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.


Gracia Cero Brings Mindful Drinking to the Fore

Gracia Cero Brings Mindful Drinking to the Fore

By Hariharan U

Published on January 11, 2026

Kantala Spirits has introduced Gracia Cero, a new-age beverage that encourages mindful drinking while keeping the joy of social occasions intact. Positioned clearly as not anti-alcohol, Cero supports choice, moderation, and inclusivity, giving consumers the freedom to enjoy gatherings on their own terms.

Gracia Cero stands out as India’s first non-alcoholic agave drink, created for people looking to reset after festive indulgence, take part in Dry January, or simply adopt a more balanced drinking approach. The focus remains on flavour and experience, ensuring that choosing a zero-alcohol option never feels like a compromise.

Designed to fit seamlessly into parties, work events, and everyday social settings, Cero allows everyone at the table to feel included. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal gathering, the drink offers a refined alternative that blends in naturally with modern social rituals.

Completely alcohol-free and sugar-free, Gracia Cero contains 0% ABV and just 4 calories per serving. Made using agave, it delivers a clean, refreshing profile without alcohol, making it suitable for those prioritising health, detox routines, or mindful living, while still enjoying a premium beverage.

The brand brings a bold approach to flavour with two distinct variants, Raw ‘n’ Wild Mango and Pineapple Piñata. These flavour-forward options add a playful yet elevated touch, challenging the idea that non-alcoholic drinks need to be plain or predictable.

With Gracia Cero, Kantala Spirits aims to reshape modern drinking culture by offering a guilt-free way to raise a glass. Free from sugary mixers, next-day fatigue, or social pressure, Cero fits effortlessly into evolving lifestyle choices where balance and enjoyment go hand in hand.


Punjab Grill Expands Footprint with 57th Outlet in Thane

Punjab Grill Expands Footprint with 57th Outlet in Thane

By Hariharan U

Published on January 9, 2026

Punjab Grill, the flagship North Indian dining brand from Lite Bite Foods, has marked a new milestone with the opening of its 57th outlet at Lakeshore, Viviana Mall, Thane. The launch reinforces the brand’s steady expansion across key urban markets while bringing its heritage-driven culinary offering closer to diners in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The newly opened restaurant reflects Punjab Grill’s signature design language, an elegant blend of warmth, nostalgia, and modern sophistication. Thoughtfully curated interiors and a welcoming ambience create a versatile dining environment suited for family gatherings, business lunches, and celebratory occasions.

Staying true to its culinary philosophy, the menu showcases Punjab Grill’s well-known repertoire inspired by the royal kitchens of undivided Punjab, age-old recipes, and the region’s vibrant food culture. Guests can expect robust flavours, slow-cooked preparations, and meticulously crafted dishes that balance authenticity with contemporary presentation.

Commenting on the launch, Rohit Aggarwal, Founder and Managing Director, Lite Bite Foods, said, “Thane has emerged as a dynamic dining destination with an audience that values quality, legacy, and innovation. With our 57th outlet at Viviana Mall, we aim to address this growing demand by offering an immersive dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of North India.”

With this addition, Punjab Grill continues to strengthen its nationwide presence, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating heritage-led cuisine while evolving with modern dining preferences. The Thane outlet represents the brand’s focus on expanding into high-footfall urban centres with a strong appetite for premium dining experiences.


Romanos at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Launches Formaggi d’Italia: A Cheese-Centric Culinary Experience

Romanos at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Launches Formaggi d’Italia: A Cheese-Centric Culinary Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on January 8, 2026

Romanos, the city’s premier destination for authentic Italian cuisine at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, is set to unveil Formaggi d’Italia, a refined, cheese-led culinary experience. Launching on 7th January 2026, the showcase celebrates Italian cheese through craftsmanship, storytelling, and interactive dining.

Inspired by Italy’s regional cheese culture, Formaggi d’Italia begins with an artisanal cheese board featuring Bocconcini, Mozzarella, Gorgonzola, pine nut-crusted goat cheese, Pecorino, and Provolone, paired with pecan nuts, JW herb crackers, and mostarda.

Guests can then indulge in a range of cheese-forward pastas including Four Root Cheese Gnocchi with Brie, Fettuccine Quattro Formaggi, and Tortellini alla Fonduta. The experience continues with comforting mains such as Chicken Parmigiana and Spinach Ricotta Lasagna with Brie, and concludes with classic Italian desserts like Tiramisu and Sicilian Cannoli filled with Ricotta.

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“Formaggi d’Italia brings together craftsmanship, indulgence, and storytelling,” said a spokesperson for Romanos. “It reaffirms Romanos as a destination where authentic Italian flavours are elevated through immersive, experience-led dining.”

About JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar combines elegance and sophistication, conveniently located near Mumbai’s international and domestic airports. The hotel features 588 spacious rooms, world-class dining including Romanos, JW Café, BarQat, and AUTM – JW Lounge, as well as 95,781 sq.ft. of convention spaces, and Spa by JW, Asia Pacific’s first, offering holistic wellness therapies.

For more details, visit www.jwmumbai.com.

About Marriott International
Marriott International operates nearly 9,500 properties in 144 countries under 30+ brands. Marriott Bonvoy® offers a highly awarded travel platform. For the latest news, visit Marriott News Center or follow @MarriottIntl on social media.

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