Restaurant India News: Royal China Extends Its Celebrity-Favourite Cantonese Fine Dining Legacy to Bengaluru

Royal China opens in Vittal Mallya Road at Bengaluru. The name that has defined authentic Cantonese cuisine in India for over two decades is synonymous with precision, consistency, and hospitality since its debut in 2003. The brand now brings its celebrated legacy to South India.

When Neville and Michelle Vazifdar first introduced Royal China from London to Mumbai, they set a new benchmark for Cantonese dining in the country. Over the years, it has expanded to Delhi, Kolkata, and Pune, remaining a rare constant in a landscape dominated by Indo-Chinese and pan-Asian cuisine. Its enduring appeal lies in its commitment to authenticity — a promise delivered through dishes that have become legends in their own right: the Crispy Aromatic Duck with Pancakes, delicate Prawn Dumplings (Har Gau), Steamed Sea Bass with Ginger and Spring Onion, Lobster in Black Pepper Sauce, and even the indulgent Chocolate Dim Sum.

Bengaluru’s menu retains these signatures while introducing city-exclusive creations and inclusive options spanning vegan, gluten-free, and Jain-friendly dishes — proof that accessibility can coexist with authenticity. No surprise then, that Royal China has long been a favourite of Bollywood icons like Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Kareena Kapoor, as well as India’s business elite.

The experience extends to the bar, where fine wines, premium spirits, teas, and signature cocktails elevate the meal. From the ever-popular Lychee Martini and Oriental Passion to refreshing picks like the Green Dragon and Jasmine Tea Cooler, the beverage programme mirrors the refinement of the kitchen.

Designed by Ganesh Madasamy of Aston Design, the space is an ode to the phoenix — a symbol of rebirth — seamlessly interwoven with Bengaluru’s identity as the Garden City. Bamboo-inspired chandeliers, gold and deep blue palettes, flowing ceiling details, and soaring private dining walls create a setting of understated opulence. With seating for 160 across private rooms, intimate booths, a main hall, and a semi-al fresco section, the restaurant is crafted for every occasion — from quiet dinners to grand celebrations.

For Neville and Michelle, the Bengaluru launch is a deeply personal milestone. “Royal China has always stood for excellence and consistency,” says Neville. “Expanding to Bengaluru allows us to share our legacy of Cantonese cuisine with a discerning new audience.”

Michelle adds, “When we brought Royal China from London to India in 2003, our vision was to make authentic Cantonese dining accessible here. Over two decades later, we are humbled to see it grow into a brand loved across cities. Bengaluru, with its cosmopolitan spirit, feels like the perfect new home for Royal China.”

As Faiz Rezwan, Executive Director of Prestige Group and head of Royal China Bengaluru, puts it: “Royal China arrives in a city that already understands and celebrates fine dining. Bengaluru’s diners are adventurous, well-travelled, and deeply appreciative of tradition. These qualities align perfectly with Royal China’s ethos”. “Our goal is to deliver an experience that feels international in standard yet rooted in heritage”, says Fajr Qureshi, Co-founder of F and F Hospitality.