GOPIZZA Expands Korean Culinary Empire with Launch of Gochujang in Bengaluru

GOPIZZA Expands Korean Culinary Empire with Launch of Gochujang in Bengaluru

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 11, 2025

GOPIZZA, the Korean-headquartered global food brand, is making waves once again—this time with the launch of its newest venture: Gochujang, India’s first quick-service restaurant dedicated entirely to authentic Korean street food. The brand opened doors on June 7, 2025, at Phoenix Mall of Asia, Bengaluru, introducing a new way for Indian food lovers to explore Korean flavors.

This launch marks GOPIZZA's third brand under its K-Food umbrella, joining its popular Korean pizza concept and Dalkomi, the indulgent dessert café. Together, the three brands now offer an all-in-one Korean culinary experience, from spicy and savory to sweet, all under one roof.

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Gochujang is named after Korea’s iconic fermented red chilli paste and pays tribute to Korea's vibrant street food culture. The “GO” in the name is also a nod to the parent brand GOPIZZA, reflecting its expansion across Indian cities and its mission to deliver immersive Korean dining experiences.

Speaking on the launch, Jaewon Lim, Founder and Global CEO of GOPIZZA, shared, “India is a key market in our global strategy. We’re looking for a master franchise partner and plan to launch 100 outlets across GOPIZZA, Gochujang, and Dalkomi by FY 2026.”

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What makes Gochujang unique is its commitment to street food staples straight from Seoul. Think: cheesy corn dogs, fiery tteokbokki, ramen bowls that warm the soul, and more. It's a bold and flavorful menu that stays true to the streets of Korea.

Mahesh Reddy, CEO of GOPIZZA India, added, “Our journey in India has shown a strong love for Korean food. With Gochujang, we’re now offering an authentic Korean street food experience that complements our pizza and dessert brands.”

Located right next to Gochujang, Dalkomi also opens its second location at Mall of Asia after a successful debut at Kempegowda International Airport. The 650 sq ft space forms part of the 3-brand Korean food hub that GOPIZZA plans to replicate across its outlets for both dine-in and delivery.

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With high footfall, a cosmopolitan crowd, and a growing appetite for Korean cuisine, Phoenix Mall of Asia was the perfect setting to launch this integrated K-food experience.

Known for its technological innovation, GOPIZZA is also leading in kitchen automation with its proprietary GOBOT (for cutting and heating pizzas), AI Smart Topping Table, and the patented GOVEN that bakes six pizzas in just three minutes—ensuring both speed and consistency across its 65+ outlets.

With Gochujang’s entry, GOPIZZA continues its journey from a single-brand pizza chain to a multi-brand Korean food destination poised to grow both in India and globally.


The Hazelnut Factory Opens 15th Outlet in Agra, Blending Coffee, Mithai & Culture

The Hazelnut Factory Opens 15th Outlet in Agra, Blending Coffee, Mithai & Culture

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 13, 2025

The Hazelnut Factory (THF), a fast-growing name in the world of speciality coffee and artisanal sweets, has expanded its footprint to Agra with the launch of its 15th outlet. Rooted in Lucknow, THF is celebrated for blending traditional Indian flavours with global café culture, and the new space in Agra is a tribute to the city’s rich heritage.

The launch ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Smt. Hemlata Diwakar, Hon’ble Mayor of Agra Municipal Corporation, who inaugurated the outlet on August 12, 2025, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. She was warmly welcomed by Mr. Ankit Sahni, Founder & CEO of The Hazelnut Factory, and Mr. Badal Sahni, Co-founder & COO.

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The interiors draw inspiration from charming European cafés while embracing Indian warmth through THF’s signature blue décor. Every product reflects their ethos—The Joy of Crafting the Best—whether it’s single-estate coffee from Chikmagalur, their trademarked artisanal mithai Labon™, or indulgent pastries that fuse global techniques with local flavours.

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The highlight for this edition is a creative spin on Baklava, infused with regional tastes and paired perfectly with THF’s premium coffee blends. As part of their cultural campaign, the brand imagines Emperor Shahjahan himself stepping in for a cup, with the tagline—Even Shahjahan would've loved our coffee.

“Agra’s legacy deserves more than admiration—it deserves participation,” says Ankit Sahni. “Through our interiors and cultural storytelling, we’re inviting people to not just drink coffee, but to experience heritage.”

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Currently serving over 150,000 customers each month across Delhi NCR and Uttar Pradesh, THF has become a go-to destination for casual coffee moments, indulgent pastries, and festive gifting. With the Agra outlet, they aim to add yet another cultural chapter to their growing story.

Location: Handicraft Nagar, 18A, Plot No. 8, Fatehabad Road, Near Hotel Amar Yatri Niwas, Agra
Website: https://thehazelnutfactory.com/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thf.india/ 


Savor the Long Weekend with Food, Music & Soul at Neighbors, Goa

Savor the Long Weekend with Food, Music & Soul at Neighbors, Goa

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 13, 2025

This Independence Day weekend, Neighbors café in Assagao invites locals and travelers to drop the script and immerse themselves in the laid-back Goan rhythm with four days of soulful food, live music, and barefoot joy.

From August 14th to 17th, Neighbors transforms into a vibrant haven that mirrors monsoon-kissed Goa, simple, relaxed, and full of soul. The café presents a limited-edition menu crafted by Chef Konaark Sharma that blends nostalgia with creativity using humble ingredients in delightful ways.

Highlights include:

  • Cream Cheese Thecha, Burrata, Crispy Onion & Fig Relish Toast — a crunchy, creamy, spicy-sweet starter.

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  • The Red Beet Salad — fresh and earthy to cleanse the palate.

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  • Cloud Sun Rise Baked Eggs with Salsa Macha — warm, bold, and perfect for holiday mornings.

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  • Roasted Chipotle Fish — smoky and juicy with deep spices.

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  • Pistachio Tiramisu — light, lush, and with a refreshing twist of green.

Chef Konaark shares, “We wanted this menu to feel like a weekend in Goa, easy, relaxed, and full of surprise. It’s simple food made with soul, nothing overdone, just really good and made to be enjoyed slowly.”

Adding to the vibe, live performances ranging from jazz vocals to percussion sets will fill the air, syncing with the mellow buzz of conversations and golden-hour lounging.

Completing the experience is The Aperol Ritual, a special spritz celebration, perfect for sipping alongside sunshine and laughter in the magical Goan setting.

No dress codes or fixed playlists apply,  just freedom to be yourself. Whether you pop in for a solo coffee, a long meal with friends, or a food experience worth sharing, Neighbors offers a welcoming space to relax and reconnect.

Details:

  • Open: 9 AM – 8 PM

  • Address: H.No 189, 14, Mazal Waddo, Assagao, Goa 403507

99 Pancakes Celebrates 78th Independence Day with ₹78 Pancake & Waffle Offer

99 Pancakes Celebrates 78th Independence Day with ₹78 Pancake & Waffle Offer

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 13, 2025

This Independence Day, 99 Pancakes, India’s leading QSR chain for pancakes, waffles, and desserts, is inviting guests to celebrate freedom with a sweet deal. On 15 August 2025, the brand will offer its signature Milky Way Waffle and Milky Mania Pancake for just ₹78, honoring the 78th anniversary of India’s independence.

The Milky Way Waffle pairs a crispy golden texture with rich sweetness, while the Milky Mania Pancake features soft, fluffy layers drizzled with chocolate, both perfect for an indulgent holiday treat. The special pricing is a tribute to the occasion, encouraging families and friends to gather and celebrate over something delicious.

“At 99 Pancakes, we believe in spreading happiness through our creations, and every celebration deserves its own flavor,” said Vikesh Shah, Founder of 99 Pancakes. “This Independence Day we invite everyone to enjoy a delicious treat at just ₹78. It is a privilege to be part of this important occasion and bring joy to our guests.”

With over 80 outlets in 18 cities across India, 99 Pancakes continues to innovate in the dessert segment while expanding its footprint nationwide. Guests can visit any outlet to take part in this one-day celebration and savor a bite of freedom.

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