, the samosa, and presenting it to customers in new and exciting ways. By elevating the familiar joyful experience, Samosa Singh has helped the preferred local snack come a long way from its humble street food origins.

Targeting India’s massive food market, estimated to cross $540 billion by 2020, the brand has emerged as a leading player in the ‘indulgent snacks’ category. Over 100,000 man-hours of R&D have resulted in samosas that are 56 percent lower in fat than their traditional counterparts. Among the brand’s unique offerings are the kadai paneer samosa, the achaari murg samosa, and their trademark chocolate samosa, the Chocossa.

Shikhar Veer Singh, Co-Founder & CEO, Samosa Singh, said, “Passion for our product drives everything we do, and we’re thrilled to have found a set of partners whose ideals align with ours. Their backing and experience will allow us to expand our presence pan-India and increase our production capacity manifold, enabling samosa lovers across the country to experience the change.”

Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder & COO, Samosa Singh, stated, “Samosa Singh was born from a simple realisation in India, leisure time and snack foods are both inextricably linked to the country’s cultural fabric. And what food better exemplifies our country than the versatile samosa. Through Samosa Singh we’ve found a way to strengthen this bond, and by positioning ourselves as leaders in the underpenetrated and fragmented gourmet snack market are poised for immense growth.”

Anisha Singh, Founding Partner of She capital, added, “She Capital was created with a vision to empower & enable high-growth women-led businesses in the country. As our first investment, Samosa Singh led by Nidhi is a great embodiment of this vision. What excited us about them is the unique insights & innovation that Nidhi & Shikhar bring to one of the most consumed snacks in the country. Building on technology, scientific research & key consumer insights without diluting the experience or quality for end-users is what makes this brand a great bet. We’re excited to partner with them as we make Samosa Singh a household name.”

Homefoodi, a Noida based e-commerce start-up known to provide authentic home-made food made by home chefs to their customers, is currently having a successful run. With a significant increase in the number of Home chefs associated with Homefoodi, it has now touched the 150 mark.

Homefoodi is a mobile app for authentic home-made food made by Home-Chefs in their homes. Now associated with over 150 Home Chefs in Noida, the Mobile App offers access to the widest range of Home Food and Bakery products prepared by home chefs.

Narendra Singh Dahiya, Founder and Director, Homefoodi, said, “It gives us immense pride and joy to be associated with over 150 Home-chefs. Homefoodi is an initiative to empower every Home Maker to contribute towards Nation Building. We are thrilled that these Home Chefs can now create their own unique identity and reach out to countless customers at the comfort of their Homes.”

Inception of Homefoodi

During the inception of Homefoodi, the company initiated a research across the Metro cities and met up with over 2000 respondents (Homemakers & Consumers), which indicated that over 10% of the Homemakers would be keen to start up a Home Kitchen if they had a platform that could address their challenges and help them do business in a professional way.

The consumer research further established the love for Home food with over 90% of the respondents preferring Home food over outside eating. As per the research, 97% of consumers rightly Trust Home food to be Healthy & Hygienic. Homefoodi thus joined the two insights to create a two-fold Mission of “Ghar-Ghar Start-Up” & “Healthy Nation”.

 Homefoodi is a venture started by Narendra Dahiya and Dr. Mona Dahiya with a vision to help “Ghar Ki Lakshmi” to transform into “Bharat Ki Lakshmi”, thus empowering women by giving them a platform to work and earn from home. 

“We are humbled with the encouraging response from consumers and we will end our 1st Year of Operations with over 1 Lakh Consumers. We currently have over 150 Home Chefs in Noida with us and have already received over 500 New Registrations from Home Chefs in Noida alone. Every Day we are getting over 20 new submissions,” Dahiya further added.

Future Plans

Having a concrete expansion plan, Homefoodi plans to be present across the top 10 cities of India with over 1 lakh Home Chefs on their platform within the next 2 years.

Starting from the grass-root level, Homefoodi is climbing up its own way to triumph aiming to create India’s biggest self-employment chain by creating a Culture of Home Chefs through a mobile platform to earn from home being a Home Chef.

With a vision to unite the world through localized home food, Homefoodi plans to be present in 5 key Global Markets in the next 5 years.

Seattle-based Starbucks is boosting its program that tries to help low-income communities by launching coffee shops and hiring local workers. The coffee chain is planning to launch or remodel 85 stores by 2025 in rural and urban communities across the US.

Each of these stores will be hiring local staff, including construction crews and artists, and will have dedicated community event spaces. This expansion will bring to 100 the total number of community stores Starbucks has introduced since it announced the program in 2015.

The company will also collaborate with local United Way chapters to create programming for each store like youth job training classes or mentorship groups.

Starbucks’ Community Store

The brand unveiled its first community store in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2016. Starbucks has launched 13 other locations since then, which include stores in Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, New Orleans and Jonesboro, Georgia.

The company has estimated that the stores have created over 300 jobs. All of the community stores are in the US, although Starbucks says some franchisees in other countries, such as Thailand and China, have also launched community stores.

Starbucks will introduce another store this spring in Prince George's County, Maryland.

John Kelly, Executive Vice President of public affairs and social impact, Starbucks, said, “The stores reflect Starbucks' core belief in responsible capitalism. The stores are profitable and have the same menu and prices as regular Starbucks stores.”

“This is not charity. These are successful stores. We're defying a lot of the stereotypes and we're proud to do so,” Kelly stated.

Future Plans

Most of the new Starbucks corporate stores will be new, but some will be remodeled of existing stores. In order to decide where to build them, the company will be considering various factors, including youth unemployment rates and low median household income.

Kelly added, “Starbucks wants its new stores to be more connected to their communities. All of these programs are with the intent of being purposeful and profitable. It does not do a community any good to close a store.”

The coffee chain learned that it has to tie up with local leaders and groups such as United Way so it can understand what each community needs. It further recognizes that there will be skeptics when its brand comes to town, so it tries to reach out and show them what a store can do for the local economy.

“We love that conversation because it makes us a better company and it makes the programming we do more successful,” he further stated.

SquareMeal Foods, the parent company of two of Mumbai’s popular restaurants Mirchi and Mime, Madeira and Mime, further strengthens its top brass by appointing Nilesh Limaye to the Board of Directors.

To support the brand’s expansion plans, Limaye will bring in his expertise and enriching experience in the F&B space.

Shishir Gorle and Raja Sekhar Reddy, Founders of SquareMeal Foods, said, “We warmly welcome Nilesh to the SquareMeal Foods family. We believe that he would bring his own distinct flavour and rich experience in the F&B space. We are confident that he will bring fresh ideas and concepts to the table thus contributing massively and strategically to the growth of the business. Under his guidance, the team will definitely benefit and get further opportunities to learn and explore newer concepts and ideas.”

Nilesh comes with a diverse experience of 25 years and has been associated with many brands like Taj Hotels, Hawar Resorts (Bahrain & Qatar), Intercontinental, Gordan House Suites, Rodas, The Orchid, Taj SATS, Hiranandani Hospital & Meluha, among others.

With a truly diverse skill set in the F&B business space ranging from setting up commercial kitchens to designing signature menus to hosting television shows, Limaye has been a force to reckon with in the F&B sector. He has been a host for over 1000-episode TV shows on Colors & Zee besides having judged cooking contests and successfully running his own entrepreneurial venture “All ‘Bout Cooking”.

Nilesh Limaye stated, “SquareMeal Foods is a dynamic brand which not only believes in creating employment opportunities for the SHI community but also adheres to bringing the best quality food to the table. I feel extremely privileged to be associated with such an ever-evolving brand and hope to contribute my best to the journey of the brand.”

Nukkadwala, a prominent street food cafe chain from NCR, has entered into an exclusive tie-up with Swiggy's brand factory for two new brands offering a luscious range of Biryani and Burgers from its multiple outlets in Gurgaon, bridging big vacuum and demand in this substantial corporate city with great taste, quality and affordability.

The Biryani brand "Dum-Nukk Biryani," which represents exquisite dum biryani from Nukkads of Hyderabad, has already been launched at 2 of its outlets in stealth mode. The addition of these two new brands will help treble the delivery sales of all its outlets.

Rajat Shail Kumar, Board Member & Serial Entrepreneur, Nukkadwala, said, “With the advent of new technologies like online delivery platforms and changing consumer habits with a large millennial population, a structural shift has happened in the way food and beverages are ordered and consumed now. For Nukkadwala, it has become extremely important to expand its dine-in outlets in the key market/ corporate locations while complementing it with delivery-only kitchens to capture the full potential of the surrounding market in and around 5-7 km of the outlet.”

“These initiatives help in bringing balanced fixed capital investment with asset-light expansion through delivery-only kitchens. The key to success is to offer multiple brands for delivery under one outlet, thereby gaining volume, profitability, and high ROI,” he further added.

Nukkadwala represents India's newest chain of smart and stylish food-oriented cafes for the value-conscious. It derives from more than five million street vendors across India who peddle tasty morsels every day to ensure that Indians eat their way through the streets of the country, currently serving more than 4,00,000 customers every year.

Growth Plans

Currently serving with seven outlets in Gurgaon, Nukkadwala plans to expand with a larger focus on asset-light expansion. The first leg of expansion involves strengthening the group's presence in its home turf of Gurgaon by adding four more dark kitchens in the region to ensure full serviceability across all nooks and corners of Gurgaon.

In addition, Nukkadwala plans to enter Delhi by opening six new outlets in Delhi's prime locations with 3-4 dark kitchens supporting each outlet. First of its Delhi outlets have been signed up to be opened at a prominent high street retail market of South Delhi, serving its three brands of Indian Street Food, Biryani, and Burgers under this umbrella. 

Ravi Gupta, CEO of Nukkadwala, stated, “With this plan, Nukkadwala is well placed to grow 5x in the next 18-24 months with 35-40 numbers of outlets including delivery only dark kitchens. Currently serving around 2,40,000 orders annually, with our current capacity of base kitchen and the expansion plan in NCR, we plan to reach around 12,00,000 annual orders in the next 18-24 months with an estimated annual turnover of Rs. 36-40 cr. The next step for expansion will trigger where Nukkadwala will go pan India and to NRI dominant international markets, making it a true Indian multinational Cafe chain.”

Tea chain Chai Kings has secured $1 million in pre-Series A bridge round from an angel investment group, The Chennai Angels (TCA). Hyderabad Angels and TiE India Angels have also participated in this round.

The Chennai-based company offers tea in various flavors. 

Piyush Bhandari, who led the investment from TCA, said, “We are very excited to partner with Chai Kings in the bridge round. We believe the company has a strong leadership team with immense potential to grow and expand across India. The new investment reiterates our commitment towards building a sustainable and scalable Indian QSR.”

Chai Kings delivers tea at customers’ doorstep anywhere in Chennai. The brand uses food-grade, use-and-throw, heat-retaining flasks for safe consumption, ensuring the tea is piping hot for at least an hour.

Jahabar Sadique, CEO of Chai Kings, said, “We are happy with the success and progress of our brand in Chennai, and this funding round will help us expand into newer cities.”

Future Plans

Chai Kings is aiming to reach a 100-store mark in the next five years. The brand aims to be the favorite chai place across India.

Started in 2016, Chai Kings is currently operating 40 stores in the country.

“We hope to enter Coimbatore, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad in this year, and get closer to our target of 100 stores in five years. Apart from expansions, the bulk of this funding will be utilised to strengthen our operations and supply chain management,” Sadique added.

Indian tea café market

Chai is more than just a cup of tea to start the day in India. It is a drink that Indians can’t live without. Indians have been obsessed with tea for almost forever. The obsession can be seen by the fact that Indians drink around 30 cups of tea for every cup of coffee. The country consumes 837,000 tonnes of Tea every year. With such a high consumption of the drink, Chai QSR franchises are emerging as a huge business opportunity.

Tea Franchise: A lucrative business model

A tea franchise is a lucrative business model because of the fewer requirements it needs to start it as a business. For instance, a tea stall requires tea leaves, water, sugar and other kitchen equipment as their basic requirement. And, in a franchise model, you just have to add up the costs of decor, seating inventory, and employees’ salaries, which also do not require much of an investment.

As per sources, a small tea franchise can be started in an average investment of Rs 9-15 lakhs (investment amount increases with the size of the outlet) for the area of about 100-500 sq ft. All of this together makes tea franchise everyone's cup of tea. 

BrightStar, a franchise partner of the Californian-based burger chain Carl's Jr, is looking at tripling its footprint and seeking investment in India. With this expansion plan, the company is riding on the growth wave of the Indian food and beverage industry.

BrightStar has been granted exclusive Master Franchise rights of Carl's Jr in North India. The hospitality giant has been winning the Indian market with its customised consulting strategies which focus primarily on customer experience & product for matured and underpenetrated markets.

Presently, the brand is in expansion mode primarily in the Punjab-Chandigarh region, owing to its consumer demography and diverse range of products.

BrightStar is targeting to launch four more outlets by March 2020, with an aim to touch 20 store marks by the end of this year. The company’s present expansion strategy is aimed towards achieving higher ROI by utilization of economics of scale.

Presence of Carl's Jr

Currently, Carl's Jr India is operating four outlets at premium locations of Delhi-NCR with an estimated revenue of Rs 10.5 crore for the FY 2019-20 and with a positive EBITDA margins at the store level.

Beginning from a humble hot dog cart in 1941, Carl's Jr has become a global giant serving the best quality burgers across the world. The fast food chain has been a pioneer of the quick service restaurants (QSR) industry for the past 75 plus years.

With more than 3800 restaurants in 43 countries, Carl's Jr and sister brand Hardee's focus on fresh food made with only premium quality ingredients to offer big-juicy burgers, hand-scooped ice-cream milkshakes and hand-breaded chicken.

The burger chain features a superior dining experience, which includes innovative menu items made-to-order and served hot and fresh at your table, all in a modern, upscale and spacious environment, while also having options of take away, drive-thru and home delivery for its guests.

Carl's Jr India

Carl's Jr India is known for its high-quality products made from a variety of fresh and healthy ingredients. The burger chain offers great taste at a great value to its guests and leads the industry in class and innovation.

In India, Carl's Jr has invested more than $1.5 million for substantial consumer research, product development & tasting trials, which has helped it to create a full line of fresh and flavourful premium vegetarian & non-vegetarian options.

The brand provides guests a wide range of products designed to meet the Indian palate, in addition to several signatures Carl's Jr menu items available globally.

Gloria Jean’s Coffee, the coffee cafe brand, is making a comeback to India with 100 new stores in the next five years.

Jay Jay Capital & Investments is the new master franchise company for Gloria Jean’s Coffee in the country. It is planning to invest up to Rs 150 crore for the expansion.

Gloria Jean’s Coffee is looking at launching 40 outlets across metros and mini-metros in India in the next three years. The brand will be targeting Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi NCR and Hyderabad for expansion.

Earlier, the Australian coffee brand had forayed into a master franchise agreement with Citymax Hospitality of the Landmark Group but had to shut shop after seven years of operations and a bleeding balance sheet.

In 2014, the company had annual revenue of about Rs 15 crore in the country, after seven years of operations.

Founded by Gloria Jean Kvetko in 1979 in the US, Gloria Jean’s Coffee launched its first outlet in Sydney, Australia. The brand now has a presence in over 50 markets.

Plans for India

Gloria Jean’s Coffee will be working on a cold kitchen concept and prepare fresh food. Its cafes will be about 800-1,500 sq ft with a per-store investment of about Rs 1 crore. The brand expects the return on investment to begin within two-and-a-half years of a store first being set up.

The company’s first set of stores is slated to launch in Mumbai and Bengaluru by June 2020.

Gloria Jean’s Coffee will also be revamped to provide fresh and live food at all outlets, which are to be a game-changer in the cafe industry. It will be positioned as a mid-segment brand.

The café brand is targeting to unveil outlets in shopping malls as well as selected high-street locations.

Offerings by Gloria Jean’s Coffee

Gloria Jean’s Coffee offers a variety of cold and hot coffees, chillers, quick bites, and muffins and pastries.

Rohit Malhotra, CEO of Jay Jay Capital & Investments Pvt Ltd, said, “At Gloria Jeans, we take our coffee very seriously, so not only does it taste great, but we also make sure we buy from suppliers that look after both their workers and the environment.”

“Our coffee beans are sourced from all over the world and from many different farms of all types and sizes large plantations, co-operative groups and tiny family farms,” he added.

Indian café chain market

In India, the café chain market, led by Café Coffee Day and Tata Starbucks, is one of the fastest-growing categories in the consumer food service industry. As per market research firm Euromonitor, this market is estimated to grow 6.9% a year to Rs 4,540 crore by 2023 in value sales at constant prices exclusive of inflation.

According to Euromonitor, India is now the world’s 10th fastest growing market for specialist coffee and tea retail chains, valued at Rs 2,570 crore in 2018.

As part of its expansion blueprint, Cafe Delhi Heights, a privately-held cafe and fine-dine restaurant chain, will be setting up smaller formats of its flagship brand.

Vikrant Batra, Co-Founder of Cafe Delhi Heights, promoted by hospitality company Batra Bros Foods & Beverages, said, “Lower rentals, quicker break-even and servicing from centralised kitchens will give us more efficiencies on topline and profitability. We intend to go to markets where Capex is low.”

Cafe Delhi Heights will fund its expansion plans internally.

“We have been approached multiple times by private equity players but we’re not opting for external funding in the mid to short term,” Batra stated.

The company’s plans to include smaller format stores come at a time when the industry is dealing with multiple challenges like the withdrawal of the input tax credit and deep discounting by aggregators both of which have impacted their profitability.

Future Plans

The fine-dine restaurant chain’s expansion will involve a mix of large and smaller format outlets, the latter to tap captive markets with relatively lower spending like universities. The chain will also tap railway stations and airports, apart from overseas where it may franchise operations.

Cafe Delhi Heights’ first international outlet is expected to debut in Manchester.

The brand is planning to cross sales of Rs 100 crore in 2019-20.

Restaurant Industry

National Restaurants Association of India’s (NRAI) food services report estimates the industry at more than Rs 4 lakh crore in FY19, forecasted to grow to Rs 5.5 lakh crore by 2021.

In November 2017, the government slashed GST rates on restaurants to 5% from 18% but scrapped input tax credit which the industry said escalated capital expenses and rentals by 15-18%.

Batra stated, “The withdrawal of the input tax credit has been a big setback on profitability and margins.”

Jollibee is eyeing at expanding its store network in North America to 250 by 2023.

The announcement comes after the inauguration of Jollibee’s new North American headquarters in West Covina, California. The new 28,000 sq ft headquarters will be serving as a center of operations for Jollibee and its sister brands Chowking and Red Ribbon.

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), the parent company of the brand, is one of the world’s largest and fastest growing Asian restaurant companies. It has identified North America as a key growth market in its pursuit to be among the top five restaurant companies in the world.

Jollibee, the largest fast food chain brand in the Philippines, is operating a Philippine network of over 1,400 stores.

In North America, Filipino fast food joint launched its first store in 1998 in Daly City, California. Jollibee now operates 46 stores across the region, including locations in California, New York, and Texas, and in Manitoba, Ontario, and Alberta in Canada.

The company said, “The new Jollibee headquarters will ably support operations around North America in its quest to become a major fast food player in the region.”

The fast food chain has a restaurant network of more than 1400 at home and over 230 elsewhere abroad. Its parent company JFC has more than 5800 restaurants in 35 countries globally.

Fast Food Market in India

Almost the entire urban population starting from kids to the college-going students, from vegetarians to non-vegetarians, everyone is fond of fast foods. One just looks out for occasions to make an excuse and bump into fast food restaurants.

Indian fast food segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18% by 2020 due to changing consumer behavior and demography, says a report produced by Research and Markets.

In India, the fast food market is likely to be worth $ 27.57 billion by 2020.

About 10% of the fast food market in the country is organized. NOVONOUS expects that the organized fast food market in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of 27% by 2020.

Vegetarian fast food constitutes of around 45% of the whole fast food market in India and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18% by 2020.

As per a report, the global fast food market was valued at more than $539.63 billion in 2016. It is expected to reach above $690.80 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of slightly above 4.20% between 2017 and 2022.

Svami Drinks, the non-alcoholic beverage maker, has secured Rs 7.5 crore in its pre-Series A round of funding from a mix of institutional and individual investors.

The pre-Series A funding round was led by Rukam Capital Trust, a Delhi-based early-stage venture capital firm. The round has also seen participation from Niren Shah, Managing Director of Norwest Venture Partners India, and Ashish Chand’s family office Yukti Securities.

Sahil Jatana, Co-Founder and Chief Executive, Svami, stated, “We started Svami to create premium aerated beverages that did not exist in the country. Since the launch, we have seen massive product acceptance across retail and HoReCa (Hotel/Restaurant/Café), and are now capitalising on our first-mover advantage. The overall F&B ecosystem in India is seeing an evolution, consumers are a lot more discerning and restaurants want to match up to that.”

The fresh capital will be utilized by the startup for deeper penetration into existing markets and foray into new territories. The funds will also be used for new product development, increasing production capacity and hiring professionals.

Archana Jahagirdar, Managing Partner, Rukam Capital Trust, said, “The founders’ zeal and the product impressed us the most. With increased demand, bar menus now feature global and home-grown liquor brands that need premium mixers to go with them. We look forward to working with the founders to drive their next phase of growth.”

In August 2018, Svami, owned and operated by Foxtrot Beverages Pvt Ltd, had raised an angel round led by Singapore-based VC fund RB Investments.

Portfolio of Svami

Launched in January 2018, Svami Drinks was started by Jatana, Rahul Mehra and Aneesh Bhasin. Apart from the aerated category, the brand also manufactures tonic waters in India.

At present, Svami has five products in the market, including original tonic water, light tonic water, cucumber tonic water, grapefruit tonic water, and the recently launched ginger ale. 

The startup claims that more than half a million drinks have been consumed since the launch of the brand. 

Aneesh Bhasin, Co-Founder of Svami, stated, “All product recipes are curated in-house, along with bottling and packaging.”

The company’s beverage portfolio is available at select retail outlets, wine shops, and restaurants-bars across eight states in the country.

Several other deals

In recent times, Coolberg Beverages Pvt. Ltd, which makes non-alcoholic beer, secured $3.5 million in a Series A round led by RB Investments and existing investor India Quotient.

In May, B9 Beverages Pvt Ltd, which makes craft beer under the brand Bira 91, raised funding from Sixth Sense Ventures, the consumer-focused venture capital firm. The company also counts Sequoia Capital and Sofina among its investors.

British Brewing Company received an initial commitment of Rs 100 crore from investors including NeoMile Capital in its first external equity fundraise in the same month.

In January, Grover Zampa Vineyards Ltd and its investor Quintela Assets Ltd acquired Bengaluru-based wine subsidiary Four Seasons Wines Ltd from United Spirits Ltd for Rs 31.86 crore.

Sri Krishna Sweets is planning to reach 100 branches by 2020.

Currently, the company has 75 branches, including Tamil Nadu (48), Maharastra (4), Karala (6), Karnataka (7), UAE (5) and Telangana 4. Sri Krishna Sweets aims to add 25 new branches during the next two years across PAN India and UAE.

Vaishnavi Krishnan, Director of Sri Krishna Sweets, said, “For the year 2020 we would like to touch the milestone of 100 branches spread across India. We want to strengthen international presence especially in UAE and also strengthen the international supply channels. We want to introduce a new variety of products by understanding the new generation.”

Sri Krishna Sweets is the pioneer in launching sweets made out of 100% pure ghee and a stand-alone sweet stall with clean and well-done interiors. The company is also exporting sweets to the United States, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia through the supply channels.

Offering 250 varieties of sweets, Sri Krishna Sweets had introduced modern packaging system.

Outlet launch in Hyderabad

Recently, Sri Krishna Sweets has also opened its 75th outlet at Nacharam in Hyderabad. This is the brand’s fourth outlet in Hyderabad.

Sri Krishna Sweets has its outlets in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra. It also has retail stores in international markets including UAE, United States, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia.

Apart from the newly opened outlet at Nacharam in Hyderabad, Sri Krishna Sweets also has outlets at Ameerpet, Kukatpally and Secunderabad. With the new launch, the brand is offering 4 kg of sugar as a gift for every purchase of 1 kg sweet at their Nacharam outlet.

Sri Krishna Sweets was started as a small retail sweet shop in Coimbatore in 1979. It has over the years expanded and opened its outlets across the country and also abroad.

The company is known for its Mysurpa, the softer version of Mysrupak, which is made of 100 per cent pure ghee. Mysurpa was invented by its CMD, Dr M Krishnan. The CMD stated that standardisation of recipes for input and output products, rewarding HR policies are the foundation stones of the Sri Krishna Sweets growth story.

Kesarwala is looking at launching 10 new franchise restaurants in the national capital region in the next few months. The organic food startup had opened its first organic restaurant in October last year in Noida.

Kesarwala claims that over 70% of the ingredients that the restaurant uses in cooking are organic in nature.

The startup said, “The company plans to open 10 new franchise restaurants in the next few months and has received proposals from 5-6 restaurants in Gurugram and Noida.”

The company is bootstrapped and has already invested Rs 1 crore into the venture.

Divaker Bhalla, Founder of Kesarwala, said, “We are planning to expand its operations in the NCR. We are opting for a franchise model, where we will keep the quality control from the centrally driven kitchen, so that customers get quality organic food.”

“The organic food market in India has witnessed considerable growth,” Bhalla further added.

Organic food market in India

In India, the organic food market is growing at 20-22% annually as the country has a rich heritage in organic farming and data shows that about 1.5 million hectares of land is certified as organic. The demand for organic foods started with fruits and vegetables, however, the popularity of organic foods has now extended to food grains, pulses, tea, spices, and even oilseeds.

In 2016-17, India exported Rs 2, 478 crore worth of organic commodities such as oilseeds, cereals and millets and processed organic foods.

As per the report, India's organic food market has the potential to grow more than 25% annually to touch $1.36 billion by 2020, provided there is more awareness about these products and the government incentivizes region-specific organic farming to ensure consistent growth in future.

Benefits of organic foods

The growth in the organic food market is driven by rising health consciousness, changing lifestyles, mounting disposable spending and the growing availability of organic food products in shopping malls and retail outlets.

Organic foods have gained popularity because people have become aware of their advantages. These foods contain no chemical pesticides and fertilizers and are grown naturally with manure or compost and only natural pesticides and insecticides are used. 

Another benefit is that organic foods do not contain growth hormones or antibiotic residues. Animals are often given growth hormones and antibiotics in animal feeds which are directly passed into animal foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products and from foods to the consumers. In organic farming, these practices are banned and animals feed outside in natural surroundings. Antibiotic containing foods consumed frequently makes these antibiotics ineffective in humans.

Organic Food Distributorship

The demand for organic food is exceedingly high. It is one of the biggest growing segments.

Many FMCG brands, which deal with the food and beverage products, are actively using organic products. They are seeking a fair distribution among the end-users. Here are a few distributorship facts about the segment.

Investment: Rs 2-5 lakhs

Space Requirement: 1000 sq ft

Return on Investment: 10%

Distributorship Level: City Level