Lite Bite Foods partners with IRCTC to offer delicacies in train

Miss Margot draws inspiration from a time when evenings were unhurried and centered around conversation, quality drinks, and company. Designed for guests who value nuance, restraint, and old-world charm, the space is crafted to bring back the understated experience of a night spent at ease.

At the center of the concept is Kishore D.F., a figure well-known in Bombay’s hospitality scene for shaping some of its most culturally significant venues, including Seijo and the Soul Dish and The Tanjore Tiffin Room. Having been instrumental in the city’s original lounge movement during the 1990s and early 2000s, Kishore brings a deep understanding of that era, reflected in Miss Margot’s confidence, elegance, and attention to detail.

He is joined by partner Dimi Lezinska, a globally recognized name in spirits and hospitality, whose career spans London’s most iconic bars and global events, including the Academy Awards, Cannes, British Academy of Television Arts, and the Toronto Film Festival. Lezinska is known for his precise, balanced approach to mixology, focusing on honest ingredients and technique. Completing the team is Chef Parth Purandare, whose menu combines modern European and Continental flavors with Japanese techniques. His style is rooted in familiar continental traditions but with layered and nuanced execution.

At Miss Margot, the cocktail program leads the experience. Each drink is created with purpose and a clear understanding of flavor. Among the signatures is Miss Margot, the namesake cocktail featuring gin, citrus, morello cherry, and maraschino, balancing clarity and texture. The Classic Martini emphasizes precision in a clear blend of gin and dry vermouth. The Coral Gibson combines dry vermouth, gin, radish pickle, and crab for a fresh, savory profile. For celebratory moments, Only Fans pays homage to Douglas Ankrah’s creation with vodka, passionfruit, vanilla sparkling wine, and a playful presentation. The Inquisitive Cat layers Jose Cuervo Reposado Tequila, prawn-infused Aperol, grapefruit elements, lime, and blood orange kombucha for a bold yet elegant effect. The Swaggermaster mixes Flor de Caña 12-year-old rum, sherry, cherry liqueur, and amaro for a layered, confident drink.

The food menu is designed to complement the bar program without overshadowing it. Highlights include Tom Yum Gambas, combining prawns and sea bream in broth with mantou buns; Tuna Negimaki with citrus velouté, pomme purée, and crispy leeks; Goat Cheese and Beet Salad with pickled beets, Rechado cream, and rice crisps; Hay Smoked Salmon with gentleman’s relish, citrus soy, and fish roe; and Deconstructed Chicken Wings with sambal buffalo sauce and shaved Roquefort.

Miss Margot occupies 4,000 square feet and accommodates up to 128 guests. The interiors, designed by Shabnam Gupta of The Orange Lane, combine intimacy and elegance using velvet, brushed gold, mirrors, and warm lighting. Key elements include a candlelit entryway, a long central bar, chandeliers, and varied seating options, including a community table. Parisian-style mirrors with French graffiti add to the signature teal-emerald glow, creating a cinematic but approachable atmosphere.

Every detail at Miss Margot—from its menu structure to its lighting—is deliberate. The team brings decades of experience in hospitality, ensuring a balance between craft and accessibility. In a competitive and often noisy market, Miss Margot positions itself as a thoughtful, restrained alternative that values substance over spectacle.

After establishing a strong presence at The Manor and Khan Market, entrepreneur Shivan Gupta and Chef Maxime Montay have opened the third outlet of Cafe Monique in Gurugram. Positioned as a spacious French-style bistro inside a corporate tower, the new location aims to tap into the city’s young, dynamic, and experimental customer base.

Shivan Gupta, entrepreneur, said, "We've always had a strong clientele in Gurugram who've appreciated what we've brought to the table. Gurugram is an interesting market as people here are young, dynamic and experimental, besides being open to trying out new things and experiences. This location nestled within a corporate tower pulls an incredible mix of crowds itching to explore new experiences."

Cafe Monique in Gurugram maintains the design and brand ethos seen in the earlier locations—blue hues inspired by Côte d'Azur, Parisian-style chairs, lavender on tables, and family recipes handed down from Chef Maxime’s grandmother, Monique. However, the new outlet also introduces a wider breakfast and brunch offering, catering to longer, more informal meals typical of French dining culture.

Chef Maxime noted, "Having already proved our mettle with authentic and signature South of France desserts and delicacies served in our first two cafes, we always wanted to diversify into a wholesome brunch menu. From Berry Parfait bowls to homemade granola to savouries with a twist, it's a completely brand new menu where the soul of the food remains the same but we've added many healthy options with ingredients like matcha."

The interiors of the Gurugram outlet feature double-height ceilings, French-themed wall art, and new branded merchandise including handcrafted Monique totes. 

Menu Highlights

The expanded menu focuses on breakfast, brunch, and pre-dinner options with an emphasis on both traditional French fare and healthier alternatives.

• Breakfast & Brunch: Customers can choose from egg-based and eggless dishes, including quiches, savoury cakes, sandwiches, croissants, crepes, and tartines. Standout items include Monique’s baked eggs, poached eggs with aioli yogurt, Benedict eggs served on brioche, and a variety of omelettes and scrambled eggs prepared with French techniques.
• Eggless options include La Quiche Francaise, La Quiche Espagnole, and savoury cakes like Le Cake Mediterranean and Le Cake Anglaise. Sandwich offerings range from vegetarian Provencal with tapenade and feta to Belge with chicken ham and Gouda.
• Salads & Sides: Salads feature ingredients like mango, avocado, melon, bocconcini, chickpeas, and classic Nicoise elements. A wide array of vegetarian, egg-based, and meat add-ons (including smoked salmon, chorizo, and Parma ham) are available.
• Desserts: French pastries, eclairs, macarons, profiteroles, crepes, and tea cakes are offered daily, including seasonal creations like a mango-pistachio dessert. 

Chef Maxime said, "Since mango is the fruit of the season, our newest dessert alchemises fresh mangoes with a rich pistachio paste. Our Iced Mango Matcha Latte has become quite popular as it's quite an interesting and unexpected combination."

• Beverages: The cafe continues to serve Chef Maxime’s signature French hot chocolate and an extensive coffee menu including Espresso, cortado, macchiato, and specialty lattes. Matcha-based drinks, kombucha, mocktails, and smoothies round out the beverage offerings.

By opening in a corporate tower in Gurugram, Cafe Monique aims to reach a professional audience that values both quality and experience. The operating hours from 8 am to 11 pm support its all-day dining concept, designed to flow seamlessly from breakfast through late evening.

The kitchen continues to focus on seasonality, traditional recipes, and adding creative modern twists, aligning with current consumer preferences for authenticity combined with innovation. Shivan Gupta and Chef Maxime’s decision to diversify the menu while preserving the brand’s core identity reflects a clear strategy to grow their niche in India’s premium casual dining segment — offering both familiarity and novelty to their clientele.

Cosy Box Mumbai has introduced a new Monsoon Menu curated for the entire month of July, aligning with seasonal demand for warm, flavour-forward offerings during the city's peak rainy season. The limited-time menu is led by Chef Sedat Firtagolu and blends Turkish culinary roots with Japanese grilling techniques, offering a global dining experience anchored in monsoon comfort.

The seasonal selection includes dishes like charred Izakaya-style broccoli, fiery seafood rolls, and Indonesian fish skewers. Chef Firtagolu’s Turkish background is reflected in items like the New Zealand Lamb Shish, where lamb cubes are grilled Turkish-style and served with burnt chili dip and lavash. The Mock Duck Souk Taco and Shichimi Yuzu Bhutta further the global street-food approach, while vegan alternatives are available upon request.

Chef Sedat Firtagolu said, “The menu draws inspiration from the deep comfort that rainy days demand. It’s where Turkish expertise meets Japanese grilling mastery.”

Cosy Box has also introduced a monsoon-themed cocktail menu. Highlights include Cherry Noir, which blends whiskey, Amaro, and maraschino liqueur, and the Monsoon Espresso, a seasonal twist on the classic coffee cocktail. Ingredients like jamun and poached pears are used to maintain a connection with monsoon flavours. The restaurant has intentionally excluded desserts from the menu, focusing instead on grilled items and spiced beverages.

With this launch, Cosy Box aims to offer a differentiated hospitality experience for Mumbai’s monsoon dining crowd, spotlighting global techniques and seasonal ingredients.

Tim Hortons India has introduced a new range of matcha-based beverages across all its outlets nationwide, marking a strategic addition to its menu in response to the rising demand for health-oriented drinks in the hospitality sector. The launch brings ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha to Indian consumers in multiple formats, available in both dairy and non-dairy options.

The new offerings include Iced Mango Matcha, Iced Strawberry Matcha, Iced Spanish Matcha, and Spanish Vanilla Matcha Latte. Each beverage has been formulated to cater to evolving consumer preferences for premium ingredients and customisation, aligning with global trends in café-style beverages.

Tarun Jain, CEO of Tim Hortons India said, “We’re excited to introduce Matcha, a global favourite, reimagined the Tim Hortons way. Our guests are increasingly drawn to mindful indulgence and love trying new formats. This range captures the perfect balance between wellness and taste, delivering a drink that’s both comforting and cool. We feel it’s not just a drink; it’s become a vibe.”

All drinks are prepared using certified bio-organic ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha, reinforcing the brand's focus on ingredient quality. The move is part of Tim Hortons’ broader strategy to tap into the functional beverage segment in India’s urban café market.

Available for dine-in and delivery through platforms like Swiggy and Zomato, the matcha line is now accessible to customers in cities including Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. By expanding into the matcha category, Tim Hortons is positioning itself to cater to the demand for beverages that offer both flavour and perceived wellness benefits, which continue to gain traction among Indian consumers.

Rebel Foods, the cloud kitchen operator behind brands like Faasos and Behrouz Biryani, is reportedly in talks to sell its majority stake in premium dessert brand Smoor. Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the company has been exploring potential buyers for its approximately 57 percent holding in Smoor, though no deal has materialized yet.

This development comes as Rebel Foods undertakes operational restructuring, including the closure of its offices in Gurugram and Bengaluru. The company stated that it is consolidating its teams in Mumbai to enable faster decision-making and improve internal collaboration.

While responding to queries, a Rebel Foods spokesperson maintained that the company is still supporting Smoor and continues to invest in its long-term growth. “Over the past six months, we have made significant long-term investments in Smoor, including the commissioning of a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility,” the spokesperson said.

Rebel Foods acquired its majority stake in Smoor in April 2022, valuing the brand at over $50 million. At the time, the acquisition aligned with Rebel’s broader plan to evolve into a brand aggregator in the food and beverage sector, with a commitment to invest up to $150 million in acquiring and scaling multiple brands. However, the company has not disclosed how much of that capital has been deployed so far.

Despite initial growth targets, Smoor’s performance has fallen short in key markets like Mumbai. In FY24, the brand posted a 16 percent increase in revenue, reaching Rs 149 crore, according to data from Tracxn. However, losses widened to Rs 19 crore from Rs 17 crore in FY23 and Rs 10 crore in FY22.

The underperformance has raised concerns internally, especially as Rebel prepares for a potential public listing. One person familiar with the matter said the company is under pressure to streamline operations and focus on high-performing assets before making its market debut.

Rebel Foods closed a Rs 1,750 crore ($210 million) funding round in December, led by Singapore’s Temasek, maintaining its previous valuation. Financial filings with the Registrar of Companies show that Rebel’s net loss narrowed by 42 percent to Rs 378 crore in FY24, while revenue rose 19 percent to Rs 1,420 crore.

Meanwhile, competitor Curefoods, backed by Binny Bansal, has filed draft papers for a Rs 800 crore IPO. Curefoods operates several digital-first food brands such as EatFit, Sharief Bhai Biryani, Nomad Pizza, and Krispy Kreme and is currently the second largest player in India’s internet-first cloud kitchen space after Rebel Foods.

In a recent LinkedIn post, Rebel Foods founder and CEO Jaydeep Barman shared that the company plans to acquire, invest in, or partner with restaurant brands that have reached a "minimum scale," as part of its continued growth strategy.

Mumbai-based Travel Food Services (TFS), a key player in India’s airport-focused food and beverage segment, opened its initial public offering (IPO) for public subscription on July 7, 2025. At the upper price band of Rs 1,100 per share, the company aims to raise Rs 2,000 crore through an offer for sale (OFS) of 18.2 million equity shares. There is no fresh issue component in this IPO.

Ahead of the IPO launch, TFS secured Rs 600 crore from anchor investors at the upper price band. The anchor book includes participation from ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund, Axis Mutual Fund, Kotak Mutual Fund, Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Fidelity, and the Government Pension Fund Global, as per a filing on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

The IPO is structured with up to 50 percent of the offer reserved for qualified institutional buyers (QIBs), at least 35 percent for retail investors, and at least 15 percent for non-institutional investors. The offer is being made through the book-building process.

The IPO price band has been set between Rs 1,045 and Rs 1,100 per share. The lot size is 13 shares, meaning a retail investor must invest a minimum of Rs 14,300 for one lot. A retail investor can bid for up to 13 lots or 169 shares, which would amount to Rs 1,85,900.

Unlisted shares of TFS have seen modest demand in the grey market ahead of the IPO opening. According to sources tracking grey market activity, shares were trading at Rs 1,130 each, reflecting a premium of Rs 30 or 2.7 percent over the upper band.

The IPO will remain open for bidding until July 9, 2025. The basis of allotment is expected to be finalized on July 10, 2025. The equity shares are scheduled to be listed on both the BSE and NSE on July 14, 2025.

MUFG Intime India, formerly known as Link Intime, has been appointed as the registrar for the IPO. Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, HSBC Securities and Capital Markets (India), ICICI Securities, and Batlivala and Karani Securities are the book-running lead managers.

Brokerage firm SBI Securities has recommended subscribing to the IPO, citing TFS’s strong operational footprint in the Indian airport ecosystem. The company operates QSR outlets across major Indian airports and holds concessions at upcoming airports in Greater Noida and Navi Mumbai. The business portfolio includes a mix of third-party international brands like KFC, Pizza Hut, Subway, Bikanervala, and Third Wave Coffee, along with proprietary concepts such as Cafeccino, Curry Kitchen, Idli.com, and Dilli Streat.

According to SBI Securities, “At the upper price band of Rs 1,100, the stock is likely to trade at 39.9x FY25 EPS, which is at a discount to listed QSR companies. TFS has superior margins and return ratios along with a strong balance sheet. We recommend investors to ‘Subscribe’ to the issue at the cut-off price.”

As of March 2025, TFS operated 442 travel QSR outlets across India and Malaysia and managed 37 airport lounges in India, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. The company holds a 26 percent share in the Indian airport travel QSR market and a 45 percent share in the Indian airport lounge segment by revenue.

FES Cafe, positioned as India’s first scalable dessert-led cafe chain, has raised Rs 3 crore in a seed funding round led by entrepreneur Aakash Anand through his venture studio, Wolfpack Labs. The funds will support the brand’s expansion strategy, which includes its upcoming launch in Delhi this July and a long-term goal of operating over 100 outlets by the end of FY 2027.

Founded with a focus on dessert-forward offerings, FES Cafe operates on a 100 percent eggless menu. The brand aims to redefine cafe culture by making desserts the central attraction. It currently offers a range of cookies, puddings, cakes made with alternative ingredients, and other seasonal sweet items, alongside a selection of savoury products. Its physical spaces are tailored to appeal to Gen Z and Millennial consumers looking for community-driven environments.

FES has reported strong early performance metrics:

• 3X revenue growth in the first three months
• 29.8 percent EBITDA at the store level by month four
• 347 percent increase in delivery revenue within 90 days
• Over 10,000 monthly orders as of June 2025
• EBITDA-positive at the company level in just four months
• Higher-than-average revenue per square foot, supported by repeat business and operational efficiency

Vidur Mayor, Founder and CEO of FES Cafe said, “FES was born out of one belief: desserts deserve better. For decades, desserts have been an afterthought in India’s Cafes. We wanted to flip the script, to put gooey cookies, innovative sweets, and indulgence right at the center of culture. With Wolfpack’s backing, we’re building not just a Cafe chain, but a national network of dessert-first third spaces, powered by community, creativity, and a whole lot of freshly baked joy.”

In addition to capital, Wolfpack Labs brings expertise in product innovation, operations, franchising, and brand development. Aakash Anand, lead investor, stated, “FES is building what India’s been waiting for: a true community Cafe brand with the buzz of a Central Perk and the business rigor to back it up.”

Upcoming Expansion Plans:

• Delhi entry in July 2025
• Second outlet in Gurgaon to open in a corporate park by September 2025
• Jaipur outlet scheduled for December 2025
• Aiming for 100+ stores by FY 2027 across Tier l and Tier ll markets
• Adopting a hybrid COCO (Company-Owned Company-Operated) and FICO (Franchise-Invested Company-Operated) model
• Developing delivery-first hubs and packaged dessert formats for increased market reach

As the brand scales, it plans to balance speed of growth with localized experience and brand identity, positioning itself within India’s evolving hospitality and quick-service cafe segment.

Yum! Brands is reportedly exploring the possibility of merging its two key franchise partners in India, Devyani International and Sapphire Foods India, according to The Economic Times. Both companies are listed and operate within the quick service restaurant (QSR) segment, managing popular chains such as KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell in India and select international markets.

Sapphire Foods currently operates KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell outlets, while Devyani International also runs KFC and Pizza Hut restaurants and is considered the largest Yum! Brands franchisee in India.

Sources cited in the ET report suggest that Yum! Brands is facilitating discussions that may lead to Sapphire Foods merging into Devyani International. One potential scenario under review includes Devyani International acquiring Sapphire’s franchise rights for KFC and Pizza Hut or consolidating all of KFC’s Indian outlets under its brand umbrella.

A person familiar with the matter indicated that a potential share swap ratio of 1:3 is being considered, meaning Sapphire shareholders would receive one Devyani International share for every three they hold. This detail, however, has not been independently confirmed by ET.

Devyani International, part of Ravi Jaipuria’s RJ Corp, saw its shares rise by 2.50 percent on Friday morning, trading at Rs 171.15. The company, a constituent of the BSE 500 index, holds a market capitalization of Rs 20,678 crore. RJ Corp also controls Varun Beverages.

Meanwhile, Sapphire Foods, which also features on the BSE 500 index, recorded a 9.50 percent surge in its stock price, reaching Rs 351. The company has a market valuation of Rs 11,274 crore.

As of March 31, 2025, Devyani International operated more than 2,030 outlets across India, Thailand, Nigeria, and Nepal. Sapphire Foods managed 963 restaurants across India and Sri Lanka under the KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell brands.

A possible merger could significantly alter the competitive landscape of India’s QSR industry, creating a single entity under Yum! Brands' franchise network with a broader geographic and operational footprint.

Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport has introduced a new weekly food and beverage experience, The Great Together Brunch. Hosted every Sunday from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM at the hotel’s all-day dining venue, Together and Co, this offering aims to capture weekend dining traffic by providing a diverse menu curated for a broad demographic.

Designed as a multi-generational dining format, the brunch includes interactive food stations, live cooking counters, and a kids’ zone. Highlights of the culinary spread include a pizza station, DIY taco bar, chaat corner, stir-fry and pasta stations, along with a globally inspired main course.

The dessert section features international pastries alongside Indian sweets. Complementing the meal are mocktails and coolers, designed to enhance the non-alcoholic beverage experience and appeal to a family-oriented audience.

The property is targeting both families and individuals with this offering, aiming to convert Sunday brunch into a routine occasion. Through this weekly format, Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai positions itself within the growing hospitality trend of experiential dining that blends food, entertainment, and social atmosphere.

Quick-service restaurant chain Samosa Singh has announced a complete brand refresh, including a new logo, redesigned menu, and updated packaging aimed at aligning with current consumer preferences. The rebranding is part of the company’s strategic push to appeal to a broader and younger audience while maintaining its core focus on quality and innovation in Indian street food.

The revised menu features a mix of traditional offerings with new additions tailored to Gen Z tastes, integrating healthier ingredients and mindful cooking techniques. According to the company, this update is aimed at balancing modern consumer expectations with the nostalgic appeal of classic Indian snacks.

The updated visual identity includes a cleaner, globally oriented logo with a bolder moustache element, a design choice that nods to the brand’s cultural roots while adopting modern, streamlined typography. This rebranding extends across all customer touchpoints including packaging, digital platforms, and merchandise.

The company has also introduced a new packaging design that emphasizes sustainability and visual appeal. The updated look is intended to attract Gen Z customers who value aesthetic, eco-friendly packaging and shareable, social-media-friendly experiences.

Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder of Samosa Singh stated, “We are excited to unveil not just a new look and menu, but a renewed commitment to what Samosa Singh truly stands for, food that is healthier, tastier, and crispier, without losing its soul. Samosa Singh’s refreshed look is a reflection of our journey, our learnings, and our promise to keep evolving with our customers.”

Shikhar Veer Singh, Co-Founder added, “This change isn’t just cosmetic, it is a bold step towards building a brand that is more thoughtful, relatable, and future-ready. With a strong focus on sustainability, aesthetics, and storytelling, we are confident that our refreshed identity will strike a chord with both loyal fans and a new generation of snack lovers.”

The brand refresh comes as Samosa Singh aims to strengthen its position in the QSR market by staying relevant amid shifting consumer expectations and increased competition in the Indian food and beverage sector.

Sorbo, a restaurant in Gurgaon, has launched a seasonal offering titled the Golden Hours Summer Menu, designed to highlight Mediterranean-inspired dishes and locally sourced Indian ingredients. This limited-edition menu will be available daily during the restaurant’s “golden hours.”

The new menu emphasizes light dishes suited for summer dining, featuring items such as Watermelon and Truffle Salad prepared with 12-hour compressed watermelon, feta, rocket, sesame, and truffle dressing; Smashed Burrata with Grilled Peach paired with candied hazelnuts and cherry tomatoes; and Spicy Ricotta and Crispy Focaccia layered with pesto, extra virgin olive oil, and pine nuts. The Mango Chicken Karaage served with king chilli dip and Pommery mayo adds a spicier option to the offering.

The beverage list includes seasonal cocktails with bold profiles. Notable options include the Mango Picante, made with Don Julio Blanco, jalapeños, and mango puree; Tropical Sunset with Ketel One and basil cordial; and the Masala Jamun Noir, a mix featuring jamun and cumin. Another featured cocktail, the Golden Brew, blends JW Blonde, coffee, maple, and tonic.

Utkarsh Khandelia, Co-Founder of Sorbo stated, “The idea behind our Golden Hours Summer Menu was to create an experience that feels as refreshing as a breeze on a warm day.” Co-Founder Bhagyesh Tekriwal added, “Every ingredient, every pairing from the watermelon and truffle to our jamun cocktails has been chosen to celebrate seasonality, lightness, and those unhurried moments that make summer so special.”

With this summer menu, Sorbo is targeting diners looking for seasonal options and a relaxed dining atmosphere during early evening hours. The offering reflects a broader trend among hospitality venues to introduce time-limited menus that align with seasonal ingredients and dining preferences.

Rapido, the bike-taxi and ride-hailing platform, is preparing to launch a pilot of its food delivery service, Ownly, in Bengaluru over the next 8 to 10 days. The pilot will begin in the city’s Koramangala, HSR Layout, and Sarjapur areas, according to people familiar with the matter. The company plans to expand the service to ten cities by July 2025.

“The goal is not to rush the expansion… the initial plan was to do a larger launch in August but now a smaller pilot will be rolled out in July, which will give a lot of learnings,” said one of the sources. The initial focus will be on Bengaluru for two to three months, followed by a rollout in two to three additional cities in September or October.

The company is positioning itself to compete with incumbents Swiggy and Zomato by leveraging its ride-hailing network. Rapido plans to offer a lower commission range of 8 to 15 percent to restaurants, compared to the 16 to 30 percent currently charged by the existing market leaders.

As part of the rollout, Rapido is formalising a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with restaurant associations to establish clear expectations. A key point of discussion has been data sharing. Restaurant partners are pushing for access to customer data—an industry demand that Zomato and Swiggy have so far resisted. In exchange, Rapido is asking restaurants to maintain the lowest pricing for their offerings on Ownly and to avoid excessive packaging fees.

Rapido has also asked restaurants to ensure that four to five items on their menu are priced below Rs 150. This aligns with a new sub-Rs 150 category planned on the app. Swiggy, which is also an investor in Rapido, recently launched a Rs 99 store on its platform, highlighting a growing focus on affordability in the segment.

According to a June 19 research note by BNP Paribas, Rapido’s proposed commission rates may not be sustainable. “Rapido’s planned charges on restaurants are below the variable cost per delivery, and we believe this could be unsustainable in the medium term,” the report stated.

The launch comes as growth in the food delivery sector slows. Analysts have raised concerns about Rapido’s ability to maintain cost advantages over established players. “It seems unlikely that a new entrant can have any cost advantage versus Swiggy or (Zomato parent) Eternal. Also, we see issues on whether the existing riders of Rapido can serve a dual purpose of delivering food and driving taxis,” BNP Paribas noted.

At a recent investor meeting in London, Swiggy Group CEO Sriharsha Majety commented on the competitive landscape. “There were a dozen players in food delivery in 2015. In 2017, Uber and Ola threw their hat into the ring. Then, in 2019, Amazon threw its hat into the ring. In 2021, there was the entry of ONDC,” he said. “Credit to us and Zomato for having seen these and I think we do a pretty good job of serving the consumer. It is not easy to get an opening that you can take a home run with.”

He added, “It will be interesting to see if there is an alternate take to food delivery that can grow the category… We are definitely super agile and paranoid. If we see a new opening, we are going to be all over it.”

Quick service restaurant chain Burger Singh has introduced a new Owner-Partner Franchise Model, aimed at expanding its dine-in network by leveraging local operator involvement. Under this initiative, aspiring entrepreneurs can open a dine-in outlet with a capital investment of Rs 24 lakh, while the brand will contribute an additional Rs 20 lakh per store.

The company plans to roll out 50 new outlets within the next three months, focusing on metros, mid-tier towns, and developing cities. The model targets active business owners rather than passive investors and is designed to foster deeper engagement between franchisees and their communities.

With over 180 outlets across 80 cities, Burger Singh’s expansion strategy is based on data indicating that the most successful stores are operated by hands-on franchisees. The new model aligns with this finding by offering both operational support and financial partnership.

Kabir Jeet Singh, Founder and CEO, Burger Singh said, “Our focus is on empowering committed local operators. For those dedicated to excellent customer service and willing to collaborate closely, we offer partnership, investment, and growth opportunities.”

Key Details of the Franchise Model:

• Franchisee investment: Rs 24 lakh
• Brand co-investment: Rs 20 lakh
• Franchise fee: Included
• Store size: 250–350 sq. ft. (16–20 seats)
• Expected payback period: 20 to 24 months
• Support offered: Site selection, kitchen setup, training, staffing, backend operations, and local marketing

In a previous cost-reduction effort, the brand witnessed 25 franchise sign-ups in 35 days, with 76 percent coming from emerging cities. This underscored the market readiness and ambition among regional entrepreneurs.

Beyond physical expansion, the company is positioning the model as a business education tool. Operator-partners receive structured guidance in outlet management, supported by experienced mentors rather than traditional managers. The company estimates partners can run outlets with a monthly commitment of 90 hours.

The initiative is aligned with Burger Singh’s goal to establish a presence in every Indian city, maintaining affordability and quality while fostering local ownership and accountability.

Curefoods India Pvt Ltd, a cloud kitchen operator based in Bengaluru, has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a proposed Initial Public Offering (IPO). The move marks a significant development in the company's efforts to scale its presence in India’s foodtech and hospitality space.

The public issue includes a fresh issue of equity shares worth up to Rs 800 crore, and an Offer For Sale (OFS) of 4.85 crore equity shares by existing shareholders.

The OFS will see partial exits by several early and institutional investors, including Iron Pillar PCC, Crimson Winter, Accel India V (Mauritius), Chiratae Ventures India Fund IV, and the Global E-commerce Consolidation Fund. Other stakeholders such as Alteria Capital Fund and Curefit Healthcare are also among the selling shareholders.

As mentioned in the draft, Curefoods may consider raising an additional Rs 160 crore through a pre-IPO placement. If executed, the fresh issue size would be adjusted accordingly.

Founded by Ankit Nagori, a former Flipkart executive, Curefoods has built a portfolio of digital-first food brands that operate through the cloud kitchen model, catering to growing consumer demand for delivery-first dining experiences across urban markets.

On a fully diluted basis post-issue, Ankit Nagori is expected to retain a 27.80 percent stake, making him the largest shareholder. 3State Ventures Pte, the investment firm owned by Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal, will hold 17.32 percent, followed by Iron Pillar (13.53 percent), Chiratae Ventures (8.23 percent), and Accel India V (7.17 percent).

The net proceeds from the fresh issue are planned to be deployed toward operational expansion, strengthening the cloud kitchen network, and supporting strategic growth initiatives.

This proposed IPO underlines growing investor interest in India’s consumer internet and foodtech sectors, as the country’s digital food delivery market continues to expand in scale and competition through 2025.

Foodlink F&B Holdings (India) Limited, a premium hospitality player, has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to raise capital through an Initial Public Offering (IPO).

The public issue includes a fresh issue of equity shares worth up to Rs 160 crore, alongside an Offer For Sale (OFS) of up to 11,953,535 equity shares by existing stakeholders, including both promoters and investors.

Founded by Sanjay Manohar Vazirani, Foodlink operates across India, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, offering services in luxury catering, fine-dining restaurants, and international foodservice operations. Over the years, the company has established itself as a significant name in the high-end food and hospitality space.

According to the DRHP, the net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used for multiple purposes:

• Repayment or prepayment of existing borrowings
• Capital expenditure to support the expansion of restaurant and catering operations
• General corporate purposes

Sanjay Manohar Vazirani, who serves as Chairman and Managing Director, brings over 20 years of experience in the food and hospitality industry. His leadership has shaped Foodlink’s growth trajectory and positioned it as a reputed brand in the premium dining and catering sector.

JM Financial Limited and Equirus Capital Private Limited have been appointed as the Book Running Lead Managers for the IPO. The company’s equity shares are proposed to be listed on both the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE).

This IPO marks a strategic move to strengthen Foodlink’s presence in domestic and international markets, as demand for upscale foodservice and experiential dining continues to grow.

Yum China Holdings, Inc. has launched the pilot phase of its new hands-free, AI-enabled assistant called Q-Smart to assist restaurant managers with daily operational tasks. The tool, developed to support frontline managers, integrates with wearable devices such as wireless earphones and smartwatches, enabling voice-interactive functionality for labor scheduling, inventory monitoring, food safety checks, and equipment inspections.

Unlike traditional systems reliant on touchscreens or PCs, Q-Smart operates through natural language interaction, allowing managers to remain hands-free while accessing real-time operational insights. The assistant compares current inventory with projected sales forecasts and sends timely alerts to optimize stock levels. It also supports on-the-spot decision-making by providing immediate responses to voice commands, drawing on Yum China’s internal knowledge base.

The pilot is currently being implemented at select KFC outlets. Yum China plans to incorporate user feedback from the initial phase before expanding the tool across its broader restaurant network.

Leila Zhang, Chief Technology Officer, Yum China said, “Q-Smart is not just an AI tool, it is a potential game-changer for how restaurants can be managed. We believe that Q-Smart will not only help Yum China improve its operational efficiency, but can also serve as an example for the digital transformation and smart development of the catering industry.”

The introduction of Q-Smart marks a continuation of Yum China’s broader digital transformation strategy. Since introducing digital payments in KFC stores in 2015 and launching the KFC Super App in 2016, the company has consistently expanded its technology offerings. As of March 2025, its digital loyalty programs for KFC and Pizza Hut have surpassed 540 million members.

Over the past several years, Yum China has progressively integrated artificial intelligence into its operations. This includes the 2019 introduction of AI-powered scheduling and management tools, the launch of its comprehensive Super Brain decision support system in 2021, and the rollout of handheld Pocket Managers in 2022. In 2023, the company began applying generative AI (AIGC) in logistics, customer service, and other backend processes. By 2024, AIGC became integrated across key business functions.

The Q-Smart platform was introduced at Yum China’s first AI Day event held on June 20, 2025, in Shanghai. The event also included the conclusion of the company’s first All-Staff Hackathon, which began in March 2025 and saw participation from around 200 teams across 30 markets. The initiative encouraged employees to develop tech-driven solutions to operational challenges.

At the event, Yum China CEO Joey Wat announced a 100 million yuan (approximately $13.9 million) Frontline Innovation Fund to enhance technology adoption and support frontline restaurant teams. The fund will also make the Hackathon an annual event going forward.

Wat stated, “Yum China has always believed that true innovation must originate from frontline needs and serve frontline scenarios. AI is not only a technical tool to improve efficiency, but also a core partner to stimulate employee creativity.”

With the introduction of Q-Smart and the continued investment in restaurant-focused AI solutions, Yum China aims to further modernize store-level operations, improve productivity, and enhance the customer experience. The company’s approach places technology at the core of its retail operations, emphasizing not just efficiency, but usability and relevance for frontline staff.

Domino’s, one of India’s most prominent quick-service restaurant brands in the pizza segment, has introduced a new menu item aimed at strengthening its presence in the non-vegetarian category. The company has launched Chicken Burst, a new offering designed specifically for chicken consumers in India. This move aligns with Domino’s ongoing strategy to cater to evolving consumption trends and increase relevance among meat-eating consumers in the country.

The Chicken Burst Pizza features a dual-layer chicken format with minced chicken keema embedded in the crust and an assortment of chicken toppings on the surface. The brand positions this new product as a category-first innovation for the Indian pizza market.

The new pizza range includes five varieties such as Shawarma, Korean, Tandoori, Southern Spice, and Garlic — each designed to offer a different flavor profile. The crust is filled with chicken keema and shawarma sauce, while the base is layered with mozzarella, tortilla, and tomato sauce. Topping choices include three chicken options: Peri Peri, BBQ, and Chicken Rashers, as well as two vegetarian toppings. Customers can also choose a finishing sauce for added flavor.

This launch is part of Domino’s broader effort to diversify its product offerings and enhance its competitiveness in India’s non-vegetarian fast food segment. The focus on layered textures and custom flavors is intended to appeal to consumers who prioritize protein-rich and flavor-forward meals.

Chella Pandyan, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Domino’s India said, "With Chicken Burst, we wanted to give our non-veg consumers exactly what they’ve been asking for more chicken, more flavour, and more satisfaction in every slice. This innovation is part of our long-term strategy to serve India’s evolving chicken cravings with differentiated formats that truly deliver."

The Chicken Burst Pizza is priced at Rs 349 for the Regular size and Rs 649 for the Medium size. It is available across Domino’s dine-in outlets in India and can also be ordered through the Domino’s app.

This addition comes as Domino’s continues to explore new ways to retain customer interest and meet diverse consumer demands in India’s rapidly growing foodservice market.

As India’s hospitality industry adapts to changing consumer dining habits, SAWARI India—operated by Grameendine Hospitality—has entered the food delivery segment with curated offerings tailored for the modern, convenience-driven diner. The Bengaluru-based restaurant has introduced its Signature Thali Meals and a new line of Special Bento Box Meals, now available for delivery through Zomato and Swiggy.

SAWARI India, which has quickly established itself as a noteworthy dining destination in Bengaluru, aims to deliver restaurant-quality meals to homes and offices. These new offerings mark a strategic move to tap into the increasing demand for premium, multi-course meals that cater to both taste and convenience.

The Bento Box range is a key component of SAWARI’s delivery portfolio. Each box is designed to mirror a gourmet, multi-course meal with a blend of flavors and balanced portions. The Indian Vegetarian Bento Box includes Paneer Makhani, Dal Makhani, Kadai Subz, and Punjabi Paneer Tikka, served with Jeera Rice, Butter Roti or Naan, Raita, Salad, and Gulab Jamun. The Indian Non-Vegetarian Bento Box features Butter Chicken, Kadai Chicken, Dal Makhani, and Amritsari Chicken Tikka, alongside the same accompaniments. Additionally, SAWARI offers Chinese-inspired variants. The vegetarian option includes Chilli Paneer Gravy, Spring Rolls, Fried Rice, Hakka Noodles, Kimchi Salad, and Gulab Jamun. The non-vegetarian version swaps the paneer for Chilli Chicken and includes Egg Fried Rice and Chicken Hakka Noodles.

Complementing the bento boxes is the Signature Thali Meal collection, aimed at customers seeking complete, traditional meals. The Non-Vegetarian Thali, priced at Rs 445, features Butter Chicken, Kadai Chicken, and Dal Makhani, paired with Jeera Rice, Butter Roti or Naan, Raita, Salad, and Gulab Jamun. The Vegetarian Thali, priced at Rs 395, consists of Paneer Makhani, Dal Makhani, and Kadai Subz with the same sides. These offerings are available only via food delivery platforms, positioning SAWARI India to cater to rising demand for restaurant-quality food without the dine-in experience.

SAWARI’s current strategy builds on its 80:20 culinary concept, which blends North Indian staples with desi-Chinese dishes. This approach has proven effective at its flagship location, where traditional meals are served alongside handcrafted cocktails and live music. The delivery range reflects the same culinary philosophy, extending the brand’s experience beyond the restaurant. “Each Thali is a complete, balanced meal that transforms everyday dining into a memorable experience,” said a representative from SAWARI India. The restaurant is also targeting the corporate catering and group dining segments with options for custom bulk orders, which can be placed directly via phone.

Bengaluru continues to grow as a major food and beverage hub in India, and SAWARI India’s entry into delivery services aligns with broader market trends. The move positions the brand to meet the evolving needs of urban consumers—balancing tradition with convenience, and scale with culinary consistency. SAWARI India is accepting bulk and corporate delivery orders via +91 70573 35152, while individual orders can be placed through Zomato and Swiggy.

Yummy Bee, a café chain focused on health-driven eating, has launched its latest menu addition in India—Dubai Viral Mini Burgers, a new item aligned with its VLOGS (Vegan, Low-calorie, Organic, Gluten-free, Sugar-free) philosophy.

This new offering is designed for consumers seeking snacks that align with health-conscious preferences. The mini burgers are made without maida, preservatives, or gluten, and are positioned as a response to growing demand for indulgent yet clean-label food options in India’s hospitality and café segment.

The mini burger trend, which gained popularity in the Middle East—particularly Dubai—has been reinterpreted by Yummy Bee to fit the Indian market. The product emphasizes ingredient transparency while maintaining the recognizable compact format and bold flavor profile that made the dish popular across social media.

Sandeep Jangala, CEO and Founder of Yummy Bee stated, “When something goes viral, it usually comes with a side of guilt. We wanted to change that. These burgers are proof that you don’t need maida, preservatives, or shortcuts to make food people crave. We’ve taken a trend and made it something our community can enjoy every day, without compromising on what they care about.”

The Dubai Viral Mini Burgers are now available at Yummy Bee outlets in Jubilee Hills, Kukatpally, Kondapur, and Kokapet, and are also listed on Swiggy and Zomato for delivery. Priced for accessibility, the item targets a wide customer base—from solo snackers to groups looking for shareable menu options.

Each mini burger is prepared with a sesame-topped bun, clean-label patty, crisp vegetables, and a dipping sauce. The item’s format and portioning are designed to serve as a quick meal option for café-goers, particularly in urban areas where Yummy Bee is expanding.

This product launch aligns with Yummy Bee’s broader strategy to offer food aligned with wellness expectations while continuing to introduce viral and globally-inspired items that appeal to younger, health-aware demographics.

The company has also been expanding its presence through café outlets and packaged product lines, maintaining a focus on formulations free from artificial ingredients, sugar, and additives. With wellness trends increasingly shaping consumption in India's food and beverage sector, Yummy Bee’s latest menu addition reflects the merging of viral appeal with functional eating habits.

Riga Foods has introduced a new menu concept titled EatWell Tiles, designed by Executive Chef Satish Prasad. The initiative focuses on reinterpreting traditional Indian street food through a contemporary lens, aligning with changing consumer expectations in India’s evolving dining sector.

The EatWell Tiles Menu features a selection of regionally inspired dishes, organized in a tile-style layout to offer variety and ease of sharing. The approach brings together diverse street food formats from across India and presents them in a curated, visually structured menu. The offerings include a range of savory items, rice-based dishes, desserts, and beverages, reflecting regional culinary identities with modern presentation.

Chef Satish Prasad said, “The idea was to create a menu that reflects the heart and soul of India’s streets — bold, flavorful, and delightfully diverse. We’ve brought that spirit into a modern format that’s fun, shareable, and full of surprises.”

The menu includes:

• Street Food of India: A representation of signature street delicacies across Indian cities.
• Pao, Rolls and More: Bread-based items with regional fillings and spices.
• Rice, Pulao and Biryani: Classic rice dishes infused with traditional spice blends and slow-cooked techniques.
• Desserts: Indian sweets that complement the overall offering.
• Snacks and Beverages: A mix of light bites and refreshments for all-day consumption.

Riga Foods has previously focused on developing hospitality experiences that balance cultural authenticity with modern design. This new format underlines its strategy to position regional Indian food in a format that suits evolving urban diners—particularly those seeking variety, convenience, and presentation-driven formats in casual dining settings.

The EatWell Tiles concept is expected to appeal to younger, metropolitan consumers while also aligning with larger trends in the hospitality industry toward modular menus, shareable dining, and heritage-based food innovation.

Mumbai’s hospitality sector sees the entry of a legacy name with a modern update as B Bhagat Tarachand opens a new outlet in Andheri West. Known for its 130-year-old culinary heritage, the brand has introduced a reimagined format featuring updated interiors, a refreshed brand language, and a newly added menu section featuring vegetarian rolls.

Founded in 1895 by Tarachand Chawla in pre-partition Karachi, the brand — affectionately referred to as “Bhagat” — has grown to become a staple in North Indian vegetarian dining. With established outlets across Mumbai and beyond, it remains recognized for offerings like phulkas, dal fry, chaas served in beer bottles (nicknamed ‘Kutchi Beer’), and other signature vegetarian dishes.

The latest opening in Andheri West reflects a strategic expansion for B Bhagat Tarachand into one of Mumbai’s more dynamic neighborhoods. The new location is designed to serve both established loyalists and newer, younger customers seeking efficient yet traditional vegetarian meals.

The restaurant introduces a modern dining space while preserving the original brand ethos. The interior design follows a minimalist approach, combined with warm, earthy tones and traditional references. Artisanal detailing and updated seating arrangements aim to create a comfortable yet contemporary experience for customers.

The Andheri outlet not only updates the restaurant's look but also introduces new menu offerings aimed at evolving consumer preferences. The inclusion of vegetarian rolls is part of the brand’s broader effort to engage a younger demographic while maintaining core values around food preparation and ingredient sourcing.

Despite the refreshed branding and menu, the company has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the culinary consistency that has defined the restaurant since its inception.

Vishal Chawla, Shilpa Chawla, and Bhisham Chawla from the Bhagat Tarachand family stated, “As a brand built on heritage, we are proud to step into the future without losing sight of where we began. With our new Andheri outlet, modern branding, and exciting additions like our vegetarian rolls, we are reintroducing ourselves to the next generation — with the same soul, just a new avatar.”

The launch reflects a larger trend in India’s hospitality industry where legacy brands are repositioning themselves for the current market while retaining their traditional core. Bhagat Tarachand’s move demonstrates a business model that adapts to changing consumer preferences without compromising on authenticity.

The Andheri outlet serves as a flagship example of how long-standing food establishments can evolve their retail strategies while continuing to deliver consistent value to a diverse customer base.

In a major enforcement drive targeting the hospitality sector, the Bengaluru City Police conducted unannounced inspections at various bars and restaurants in the city’s West Zone. The action uncovered serious lapses, including illegal employment practices and non-compliance with health and excise regulations.

The raids followed a specific tip-off received by the City Police Commissioner, pointing to unauthorized activities at several commercial locations. Based on this input, 11 police teams carried out inspections across areas under the jurisdiction of the Upparpet, Cottonpet, Kalasipalya, Cubbon Park, and Ashoknagar police stations.

Violations Found Across 19 Establishments
The operation revealed multiple violations at 19 hospitality establishments. One of the key issues highlighted was the employment of women under questionable circumstances. Reports suggest that the women staff were allegedly engaging with customers inappropriately while being dressed provocatively. Many of these premises also lacked the presence of designated female security staff.

Additionally, hygiene was a major concern, with several kitchens found operating in unsanitary conditions. The inspections also revealed the absence of designated smoking zones and violations of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). Some outlets were found running beyond permitted hours.

Customers caught violating tobacco-related regulations were penalized on the spot during the raids, according to officials involved in the operation.

Beyond Police Jurisdiction: Health and Excise Infractions
While the immediate violations fell under police oversight, further lapses were identified under the purview of health and excise departments. The Bengaluru Police confirmed that relevant reports have been shared with the respective regulatory bodies for additional action.

Officials stressed that ongoing monitoring of these establishments will continue. In cases of repeated non-compliance, the businesses could face license suspension or permanent cancellation.

Public Urged to Report Violations
To support continued enforcement efforts, the Bengaluru Police has appealed to the public to report any instances of rule-breaking or misconduct at commercial establishments via the Namma 112 helpline. Authorities have assured that the identity of whistleblowers will remain confidential.

This coordinated operation signals a broader intent by enforcement agencies to ensure regulatory compliance within the city’s hospitality industry. Establishments found in violation could be subject to stricter penalties as the crackdown continues.

South Indian biryani brand Dindigul Thalappakatti has launched its largest outlet in Kerala, located in Kalamassery, Kochi. The new store, situated in Changampuzha Nagar, marks the chain’s third outlet in Kochi and fifth across Kerala. The restaurant has a seating capacity of 122 guests and will operate from 11 AM to 11 PM daily.

The expansion is part of the brand's ongoing strategy to grow its footprint across southern India. The new outlet was inaugurated by actress Priya Prakash Varrier, reflecting the brand's continued focus on consumer visibility and local engagement.

Nagasamy Dhanabalan, Managing Director of Dindigul Thalappakatti Restaurant stated, “Our goal is to serve biryani and other dishes that are authentic in taste, healthy, and of high quality to food lovers.” He also confirmed plans to open five more outlets across Kerala within the year.

The Kalamassery location offers a full menu including the brand's well-known dishes such as Thalappakatti Boneless Mutton Biryani, Unlimited Andhra Meals, Chicken 65 Biryani, Black Pepper Chicken, Fish 65, Mutton Sukka, Egg Biryani, and Paneer Biryani.

Founded in 1957 in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, Dindigul Thalappakatti has built its reputation on traditional cooking methods and proprietary spice blends. The brand currently operates over 100 outlets globally, with locations in the USA, Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, and around 90 outlets in India, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Puducherry, and Kerala.

With the latest addition in Kochi, the restaurant group continues to pursue expansion in key markets, aiming to capture a larger share of the quick-service and casual dining segment in South India.

IDYLLL, a fine-dining restaurant in Bengaluru’s Indiranagar, has introduced a refreshed menu and cocktail selection that reinterprets Indian cuisine through a contemporary lens. The update reflects a strategic shift in the brand’s culinary direction, aiming to connect with evolving consumer preferences in the premium hospitality segment.

The newly launched food offerings are led by a chef-curated approach, blending regional Indian flavours with global culinary methods. The menu includes both small and large plate formats that introduce layered compositions, combining traditional ingredients with modern plating and textures.

Menu highlights include the Jackfruit Ghee Roast Samosette, featuring smoked jackfruit in phyllo pastry with shallot yogurt; the Soft Shell Crab Pakora Slider, a coastal-inspired dish with global street food influence; and the Tandoori Mushroom Bao, filled with garlic truffle cream. Among the mains, the Malai Kofta in Saffron Tomato Sauce, Pork Vindaloo Ravioli topped with fennel foam, and the Butter Poached Lobster in Rasam Emulsion present an elevated take on traditional recipes. Desserts also follow the theme, with items such as the Tiramisu Ghevar and Malpua Mille-Feuille reinterpreting Indian sweets through a modern culinary lens.

“This menu is our most expressive yet. It’s a conversation between past and present — grounded in tradition, but designed for today’s evolved diner,” said Namokar Jain, Founder of IDYLLL.

The restaurant’s updated cocktail program is designed to align with the complexity and storytelling approach of the food menu. Signature drinks include “Street of Banaras”, a vodka-based blend with gulkand, almond essence, and activated charcoal; “Pulse”, which combines tequila, raw mango slush, and tajin lime salt; and “Italian Colada”, featuring coconut fat-washed rum and curry leaf cordial. Another highlight, “Burma Burma”, uses tequila, oolong tea cordial, apple brine, and zaatar salt to reflect a globally influenced yet Indian-rooted flavour profile.

While the setting remains rustic and organic, the focus of the relaunch is clearly on refining the guest experience through layered flavour, culinary narrative, and innovative beverage pairings. With this relaunch, IDYLLL aims to strengthen its position in Bengaluru’s competitive fine-dining landscape by offering a differentiated and culturally resonant dining experience.

This evolution is in line with broader hospitality trends in India, where premium restaurants are increasingly integrating storytelling, regional authenticity, and global techniques to meet the expectations of urban diners seeking novelty with familiarity.

Cafe Delhi Heights has partnered with American Pecans to launch a nationwide culinary campaign titled the ‘American Pecans Superfoods Festival.’ The month-long event will run from June 15 to July 15, 2025, across all 40 Cafe Delhi Heights outlets in India.

The initiative aims to promote pecans as a superfood among Indian diners. The menu has been curated by nutritionist and author Kavita Devgan and blends Cafe Delhi Heights' comfort-style dining with health-focused offerings featuring pecans as the central ingredient.

The special menu introduces a variety of pecan-based dishes combining Indian and international influences. Starters include the Pecan Shorba and Roasted Beet and Pecan Salad with arugula, plum, and feta. Main course selections feature Grilled Sole with Pecan Nut Lemon Butter Sauce, Pecan Nut Pulihora with Roasted Tomato Chutney, and Pasta Pecan Delight. Desserts include a Pecan Nut Salted Caramel Brownie. Pecan-infused beverages like the Pecan Dreamscape and Pecan Negroni round out the offering.

Vikrant Batra, Founder of Cafe Delhi Heights said, “This collaboration is about more than just great food — it’s about inspiring mindful indulgence. We’re excited to work with Kavita Devgan and American Pecans to offer diners a unique experience that is both delicious and nourishing. At Cafe Delhi Heights, we’ve always believed that comfort food can also be conscious food, and this festival beautifully reflects that philosophy.”

Sumit Saran, In-Country Market Representative of the American Pecan Council added, “With their natural goodness and versatility, pecans are becoming an essential part of modern diets around the world. We see similar potential in India, where demand is growing as more health-conscious consumers discover this incredible nut for its health benefits, great taste, and ease of use in everyday meals. We’re excited to partner with Café Delhi Heights across its 40 outlets in India. Known for their high-quality offerings, they are the perfect partner to introduce indulgent yet nutritious pecan-based dishes this festive season.”

To extend the conversation around health and nutrition beyond the dining experience, guests will receive a takeaway booklet by Kavita Devgan, which includes recipes and insights into the health benefits of pecans.

Pecans are available via major e-commerce platforms and leading dry fruit retailers across India. According to Saran, “All consumers need to do is search for ‘American pecans’.”

This partnership is positioned as a step toward aligning comfort food with current wellness trends, further highlighting Cafe Delhi Heights’ focus on conscious dining and innovation in hospitality.

India’s quick-service restaurant (QSR) segment is under growing margin pressure due to inflation and rising operating costs, while food delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato continue to improve their profitability, according to a report by BNP Paribas.

The report highlights that several listed QSR companies have scaled back store expansion in response to weaker urban demand and elevated costs. At the same time, food aggregators have grown significantly in recent years, offering increased reach for smaller restaurants that now compete directly with established QSR chains.

“This, we believe, has resulted in increased competition for the listed QSR companies. Over the last four years, margins of food delivery firms have increased, while QSR margins have remained under pressure,” the report stated.

The competitive landscape has intensified with food aggregators launching their own dark kitchen brands—Bistro by Blinkit and Snacc by Swiggy—delivering meals in 10 to 15 minutes through dedicated apps. This development is pushing QSR players to improve menu variety, delivery speed, and operational efficiency to retain market share.

Despite ongoing challenges, QSR firms have been cautious about raising prices due to subdued consumer sentiment. Instead, they are relying on value-focused offerings and targeted discounting strategies to maintain customer engagement. However, the average daily sales remain under pressure, while a growing share of delivery orders further affects margins.

The combination of rapid expansion and rising input costs has stalled EBITDA margin growth for QSR companies. In contrast, aggregators continue to report improved margins, reflecting better pricing leverage and operational efficiencies.

Though the QSR segment is expected to benefit from positive macroeconomic factors such as lower income tax rates and reduced bank interest rates, companies have not yet taken aggressive pricing measures due to continued weak demand.

According to the report, “Aggregate sales of Indian listed QSR chains increased by 10 percent in FY25 compared to 9 percent in FY24. This was well below the food delivery firms' gross order value (GOV) growth at 19 percent in FY24 and 18 percent in FY25.”

Brands like Jubilant FoodWorks are managing raw material cost inflation but are refraining from passing on the costs to consumers. Meanwhile, the food delivery segment has seen notable margin improvements over FY22–FY25, indicating stronger pricing power and operational gains.

In Q4FY25, leading QSR players recorded double-digit revenue growth, with Jubilant Foods reporting a 19 percent year-on-year increase. However, the sector's growth still trails the compound annual growth rate of 13 percent seen from FY20 to FY25.

Companies remain cautious but anticipate a recovery, driven by policy support and changing consumer trends.

Quick-service restaurant brand Wow! Momo has received a Rs 85 crore debt investment from Stride Ventures to support its retail expansion across various verticals, including dine-in, delivery, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).

According to an official statement, the funding will help the company implement its omnichannel growth strategy and expand its market presence across different consumption formats. The venture debt was provided by Stride Ventures, which has previously supported startups across multiple high-growth sectors.

Based in Kolkata, Wow! Momo currently operates more than 700 self-owned outlets across 70 cities. The company has reported strong same-store sales growth, in line with global quick-service benchmarks.

The brand is also aiming to scale its FMCG vertical to Rs 100 crore and expand its recently launched HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) division within the current fiscal year.

Sagar Daryani, Co-Founder and CEO of Wow! Momo said, “Stride Ventures’ support marks a pivotal moment in our journey of redefining Indian QSR. With their partnership, we aim to scale new heights, introduce new formats, and continue building brands that India can be proud of.”

The group, which also operates Wow! China, Wow! Chicken, and Wow! Kulfi, has outlined plans to enter more than 100 cities and expand to over 1,500 stores within the next three years. This investment is expected to play a key role in enabling that growth trajectory across both physical outlets and packaged product lines.

McDonald’s India (North and East), operated by Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd (CPRL), has partnered with Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh as its new brand ambassador. As part of the collaboration, the company has rolled out ‘The Ranveer Singh Meal’, a limited-period offering based on the actor’s favourite menu items. This move aligns with McDonald’s global Famous Orders campaign, which has previously featured global celebrities such as BTS and Travis Scott.

The newly introduced meal will be available starting June 13 and includes a three-item combination designed around Singh’s preferences. Customers can choose between two burger options: McVeggie (Xplode) and McChicken (Xplode). Both feature McDonald’s signature ingredients enhanced with a chilli and creamy Xplode sauce and topped with crispy onions. The meal also includes Golden Pop Fries, bite-sized potato snacks, and a limited-edition beverage called Bobaaa Blast, a new drink with popping boba pearls.

Ranveer Singh stated, “I’m thrilled to join the McDonald’s India (North and East) family as their brand ambassador. McDonald's has always been my favourite, just like it is for so many of us. I'm super excited to now have my very own meal with them, which I can share with my audience.”

Anant Agarwal, Vice-Chairperson at CPRL said, “Ranveer embodies what McDonald’s stands for—vibrant and joyful. This collaboration is rooted in fan truth and the deep emotional bond people share with McDonald’s.”

The meal is available across North and East India at McDonald’s restaurants, and can also be ordered via the McDonald’s App, Swiggy, Zomato, takeaway, and drive-thru channels. Pricing begins at Rs 249 for the vegetarian option and Rs 269 for the non-vegetarian version.

The campaign is designed to engage a wide demographic including youth, millennials, and families, by leveraging Singh’s popularity and the nostalgia associated with McDonald’s.

Bira 91 Taproom has introduced its latest summer initiative—LIIT Fest, a seasonal cocktail-focused event built around the classic Long Island Iced Tea. The fest began on June 4 and is available at six of the brand's Taproom locations across Delhi, Mumbai, and Punjab.

As part of this initiative, Bira 91 is offering a curated menu of six variations on the traditional LIIT, each developed to bring new flavors and ingredients to a familiar format. The selection includes:

• Classic LIIT – a traditional blend with a balanced profile.
• Electric Brew LIIT – made with lager reduction syrup and triple sec for a unique Bira signature.
• Botanical Buzz LIIT – featuring chamomile, elderflower, and tonic water for a floral note.
• Spiced Orchard LIIT – combining apple and cinnamon for a seasonal mix.
• Tropical Whisper LIIT – infused with coconut and pineapple for a tropical touch.
• Rebel Fuel LIIT – a blend of Jim Beam and Red Bull, intended for those looking for a high-energy drink.

The festival is not limited to cocktails alone. Taprooms are also featuring happy hour pricing, music playlists, and visual setups designed for customer engagement. According to Bira 91, the LIIT Fest aims to offer a space that encourages community, casual social interaction, and exploration of cocktail variations.

The event is being held at six Taproom locations:

• DLF Avenue, Saket (Delhi)
• DLF CyberHub, Gurgaon
• Kamala Mills, Lower Parel (Mumbai)
• T1 Airport Arrivals, Mumbai
• Paragon Waterfront, Ludhiana
• CP 67 Mall, Mohali

This launch continues Bira 91's strategy of leveraging its taproom network to test and promote beverage innovations while offering curated customer experiences.

With temperatures rising across Delhi NCR, The Dark Room by Wynnd Hotels has introduced a limited-edition Summer Drink Menu to tap into seasonal demand and further cement its presence in Noida’s nightlife circuit. The new cocktail line-up includes five handcrafted beverages, each priced at Rs 555, designed to appeal to consumers seeking refreshing, high-concept drinks during the summer months.

The drinks have been developed using top-shelf spirits and seasonal ingredients, aiming to blend creative presentation with distinct flavour profiles. “Every cocktail on the summer menu is an invitation to enter a new mood, a new memory. The Dark Room was always conceptualized as something greater than a bar or club—it's a vibe, a living, breathing thing. We wanted these cocktails to keep up,” said Gaurav Sapra, Founder, The Dark Room by Wynnd Hotels. 

The new menu aligns with the brand’s strategy to stay relevant through seasonal innovation and experience-driven offerings. Positioned as a cafe-club hybrid, The Dark Room continues to focus on combining curated nightlife experiences with upscale design and music-forward programming.

Since its inception, The Dark Room has targeted patrons who seek a differentiated hospitality experience. With this summer menu, the brand looks to deepen its engagement with regular visitors while attracting new footfall seeking relief from the heat and a refreshed take on evening socializing.

Restaurant Brands International (RBI), which owns Burger King, Tim Hortons, Popeyes, and Firehouse Subs, is planning to accelerate global unit growth despite recent challenges, particularly in China—its second-largest restaurant market.

While Burger King has regained some stability in the U.S. following the closure of hundreds of underperforming outlets, the brand continues to face significant hurdles in China. “The big variance is China,” said Patrick Doyle, Executive Chairman of RBI, during the Deutsche Bank Access Global Consumer Conference. “We had a number of years, five years in a row, where we had 300-plus in China. We need to get back to that.”

RBI has set a target of achieving 5 percent annual unit growth by 2028. To meet this goal, the company plans to leverage expansion opportunities across all its brands.

Tim Hortons, RBI’s dominant chain in Canada, is being positioned for renewed domestic growth despite its current store count being around 200 lower than in 2019. “We actually think we can penetrate more deeply in areas of Canada where we are underpenetrated,” said Doyle. The company views this market as integral to achieving net growth of 400 new locations in North America.

Popeyes and Firehouse Subs are expected to contribute significantly to this North American growth. Popeyes has added an average of 134 outlets annually in the U.S. over the past five years, while Firehouse added nearly 100 domestic outlets last year, with expectations for increased expansion under RBI, which acquired the brand in 2021.

However, Burger King remains a critical variable. The chain closed 77 locations in the U.S. last year and approximately 400 over the past three years, largely due to financial issues among franchisees and weak performance. Despite the contraction, Burger King has accounted for 90 percent of RBI’s total unit growth since 2019. “At some point we’ll get back to growth,” Doyle said. “But right now just getting it solid would be good, and an improvement from where we’ve been.”

Internationally, RBI continues to push expansion. In 2023, Popeyes added 282 new international locations, Tim Hortons added 196, and Firehouse secured a major deal in Mexico. Burger King, though slowed in China, still added 410 outlets globally—representing 46 percent of RBI’s international unit growth outside the U.S. and Canada.

In 2019, Burger King alone accounted for 87 percent of international growth. In China, it opened 285 stores in 2019 compared to just 113 last year. Currently, Burger King operates just under 1,500 locations in China.

To support growth in China, RBI invested Rs 374 crore ($45 million) in Tim Hortons China last year and also acquired full ownership of Popeyes China. In early 2024, the company acquired Burger King China for Rs 1,318 crore ($158 million) and is now working with Morgan Stanley to identify a new local operator.

“We’ve never had all three of the brands that are currently in China clicking at the same time. We’ve got to get that fixed,” noted Doyle. 

Doyle said RBI’s growth goal of 5 percent is attainable, estimating contributions of 400 new stores from North America, 300 in China, and 1,100 in other international markets. “We’ve just got to get China back to where it was,” he said. “And if we can get all the brands clicking, it can probably do better than that.”

Starbucks has announced a set of leadership and organizational changes aimed at accelerating its ongoing transformation efforts. The company is focused on improving operational efficiency and aligning key business functions as it works to return to its core strengths.

Mike Grams has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer. He will now lead North American coffeehouse operations, along with global coffeehouse development and the global supply chain. In his expanded role, Meredith Sandland, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer, and Sanjay Shah, Executive Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer, will report to him. The consolidation of these roles is intended to enhance the integration of store design, construction, and supply chain functions.

“I’m excited to bring these functions together and to see the impact of Meredith, Sanjay, and Mike working more closely to elevate the design, build, and operations of our coffeehouses and to deliver a world-class supply chain that empowers our green apron partners and delights our customers,” the company stated.

In another change, Starbucks is merging the Global Coffee and Sustainability team with the Global Brand team to place a stronger emphasis on its core product—coffee—and to enhance sustainability integration across product development and marketing. Michelle Burns, EVP, Global Coffee and Sustainability, will now report to Tressie Lieberman, EVP, Global Chief Brand Officer.

Technology oversight is also being streamlined. Deb Hall Lefevre, EVP and Chief Technology Officer, will now report to Cathy Smith, EVP and Chief Financial Officer. The move is aimed at advancing digital tools that help baristas deliver better customer service.

“Delivering world-class technology that enables our partners to craft high-quality beverages and spend more meaningful time with customers is a priority,” the company noted.

These executives—Deb, Meredith, Michelle, and Sanjay—remain on the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). The ELT includes key figures such as Brady Brewer (CEO, International), Dominic Carr (EVP, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer), Sara Kelly (EVP, Chief Partner Officer), Brad Lerman (EVP, Chief Legal Officer), Molly Liu (CEO, China), and others.

Separately, Brad Lerman, Chief Legal Officer, will be leaving Starbucks in the coming months. A successor search is underway. Lerman will continue to lead the legal team and assist in the transition until a new appointment is made.

The announcement reflects Starbucks’ ongoing efforts to “get back to Starbucks,” with a renewed focus on customer experience, partner support, and operational accountability.

Society of Salad, a clean-eating café operated by Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), has introduced a subscription-based offering called ‘The Crunch Club’. This new meal plan provides customizable, fibre-rich salads and protein options delivered directly to customers within a 10-kilometre radius of the brand’s outlet in Delhi’s Green Park Market.

The initiative targets urban consumers seeking consistent, balanced meals without the need for daily planning. The plan includes two distinct packs:

• Pack A offers lighter salads suitable for those prioritizing hydration and low-calorie intake.
• Pack B provides a more filling meal with salads paired with mini wraps or sandwiches.

Both packs are available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions. Featured items include the Vegan Exotic Fruit Bowl, Basil Falafel Wrap, Chimichurri Chicken Salad, and Peri Peri Chicken Burrito.

Customers can choose from three subscription durations—a 3-day trial, a 1-week plan, or a 2-week plan—with deliveries six days a week. The subscription starts at Rs 1080.

“More than just a subscription, The Crunch Club of the Society of Salad is an invitation to feel good from the inside out. We’ve built it for people who want to eat healthy without the stress of planning meals every day. It’s clean eating, made effortless,” said Sansksriti Gupta, Society of Salad.

Meals are prepared daily using hydroponically grown greens and consciously sourced ingredients. The offering also includes optional add-ons such as cold-pressed juices, smoothies, kombucha, and protein choices—available at discounted prices for subscribers.

This initiative aligns with DS Group’s strategy to expand its footprint in the hospitality and wellness food sector, catering to the increasing demand for convenient, health-focused dining options.

Café Delhi Heights, the homegrown casual dining chain, is marking 14 years in the Indian food service industry. The brand, which launched in 2011 with a single café in Delhi, now operates 46 outlets across 16 cities and plans to expand to 50 by the end of the current fiscal year.

As it enters its 15th year, the company has laid out an ambitious growth strategy that includes scaling up to 120 outlets and achieving Rs 500 crore in revenue by 2028. The expansion plan targets new markets, particularly Tier ll cities, while focusing on menu innovation and experience enhancement.

The brand currently operates in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Gurgaon, Noida, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Srinagar, Dehradun, Patiala, and Raipur. It is preparing to launch new outlets in cities like Meerut and Jaipur as part of its ongoing expansion.

Vikrant Batra, Founder of Café Delhi Heights said, “Our mission has always been to build spaces where food, warmth, and conversation come together effortlessly. The next chapter is about reaching new cities and communities while keeping our spirit intact.”

In addition to growing its primary café model, Café Delhi Heights is diversifying its portfolio through new ventures. These include:

• Sarava – a coastal dining format inspired by regional Indian coastal cuisines.
• Ikigai, Iki and Gai – a concept rooted in Japanese philosophy, developed by Sarthak Batra, offering an experiential culinary experience.
• JLB (Juicy Lucy Burgers) – a fast-casual concept focused on gourmet burgers.
• Comfort Bakehouse – a bakery and delivery platform offering ready-to-eat gourmet baked items.

These formats are designed to align with evolving consumer preferences, while maintaining the brand’s focus on comfort food and consistent service.

The company’s expansion strategy continues to center on emerging metros and Tier ll cities, with an emphasis on scalable, sustainable growth and consistent guest experience. As Café Delhi Heights enters its next phase, the brand aims to maintain its identity while adapting to the shifting demands of the hospitality market.

Little Caesars, the world’s largest family-owned pizza chain, is set to enter the Indian market, marking its 30th country of operation. The company will launch its first outlet in Delhi NCR in June 2025, introducing Indian consumers to its HOT-N-READY pizza concept, known for affordability, speed, and consistency in quality.

The brand’s expansion into India reflects its broader global growth strategy, targeting markets with increasing demand for international dining options. The Delhi NCR restaurant will be the first in a planned series of launches in the country.

Paula Vissing, President, Global Retail said, "Launching in India marks an exciting milestone for Little Caesars as we expand into our 30th country. With our delicious pizzas and unbeatable value, we're eagerly anticipating introducing a unique menu that we believe will captivate India. Our mission has always been to offer delicious, high-quality food at exceptional prices, and we can't wait to introduce Little Caesars to families, students, and busy professionals throughout India."

To cater to the Indian market, Little Caesars has developed an exclusive menu combining its global offerings with localized flavors. This India-specific approach aims to align with local preferences while maintaining the brand’s focus on convenience and value-driven pricing.

The franchise rollout in India will be led by Harnessing Harvest, a local partner with nearly nine decades of experience in the Indian food and hospitality sector. Backed by a parent enterprise recently valued at over a billion dollars, the group brings deep insight into consumer behavior and evolving food preferences across India.

Little Caesars’ international expansion has included recent launches in Cambodia and Kuwait. The brand’s India entry follows a similar model, blending global systems with local adaptation. The company aims to integrate into the Indian hospitality ecosystem by becoming a convenient and cost-effective dining option for urban consumers.

As rising incomes and exposure to global cuisine shape dining trends in India, Little Caesars sees an opportunity to serve a wide customer base ranging from students and working professionals to families seeking quick-service restaurant options.

Baaroq opens in Mumbai, where fine dining meets theatrical flair—an immersive space where indulgence is elevated through contrast, creativity, and culture. Blending the bold essence of Pan-Asian cuisine with refined European flavours, the experience is inspired by Baroque grandeur, reimagined with a modern Indian lens.

Named as a nod to both the Baroque era and its vibrant bar program, Baaroq is more than a restaurant—it’s an escape. Spread across 3,500 sq. ft. with 120 covers, its design pairs raw, earthen textures with luxe materials like black Italian marble and sculpted light walls, creating a sensorial, emotionally charged space. From a dramatic arched entrance to evolving lights and music, every detail invites guests into a world where storytelling, gastronomy, and artistry seamlessly collide.

Behind this immersive experience stands Rahul Rai, a name already familiar in Mumbai’s hospitality realm. After redefining the bar scene with Drinking Kulture in 2016 and curating unforgettable nights at Hex, Rahul now brings his global influences and passion for detail to Baaroq. With a deep appreciation for both Eastern and Western aesthetics, his vision for Baaroq was clear, to create a destination that delivers not just taste, but transport.

“Baaroq is not just a restaurant, it’s a living, breathing story,” said Rahul. “Every guest becomes part of the narrative through flavours, through feeling, through the emotional memory they carry when they leave. It’s a space built with soul.”

Led by Culinary Director Chef Amit Puri, Baaroq’s menu is a masterful play of contrast and depth—featuring thoughtfully curated small plates that marry the bold vibrance of Pan-Asian flavours with the finesse of European technique. Standout dishes include Mushroom Hummus, Laksa Soup, Asparagus Tempura Sushi, Nori Tostada, and Duck Confit.

The bar, conceptualized by Consultant Siddesh Sawant, mirrors this layered approach with a cocktail menu that evolves with seasons, moods, and musical rhythms. Signature creations like Café Mesho, Baaroq Berries, Snowball, Violet Sour, Penicillin, and Matcha Colada are crafted to complement both the cuisine and the ambiance—delivering a seamless, sensorial experience.

Somewhere Nowhere, a well-known speakeasy in Delhi, has introduced a high-end cocktail named THE GOLDEN GAI, developed in collaboration with Komos Tequila. Priced at Rs 5,999, the drink is now a permanent feature on the bar’s menu, reflecting a strategic push toward exclusive and experiential offerings in the premium beverage segment.

Crafted by head mixologist Ravi Negi, THE GOLDEN GAI blends Komos Añejo Cristalino tequila with passion fruit, basil, ginger, and jalapeño brine. It is served with a gold leaf and concealed garnishes, designed to create a multi-sensory drinking experience.

Negi explained, “It’s sweet, spicy, salty, and sour all at once,” emphasizing the drink’s layered flavor profile and unconventional approach. The presentation is intended to engage guests beyond taste—encouraging interaction and exploration.

At the core of this cocktail is Komos Añejo Cristalino, an ultra-premium tequila aged in French oak wine barrels and charcoal-filtered to achieve a smooth finish. Its notes of vanilla, stone fruit, and toasted oak are combined with sharp and bright ingredients to produce a complex taste profile.

Although initially conceptualized as a limited-edition offering, THE GOLDEN GAI has earned a permanent place on the menu. The move signals a broader trend among upscale bars and lounges in India to experiment with bold, high-value creations that cater to niche, experience-driven consumers.

The cocktail’s pricing and presentation indicate a shift toward premiumization in urban hospitality, especially as customers increasingly look for bespoke experiences that go beyond traditional dining and nightlife formats.

Ekaa has introduced a new tapas menu led by Chef Niyati Rao, featuring a mix of regional culinary inspiration, personal storytelling, and contemporary techniques. The dishes aim to reflect varied Indian influences while maintaining a compact yet diverse format.

One of the key offerings is Belly, a preparation of cured and slow-cooked pork belly that is lightly smoked, glazed with bacon fat, and paired with Ekaa’s house-made salsa macha. Sassoon, referencing Malwani coastal cuisine, features a barramundi fritter topped with flying fish roe tartare and spiced shrimp crumble.

Another dish, Mac and Cheese, reinterprets a familiar comfort meal using potato dumplings served in a white wine and butter sauce, finished with cheese and chives. Chef Rao cites the inspiration from the Christmas Eve dinner scene in the film Home Alone.

Fresh produce plays a central role in Tomato Tomato, which showcases six heirloom tomato varieties sourced from a Pune-based farm, served as carpaccio with kokum, Thai coriander, and baked sourdough crisp.

The menu also includes Embers, a dish made with cured chicken thigh spiced using a house-made basbaas blend, accompanied by lacto-fermented green beans and Ekaa’s in-house lao gan ma for a savoury and intense flavour profile.

For dessert, Pudding is offered — a warm corn pudding layered with caramel and buttered corn dust.

The tapas menu is designed to complement Dwadash, Ekaa’s cocktail programme featuring twelve drinks based on Ayurvedic principles and regional ingredients. Each cocktail highlights one primary element and aligns with the menu’s ingredient-first approach. The focus remains on clarity and balance, aiming to deliver a cohesive food and beverage pairing experience.

Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune in Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park area is facing another legal case, this time for allegedly violating provisions under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). The Cubbon Park Police filed a suo motu case against the establishment for not having a designated smoking area within its premises.

An FIR has been registered against the manager and staff of the restaurant under Sections 4 and 21 of COTPA, which pertain to the prohibition of smoking in public places and the penalties for violations. According to a report, the action followed a routine police inspection conducted on May 29, during which authorities noted the lack of a compliant smoking zone.

The legal development comes in the wake of the Karnataka government's intensified crackdown on tobacco use, including a complete ban on hookah bars and an increase in the legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21 years. These regulations are part of the newly amended Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2024, which recently received presidential approval.

This is not the first instance of regulatory scrutiny for One8 Commune. In June 2024, an FIR was registered against the restaurant for operating beyond permitted hours. Later, in December 2024, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) issued a notice citing fire safety violations and the lack of a clearance certificate from the Fire Department.

The recent action highlights the continued regulatory focus on hospitality venues in Bengaluru, particularly in areas related to public health and safety compliance.

Starbucks has introduced a new single-origin coffee, Papua New Guinea Highlands, to its India portfolio. The limited-edition offering is a medium roast blend made with arabica beans cultivated in the remote, volcanic highlands of Papua New Guinea.

Priced at Rs 2,000 for whole beans and Rs 75 as an espresso beverage, the coffee is available for a limited period at select Starbucks locations across India. Customers can choose to enjoy the coffee brewed fresh, served iced, or as an espresso.

Featuring tasting notes of sugarcane and black cardamom, the Papua New Guinea Highlands blend is described as having a smooth body and balanced acidity. The company noted that the new offering caters to consumers who seek complexity and refinement in their coffee choices.

Papua New Guinea is one of the world’s more isolated coffee-growing regions, with farming traditions rooted in smallholder coffee gardens where families typically grow a few trees alongside food crops such as bananas and legumes. Starbucks highlighted that the blend supports its ongoing efforts to invest in origin communities through its Farmer Support Centers, which focus on sustainable farming practices and long-term quality improvements.

The packaging design draws inspiration from the cultural and agricultural heritage of Papua New Guinea. It incorporates wave-like lines symbolizing water and a rich color palette that mirrors the national flag. At the center of the design is a coffee bean motif, representing the farmers and generations of cultivation behind the product.

Vibhor Mishra, Coffee Ambassador for Asia Pacific and China at Starbucks said, “We are dedicated to sourcing the highest quality arabica coffee from around the world and sharing those exceptional experiences with our customers. Papua New Guinea Highlands reflects that philosophy, an origin defined by care, culture, and craftsmanship at every step of the journey.”

With this addition, Starbucks continues to expand its premium coffee range in India, offering new origin experiences to coffee drinkers in the country.