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.

image

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.


Shao Unveils New À La Carte Menu by Chef Sitam Lama at Radisson Blu Bengaluru

Shao Unveils New À La Carte Menu by Chef Sitam Lama at Radisson Blu Bengaluru

By Hariharan U

Published on September 2, 2026

Shao, the Pan-Asian restaurant at Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, has unveiled a new à la carte menu by Chef Sitam Lama, marking the first full expression of the chef's culinary vision at the restaurant.

The new menu brings together flavours and culinary traditions from regional Chinese, Southeast Asian and Balinese cuisines, offering guests an expansive Pan-Asian dining experience within a single menu.

The selection begins with a range of vegetarian creations, including Crispy Spicy Tofu, tossed with chestnut, peanut and dried chilli, and Crunchy Assorted Mushroom, wok-tossed with five-spice, chilli, garlic and spring onion. The sushi selection also features vegetarian options such as Avocado Nigiri and Sweet Shiitake Nigiri.

The menu extends into comforting and aromatic preparations, including Chongqing Chicken Soup, a slow-cooked broth featuring Sichuan peppercorns, dried chillies and goji berries. The Balinese Chicken Satay combines hand-minced chicken with chargrilling and a lemongrass dip.

For diners seeking bolder flavours, the Sizzling Cumin Lamb combines toasted cumin with the heat of Sichuan peppercorns, while the Smoked Spicy Pork Belly with Bamboo Shoots is wok-tossed with the kitchen's own fermented chillies and garlic.

The Shanghai Chicken Dumpling, finished with truffle oil, provides a lighter option, while the Hunan Steamed Seabass, topped with pickled mustard and chilli, brings the savoury selection to a bold and tangy finish.

Across the menu, Chef Sitam Lama's approach focuses on premium ingredients, refined techniques and authentic regional flavours, while presenting familiar Asian culinary traditions through a contemporary restaurant setting.

The new menu debuted on 25 August 2026, giving guests an opportunity to experience Chef Lama's signature creations as Shao continues its culinary evolution.

Restaurant Details:

  • Venue: Shao, Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road
  • Menu: New À La Carte Menu
  • Reservations: +91 97314 77816

Oven Story Pizza Partners with EaseMyTrip for Teriyaki to Tokyo Campaign

Oven Story Pizza Partners with EaseMyTrip for Teriyaki to Tokyo Campaign

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 2, 2026

Oven Story Pizza by Rebel Foods has partnered with EaseMyTrip to launch Teriyaki to Tokyo, a consumer campaign that combines its new Japanese-inspired Teriyaki Pizza range with the chance to win travel experiences.

Running from 24th August to 20th September 2026, the campaign gives customers ordering through the Oven Story app an opportunity to win a couple's trip to Tokyo. Every eligible order also comes with an assured reward, while daily prizes add to the excitement.

The campaign has been introduced alongside Oven Story's new Teriyaki Pizza range, bringing together Japanese-inspired flavours and the experience of travel. As part of the partnership, one lucky couple will get an all-expenses-paid trip to Tokyo, powered by EaseMyTrip.

image

Nishant Kedia, Chief Marketing Officer, Rebel Foods, said: "At Rebel Foods, we believe the best brand experiences go beyond the product itself. Teriyaki to Tokyo celebrates our new Japanese-inspired pizza range by combining food with the excitement of travel, giving our customers the chance to enjoy authentic Teriyaki flavours while chasing a dream trip to Japan. It's a campaign designed to create unforgettable memories, one pizza at a time."

Manmeet Ahluwalia, Chief Marketing Officer, EaseMyTrip added: "Travel often begins with a craving to discover something new, and this collaboration brings that spirit of discovery to life in a fresh and engaging way. We are delighted to partner with Oven Story to connect the joy of Japanese-inspired food with the excitement of travel. Teriyaki to Tokyo is about turning a simple indulgence into an opportunity to dream, explore and experience a new culture."

How the contest works

Customers need to order any pizza from the new Teriyaki Pizza range through the Oven Story app. They then have to DM @ovenstory a picture of their invoice and answer in a few words: "Why is Tokyo your dream destination?"

At the end of the campaign, one couple will win a free trip to Tokyo, powered by EaseMyTrip. The campaign also offers daily rewards. One customer who places an eligible order through the Oven Story app will win a ₹5,000 EaseMyTrip travel voucher every day, giving customers another opportunity to take home a travel reward.

As the Official Travel Partner, EaseMyTrip is supporting the campaign through a co-branded experience that connects food and travel. The Teriyaki Pizza range is currently available through the Oven Story app, EatSure, and leading food delivery platforms across India. Customers can download the Oven Story app or visit Oven Story's Instagram for details about the Teriyaki to Tokyo contest, daily reward updates and contest terms & conditions.


Tacos Atarantados Launches Signature Cerveza Atarantados in Collaboration with Magic 13 Brewing Co

Tacos Atarantados Launches Signature Cerveza Atarantados in Collaboration with Magic 13 Brewing Co

By Hariharan U

Published on September 2, 2026

Tacos Atarantados has introduced Cerveza Atarantados, its first signature beer in the United States, in collaboration with Miami-based Magic 13 Brewing Co. The Mexican-style light lager is now available exclusively at the restaurant's Wynwood and Brickell locations.

Created specifically to complement the restaurant's food menu, the 4.5% ABV lager features a crisp and refreshing profile designed to pair with Tacos Atarantados' signature tacos, trompo meats, and house-made salsas.

The collaboration brings together two Miami hospitality brands, combining Tacos Atarantados' Northern Mexican culinary traditions with Magic 13's local craft brewing expertise. The resulting beer has been created exclusively for the restaurant and is intended to become its signature pour.

Speaking about the launch, Jorge Guadiana, Corporate Chef and Co-Owner, Tacos Atarantados, said, "Hospitality has always been about creating experiences that feel authentic to who we are. We wanted a beer that naturally belonged on every table alongside our food. Partnering with Magic 13 allowed us to create something that reflects both our Monterrey roots and the incredible craft brewing community here in Miami."

Cerveza Atarantados has been developed to pair naturally with dishes such as tacos al pastor, grilled meats, and the restaurant's range of house-made salsas, while also being suited to enjoy on its own.

The signature beer is currently available for $8 at Tacos Atarantados' Wynwood and Brickell locations.

The launch adds another dimension to Tacos Atarantados' dining experience, further connecting its Northern Mexican culinary identity with Miami's growing food and craft beverage culture.

About Tacos Atarantados

Founded in Monterrey, Mexico, Tacos Atarantados is a chef-driven taquería concept known for Northern Mexican street flavours, signature trompo preparations, vibrant interiors, and a high-energy dining atmosphere. Led by Chef Jorge Guadiana, the brand has expanded to more than 16 locations across Mexico and the United States, combining traditional Mexican flavours with a contemporary hospitality approach.

About Magic 13 Brewing Co.

Magic 13 Brewing Co. is a Miami-based craft brewery located in the Magic City Innovation District. The brewery focuses on producing beers designed around community and social experiences, while its taproom and outdoor beer garden host food, live entertainment, fundraisers, collaborations, and community events.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.