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.

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.

Boulevard at The Orchid Hotel Mumbai Celebrates Father's Day with Street Food and Royal Delicacies

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 21, 2026

Boulevard at The Orchid Hotel Mumbai is set to mark Father's Day with a special brunch that brings together India's vibrant street-food culture, royal culinary traditions and nostalgic childhood favourites. Designed as a celebration of family, flavours and shared memories, the brunch offers guests a chance to enjoy dishes inspired by different regions of India and around the world.

One of the highlights of the experience is a series of interactive live counters showcasing iconic street-food favourites. Guests can explore a lively Chaat Bazaar featuring Muradabadi Chaat from Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow's Chowk Ki Tikki, Gujarat's Dhokla Chaat, Mumbai's popular Pani Puri and Masala Bhutta. A dedicated Galouti Counter will also serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including mushroom, rajma, soya and mutton varieties.

The culinary spread extends beyond Indian flavours with international street-food favourites such as Sushi from Japan, Tibetan-style momos and Middle Eastern Falafel Pita Shawarma, offering something for every palate.

Adding depth to the menu is a selection of royal and regional specialities, including Paya Shorba, Murgh Shammi Kebab, Mahi Tikka, Maa Ki Dal, Patiala Shahi Gosht, Murgh Tikka Biryani and Subz Dum Biryani. Drawing inspiration from the royal kitchens of Lucknow and Punjab, as well as the rich culinary traditions of Hyderabad, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the brunch presents a diverse range of flavours under one roof.

To bring back childhood memories, dedicated counters will serve Malai Gola, Candy Floss and freshly popped Popcorn. These nostalgic treats are designed to recreate the joy of family outings, local fairs and weekend indulgences. Guests can round off the meal with a selection of artisanal pastries, traditional Indian desserts and other sweet delights.

The Father's Day brunch offers families an opportunity to celebrate together over a table filled with familiar flavours, treasured memories and dishes inspired by culinary traditions from across India and beyond.

What: Global Street Food Father's Day Sunday Brunch with Indian Royal Delicacies.
Where: Boulevard, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai.
When: Sunday, 21 June 2026.

Le Méridien Ahmedabad Curates Special Father’s Day Dining Experiences at Bayleaf and The Market

By Hariharan U

Published on June 21, 2026

This Father’s Day, Le Méridien Ahmedabad is inviting families to celebrate the occasion with specially curated dining experiences designed to bring loved ones together over exceptional food and memorable moments.

Taking place on June 21, the celebrations will unfold across the hotel’s signature dining venues, offering guests a choice between an intimate fine-dining experience and a vibrant buffet feast.

At Bayleaf, diners can enjoy a thoughtfully crafted five-course menu served in an elegant setting. Warm lighting, attentive service, and a refined ambience create the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and a relaxed evening with family. The specially curated experience is designed for those seeking a more intimate and sophisticated Father’s Day celebration.

For guests looking for a lively dining experience, The Market will host an elaborate buffet featuring a wide range of global and regional flavours. The expansive spread is complemented by a vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for larger family gatherings and festive celebrations.

Adding to the occasion, fathers dining with two accompanying guests at The Market can enjoy a complimentary meal, offering families another reason to come together and celebrate.

Available from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the Father’s Day experiences at Le Méridien Ahmedabad combine culinary excellence, warm hospitality, and thoughtful touches to create an evening dedicated to honouring fathers and father figures.

Whether choosing the elegance of Bayleaf or the lively buffet at The Market, guests can look forward to a celebration centred on great food, family connections, and lasting memories.

For reservations, guests can contact +91 99789 08933.

Ironhill and Smoor Stir Up a Chocolate Cocktail Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 21, 2026

Chocolate is finding a new place on the menu at Ironhill, and this time, it is not on a dessert plate. In collaboration with Smoor, the brewery has introduced a limited-edition cocktail menu that brings together artisanal chocolate and craft cocktail making in a unique way.

Designed to offer a different perspective on chocolate, the menu features three signature cocktails, each with its own distinct character and flavour profile. Rather than simply adding chocolate to a drink, the collection explores how the ingredient can create depth, balance and complexity in a cocktail glass.

The Silk Route delivers a smooth and rich experience, with deep chocolate notes that unfold gradually and leave a lasting impression. For those who enjoy contrasting flavours, the Salted Cacao combines cacao and salt to create a balanced drink where sweetness and savoury notes work together seamlessly. Meanwhile, the Tropical Ganache brings a lighter and more vibrant approach, blending bright fruit flavours with chocolate for a refreshing and unexpected combination.

What sets the menu apart is its thoughtful approach to flavour. Each cocktail presents a different interpretation of chocolate, showcasing how the ingredient can move beyond traditional desserts and become the centrepiece of a well-crafted drink.

Available for a limited time, the Ironhill x Smoor collaboration offers guests an opportunity to experience chocolate in a fresh and creative format. Whether enjoyed as a leisurely evening drink or as part of a dining experience, the menu aims to bring a new dimension to cocktail culture.

What: Chocolate Cocktails at Ironhill

Where:

Ironhill Marathahalli, Sy no 90, 7 & 90/8, Marathahalli - Sarjapur Outer Ring Rd, beside Radisson Blu, Marathahalli, Bengaluru.
Ironhill Forum South, 4th floor, Cross Metro Station, Forum South, Anjanadri Layout, Konanakunte, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560062.

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