Fusion Food Bags strategic investment from UDS

If you looking for an exceptional dining experience, which will have you elated, quite literally, then The FlyDining is the place that is soon going to start its operations in Ayodhya.

A unique concept that enables customers to eat, drink and be merry at the height of 50 meters above ground level is soon opening its door at the pilgrimage city. 

The structure is supported by one crane, which houses 24 people around the table and a staff of 4 people at its center.

As the inauguration of the Ram Mandir sees an increase in the opportunity for food business to grow in the region with surge of pilgrims and tourists from across the world to this holy city, an enthralling experience like Flydining in the city is surely going to take customers on a culinary delight intertwined with exhilaration.

Crafted with precision and adherence to stringent safety standards, the FlyDining was born out of a desire to create an experience that combines the thrill of adventure with the delight of a good meal. It is a unique concept that enables you and your loved ones to eat, drink and be merry at the height and we promise that it shall be an affair to remember.

When it comes to safety, The Flydining structure ‘s entire length is 9 meters. with a width of 5 meters. It is suspended on 16 metal wire ropes, 8 below and 8 above the roof.

One can book the enthralling experience between 9:30 am – 8:40 pm at Rs 1200 plus taxes.

Started in Bengaluru in 2018, The Flyding has already made waves in Noida, Manali, Pune, Hyderabad amongst other cities.
 

VRO Hospitality, India's one of the fast-growing F&B fine dining chain, has announced the successful closure of a $10 million bridge round in funding in a mix of Equity & Debt. 

This round was led by Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India & Nikhil Kamath backed Gruhas, UC Inclusive, showcasing the confidence and support of leading investors in VRO Hospitality's innovative vision and robust growth strategy.

Besides the lead investors, the others who participated in the bridge round were NB Ventures, Kunal Shah (Cred), Actress Mouni Roy to mention a few. 

“We are thrilled to have the continued support and trust of our investors as we embark on this transformative journey. This funding round marks a pivotal moment for VRO Hospitality, empowering us to amplify our efforts in redefining the hospitality experience through innovation and unwavering commitment to excellence,” shared Dawn Thomas, Co-Founder and CEO, VRO Hospitality.

This latest infusion of capital will fortify VRO Hospitality's mission to expand the brand across India and set new benchmarks in the fine dining ecosystem with unparalleled guest experiences. 

The investment will significantly fuel the expansion of its operations, accelerate product development, and further strengthen its position as a key player in the industry.

“Post-Covid the hospitality sector has witnessed an exponential growth and rightfully so VRO Hospitality has expanded across key markets in India. This successful bridge will help VRO Hospitality accelerate growth, expand its reach, and further solidify its position as a reputable brand & disruptor in the dining industry,” added Abhijeet Pai, Gruhas.

VRO Hospitality owns some upscale lounges and restaurants across Bengaluru, Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Ooty. Some of their brands include Badmaash, Mirage, Plan B, Taki Taki, Los Cavos, Cafe Noir, One Night in Bangkok, Tycoons, Hangover & Nevermind. VRO is on an expansion drive nationally and internationally with brands such as Badmaash, Cafe Noir and Taki Taki being the pioneers in pitching the VRO flag in uncharted territories.

Punjab Grill, known for its exquisite North Indian cuisine, is expanding rapidly with its latest outlet in Defence Colony, Delhi. 

This expansion reflects the strong demand for authentic Punjabi flavors in the heart of the city. Even more exciting, there are more outlets set to open later this year, further solidifying Punjab Grill's culinary presence in Delhi.

"We are excited to bring the quintessential flavors of Punjab to Defence Colony. Our commitment to quality ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques ensures that every dish we serve is an authentic culinary experience. We look forward to welcoming both our loyal patrons and new guests to our latest outlet.” Shared Rohit Aggarwal, Co-founder and Managing Director of Lite Bite Foods.

In Defence Colony, the recently opened Punjab Grill outlet redefines dining for patrons of all age groups. With its innovative mix of contemporary aesthetics and the heart-warming embrace of traditional Punjabi culture, this restaurant offers an exceptional culinary experience. 

From succulent kebabs like Dahi Ke Kebab, Chicken Malai Tikka and flavorful curries such as the Butter Chicken, Dal Punjab Grill, Paneer Lababdar to an array of bread options like Laccha Paratha, Garlic Naan and delightful desserts like the Gulab Jamun, Punjab Grill seamlessly blends tradition and innovation in every dish.

Punjab Grill has consistently delivered an exceptional dining experience and is dedicated to upholding its reputation at the new Defence Colony location. 
 

Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre (NJCC) & Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC) managed by Accor has appointed Manuj Ralhan as the new General Manager. 

With a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry and a proven track record of excellence, Manuj brings a dynamic and visionary leadership style to lead both these prestigious venues. 

“I am honored to take on the role of General Manager for Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre & Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre. I am excited to lead this exceptional team and look forward to delivering outstanding experiences to our guests and creating memorable moments at this remarkable destination,” he added.

He has put up a young, energetic and passionate team together in a very short span of time to create memorable experiences for guests of all segments and position Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre as the premier destination for events and accommodations in Jaipur.

Boasting a distinguished career spanning more than two decades within the hospitality industry, Manuj has honed his expertise through key roles at esteemed brands, including Four Seasons, Marriott International, Intercontinental Hotels, Shangri-La, Taj, and The Oberoi Hotels. Manuj is notably acclaimed for his proficiency in orchestrating successful pre-opening ventures across a spectrum of luxury, business hotels, and resorts, both within India and internationally.

Manuj holds a Diploma in Hospitality from the American Hotel and Lodging Association and completed his Bachelor's Degree in Hotel Management from the University of Bengaluru, a city he is intimately familiar with. Additionally, he holds a Cornell certification in Finance for Hotels and a Diploma from the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Beyond his professional pursuits, Manuj is deeply passionate about experiential travel, prioritizes health and fitness, and savours the art of handcrafted gins, single estate teas, first origin coffees.

Dobaraa’s new outpost is a speakeasy bar that seamlessly blends rustic charm and grunge. 

The ambience is set to transport patrons to a Berlin underground-like scene, hence we often refer to it as Dobaraa, zara sa Hatke.

Located within the Phoenix Marketcity, the outlet embraces mystique and enigma.

"Dobaraa represents the rebel in us, trust me it exists in all of us. Dobaraa makes you feel powerful and ready to take on the world,” shared Prashant Issar.

The food at Dobaraa is helmed by the rebellious Chef Anil Nayar who has recently moved back to the bay from Seattle where he was running a cutting-edge Gastro pub. He is further supported by the talented and eccentric local Sobo Boy, Chef Akhil. 

The menu, in addition to the usual suspects, aka pub-grub, includes Eastern nibbles like Zaatar Pita With Hummus and Lebanese Batata Harra, global favourites like British Batter Squid, Daikon Radish Cake, quirky Ched takes like Adobo Thecha Chicken Shashlik, Punjabi Poutines, Bawaji Nu Dhanshak, and Chicken 33 among other yummy items on the large plates menu. Besides this, there are Breads, Between Breads, Food Bowls, Pizza, Pasta and Desserts. Guests can expect a culinary journey like never before, with flavours and combinations that are certain to leave a lasting impression.

Dobaraa’s newest outlet will be a speakeasy bar that will seamlessly blend rustic charm and vintage vibes. Soft, amber-hued lighting will bathe the room in a warm and inviting glow. The ambience is set to transport patrons to a retro era with its warm, cosy, and soft-glowing interiors, adorned with antique décor and rugged aesthetics. Dobaraa's Kurla Market City outlet will embrace an element of mystery that is sure to captivate all those who step inside. Striking a perfect balance between the sophistication of the bygone era and contemporary comfort, Dobaaraa’s speakeasy bar’s atmosphere promises dining moments like no other.

Dobaraa's Kurla Market City outlet is set to open its doors to the public on 10 November 2023.
 

In the heart of Gurugram, emerges an enclave; a haven that offers rest, relaxation and the thrill of good food amidst the bustle of India's fin-tech hub. Moonshine Food Ventures opens yet another F&B masterpiece: Glasshouse World Grill & Bar in Worldmark, Gurugram.

“We intend to spread the experience like wildfire. People should be able to walk into a restaurant and come out feeling refreshed, revitalized, and well taken care of. That is what Glasshouse represents; a blend of diversity with the customer at the fore. It's all about offering that wholesome experience, from the gourmet meals and amazing cocktails to some of the best alco-beverages out there," shared Vishal Anand, founder, Moonshine Food Ventures. 

The restaurant is inspired by a Greenhouse with abstract glass enfolding the space from all sides. 

Clothed in creased metal and glass, a large portion of the space is designed as an open-air diner with the mesmerizing view of the night stars and the summer skylight beaming in. Sitting on the top floor of a burgeoning structure, the 150-seater restaurant offers a 360-degree breathtaking view - thanks to the abstract glass skin enclosing the space. 

True to its name, Glasshouse has a variety of planters and a herb wall adding a lush green serenity to the space. What's more, Glasshouse will offer borderless cuisines drawing tastes, flavours, and inspiration from all across the world. Glasshouse will be pouring the best of hand crafted cocktails and holds up great surprises for Gin Lovers. Explore more about the innovative Gin Alchemy: A specially curated menu with Gins infused in house.

The exotic menu is curated by Michelin Star Chef Atul Kochhar that serves some interesting delicacies like Betel Leaves Sambal, Angoori Wine tikka, Goat Tartine, Mozambique Wings, Char Grilled Pesto Fish, Bombay Sadak Pizza, Paneer Kashmiri, Nadan Curry, Raw Banana Sri Lankan Curry, Glasshouse katsu while desserts have some outstanding options like MidSummer, Walk in the forest, Winter darkness, Rose Garden and more.

After successfully venturing in the boutique hospitality space with Bhumi Pednekar earlier this year, Chrome Asia Hospitality marks another milestone and enters the concept restaurant landscape with its latest launch - Gigi, Mumbai. 

An expansive two-storey space, spread over 6,000 sq ft  in Bandra, Mumbai, Gigi been a passion project in the making for co-founders, Pawan Shahri, Dhaval Udeshi and Nikita Shahri.

With Gigi, Chrome Asia Hospitality will enter the concept restaurant segment and aims to further open 12 outlets by 2025 in this segment. 

Focussed on using the freshest local produce, seasonal seafood and exquisite cheeses from around the world, as well as local, homegrown brands from across India, Chrome Asia Hospitality’s first concept restaurant aims to deliver a truly immersive experience while combining flavours from Europe and Japan. 

“We have always aimed to expand our footprint beyond the threshold of conventional dining. We want to deliver more and more unique concepts that excite our customers, and Gigi is our latest attempt at doing just that. The hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing landscapes in India, and there is a growing appetite for newer, better concepts. Gigi is a dining experience that cannot be paralleled. Its period cocktail bar with Asian influences, and unique fusion cuisine is a celebration of two of the finest cultures out there,” shared the Co-founders.

Earlier this year, Chrome Asia Hospitality announced expansion with a vision to add five new brands across various formats while further strengthening the presence of the existing brands. After launching some of the most sought-after dining destinations in Mumbai, Chrome Asia Hospitaity has reported a profitable journey so far, showing valuable growth to 3X. Growing strength to strength, Chrome Hospitality also plans to focus and lay emphasis on establishing new benchmarks in the hospitality space.

“Chrome Asia Hospitality has delivered the finest of restaurants over the past few years and we are thrilled to be a part of their journey with Gigi Mumbai. This is just the beginning of a timeless endvaour and we are confident about the potential of brand Gigi,” added Afsana Verma, Investor, Gigi Mumbai.

Moti Mahal Delux, a name that resonates effortlessly with every Indian, is set to embark on an exciting expansion journey under its umbrella brand, 'Bobachee.' 

Celebrating an impressive five-decade journey, the story of Moti Mahal Delux traces back to 1975 when Tipu Kohli, son of Shri Amrit Lal Kohli, embarked on an extraordinary journey driven by a vision to create an unforgettable dining experience. 

As the culinary odyssey unfolds, Yuvraj Kohli, the Managing Director and a third-generation restaurateur, is turning his attention towards future innovation. 

"The legacy of Moti Mahal Delux is a testament to our unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional flavors and pushing the boundaries of culinary artistry. With the imminent arrival of our new restaurant, our goal is to revolutionize gastronomy and provide patrons with an extraordinary fusion of flavors and an unparalleled dining experience," shared Yuvraj Kohli.

His next proud endeavor, 'Bobachee,' is set to debut this winter. Bobachee aims to provide a delightful experience by reviving the nostalgic flavors of 1960s India while infusing global influences. It is poised to become an enchanting destination where people from various backgrounds can savor history, local culture, and exquisite flavors, all within a single delightful setting.

The essence of Indian hospitality lies in the concept of ‘Mehmaan-nawazi’, the art of entertaining guests and at the crux of that is the ‘Virasaat’ of Indian food culture and the ‘Zaika’ of prized Indian spices. Veteran restaurateurs, Dinesh & Pooja Arora bring you the quintessential ‘Indian’ restaurant that the capital has been missing. 

Imagine the lilting sound of ‘qawwalis’, the aromas of rose, jasmine, nutmeg, a hint of cinnamon and saffron, imagine the culinary prowess of ‘khansamas’ come alive in the rich tapestry of a menu that brings you the best from the tawa to the tandoor. This is the legacy of lost recipes, of forgotten techniques and culinary treasures of yore, this is Qavalli. Qavalli is a reprisal of old-world charm, from the interiors to the curries that simmer gently in a handi, this is where you will create memories over good food, good drinks and good company.

Qavalli's allure extends to its magnificent design, masterfully created by Chromed Design Studio, led by architect and interior designer Abhigyan Neogi. Drawing inspiration from Moroccan themes, the design showcases captivating arches, a vibrant red palette, and intricate patterns, all bathed in the glow of crystal lamp chandeliers.

Walk into a gold and auburn oasis of lavishly upholstered walls, dramatic drapes and cosy alcoves. Glistening chandeliers illuminate this majestic setting, with gilded bar fronts on both sides, ensuring that every guest is treated like royalty. Don’t miss the wall that pays homage to the legendary ‘qavvals’ of our times and reminisce in the days gone by over drinks made from the root to the bark. 

With a commitment to preserving North Indian culinary traditions, Qavalli's menu is curated to complement cocktails and pay homage to Indian produce. Authenticity meets innovation in the Qavalli kitchen, delivering a 'Dawat,' a divine feast that lingers as a beautiful memory.

It celebrates Mughlai cuisine, tantalizing taste buds with perfectly grilled tikkas, kebabs, soulful curries, rich breads, and aromatic biryanis. Secondly, it houses an Indian botanical bar, crafting cocktails with special cordials, tinctures, and elixirs that awaken the senses.

What truly sets Qavalli apart is its commitment to creating unforgettable nights. Qavalli Nights transport you to the magic and music of mehfils, adding a touch of nostalgia to the dining experience. 
This unparalleled experience comes at an accessible price point, with a cost for two at just INR 2000. Join us at Qavalli, where Indian hospitality reigns supreme, and create unforgettable memories over exquisite food, delightful drinks, and cherished company.

On this momentous occasion, Founder, Dinesh Arora says “Qavalli represents our unwavering dedication to preserving and celebrating the culinary legacy of India. We've poured our hearts into creating a space where each guest is welcomed as royalty, and where every bite tells a story of our rich culinary heritage. For us, Qavalli is a labor of love, a canvas on which we've painted the vibrant tapestry of Indian flavors and hospitality. It's an invitation for our guests to embark on a regal gastronomic journey, where traditions meet innovation, and every moment is cherished.”
 

Araiya Hotels and Resorts launches their third international restaurant- MÉZ, a captivating culinary destination situated at the enchanting Spinola Bay in Malta. 

The space invites you to set sail on an epicurean journey inspired by the historical maritime routes of the Indian Ocean world. Paying homage to the fusion of flavours that shaped the world's cuisine, MÉZ presents an exquisite exploration of Indo Coastal Cuisine, where spices and diversity intertwine.

“We are excited to open MÉZ with the mission to celebrate gastronomic history by bringing forth a tapestry of flavours from across the Indian Ocean. Chef Vanessa's dedication to sourcing locally while honouring tradition and embracing innovation makes her a driving force behind MÉZ's culinary journey,” shared Amruda Nair, Founder and Director, Araiya Hotels and Resorts on launching MÉZ.

The draws inspiration from the historical spice trade between civilizations in Asia, Northeast Africa, and Europe and the ancient use and exchange of spices.
 
The restaurant has roped-in Chef Vanessa Filix, who brings a wealth of culinary expertise with a career spanning esteemed establishments, currently serving the Kitchen Coordinator & Chef de Partie at Ion Harbour By Simon Rogan in Malta. 

Collaborating with local farmers, Chef Vanessa ensures the celebration of Maltese produce, and her adept menu management guarantees consistency. Her prior roles include, Junior Sous Chef at Freehouse in Singapore, Demi Chef at various restaurants like Fat Lulu’s and Mama–San. 

Nestled in the heart of the charming Mediterranean harbour of St. Julian's, MÉZ offers a breath taking panorama of the iconic Spinola Bay. MÉZ's terrace offers al fresco dining for up to 70 guests, while the indoor spaces include an exclusive private dining room with views of the bay that seats 20 guests and cosy bar. 
The maritime theme is seamlessly woven into MÉZ's nautical-inspired interiors, transporting guests to a time when the oceans were a conduit for discovery and exchange.

MÉZ is not just a restaurant; it is a voyage that explores the crossroads of history and flavour. 

McDowell’s No.1 Soda has entered metaverse with Yaariverse, an interactive platform that transport customers to an interactive zone of extraordinary concerts and content experiences. 

This platform is an innovative limitless realm transforming the way audience and their yaars foster friendships. 

“Yaariverse represents a ground-breaking step for McDowell’s No1 Soda, as we foray into the metaverse and redefine how consumers engage with our brand. We were among the first FMCG brands to have leveraged the unlimited possibilities of the Metaverse when we hosted a Holi bash & concert in 2022. We have come a long way from there and now bring to consumers a whole universe that promises unforgettable experiences and a lot more,” shared Ruchira Jaitly, Vice-President, Marketing & Portfolio head, Diageo India.

Yaariverse brings alive a virtual reality platform where revellers can immerse themselves in exciting concerts and engaging content experience on the metaverse. 

“We are excited to partner with Diageo and McDowell’s No1 Soda in shaping the future of immersive experiences. The Yaariverse seamlessly integrates the real and virtual worlds. We believe it will bring a unique and unforgettable dimensional experience to how consumers engage and connect with their friends,” added Neeraj Roy, MD & Founder, Hungama Digital Media.

Diageo India is the country’s leading beverage alcohol company and a subsidiary of global leader Diageo Plc. The company manufactures, sells, and distributes an outstanding portfolio of premium brands such as Johnnie Walker, Black Dog, Black & White, VAT 69, Antiquity, Signature, The Singleton, Royal Challenge, McDowell’s No1, Smirnoff to name a few.

Zaika Fun Dine opens its doors in the heart of Borivali, Mumbai.

This extraordinary fine dining establishment is set to redefine gastronomic experience by combining tantalizing flavors, a delightful ambiance, and warm hospitality, ensuring an unforgettable journey for your taste buds.

With a remarkable 13-year tenure in the restaurant industry, owners Nishant and Sunil have poured their hearts and souls into the creation of Zaika Fun Dine.

“We are thrilled to introduce Zaika Fun Dine to the vibrant community of Borivali. With over 13 years of experience in the industry, our extensive expertise has allowed us to curate a menu that showcases a fusion of flavors, from traditional Indian delicacies to global favorites. With an enchanting ambiance and warm hospitality, Zaika Fun Dine aims to deliver an extraordinary culinary experience that will captivate our guests and create indelible memories,” shared the owners.

The ambiance at Zaika Fun Dine seamlessly blends elegance and warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere that will instantly make you feel at home.

"Our mission was to create a space where people could gather, revel in exquisite cuisine, and forge unforgettable memories. Zaika Fun Dine stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service, a welcoming ambiance, and, above all, a culinary experience that will leave our guests spellbound,” added Nishant, one of the passionate co-owners.

An evocative dining experience with ambient vibes, Ophelia-Delhi’s one of the favorite bar has been revamped and relaunched to transport guests to the serene wildness of Africa and provide an immersive experience of the lush green forests and safari.

Tucked away in a cozy corner of The Ashok hotel in Central Delhi, it is operated by Akshay Anand and Ashish Begwani.

Ophelia was started back in 2019, by giving a new meaning to old-school glamor and a grandeur dining experience.

A pulsating high-energy place, the fine-dining bar now stands more inviting than ever, draped in warm, earthy tones and plush jungle-inspired accents spread throughout the serene rustic decor, a stark contrast to its previous floral and cool aesthetic.

Offering a lusciously tempting getaway from the bustle of the city, Ophelia’s unmatchable venue, outdoor seating, and exclusively diverse dining menu, coupled with its well-stocked eclectic drinks and cocktails make for a sensorial experience that elevates the everyday dining experience.

The restaurant caters to global cuisine serving the best of continental foods with a touch of modern sensibilities. Seasonal produce, contemporary techniques, and innovative pairings, while playing with traditional favourites, set the new Ophelia kitchen apart.

For all food connoisseurs who love a good wine-and-dine spot, Ophelia offers the ultimate blissful escapade- a slice of rustic amber-lit paradise in the heart of the capital.

Delhi has welcomed an all new premium dining restaurant Bonne Foi 65.

Founded by Nneeraj Besoya and Nandini Jain, two passionate entrepreneurs with over a decade of experience in the F&B industry, Bonne Foi 65 promises to be more than just a restaurant - it's a legacy brand that is set to redefine the way people party.

At Bonne Foi 65, the focus is on creating magical experiences that leave a lasting impression. From the moment you walk in, you'll be transported to a world of luxury, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to perfection. The ambience, the decor, the music, and the service have all been designed to cater to the needs and desires of the discerning patrons who visit.

"We are thrilled to launch Bonne Foi 65, a place that reflects our passion for creating magical experiences. We believe that every detail matters and have poured our hearts into every aspect of this restaurant. Our goal is to provide a one-of-a-kind premium experience that goes beyond just great food and music,” shared Neeraj Besoya and Nandini Jain, Co-founders of Bonne Foi 65 who are also planning to expand the Bonne Foi 65 brand across the country in the coming years.

The menu at Bonne Foi 65 is a fusion of international cuisines, with a focus on premium ingredients and innovative flavors.

In the next five years, the group aim to open three more restaurants on the theme of Bonne Foi 65 across the country, so that more people can experience the unique vibe of this one-of-a-kind brand.

Chef Harpal Sokhi’s restaurant chain Karigari known for its distinctive blend of traditional Indian food with a modern twist has announced ambitions to expand its footprint in India and abroad in the coming years.

With its unique menu and exquisite atmosphere, Karigari has become a favorite destination for foodies across India.

This year, Karigari is planning to invest 30 crore rupees to open new locations in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and other important cities in India.

Karigari is committed to acquiring the freshest ingredients and employing the best-skilled chefs to create dishes that are both delicious and visually attractive.

It is also aiming at entering Dubai and London by 2024.

"We are excited to broaden our reach and bring our culinary expertise to new markets. We are confident that our customers will appreciate the quality of food and service we provide at our new locations, which will highlight the best of Indian cuisine and hospitality,” said Yogesh Sharma, founder of Karigari who is planning to open 10 outlets by year end.

Charcoal by Wise Owl is the newest offering by the Krystal group that has other restaurants like ‘Wise Owl The Coffee Shop’, ‘The Wise Owl Steakhouse’, ‘Krystal Chopsticks’ and ‘Tero Parbon’ under its wing.

Located in the southern hub of Kolkata on Purna Das Road, this restaurant specialises in Northwest Frontier cuisine.

“We are thrilled to introduce to the city of Kolkata a laid back, North West Frontier cuisine restaurant where they can enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends and family. The idea to launch the North West Frontier cuisine originated when I travelled to Lucknow with my husband, who hails from there. I remember being mesmerised by the Awadhi food and knew from that moment that the city of Kolkata needed to taste the authentic Awadhi food along with the other Northwest Frontier cuisines like Kashmiri, Rajasthan, Punjab, Pakistani and Afghani which at some point constituted the northwest frontier states. ” shared Siddhika Ghose Chaudhuri, Founder, Charcoal by Wise Owl.

The name ‘Charcoal’ is derived from the traditional cooking style in clay ovens or tandoor in the Northwest Frontier province region. Also known as Peshawari cuisine, this cuisine traces its roots back to the lands stretching from Kabul, Kandahar, Peshawar to Lahore. One distinctive selling point of this cuisine is its rustic element and emphasis on preserving the flavours and ingredients. 

Created with the spirit of offering a casual, relaxed space to unwind with family and friends, Charcoal by Wise Owl has vibrant decor elements such as wooden panels, plants and dim lighting that lends an aesthetic appeal to the elegant diner.

Spread across an area of 900 sqft, this 46 seater restaurant is divided into 2 sections – an indoor and an alfresco space. The main area leads to a pleasant outdoor seating space with a wonderful view of the skyline. 

The extensive menu highlights exquisite dishes like Kebabs, Meat, Vegetables and other authentic Northwestern flavours such as Rajma Galouti, Tandoori Motiya, Sikandari Murgh, Peshawari Burrah, Mutton Galouti with Mini Parathas, Shaam O Saher, Awadhi Murgh Malai, Gosht Roghan Gulmarg, Laal Maas, Dum Biryani, amongst many others. 

The indulgent desserts on the menu include Baked Mihidana Tart, Malai Cheesecake and Kesar Malai Paris Brest.

The Aditya Birla Group has announced a foray into the premium casual dining space, a fast-growing segment in the organised food services market, in collaboration with India’s well-known Chef Restaurateur Rahul Akerkar.

The Group’s hospitality arm housed under Aditya Birla New Age (ABNA) will build premium casual dining restaurant chains across India.

ABNA, promoted by Aryaman Vikram Birla aspires to create the most preferred house of F&B brands in India under its umbrella.

“The dynamism and buoyancy of the Indian consumption story is driving a preference for premium experiences. High disposable income among the rising middle class in India, and the expansion of the urban cosmopolitan lifestyle is driving the boom in dining out behaviour. Therefore, the demand for premium casual dining restaurants (PCDR) is expected to increase across India as consumers seek new dining experiences. Our vision is to build the best F&B Brands, with a clear focus on both quality and value for customers,” shared Aryaman Vikram Birla, Director, Aditya Birla Management Corporation Private Limited and Founder, ABNA by adding that their partnership with Rahul Akerkar, who has a unique culinary style, is a step in this direction.

The group is in advanced stages of project execution and aim to launch the first restaurant in Mumbai next quarter.

Known for setting industry trends with his creative, ingredient-driven cuisine, and warm attentive hospitality, Rahul Akerkar is one of India's first successful chef restaurateur entrepreneurs. He has joined ABNA’s wholly owned subsidiary as a Creative Director and Director Cuisine and will be responsible for the restaurant’s concept and the culinary vision.

“I am thrilled to join the team at ABNA and introduce our latest concept—a casual, neighborhood, restaurant for all seasons, weeknight dates, or lunches with a co-worker. The food with a European backbone, is an ode to my mixed Indian & European parentage and my travels across the globe. Much of the cooking will be over live fire with bold, clean flavours, demonstrating a commitment to the freshest ingredients available & an impeccable flair for combining them,” added Akerkar.

ABNA currently operates Jolie’s, a members-only club, comparable to the best in the world, and spanning across ~30,000 square feet at Worli, in the heart of Mumbai.

There is just something about Breach Candy that captures the very essence of artistry in Mumbai. Café culture is thriving in the ‘city of dreams,’ thanks to a surge of cool cafés and coffee shops shining the light on all-day breakfast dishes and specialty caffeine-based beverages.

A wholesome dine-out experience isn’t just about the food anymore. And if you are looking for a cozy café where you can unleash all your pent-up wanderlust on these pleasant winter days, Balmy Cafe is just the place for you.

The idea behind the premium all-day café and bar was to create a warm and welcoming space for the guests.

The café is highly picturesque with bedazzling designs and delectable food.

“South Bombay and specifically this belt of Breach Candy, Peddar Road, Nepeansea Road, Altamount Road and Malabar hill till Tardeo lacks a space where one can go from coffee to lunch to dinner and enjoy the food and atmosphere simultaneously. Hence, I decided to come up with a place with a focus on food and great coffee, but to ensure that you feel you have entered a fun, dynamic yet invigorating space where energy and ideas flow as easily as the food and accompanying beverages,” said Sujith Shetty, Owner of Aarya International that operate Balmy Café.

Sujith, being an out-of-the-box thinker, is now crossing the beauteous threshold onto the greener side of the F&B sector by extending his expertise and capabilities and building a modern, new age venture- Balmy, The all-day Café & Bar.

Balmy café takes you on a culinary journey of delicious natural flavours and caters to all dietary preferences such as vegan, vegetarian, Jain, and non-vegetarian. From the moment you enter its humble doors, you will immediately be transported into a world of tranquillity, relaxation, and rejuvenation.

With ‘Warm & Welcoming’ as its motto, Balmy café signifies the meaning behind its name- pleasant and refreshing.

Located in Breach Candy, the interior of the place with the glass façade complements the exceedingly comfortable furnishings and upholstery that is sealed with immense natural light and creates an easy-going but vibrant atmosphere suitable for utmost relaxation. The intricate interiors and environment of Balmy café perfectly resonate with its overall chic and cozy surroundings.

Built with exquisite materials, the café includes splendid artifacts synonymous with Salonee Kothari, a gifted and artistic interior designer. Balmy café is quintessentially minimalist and wrapped in neutral tones with pared-down seating and a statement roof with trendy cloth-made umbrella lanterns levitating from the ceiling, and indoor plants that add the perfect touch of coziness.

“We wanted to create a space that would be ever-lasting and extremely exciting. The coral-colored, PU-finished bar is the focal point. To balance the bright colour we decided to use a neutral and warm palette, textures, and materials,” added Salonee Kothari, Interior Designer, at SKO studios.”

A quaint and sprightly-styled cafe, Balmy accentuates a consoling ambience by offering authentic cuisines. The versatile menu that includes breakfast dishes, salads, hummus-based-specials, sandwiches, and sliders, Balmy Truffle Cocktail Bites, Dimsum & Bao, Sushi, wafer-thin pizzas, signature kinds of pasta; Continental, Asian & Indian large plates, and desserts.

The elaborate beverage menu exceedingly complements the food menu and includes a wide range of alcoholic as well as non-alcoholic drinks right from hot & cold coffees to craft cocktails.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts announced the launch of ‘The Leela Palace Trail’ - a thoughtfully curated itinerary that is a majestic celebration of India’s palatial grandeur defined by its rich cultural heritage, immersive rituals and bespoke signature programing with the true graciousness of Indian hospitality.

The Leela Palace Trail offers multi-day itineraries to six exquisite award-winning palaces and resorts in the country’s most alluring destinations including New Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kovalam.

Each palace will not only astonish you with its unique architecture and exquisite environs but will present to you India at its luxurious best.

Marvel at the ornate Vijayanagara inspired architecture of The Leela Palace Bengaluru. Learn the culinary secrets of Rajasthan at The Leela Palace Jaipur. Discover the grandeur of the royal heritage of the land of the Mewars at The Leela Palace Udaipur perched on the banks of the majestic Lake Pichola. Explore lively city bazaars with The Leela Palace New Delhi or restore inner balance with the ancient science of Ayurveda at The Leela Kovalam. This is the essence of India to be savoured with all your senses.

“For over three decades, The Leela brand has come to be known for delivering an uncompromising level of personalized experiences which stems from the timeless Indian tradition of Atithi Devo Bhava - Guest is God. Built on this ethos, The Leela Palace Trail allows for an immersive experience of everything that is quintessentially India with authenticity and grace,” shared Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Operating Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts.

The Leela Palace Trail is a thoughtfully crafted offering with two distinctive packages, The Leela Palace Trail and The Leela Palace Trail - Curated. While the former allows you to experience the opulence of India’s finest palaces with the flexibility of weaving in your own destination experiences, while The Leela Palace Trail – Curated is a well thought out itinerary that anticipates your every need and offers a distinctive Leela lens on the destination from the time you arrive until your departure.

The itinerary extends a local immersion of the destinations along with signature Leela offerings. Some of the highlights include a traditional welcome, The Leela Palace Service, unique dining experientials, ceremonial rituals, wellness therapies, palace tour, guided city tours, rejuvenating yoga sessions, local transfers, and savings on hotel services. The itinerary requires a stay of minimum 5 nights spread across two resorts and one city hotel as mandatory.

Ghaziabad based The Flying Dutchman, a pirate themed cafe intends to expand three outlets with locations in Ludhiana, Mussoorie, and Delhi by 2023.

The thematic cafe in Delhi/NCR was established in 2018 and opened its first location in Indirapuram, Ghaziabad.

This inspired the team to build other locations, and they came up with outlets in Noida's Logix Mall and Sector 63, which is also home to the city's largest brewery.

The Flying Dutchman plans to open 10 additional locations by the year 2025.

"Since most people aren't familiar with theme-based bars, our unique strategy has been the main driver of our expansion. So we are working to expand in as many cities as we can,” shared Yogesh Sharma and Manish Sharma, the directors at Futomic.

Their newest stores, which have just opened in Punjab, Delhi, and Uttarakhand, combines 5000 square feet of space, of which 3000 square feet is indoor space and 2000 square feet is outdoor space.

The Flying Dutchman is a cafe and brewery with a pirate motif that's a great place for gatherings.

Dhaba Estd. 1986 Delhi, under Azure Hospitality Group opens its doors at DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

Dhaba launched back in 1986, a first of its kind, highway themed hearty Punjabi restaurant in the heart of Delhi at Aurangzeb Road. Overtime, it has evolved, without diluting the essence of the experience, to become every Punjabi’s comfort restaurant for all their Indian food cravings. The iconic restaurant has now revamped and undergone a makeover, and is coming back with a bang with Dhaba 2.0 at DLF Promenade.

The new outlet, has a mix of old classic, evergreen dishes and will also introduce some new dishes, like Murgh Badami Shorbha, Palak Patta Ki Chaat, Dilli Ki Nihari, Tamatar Dhania Ka Shorbha, Mutton Barra Kebab, Hariyali Subz Kofta, and many more. Additionally, the new age Theka also has contemporary desi concoctions like Gud Nal Ishq Mitha, Shaam Ka Jaam, Dhaba Ka Jaadoo, Guldasta making Dhaba the perfect dining spot for a post movie watch, for a hearty Punjabi meal and even for a night out with the family.

Paying homage to Delhi and Punjab, Dhaba’s interiors have a wall dedicated to street scapes of Old Delhi, bespoke vintage floral wallpaper and a homage to 70s delhi homes and their “chic” blinds, an Art Deco showcase cabinet as a tribute to old sweet vendors shops.

Speaking of the launch and the inspiration behind Dhaba 2.0, Co-founder Rahul Khanna and Kabir Suri say, “The aim behind the revamped Dhaba is not only to celebrate the Punjabi culture or highway cuisine but with the new Dhaba we also strived to find inspiration from all small North Indian towns and villages - their culture, interiors and habits over the decades.”

Dhaba believes in strengthening the local artisans, like street painters and their work will be seen throughout the restaurant. The new outlet has 58 covers and also comes with an Al fresco terrace making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal on a breezy evening.

Dhaba currently has 18 branches pan India with more in the pipeline.

Moonshine Food Ventures LLP (MFVL), the brainchild of food and beverage entrepreneur Vishal Anand, has forayed into the bakery, patisserie, savouries and desserts segment with the acquisition of Last Course Hospitality (LCH) owned by Chef Mitali Sahani and her partner Karan Sahani, who have been running their bakehouse Mr & Mitts (erstwhile known as The Bombaykery).

With this acquisition, MFVL further expands their portfolio into a new segment and endeavours to bring the best of premium bakery, artisanal breads, ornamental cakes and boulangerie to its patrons. 

“I am particularly excited to introduce Nush Mush to different parts of the country, our top-notch quality bakery and patisserie with the beautiful mix of French and American baking styles will offer something unique from the best of both worlds,” shared Anand.

MFVL is rebranding and inventing this bold, fun and elegant hipster brand to “Nush Mush”.

Nush Mush strongly believes in using seasonal, no preservatives, no frozen and honest ingredients amalgamating a perfect blend between art and science. With its signature collection of Cronuts, Kouign Amann, Bars, Patisserie and Savouries, Nush Mush is here to make a long-lasting impact on every sweet tooth surely.

MFVL plans to expand its wings in the retail segment not only in NCR but also aspires to extend its stores all across the country.

By the end of 2023 MFVL plans to open 8-10 retail outlets, bake-houses and stores in Malls, Premium High Street spots and Some flagship spaces. 

“Our vision is to touch 100 outlets in the next 5 years with expansion into some of the best entertainment & food hubs across the country,” he added.

This passion-driven F&B Company is constantly setting foot in new territories with its innovation, team culture and high aspirational approach. Increasing disposable incomes and urban lifestyle is helping the organized restaurant sector to grow at 10.5% CAGR. MFVL’s turnover stood at INR 25 cr in the year ending March 2022 and is all set to grow 2x by the end of FY 2022-23 and will double it by the year FY 2023-24.

With its expandable brands like Cafe Statywoke and Nush Mush, MFVL aspires to open 10 new outlets by the end of the next calendar year. The right mix of self-owned brands, franchise restaurants and consulting contracts, MFVL gravitates to be one of the most diversified F&B operators in the country.

Mumbai’s one of the favourite Cafe Panama’s has recently launched its Tequila Lounge.

The newest addition by Shaan Gidwani, Founder & Managing Director of Acapella Hospitality sits on the mezzanine floor of the restaurant.

It is set to transport you to your tropical vacation with its relaxing vibe and Latin American flavours!

“We at Cafe Panama believe in curating stellar experiences for our patrons. After over a year and a half of operating, we are excited to unveil our new Tequila Lounge, which embodies elegance, celebration, and our zeal for providing a luxurious dining experience! Plush velvety couches, a cosy bar and decadent tequila-based beverages await you at our brand-new tequila lounge,” shared Gidwani.

At the mezzanine of their 4000 sqft, the lounge will be a touch of exclusivity to the ambience. The interiors unfold into splashed natural tones similar to that of the restaurant and boast of larger-than-life angular mirrors and cane accents. The space stands out with towering architecture made lively with indoor plants and patterned flooring.

The bar sits right at the start of the floor in an elegant bottle green shade that integrates into the essence of the space. The design has been meticulously curated to capture the essence of Latin American elements. The final touch to the setup is Tequila and Mezcal based cocktails paired perfectly with an array of delectable tacos to enhance your experience.

So if you are looking for chill vibes and good times, visit the Tequila lounge and unwind as you sip the cocktails and soak in the tropical vibe.

Shangri-La Al Husn, Muscat is delighted to announce the newest addition to Oman’s diverse culinary scene, the opening of contemporary Indian restaurant Aangan by Rohit Ghai.

A sophisticated dining destination with a fresh take on Indian cuisine, critically acclaimed Chef Rohit Ghai has curated an innovative menu inspired by his personal and professional culinary experiences from across the globe.

“When the opportunity arose to work with Chef Rohit Ghai, it was an easy decision. Aangan is an exciting addition to our portfolio of premium restaurants at Shangri-La Al Husn and we are thrilled to bring this new dining destination to our guests and the local community of Muscat,” said René Egle, Area General Manager, Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa and Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa.

Chef Ghai is renowned for earning upmarket London restaurant Jamavar a Michelin Star in under a year, the first ever Indian chef to achieve such an accolade in the UK.

Rohit Ghai has become one of the culinary world’s most in-demand chefs after a hugely successful decade on the London restaurant scene.

With his award-winning skills attracting international praise, Shangri-La Al Husn is delighted to welcome critically acclaimed Rohit Ghai and his esteemed team of chefs to the city of Muscat.

Aangan meaning courtyard in English, is referred to as a warm and welcoming dining space where food is shared and enjoyed with family and friends. Complete with an alfresco terrace, Aangan majestically overlooks the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman. Taking inspiration from Oman’s heritage and India’s homeland, soaring ceilings and artistic archways create a magnificent sense of place. Guests enter the dining area through the grand double doors flanked with bold blue drapes, inviting diners to enter another world and enjoy the heartfelt hospitality Shangri-La is renowned for.

The extensive menu designed to share; allows diners to mix and match dishes to tease and tantalise the palate. Chef Ghai has taken a contemporary approach to traditional Indian cuisine and has created dishes that burst with flavour.

To complement the dishes, an extensive beverage list has been carefully curated with wines hailing from old and new world vineyards.  Expertly crafted cocktails include the signature Gin & Tonic Pushpanjali, meaning a handful of flowers in English. Meanwhile, the whiskey-based cocktail Somras packs a punch and is a cross between a Manhattan and an old fashioned. The drink is inspired by the Sanskrit culture and was believed to have been consumed as a potion by the Hindu gods to remain immortal and invincible.

“I wanted to bring the spirit of ‘aangan’ to Oman and inspire diners to celebrate special moments together while enjoying the diverse flavours of Indian cuisine.  Indian food is complex and steeped in tradition, but through Aangan, I’m able to showcase Indian food in a new light. Using locally grown fresh produce, authentic Indian spices and innovative cooking techniques, I’ve evolved and tweaked the very best of the cuisine to create a contemporary menu that is truly unique. I look forward to welcoming guests to Aangan from all over the world,” shared Chef Ghai.

Mumbai is a modernization that defines a multicultural region where different people from different cultures coexist, and the flavours of Mumbai are as diverse as these cultures.

For the love of various cultures that are prevalent in Mumbai, Bambai has been launched to serve everyone multi-cultural foods.

The founders, Chef Ritesh Tulsian and Chef Anees Khan are also the menu curators, each with distinct culinary expertise.

The restaurant is built in Mumbai's most popular neighbourhood, Juhu, with the goal of not only serving the famous Mumbai chaats, but also introducing a variety of dishes from across the Mumbai region that are consumed by residents from other parts of the country.

Chef Ritesh and Chef Anees have deep roots in Maharashtra and have experimented with various cuisines and flavours. This prompted both the chefs to create an establishment capable of bringing specially curated flavours under one roof. Chef Ritesh, who is also a consultant chef, created a variety of Iranian dishes that highlight the classic flavours of Iranian cuisine that are still prevalent in southern Mumbai. Chef Anees, a seasoned pâtissier, has curated some of his best confectioneries for the restaurant, in addition to curating various dishes with Chef Ritesh.

“We have been in Mumbai for several decades and have witnessed the changes in the region when it comes to food; the street food here has had a great influence on us, and with the study, knowledge, and experience of course, we have curated something that will definitely evoke the love for the forgotten food,” shared Chef Ritesh.

According to Chef Anees, "Chef Ritesh and I have professionally witnessed changes in the city over time, and as the days pass, new trends and experiments emerge, but what we wanted to do was bring back disappeared foods and give them a twist that people now seek, and that is how we introduced Bambai.”

Some of the best dishes at Bambai include the lasun chana fry, which is a flavorful combination of chickpeas with spices and garlic lobes. The Naanizaas are something to try, with vegetarian options like simple cheese, mushroom keema, or tandoori paneer, and non-vegetarian options like bhatti da murg, kurla key kebab pav, mutton keema samosa, and more to try.

The restaurant not only focuses on multicultural cuisine, but it also has a quiet, literal interior that depicts Mumbai's local life.

In Mandarin ‘JIA’ means ‘family.’ And rightly so, JIA, the quaint and aesthetically pleasing independent restaurant, is all set to open its doors to all the customers. 

With its sophisticated and quaint setting, the elegant, 7-days-a-week establishment is gearing up to alter the dynamics of the way both locals and visitors across the globe choose to spend their outings in a well-versed, fun-filled and scrumptious manner.

From the kitchen comes a memorable feast of spectacular cuisines, all created with passion, refinement, and precision. At the helm of all these culinary affairs are Asian affiocanados Neville and Michelle Vazifdar, founders of Royal China and Kuai kitchen who launched JIA with a vision of entering the pan-asian dining segment and merging Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisines.

“When we started Royal China, we wanted to bring the Chinese fine dining concept to Mumbai which worked well. A few years ago, we decided that we wanted to do something a little untraditional that we could not do in Royal China which is why we started JIA. We were able to experiment with different Asian cuisines such as Japanese and Thai. We really enjoyed this process as we were able to incorporate different items on the menu,” said owner Michelle, who earlier resided in London and moved to Mumbai after her marriage 12 years ago, bringing with her a fresh perspective on Asian cuisine.

Located in Colaba, the refreshing vibe of Jia - The Oriental Kitchen stands in gleaming yet alleviating contrast to the yin-yang-like architecture.

Complementing the ultra-modern and elaborate food menu, the beverage program for Jia, is a modern reincarnation of exquisitely crafted cocktails, inspired to help drinkers discover multi-dimensional cocktails from the bold down to the subtle.

The pleasant space of the restaurant, with its contemporary and modern interiors, aesthetic artifacts, and curios shapes and shades, gives the property a royal look and feel for its customers. From refined shades of black to calming whites and the suspended chandeliers over the stat of the art modern bar, JIA has specially curated a menu adhering to its exemplary setting. Step into JIA and get transported to an Oriental paradise with impeccable food -the perfect setting to unwind after a long day's work, get drinks with friends, or host gatherings.

“We have reopened and relaunched JIA with a fresh modern contemporary classy vibe which compliments the new experimental Pan-Asian food at JIA in Colaba. We are excited for people who love Asian food to come in and stimulate their taste buds with a taste of the Orient,” commented Michelle.

As a prominent brand established in Pune, Mumbai and Kolkata, Effingut is all set to make its debut in the capital, with the launch of its outlet in Saket.

With its venerated craft beers, Effingut is now a name synonymous with great beer and a passion for experimentation. For the first time ever in North India, Effingut offers 16 different beers on tap, accompanied with an extensive menu of the finest delicacies. 

Effingut aims to provide Effing Good beers made with only the best, high quality ingredients. Each legendary craft beer that is brewed is made with ingredients that are painstakingly sourced from various corners of the world to ensure authenticity. There are no artificial flavours or preservatives added to the brews to ensure the Effingut vision - craft beer, in its truest sense. 

“We're excited that the journey that was started 9 years ago, on experiencing the first sip of true craft in London, has now brought us to the Capital City. After having introduced True Craft beer to hordes of consumers across Maharashtra, we're confident that people in the city will take to craft beer and join us to take this revolution forward,” shared Manu Gulati, MD at Effingut.

As of today, Effingut has a pan-India presence with three different verticals across four cities that cater to any kind of patron. This includes the Effingut 2 Go boutique stores, Effingut Bistros and The Effingut Brewpubs and Taprooms.

Effingut Breweries Pvt. Ltd. opened their doors in 2014, and completely changed the concept of drinking legendary, authentic beers. Now they are all set for their launch in the National Capital Region.

Standing tall at Kemps Corner since 1962, The Shalimar Hotel - a stalwart in India’s hospitality landscape is a known face in the South Mumbai culinary scene. And from The Shalimar Hotel now comes Cafe Calma, launched by Yash Advani, an alumnus of Les Roches Global Hospitality School (Switzerland).

In the heart of Kemps Corner, with the vista of the distant Arabian Sea, Cafe Calma is built around the ethos of sustainability and serenity.

“Cafe Calma was born not merely to give people fresher, nutritionally dense and hydroponic based super meals. While that is a vital aspect of our philosophy, the essence of Cafe Calma’s existence is - we want to craft a gastronomically honest and emotional story between our diner and every dish. This is why we seek to serve with culinary dedication and excellence - there are no shortcuts to our food served with a whole lot of love and warmth. I am very excited to see my vision come to fruition,” shared Advani.

The cafe’s menu is conceptualised to give patrons not only a gourmet experience but also to be a bridge between deliciously good tapas and great conversations. A culmination of subtle to robust to passionate flavours and palate choices, it includes an array of culinary concepts divided into Small Plates, Tartines and Large Plates. 

Cafe Calma offers an avant-garde alfresco dining experience to its patrons. The vibe here is earthy, with a colour palette of Beige, Brown and Blue. The Blue is a deliberate part of the design quotient because it is evocative and draws a scenic parallel to the ocean nearby. Meanwhile, terracotta shade lights installed in planters hang over the log wood top tables along the periphery. What’s innovative is that the cafe truly blurs the line between the inside and the outside by replacing cast iron railing with clear glass and a glass roof in one section, visually opening up the space for its guests.

Rosado, the newest luxury lounge and kitchen in Jaipur opens for guests and patrons in the Pink city.

Meaning ‘Pink’ in Spanish, the luxury lounge is set to give the party lovers and lifestyle enthusiasts of the city a global menu, specially crafted beverages, stunning skyline views and an opulent ambience.

“Rosado brings a new dimension of luxury experiences to Jaipur and we are looking at target segment coming in from Delhi and Chandigarh as well. Rosado has multiple spaces, which can cater to families, groups and party lovers as well. Our highlights are the city views from 135 ft and a global menu which our guests and patrons will love,” shared Tarun Behl, founder and Managing Director, KCCO Group.

Located on the 11th floor of Mall of Jaipur, Gandhi Path Vaishali Nagar, the 500-seater luxury lounge is at the terrace height of 135 ft.; making it Jaipur’s Tallest-Biggest- Sexiest luxury lounge. 

The space also has Indoor and outdoor seating, multiple spaces with themed décor.

“Rosado is the first step of our brand expansion beyond restaurants and dining spaces.  Jaipur is our home base and we have taken local crafts and locally sourced materials for construction, to ensure that our brand stays true to our roots and our sustainability efforts,” added Varun Behl, co-founder and Managing Director, KCCO Group.

This venture marks the entry of KCCO India Pvt Ltd, helmed by entrepreneur brothers Tarun Behl and Varun Behl into luxury hospitality and lifestyle segment.

Rosado Jaipur is a multi-level luxury lounge and kitchen that has a seating capacity to accommodate 500 guests. Spread over 55,000 sq feet, the luxury lounge is one of Jaipur’s best venues for social events, casual and fine dining with well-crafted drinks.

The lounge has a modern décor with shades of gold. Different seating venues include Rajwada section, elevated VIP section, al-fresco seating and many more sections to allure our guests.

“The menu at Rosado will be something the city has never seen before. We have brought flavours from Middle East and Morocco, South East Asia and given a modern twist to some local favourites. Especially our Magnum Platters are a must try,” pointed Jay Kay Govind, COO, KCCO Group.

KCCO India Pvt. Ltd currently has seven culinary brands under its ambit and its focus is on quality, consistency, hygiene and service across all its outlets. Apart from its restaurants, KCCO India Pvt. Ltd also operates in the space of upscale catering for groups and events. KCCO India Pvt Ltd currently has its presence in Jaipur, Ajmer, Kota, Udaipur with a total 19 number of restaurants and culinary outlets.

The globally loved independent Scottish craft beer powerhouse BrewDog opened its doors in the heart of the millennial city, Gurugram, at One Horizon Centre on 17th August 2022.

With over 110 bars across the globe, this will be  India’s third Brewdog craft beer bar and Delhi NCR’s first, where beer fans can look forward to over 24 epic craft beers from BrewDog and guest breweries from all around India.

The 2500sq. ft. space is marked by the BrewDog interiors of exposed brick and industrial edge. The high ceilings add to its advantage and offer diners a vibrant al fresco seating space. The signature graffiti octopus is sprawled across a wall, dominating its visual effect. 

Known for its dog-friendly space, this one is going to be no different. Paw-parents are welcome with their pets and the crew at BrewDog will make sure that they have an equally good time.

Chef Gaurav Gidwani, the F & B Director of BrewDog India, has put together a menu that beautifully amalgamates the BrewDog-style food with local favorites to accompany all the bold beverage flavors.

“The choice of One Horizon Centre is very strategic as it is accessible to a diverse and evolved audience. The space carries the signature vibe and ambiance of BrewDog that has made it a favorite across the world,” added Pratekk Chturvedi, COO of BrewDog India.

BrewDog’s India foray has been made possible by Aloha International BrewPub under the leadership of Chairman Rohit Jain. With two successful outlets in Mumbai, the brand has recently signed to open 25 pubs in the country. Internationally BrewDog has made waves in the last decade, with over 130,000 crowdfunded shareholders, 5 breweries on 3 continents, and distribution to over 80 markets.

To put it mildly, the restaurant industry has been through a remarkable transformation over the last decade. When you take a step back, you are amazed at the marked change in the way customers order food these days. It was not such a long time ago when a number of restaurants shied away from tech, and prioritised dine-in & takeaways over online ordering. Today, managing online & offline workflows seamlessly is at the forefront of operational objectives for restaurants in order for them to succeed.

The driving force behind this transformation has been the widespread acceptance of online delivery as the go-to method of ordering food from your favourite establishments. At the click of a button, consumers can now explore restaurants across the city and order their favourite dishes. As the adoption of food apps increased, orders began flowing into restaurants at all times of the day and business boomed.

Restauranteurs welcomed the increase in order volume expecting higher revenues and profits. However, this led to an increase in complexity that no one was really prepared for. Restaurants, who had traditionally built workflows around dine-in, now rapidly had to transform the way they worked to support online delivery. Chaos ensued as they had to balance serving dine-in customers, checking stock and updating menu items, packing for delivery, managing multiple online dashboards, and much much more!

To manage operations online, restaurant owners had to manage orders from food aggregators on different tablets leading to a term that became popular in the industry - ‘tablet chaos’! The need of the hour was an integration solution that enabled a restaurant to manage orders from all their channels on a single dashboard.

Restaurateurs were now faced with a choice. They had to either modernise their operations to meet the demands of this fast-paced environment, or run the risks of not adapting to the changes around them. When the pandemic struck, the choice was taken out of their hands to a large extend and they had to rely on a central canvas that connected their POS to online food delivery partners.

This central canvas enabled for multiple things - it allowed you to sync your existing POS with an integration partner and elevate it using features such as real-time menu updates, instant order relay with aggregators, stock management, and multi-store control. Instead of looking at multiple screens to understand what was happening in the business, it enabled all orders to flow into one dashboard, giving you a 360-degree view of your business. Since time is money in the online world, it was important to be powered by a tech partner that had a good track record with a high uptime percentage.

With a reliable tech partner, gone were the days of cancellations, and failed orders. Advanced analytics enabled restaurants to understand the way their customers behaved and to make changes quickly in order to ensure expectations were met. While a solid integration ensured that your operations were running smoothly, you could once again focus on attempting to delight your customers.

Tech companies that are at the forefront of innovation are now building unified architecture that can seamlessly integrate with the various tools a restaurant uses in order to drive efficiencies. Integrating online channles into the POS is just the start as restaurants are now looking to control their entire business on one device - from running marketing campaigns to target customers, managing suppliers, using advanced analytics, and tallying accounts.

Powerful integrations enabled simplicity into a world that was very complex, tough to manage, had a high chance of human error, and one that was definitely very time consuming. As we move towards automation in various facets of a restaurtant’s operations, there’s one thing we can be sure of, that there’s no going back to the old way of working and that technology is here to stay.

Nest Jaipur has appointed Navneet Shekhawaat as the Head Chef of this exquisite luxurious boutique hotel.

Bringing on the table his expertise, Navneet is all set to oversee the culinary management of the resort property located in the outskirts of Jaipur.

He will also take care the F&B production, kitchen planning, and F&B cost-management of Nest Jaipur. In addition to these, his responsibilities include important tasks such as managing the chefs and staff of the kitchenette, approving food before it goes to the customers’ table and supervising the preparation of a variety of scrumptious dishes.

“We are pleased to appoint Navneet as the Head chef as his vast experience as a corporate chef will help us taking our F&B offerings to the next level. I am sure that he will implement both his skills as a food expert and business strategist to support Jaipur Nest to create a unique space in this highly competitive market,” shared Sachit Gupta, Managing Director, Nest Jaipur.

In his vast career of 19 years, he was associated with big hotels such as Babylon Group of Hotels, Taj Group of Hotels, Shangri-La Group of Hotels, Sarovar Group of Hotels and Royal Orchid.

“I am happy to join Nest Jaipur. After working with big hotel chains, I am sure that serving domestic and international guests will be thrilling in Pink City. I look forward to working with the talented F&B team and contributing to the business growth of Nest Jaipur,” he shared.

As head chef of the property, he will also be responsible for culinary staff’s training, curating menus and layout for price, signature dishes creation, performance assessment, budgeting and cost control with effective output.

Casual dining chain Barbeque-Nation Hospitality Ltd on Monday reported a net profit of Rs 16.02 crore for the first quarter ended June 30, 2022.

The restaurant chain had clocked a net loss Rs 43.85 crore in the April-June period a year ago, Barbeque-Nation Hospitality said in a regulatory filings.

Its revenue from operations was up three-fold to Rs 314.86 crore during the quarter under review as against a low base of the corresponding quarter, when sales were impacted.

In the April-June quarter of the last fiscal, Barbeque-Nation Hospitality's revenue from operations was at Rs 101.97 crore.

Barbeque Nation Hospitality total expenses were at Rs 244,41 crore.

Shares of Barbeque-Nation Hospitality Ltd were at Rs 1,187.95 on BSE, up 1.97 per cent from the previous close.

India’s fastest growing hospitality chain VRO Hospitality is all set to acquire 90,000 square feet of real estate as it expands nationally with new footprints in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Goa, Ooty, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Kochi.

VRO Hospitality, which owns more than ten popular fine dining brands, lounge bars, and cafés, plans to open 27 new outlets across Bengaluru, Mumbai, Goa, Ooty, and Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Kochi.

VRO Hospitality plans to take 50,000 square feet on lease in Bengaluru, 4,000 square feet in Ooty, 10,000 square feet in Kolkata, 8,000 square feet in Mumbai, and 3,0000 square feet in Kochi, 8,000 square feet in Hyderabad and 5,000 square feet in Goa.

Started by two 29-year-olds, Dawn Thomas and Safdhar Adoor, and experienced restaurateur Sharath Rice, almost a decade back, VRO Hospitality owns popular brands like Mirage, Taki Taki, Cafe Noir, Badmaash, One Night in Bangkok (ONIB), Plan B, Hangover and Tycoons

With the next expansion drive, VRO Hospitality will grow its current portfolio to 50 outlets by the end of the year. 

“Our expansion plan represents one of the most important milestones in our history. Over the next six months, we will be introducing multiple new brand options in the markets of Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa, Ooty, Kochi, and Kolkata. The coming few months present us with an opportunity to scale rapidly as we chase growth and profitability,” shared Rice.

As a part of the new expansion plan, VRO Hospitality will open new outlets of Taki Taki, Cafe Noir, Badmaash, One Night in Bangkok, Hangover, Plan B, and Tycoons.

Bengaluru will have 16 new outlets, while Ooty will witness the opening of the legendary Tycoons. In Bengaluru, seven new outlets of iconic French café would be opened, three Hangover, two Plan B, three Badmaash, and one ONIB. VRO will also enter Kerala by opening a new Café Noir in Kochi.

“Post the first lockdown, VRO Hospitality saw an opportunity to scale, grow, and restructure the organization completely, raise funds and acquire new brands. Now is an opportune moment to take these brands to newer markets. These new outlets will also help us to run 50-60 cloud kitchens and build a unique food and beverage platform with offline and online experiences,” added Thomas.

VRO is also set to bring four of its popular brands to Kolkata as it aims to chart a new course for its success. They have already identified properties in Park Street, Ballygunge, and Salt Lake to launch Plan B, Hangover, Badmaash, and its fine dining pan-Asian restaurant Taki Taki.

After successfully opening Café Noir and Taki Taki in Mumbai last year, VRO continues its expansion drive by opening Plan B, Hangover, and ONIB in Bandra. Goa which saw the opening of Mirage, will also have a new ONIB.

The Westin Pune has launched a new restaurant- Asilo Pune that is exclusively set within the scenic lush green haven.

Marriott’s second Asilo is here to delight guests with premium top-notch gourmet experiences.

“Asilo has been an integral part of Mumbai’s nightlife for years, and we’re thrilled to bring that same energy to The Westin Pune,” shared Sudeep Sharma, General Manager, The Westin Pune. 

Asilo Pune is a golden offering amongst tropical environments that offers breathtaking views of the city while you sip on signature cocktails and unwind into the night with curated gourmet food offerings. 

The menu is carefully crafted to offer light, healthy, fresh flavors that combine Mediterranean food with an Asian flare. 

Some of the signature dishes include robata grill delicacies such as Tamarind Prawns and Caramelized Chicken Skewers, Avocado Maki and Truffle Manchego Bites. Each item on the menu, whether it is the Five Herb Ravioli or Jerk Spiced Chicken is curated by Chef Cyrus Irani, Culinary Director, Asilo to pair perfectly with the wide range of cocktails offered at Asilo. 

Asilo Beverage menu has been designed with the compilation of best of Tequila, Gins and homemade infusions. The Asilo Signatures are the highlights of the cocktail menu. 

Inspired by art & nature, and the arrival of spring, the interiors are designed with gorgeous cherry blossoms by Amey Dahanukar to reflect the process of renewal and spark newness.

“Asilo Pune is the newest haute destination with its blend of suave, sexy and chic. It’s a charming space where one can watch the most glorious sunsets while sipping leisurely on a drink,” said Amit Jambotkar, Director Operations, JSM.

With an ambition of a Pan-India presence, the company is on an expansion drive, targets to open 1,000 new outlets across the country

Noida-based beverage manufacturing company AWSM Ltd, which currently owns six popular brands and already launched two of them, The Clinque a premium class (Micro Brewery, Bar & Lounges) in Noida and another is The Beer House Café (Bar & cafe) in Ghaziabad is on expansion spree.

“Based on the new launching plan, we expect to have workforce of around 60,000 people in the next 6 months”, said Dr. Piyush Dwivedi, Chairman of AWSM Ltd. by adding that we stepped into F&B chain with two brands from our existing business and currently we are expecting F&B segment to account for 50% of total business.

The company is on a mission to open 1,000 more outlets and venture into new markets like Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, Goa, Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, and Chandigarh.

By the end of 2022, AWSM Ltd plans to launch new brand outlets Rang Utsav (fine dining Restaurant), 1000 Cafe (Indian multinational chain of coffee houses), Club 1000, House of Barrels (Bar & Lounges).

“Currently, we focus on growth and expansion through a FOCO model. We are expecting to gain new momentum while launching some of our new brands like Rang Utsav, 1000 Cafe, Club 1000 and House of Barrels in the vibrant market of India. Overall, we plan to launch 1,000 new outlets in every urban area in the coming year,” added Ayush Dwivedi, Director of AWSM Ltd.

AWSM Ltd’s expansion plan is in line with the group’s aim to boost the employment opportunity of around 2 lakh people in the next 12 months.

If you want to experience the rich culinary heritage of India, then the impeccable North-Indian and Mughlai delicacies of Masala Connection will leave you wanting more.

Masala Connection, a modern restaurant & bar based near Rajouri garden is coming up with the best traditional food and traditional music.

With live kitchen trends ever-evolving post-pandemic, masala connection has a live kitchen option where the team will be having a live shawarma counter ie the guest can blissfully enjoy eating the exotic, conventional, and freshly produced shawarmas.

“We at masala connections have plans to make your heavy weekdays sorted with live ghazals, soothing sufi songs & yes you heard it right with live ghazals every day. We take pride to bring live ghazals back to the Indian culture and are happy to announce masala connection will be the new-age place to bring both traditional food and traditional singing back at the same time” shared Aman Sahani & Mayank Gupta, Founders at Masala Connection.

With the tagline Dine…Drink…Chill, it has a rich interior & classy wallpaper done, the place is pretty charming both during the day & enamoring during the evening for you and your family to relish around.

The restaurant also has a (PDR) private dining room covered with royal pink color, arches, and well-furnished furniture and can cater approx 14 people.

Travel start-up Moonstone Hammock has opened its Buddha Café in Alibaug.

The café was earlier present at Pawna, Karjat and now, Alibaug, coupled with camping and glamping experiences alongwith with movie nights, live singing and one-of-a-kind workshops.

These experiences are further peppered with a culinary delight at the cute, Boho-style cafe called 'Buddha Cafe'.

“The pandemic hit all of us hard in different ways. The need to make the most out of life while we can is where we all intersect. With open access to the Buddha Cafe, we aim to not only spread the culinary magic of Moonstone Hammock wide and far, but also look forward to connecting more with campers, glamp-ers and now, foodies,” shared Pradeep Singh Chaudhary, the Co-Founder of Moonstone Hammock.

Dine with a view of the Ulhas River in Karjat, the Tungi Fort and Pawna Lake in Pawna or the Awas Beach in Alibaug while you gorge on piping hot, lip-smacking food right from Hummus and Pita Bread to Lasagnas and Brownies, and more.

With free parking on site, Moonstone Hammock curated a wholesome experience with its Buddha Cafe and Mother Nature.

Moonstone Hammock is a travel camping startup, was founded by Megh Doshi, Pradeep Singh Choudhary, Rohit Dube, Abhishek Dabholkar and Pratik Jain, in January 2016. They are currently located in three places Shelu in Karjat, Thakursai in Pawna and Awas in Alibaug.

Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR Airport) is all set to welcome guests with the newly unveiled lounges.

Aptly named 080 Lounge, the trunk dial code of Bengaluru, the luxurious world-class lounges strongly establish BLR Airport’s connection and dedication to the city.

Not just the name, its design aspects, including art, artisans, heritage, and flora also reflect the rich culture of the city.

Lush greenery has been artistically incorporated throughout the lounges, reaffirming Bengaluru’s reputation as the ‘garden city’.

“We are constantly looking at ways to enhance the journeys of passengers and surpass their expectations. Our customers are going to be delighted by the world-class amenities and services at the 080 lounges. We are proud to be bringing this exciting brand with unique design sensibilities, creating a truly innovative and unique space tailored to the needs of passengers.” said Hari Marar, MD & CEO, Bangalore International Airport Limited.

Operated by Travel Food Services (TFS), the lounges are open for passengers who are affiliated with loyalty programs, partner airlines, and for all patrons who wish to access the services.

The 080 Transit Hotel, a niche boutique hotel, is an endeavour to provide a comfortable and convenient accommodation option for transit passengers. It offers a flexible hourly rate payment offering, which can be leveraged by flyers if they want to relax between long layovers.

The lounges will offer a top-notch culinary experience, ably managed by professionals led by Celebrity Chef Abhijit Saha. Both the Domestic and International departure lounges will adhere to sustainability principles as part of BIAL’s long-standing commitment to a more sustainable future. Food preparations in the lounges will be done using fresh, local, artisanal ingredients and chemical-free greens and vegetables grown in villages near the airport.

AD Singh’s Olive Group of restaurants has entered into Metaverse by partnering with Hey Hey Global.

Hey Hey Global is an online platform powering experiential engagement between celebrities, influencers and creators globally via new-age technology where fans can discover and buy creator-powered NFTs.

“Since we launched The Olive Group over 20 years ago, we’ve been fortunate to have always had our finger on the pulse of what our customers want and like. We’ve introduced many industry ‘firsts,’ and now, we’re excited to see what our integration into the metaverse means, both for our customers and for us as a Group. We look forward to welcoming you all to the Oliverse,” shared AD Singh.

The Olive Group will become one of the first few Indian restaurant groups to offer NFTs which will also include the groups’ restaurants offering one-of-a-kind physical and virtual experiences to its guests.

In the works are plans to engage with Olive’s wider community, via NFT and the Metaverse. 

The event, that marked the launch of the Olive NFT gallery, will begin in Mumbai and travel to other Olive Bar & Kitchen properties across the country. 

The NFT Gallery Showcase

In signature Olive style, the NFT gallery will bring NFT art – which has so far been limited to the digital world – into our physical world. Collaborating with traditional creators as well as the new wave of digital web3 creators, the NFT gallery is an art exhibit firmly belonging in 2022, which showcases this new art form taking the world by storm. Come experience digital art spanning various different mediums and styles.