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By Author
Published on October 19, 2023
In a remarkable achievement, ICONiQ Whisky, introduced by Allied Blenders and Distillers (ABD), has rocketed to one million cases in September 2023, just a year after its launch in September 2022. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as ICONiQ Whisky is currently available exclusively in the North and East Indian states. In recent weeks, major states in these regions, such as Maharashtra and Telangana, have joined this incredible journey by introducing the whisky to their markets.
The rollout of ICONiQ Whisky was meticulously planned, with a staggered introduction state by state in most parts of North and East India commencing in September 2022. ICONiQ Whisky's unique blend, combining imported Scotch malts aged in bourbon oak casks with matured malts and Indian grain spirits, has resonated strongly with consumers in the regions where it has been introduced. This achievement of reaching one million cases is a significant step towards ABD's strategic transition to a higher value portfolio, particularly in the prestige and above segments.
Bikram Basu, Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at ABD, expressed confidence in this milestone, stating, “Right at the time of the ICONiQ launch we went on record to say that ‘we are here with something very special, and here to win.’ I am confident that this is the start of many good things to come.”
Within just five years, ABD India has accomplished two major successes with millionaire brands in key and competitive segments of the industry. The first was Sterling Reserve Whisky, which reached five million cases in 2022, and now ICONiQ Whisky has achieved a million cases. This accomplishment is in line with the global success of ABD's Officer’s Choice franchise, which consistently ranks among the top three whiskies in terms of volume in 2022. ABD now boasts a portfolio with four million-plus case selling brands, each comprising 9 liters per case.
It's important to note that Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited is considering an initial public offering of its equity shares, subject to approvals, market conditions, and other considerations. A draft red herring prospectus, dated June 27, 2022, has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). For further information, you can visit SEBI's website or the websites of the Book Running Lead Managers, including ICICI Securities Limited, Axis Capital Limited, Equirus Capital Private Limited, JM Financial Limited, and Kotak Mahindra Capital Company Limited. Please be aware that the Equity Shares have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and will not be offered or sold within the United States, except under specific exemptions. The offering of Equity Shares is conducted outside the United States in accordance with Regulation S and the relevant laws of each jurisdiction.
The success of ICONiQ Whisky is a testament to ABD's dedication and commitment to providing high-quality products to consumers, and it paves the way for exciting developments in the future.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on July 12, 2025
Bengaluru’s favourite urban hangout just got tastier:
Monkey Bar on Museum Road has introduced a new menu — staying true to its spirit while dishing out bold flavours, comfort bites, and international flair. From bar snacks to hearty mains, this refreshed menu adds new favourites to an already vibrant food scene.
Still housed in its signature high-ceilinged space with warm lighting and a buzz of familiar playlists, Monkey Bar remains a go-to for casual lunches, spontaneous dinners, and those long evenings that stretch into the night.
The update brings a mix of old-school comfort and fresh global flavours. Whether you're into small plates or classic mains, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Some of the new highlights include:
Tuna Cutlet and Classic Paneer Tikka – starters with nostalgic appeal.
Chicken Tsukune – Japanese-style skewers that bring izakaya charm.
Cheese Burger – a timeless favourite done right.
Hariyali Fish Tikka – herb-marinated, perfectly grilled and fresh.
Hummus & Pita – a Mediterranean must-have.
Loaded Keema Wedges – a spiced Indian take on cheesy indulgence.
Military Mutton Biryani – aromatic, slow-cooked and flavour-packed.
Mutton Kofta & Appam – a fusion of South Indian and Mughlai richness.
These additions join Monkey Bar’s well-loved staples like comfort bowls, flatbreads, street food-inspired snacks, and its fun mix of cocktails and craft drinks.
Monkey Bar isn’t just a gastropub, it’s a slice of Bengaluru life. It’s where old friends reunite, new plans are born, and spontaneous evenings unfold. The updated menu strengthens its status as a neighbourhood favourite that evolves with the city while keeping its soul intact.
With the right mix of nostalgia, innovation, and good food, Monkey Bar invites you to come hungry and stay a little longer.
Fact Sheet
By Nishang Narayan
Published on July 11, 2025
India’s largest and fastest-growing specialty coffee brand, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, is making its way to the Gulf. In a strategic move, Blue Tokai has partnered with Ambrosia Gulf, which will serve as its master franchisee for the GCC, starting with a flagship launch in the United Arab Emirates. This marks the brand’s first official foray into the Middle East.
With over 175 cafés across India and an international footprint in Tokyo, this partnership is a key milestone for Blue Tokai as it looks to bring its signature farm-to-cup coffee experience to a new audience.
Ambrosia Gulf, part of the Ambrosia Foods Group and backed by mid-market investment firm Pulsar Capital, will lead the expansion. The firm is already known for operating Papa Johns in India (with its first outlet set for September 2025) and managing Biryani By Kilo in the GCC, underlining its strong cross-border brand management capabilities.
“We’re excited to bring Blue Tokai to the UAE and share its incredible coffee story with the region,” said Vish Narain, Executive Chairman of Ambrosia Gulf. “We’re focused on building brands that prioritize quality, authenticity, and customer experience — values that Blue Tokai exemplifies.”
Echoing this sentiment, Matt Chitranjan, Co-Founder and CEO of Blue Tokai, said, “It’s an exciting time for us as we grow beyond India into a market that appreciates traceability, craft, and community. Ambrosia Gulf’s operational expertise and deep local insights make them the perfect partners for this journey.”
Adding to this, Shivam Shahi, COO of Blue Tokai, shared, “Partnering with a group that already operates leading food brands across India and the GCC gives us confidence as we scale internationally. This isn’t just expansion — it’s about building a regionally aligned presence while staying true to our values.”
Beyond launching cafés, the partnership also aims to introduce Blue Tokai’s FMCG offerings to the GCC, tapping into HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés) and direct-to-consumer channels, thereby significantly broadening the brand’s reach.
The first Blue Tokai café in the UAE is expected to open by Q4 2025. Coffee lovers can look forward to experiencing Blue Tokai’s celebrated single-estate coffees, manual brewing styles, and a transparent, craftsmanship-driven café environment.
Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar, a beloved culinary spot in Greenville for soulful Indian fare, has launched an exciting new menu curated by Sous Chef Kishor Singh. The refreshed menu is a vibrant celebration of India’s rich culinary landscape, seamlessly blending traditional flavours with a touch of modern sophistication.
Chef Kishor Singh, renowned for his deep respect for regional Indian cuisine and innovative approach, has thoughtfully reimagined both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The ‘Veg Entrées’ now spotlight regional nuances with creations like Sagg Paneer Pasanda, tandoor-charred Tandoori Paneer Makhni, and the comforting Dum Aloo Banarasi. Popular classics such as Dal Makhni, Raw Mango Curry, and Malai Kofta return with subtle, refined updates, staying true to their authentic roots.
For non-vegetarian lovers, the menu doesn’t disappoint. From the universally adored Butter Chicken to the fiery Laal Maas, each dish is a testament to India’s diverse flavour profiles. Highlights include Old Delhi Mutton Nihari, Prawn Mango Curry, and the coastal-inspired Fish Moilee in a delicate coconut gravy.
“This menu is not just about food, but about storytelling—each dish reflects a part of India’s culinary journey,” shares Chef Singh, whose expertise brings together age-old techniques and contemporary tastes.
Crafted using premium ingredients and traditional spice blends, Namak’s new menu encapsulates the warmth of Indian hospitality while inviting diners to embark on a journey of culinary discovery.
With its elegant ambiance, attentive service, and now an even more enticing menu, Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar continues to solidify its place as a must-visit dining destination in Greenville.
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