Serving Success: ITC's Cloud Kitchen Sets a New Culinary Standard

Serving Success: ITC's Cloud Kitchen Sets a New Culinary Standard

By Author

Published on January 3, 2024

ITC, a name synonymous with diverse business ventures, is set to elevate its presence in the food-tech industry by expanding its cloud kitchen business. This innovative move comes as the conglomerate identifies food-tech as a key growth vector. Currently operating in Bengaluru and Chennai, ITC's cloud kitchens have become a preferred choice for North Indian daily and gourmet cuisines, as well as bakery products.

The company's foray into the cloud kitchen landscape is marked by three distinct brands: ITC Aashirvaad Soul Creations for daily comfort food, ITC Master Chef Creations for gourmet delights, and ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations for bakery treats. With 19 cloud kitchens in Bengaluru and four in Chennai, ITC has already achieved the milestone of breaking even in these locations.

Hemant Malik, Executive Director at ITC, shares insights into the success of the venture, citing a winning formula that includes established brands, cuisine expertise from ITC Hotels' chefs, and the backing of the packaged foods business. "The tech-learning needed for the business comes from our focus on digitalization," adds Malik.

The business model involves the establishment of a central kitchen and satellite kitchens in cities where ITC operates. This strategic layout aligns with the preferences of food delivery giants like Swiggy and Zomato, who prefer kitchens every 2.5-3 km. ITC aims to replicate its success in Bengaluru by becoming a market leader in the premium space in other cities.

"We are already the market leader in Bengaluru in the premium space within two years of operation and will now scale up in other cities," says Malik. The cloud kitchen central kitchen in Bengaluru has the capability to service both Chennai and Hyderabad, showcasing ITC's commitment to operational efficiency.

Going beyond its current offerings, ITC plans to diversify its cloud kitchen menu by evaluating the addition of breakfast and oriental cuisines. Malik emphasises the company's strategy to introduce new cuisines and meals alongside expanding its presence in metro cities.

Noteworthy is the fact that ITC's cloud kitchens boast an average order value of Rs 900, double that of the industry average. The key differentiators from ITC Hotels' kitchens include a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) compared to 18% for hotel restaurants, and a focus on quick service.

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In an investor presentation, ITC highlighted the institutional synergies between its cloud kitchen business and other segments, such as packaging solutions, digital-first approaches, and culinary expertise. With over one million orders already delivered, ITC aims to capitalise on the 10% market share occupied by cloud kitchens in the food delivery platform landscape.

However, the presentation also acknowledged challenges, particularly the scalability issues associated with North Indian cuisine due to its dependency on chef skills and the lack of standardisation. Nevertheless, ITC's strategic approach and commitment to innovation position it as a formidable player in the evolving landscape of the food-tech industry.


Chinese Wok Enters Agra, Marks 75th North India Outlet

Chinese Wok Enters Agra, Marks 75th North India Outlet

By Hariharan U

Published on March 2, 2026

Chinese Wok, one of India’s leading Desi Chinese QSR chains from Lenexis Foodworks, has entered Agra with the launch of its first outlet in the city. Located at Sanjay Place, Civil Lines, the opening also marks the brand’s 75th store in North India, reinforcing the region’s strategic importance in its national growth plans.

The new outlet received an encouraging response in its first week, recording strong footfall and early traction among local consumers. Agra, with its young population, student base and steady tourist inflow, presents a strong consumption market for organised dining formats.

Commenting on the expansion, Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & Director, Lenexis Foodworks, said, “North India continues to be a key growth engine for Chinese Wok. Reaching our 75th store in the region reflects not just expansion, but deepening consumer trust in emerging markets. Agra is not only a strong residential and commercial hub but also one of India’s most visited tourist destinations. This gives us an opportunity to serve both local consumers and the steady influx of domestic travellers seeking reliable, organised dining options. Our cluster-led strategy allows us to scale efficiently while delivering a consistent, high-quality QSR experience across cities.”

Designed to cater to students, families and working professionals, the Agra store offers value-driven combos, Kurkure Momos and Manchurian available in six sauces. The outlet will operate for dine-in, takeaway and delivery, while also contributing to local employment and the city’s organised food service ecosystem


Roxie & Barry Debuts as India’s First Indo-Italian Crafthouse in Bengaluru

Roxie & Barry Debuts as India’s First Indo-Italian Crafthouse in Bengaluru

By Hariharan U

Published on March 2, 2026

Bengaluru’s evolving dining scene welcomes a distinctive new entrant with the launch of Roxie & Barry, positioned as India’s first Indo-Italian crafthouse. Conceived by restaurateur Pravesh Pandey, the restaurant moves beyond the format of a conventional Italian eatery, presenting instead a narrative-led concept inspired by two contrasting Italian coastlines and the imagined reunion of two characters, Roxie and Barry, whose identities shape both menu and mood.

The culinary programme is helmed by Head of Culinary Jagdish Naidu and Head of Kitchen Operations Chef Abhrajyoti Nandy, while the bar is led by Sagar Sarki. Roxie reflects the vibrant energy of Italy’s western shoreline, particularly the Amalfi Coast, celebrated for citrus-forward flavours, seafood and expressive, shareable plates. Dishes such as Charred Pineapple al Piccante, Ricotta & Truffle Agnolotti and Mediterranean Baked Seabass showcase bold layering and colour.

In contrast, Barry draws from Apulia on Italy’s eastern coast, where cuisine is defined by restraint, olive oil-led preparations, handmade pastas and ingredient purity. Plates like Lobster Bisque Risotto, Hummus & Lamb Bolognese and Confit Duck Leg with Mushroom Jus highlight depth developed through patience and technique rather than excess.

Operating as a true crafthouse, the restaurant prepares pastas, doughs, stocks, sauces, compotes and preserves entirely in-house, avoiding commercial premixes. Time and process are treated as essential ingredients, with fermentation, slow reductions and small-batch preparation forming the backbone of the kitchen philosophy.

The bar programme mirrors this approach with spirit-forward, thoughtfully composed cocktails, while music plays a central role in the brand identity. A daily 7 PM welcome ritual marks the beginning of evening service, complemented by curated live performances that reinforce the space as an experiential destination.

Housed within a restored mansion in Bengaluru, Roxie & Barry aims to position itself as a cultural landmark where food, craft and performance converge. Officially opening on 27 February 2026, the restaurant invites diners to experience East and West Italy reinterpreted through Indian warmth and contemporary craftsmanship.


Mizuki 2.0: A Bold New Chapter in Elevated Asian Dining

Mizuki 2.0: A Bold New Chapter in Elevated Asian Dining

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 2, 2026

Ushering in a fresh and confident phase, Mizuki at Le Méridien Navi Mumbai unveils Mizuki 2.0, a refined evolution that raises the bar for Pan-Asian dining. Set against expansive skyline views, this new chapter brings sharper techniques, deeper flavours, and a more indulgent approach, crafted for guests who appreciate thoughtful, elevated cuisine.

Mizuki 2.0 presents a carefully curated menu that blends comfort with bold expression. Signature highlights include the smoky Aburi Salmon, the fiery Volcano Spicy Prawn Roll, and the richly layered Sichuan Dan Dan Ramen. Popular dim sum selections like the XO Prawn Dumpling continue to impress, while the Indonesian Style Chilli Lobster emerges as a standout, delivering intense flavour and indulgence in every bite. Each dish is designed with balance and precision, creating a dining journey that feels both refined and satisfying.

Desserts complete the experience on a high note, offering indulgent finales such as the Burnt Basque Matcha Cheesecake and the Organic Jaggery & Coconut Cream Brûlée. These thoughtfully crafted desserts add depth and warmth, rounding off the meal with finesse.

With Mizuki 2.0, the restaurant steps into a new era of Pan-Asian opulence, where flavour meets artistry and every detail is designed to leave a lasting impression. It is an experience where the pleasure of the palate meets the beauty of the horizon, creating a dining moment that is both memorable and refined.

Event Details:

  • What: Launch of Mizuki 2.0: New Pan-Asian Menu
  • Where: Mizuki, Le Méridien Navi Mumbai
  • When: Now Available

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