Punjabi by Nature, one of India’s most renowned North Indian restaurant chains, is setting its sights on a major expansion. With over 26 years of culinary expertise, the brand has announced plans to open 20 new outlets in the next five years, aiming to launch a new location every quarter. In addition, they will establish an equal number of food courts and cloud kitchens. This ambitious move is part of the brand’s strategy to blend its rich heritage with a modern dining experience, reflected in recent upgrades to its interiors and food menu.

Currently, Punjabi by Nature operates seven outlets in Gurugram, Noida, Delhi, and Dehradun, along with three cloud kitchens in Noida and Delhi. The next phase of expansion will see the restaurant chain growing its presence across India and venturing into international markets. The brand has forecasted an annual revenue growth of 25-30%, with a goal of reaching ₹250 crore by 2029.

Beyond revenue growth, the expansion will also create significant job opportunities in the hospitality industry. The new outlets will require chefs, kitchen staff, and hospitality professionals, contributing to employment generation. Over the next five years, the brand aims to create over 750 new jobs.

"We are thrilled to expand Punjabi by Nature, bringing our legacy and modernized dining experience to more cities," said Mr. Krishan Girdhar, Chairman of Punjabi by Nature. "With the opening of 20 new outlets, we aim to not only meet the growing demand but also provide employment opportunities, particularly for chefs and staff who share our passion for North Indian cuisine."

Mr. Manoj Rai, CEO of Punjabi by Nature, shared similar enthusiasm. "We’re excited to offer a fresh, modern take on our classic cuisine and molecular cocktails and mocktails in all the new locations. This expansion allows us to innovate while staying true to our roots."

The expansion plan aligns with Punjabi by Nature’s vision to cater to the evolving tastes of today’s diners. As the chain broadens its footprint across India’s urban markets, the brand also plans to enhance its delivery capabilities by adding more cloud kitchens to meet the growing demand for online food delivery services.

Ilegal Mezcal, a leading artisanal mezcal brand, has introduced its newest limited-edition offering, Ilegal Reposado Caribbean Cask Finish. This unique release blends the rich heritage of traditional mezcal with a tropical twist, thanks to the use of Caribbean rum barrels in the aging process.

Crafted in small batches in Oaxaca, Mexico, the Reposado starts its journey in American oak barrels, where it is aged for 4-6 months. After this initial period, the mezcal is transferred to 215 Caribbean rum barrels that previously held 8-year-old rum, where it is finished for up to two months. This final stage of aging imparts notes of tropical fruit, warm spices, caramel sweetness, and butterscotch, adding a new layer of complexity to the mezcal.

Founder John Rexer shared his excitement about this new release, saying, "Ilegal Caribbean Cask Finish takes our Reposado to a new place and speaks to the community blending spirit Ilegal was founded on, marrying the agave-forward character of Ilegal with the vibrant influence of Caribbean rum casks."

The Reposado Caribbean Cask Finish is ideal for sipping neat or adding depth to cocktails, with its nuanced flavors and tropical character. Priced at $45.99, the limited-edition mezcal will be available at select retailers and online.

For more details, visit Ilegal Mezcal’s official website or follow them on Instagram at @ilegalmezcal.

Starbucks Korea has launched its latest store, Jangchung Lounge R, on September 12, celebrating the 10th anniversary of Starbucks Reserve in Korea. This new store, located in the Jung-gu district of Seoul, is the company’s first Reserve-only store in the city and the 10th destination store in the country.

The Jangchung Lounge R is housed in a renovated 1960s building, featuring a blend of vintage and modern design elements. Spanning three floors, the store offers 180 seats, including a terrace. The interior preserves nostalgic details such as the original doorbell, closets, and staircases, giving customers a sense of stepping back into the 1960s and 1980s.

One of the unique aspects of this store is its seven themed spaces, each offering a distinct experience. The first floor connects to an outdoor garden with 40 seats, providing a peaceful escape in the middle of the city. Visitors can also explore spaces like a lounge and a music room designed to feel intimate and relaxed.

A key feature of Jangchung Lounge R is its Mixology Bar, a first in Korea. Customers can enjoy 11 cocktail beverages, including popular options like Espresso Martini, Latte Whisky Martini, and Bourbon Whiskey Cream Cold Brew. Non-alcoholic versions like White Moscato Sangria and Strawberry Lemon Vodka Blended are also available.

In addition to the drinks, the store offers 12 new menu items, including desserts, breads, and sandwiches, designed to complement the Reserve coffee and mixology drinks. The store also debuts exclusive merchandise, including a collaboration with premium barware brand Riedel.

The new Espresso Flight, featuring Starbucks Reserve espresso paired with chocolate powder, French vanilla cream, and Jeju Palsak sherbet, is another highlight available only at this location.