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.


Amara’s ‘Death by Chocolate’ Becomes Bengaluru’s Go-To Dessert Indulgence

Amara’s ‘Death by Chocolate’ Becomes Bengaluru’s Go-To Dessert Indulgence

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

In a city that takes its food seriously, from iconic biryanis to cult-favourite cafés, there’s a dessert steadily building its own loyal following. At Amara, the spotlight is on one standout creation, Death by Chocolate.

While the name may be familiar, Amara’s version goes beyond the usual. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a carefully layered experience. Built with rich brownies, creamy malai kulfi, and warm chocolate sauce, it is finished with crunchy nuts and a generous topping of whipped cream. Each element is thoughtfully balanced, delivering a texture that is smooth, indulgent, and deeply satisfying without tipping into excessive sweetness.

What sets it apart is its authenticity. Unlike many overly sugary or artificial variations, Amara’s Death by Chocolate feels grounded and real, offering a more refined indulgence that appeals to Bengaluru’s discerning palate.

The portion size adds to its appeal. It is hearty enough to share, yet indulgent enough to enjoy solo, making every bite feel worthwhile. It’s the kind of dessert that earns repeat visits, much like a beloved main course.

Open daily from 12 PM to 1 AM, Amara has quietly carved out a space as a go-to hangout for late-night cravings and spontaneous dessert outings. With availability on Swiggy and Zomato, it’s also easily accessible across the city.

Beyond this signature dessert, Amara positions itself as a premium frozen dessert brand rooted in Indian tradition. By collaborating with generational halwais and skilled sweet makers, the brand reimagines classic flavours into contemporary formats, bridging heritage with modern indulgence. Operating from its flagship store in Indiranagar along with satellite locations across Bengaluru, Amara continues to bring timeless Indian desserts to a new generation of diners.

With creations like Death by Chocolate, it’s clear that in Bengaluru’s evolving food scene, desserts are no longer an afterthought—they’re the main event.


SOL55 Brings Honest Drinks and Soulful Food to Bengaluru

SOL55 Brings Honest Drinks and Soulful Food to Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 14, 2026

SOL55 has opened its doors in Koramangala, Bengaluru, bringing a fresh take on the neighbourhood bar concept. Built around the idea of warmth, energy, and familiarity, the space takes inspiration from the sun “SOL” and the natural flow of urban life, creating an experience that feels polished yet easy-going.

In a city known for its fast-changing bar scene, SOL55 focuses on consistency and comfort rather than trends. Designed as a place people can return to, it offers a setting where weekday catch-ups and weekend plans come together naturally. The bar aims to strike a balance between premium quality and approachable pricing, making it accessible without losing its charm.

What sets SOL55 apart is its clear focus on everyday social experiences. The bar is built around honest pours, soulful food, and a relaxed atmosphere, avoiding both high-priced menus and overly loud settings. The idea is simple — quality drinks, good food, and a space where guests feel at ease.

Sharing the thought behind the concept, Yuvaraja HS of Sol55 said,

“With SOL55, we wanted to create the kind of bar we ourselves kept looking for in Bengaluru, one that feels familiar, dependable, and easy to come back to. The idea was never about chasing trends, but about building a neighbourhood space where people can enjoy good food, honest drinks, and genuine company without overthinking it. Koramangala felt like the right home for this vision, and SOL55 is our way of giving the city a bar that grows with its people,”

Food plays a key role in the overall experience at SOL55. The menu focuses on regional and comforting dishes that pair well with drinks. One of the highlights is the selection of regional thalis, designed for guests looking for a wholesome meal. The Coastal Thali stands out with its seafood-inspired flavours, while both vegetarian and non-vegetarian platters cater to groups and casual dining.

The bar menu follows a similar approach, offering cocktails that are simple, well-made, and familiar with a local touch. Inspired by Bengaluru and beyond, the drinks aim to balance classic styles with subtle twists.

SOL55 is positioned as more than just a bar. It aims to be a community space in Koramangala where colleagues unwind after work, friends meet regularly, and guests enjoy a consistent experience. With warm interiors, thoughtful service, and a welcoming vibe, the space focuses on comfort over show.

Reflecting its philosophy, the brand identity is built around themes of energy, balance, and celebration. SOL55 aims to become a reliable neighbourhood spot in Bengaluru’s nightlife, offering quality experiences without making them feel out of reach.


The Leela Gandhinagar Unveils Soulful All-Day Menu at Moksha Lounge

The Leela Gandhinagar Unveils Soulful All-Day Menu at Moksha Lounge

By Hariharan U

Published on April 14, 2026

At Moksha Lounge within The Leela Gandhinagar, dining takes on a slower, more mindful pace. With the launch of its newly curated all-day menu, the lounge brings together comfort and refinement through the philosophy of tripti,a feeling of fulfilment rooted in good food, meaningful conversations, and unhurried moments.

Designed to flow with the rhythm of the day, the menu transitions effortlessly from light bites to indulgent selections. Whether it’s a casual meeting, a laid-back afternoon, or a relaxed evening, Moksha positions itself as a space where guests can settle in and savour the experience.

The new offering leans into experiential dining, focusing on shareable plates and familiar favourites with a creative twist. Standout dishes include the Kanda Waffle, Khakhra Mexicana, Kheema Matar Phyllo Bite, and signature burgers. These are complemented by refreshing coolers that reinterpret classic flavours with a contemporary edge.

Adding depth to the experience is a thoughtfully crafted beverage programme featuring handcrafted mocktails and refreshing blends, ideal for both social catch-ups and quiet unwinding.

For those with a sweet tooth, the patisserie selection offers a refined pause. Freshly baked delights and elegant desserts pair seamlessly with boutique coffees and premium teas, encouraging guests to linger a little longer.

Speaking about the launch, Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, shared, “Moksha has always been envisioned as a place guests return to for comfort and familiarity. With this new menu, we wanted to create an experience that feels welcoming and complete, where guests can relax, connect, and enjoy moments that extend beyond the meal itself.”

With this refreshed menu, Moksha Lounge evolves into more than just a dining space, it becomes a vibrant social hub within the hotel. Blending flavour, comfort, and conversation, it invites guests to drop in anytime and turn everyday moments into memorable experiences.

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