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.


Third Wave Coffee Unveils Limited-Edition Valentine’s Beverages Nationwide

Third Wave Coffee Unveils Limited-Edition Valentine’s Beverages Nationwide

By Hariharan U

Published on February 12, 2026

Third Wave Coffee is marking Valentine’s Day with a limited-edition beverage lineup crafted to celebrate connection and everyday indulgence. Launched nationwide on February 11, 2026, the seasonal range features four themed creations - La Vie en Rose Frappe, La Vie en Rose Latte, Red Velvet Milkshake, and Red Velvet Mocha Frappe - each designed to bring a playful yet comforting touch to coffee breaks.

The rose-inspired offerings lead with floral, creamy notes, where the La Vie en Rose Frappe blends delicate rose flavours with whipped cream and dehydrated rose petals, while the La Vie en Rose Latte offers a smoother, mellow sip with subtle sweetness. Complementing the floral profiles are dessert-style red velvet creations: the Red Velvet Milkshake delivers a rich, thick indulgence topped with whipped cream and velvet crumbs, and the Red Velvet Mocha Frappe combines bold coffee and cocoa with a decadent finish.

Priced from ₹305 onwards, the collection is positioned as an accessible festive treat. Available across all outlets till February 22, the range reflects the brand’s structured, insight-led approach to seasonal innovation, aligning menu development with cultural moments and evolving consumer preferences. Founded in 2016 by Sushant Goel, Anirudh Sharma and Ayush Bathwal, Third Wave Coffee has grown to over 200 cafés nationwide and continues to focus on a coffee-first experience driven by quality beans, accessible locations and technology-enabled engagement.


Burma Burma Makes its Debut in Chandigarh at Nexus Elante Mall

Burma Burma Makes its Debut in Chandigarh at Nexus Elante Mall

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 12, 2026

Burma Burma has officially opened its doors in Chandigarh, marking its 21st restaurant in India and its first-ever outlet in the city. Located at Unit No. 321, Third Floor, Nexus Elante Mall, Phase 1, Chandigarh-160002, the restaurant strengthens the brand’s presence in North India while introducing the city to authentic Burmese cuisine and its signature tea room experience.

Known as India’s only Burmese specialty restaurant & tea room, Burma Burma brings a menu that blends bold and comforting flavours. From Samosa Soup and Lotus Root Chips to Tea Leaf Salad, Tohu Mash with Paratha, Khowsuey and Burmese Falooda, the offering is both distinctive and surprisingly familiar for Indian palates. The dishes are paired with Zero Proof Cocktails and artisanal teas, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

The award-winning brand celebrates the culture and culinary traditions of Burma through recipes inspired by street food, tribal cuisine and heirloom dishes passed down through generations. The menu has been shaped by continued research and travel by the culinary team led by Head Chef Ansab Khan. Guests can explore small plates, refreshing salads, hearty mains, bubble teas, coolers, pulled teas and indulgent desserts, all crafted with attention to authenticity and taste.

Signature highlights include Samosa Soup (Samuza Hincho), featuring a crispy samosa in tangy soup with spiced black chickpeas and spring vegetables, and Mohinga Noodle Soup, the national dish of Burma. The Tea Leaf Salad made with laphet (fermented and pickled tea leaves) remains a popular choice. The Oh No Khowsuey, a fragrant coconut milk curry with noodles and toppings, continues to be a crowd favourite.

The beverage programme stays true to its Burmese Tea Room roots. Guests can choose from black, oolong and herbal teas, traditional Burmese Milk Tea, Yangon Royal Tea, Creamy Bagan Tea and a range of Iced Teas. The Zero-Proof Cocktails, recently awarded Best Non-Alcoholic Menu 2025 by 30 Best Bars India, add a modern touch. Options like Cane Glow, Pandan Royale, Yangon Sunset and Burma Sour bring cocktail-style craft without alcohol.

Desserts complete the experience with both Burmese and international selections. Burmese Falooda, Tagu Piyan, Celebration Cake, Burma Bombe and Avocado & Honey Ice Cream are among the highlights, along with artisanal ice creams made in-house.

Spread across 3,128 square feet, the 98-seater restaurant is designed by Minnie Bhatt of Minnie Bhatt Designs. Inspired by Burmese folk tales, the interiors feature handcrafted artworks, woven screens, patterned floors and warm lighting. A striking mural depicting popular folklore anchors the space, blending culture and contemporary design.

Burma Burma Chandigarh aims to become a favourite spot for post-shopping meals, leisurely lunches and celebratory dinners. With its premium casual dining format, the restaurant offers a space where guests can discover the soulful and hearty flavours of Burma in a vibrant yet welcoming setting.

Address: Unit No. 321, Third Floor, Nexus Elante Mall, Phase 1, Chandigarh-160002.


Vesparo Emerges as One of Bengaluru’s Most Romantic Dining Destinations

Vesparo Emerges as One of Bengaluru’s Most Romantic Dining Destinations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 12, 2026

Vesparo, located in Central Bengaluru, is steadily building a reputation as one of the city’s most romantic dining destinations. Designed with intimate evenings in mind, the space brings together warm ambient lighting, curated cocktails, and a refined menu to create a setting that feels both elegant and inviting.

The standout feature of Vesparo is its rooftop, which offers breezy open-air seating and panoramic views of the city skyline. It is an ideal spot for relaxed sundowners that smoothly turn into candlelit dinners as the evening unfolds. Alongside this, the sophisticated indoor space provides a comfortable yet stylish backdrop, allowing guests to move from a quiet dinner to a more vibrant late-night atmosphere without missing a beat.

Whether it is Valentine’s Day, an anniversary celebration, or simply a well-planned evening out, Vesparo focuses on creating experiences that feel personal and memorable. Every detail, from the mood lighting to the food and drinks, is carefully put together to encourage connection and meaningful moments.

With its blend of rooftop charm and refined indoor dining, Vesparo adds a fresh dimension to Bengaluru’s romantic dining scene.

Address: KRISHVI Evara, 2018, 100 Feet Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008.

Time: 12:00PM to 12:30AM.

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