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.


Tropika Brewing Co. Brings Mexican Flavours to Bengaluru with Mexican Fiesta

Tropika Brewing Co. Brings Mexican Flavours to Bengaluru with Mexican Fiesta

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 12, 2026

Tropika Brewing Co. is bringing Mexican-inspired flavours to Bengaluru with Mexican Fiesta, a special culinary showcase featuring a selection of dishes, charcoal-grilled specialities, desserts and tequila-led cocktails. The experience celebrates bold flavours and fresh ingredients through a specially curated menu.

The menu features a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including Asado Corn Cob, crispy empanadas, Goat Nihari Birria Tacos, Chipotle Bowls, Quesadillas and Chimichangas. Guests can also explore a dedicated live grill serving Chipotle Honey BBQ Wings, Mexican Chorizo Grill and Serrano Paneer Skewers.

For dessert, the spread includes Flan Napolitano and Churros Sundae, offering a sweet finish to the meal. The beverage selection adds to the experience with tequila-led cocktails such as Mexican Sour, Paloma Cerveza, El Picante and Sol de Jalisco.

Bringing together Mexican-inspired dishes, smoky grilled preparations and refreshing cocktails, Mexican Fiesta offers guests a lively dining experience at Tropika Brewing Co. in Marathahalli, Bengaluru. The menu is available from 12:00 PM onwards, inviting guests to explore a range of flavours inspired by Mexican cuisine.

Event Details:

  • Event: Mexican Fiesta

  • Venue: Tropika Brewing Co., Marathahalli, Bengaluru

  • Timings: 12:00 PM onwards.


Katha Coffee Brings Childhood Nostalgia to Its New Bachpan Menu

Katha Coffee Brings Childhood Nostalgia to Its New Bachpan Menu

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 12, 2026

Katha Coffee is bringing childhood memories to the table with its special Bachpan Menu, a playful selection of café creations inspired by familiar treats and flavours. Available at its Gachibowli and Banjara Hills outlets in Hyderabad, the menu celebrates the little joys of growing up through a range of nostalgic food and beverage options.

The menu features a mix of sweet treats and beverages, including the Oh So Ferroo Diner Pancake, Jim Jm Cinnamon Roll and Jim Jm Frappe. Guests can also enjoy the Oh So Alpenli*be Latte, Oh So Ferroo Latte and the uniquely named Rasna Espresso, each adding a playful touch to the café experience.

With familiar flavours presented in a café-style format, the Bachpan Menu aims to bring back memories of carefree childhood days while offering guests something different to enjoy during their visit.

The menu is available at Katha Coffee & Bakehouse in Gachibowli, located on DLF Road, and its Banjara Hills outlet on Road Number 3, Hyderabad. Through this special offering, the café invites guests to revisit their favourite childhood flavours and enjoy them in a new way.

Event Details:

  • Offering: Bachpan Menu at Katha Coffee

  • Venue 1: Katha Coffee & Bakehouse, Gachibowli, Sy. No. 111, 1-47/2, Door No. A/1, DLF Road, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500032

  • Venue 2: Katha Coffee & Bakehouse, Banjara Hills, 8-2-351, Road Number 3, Green Valley, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500082

  • Availability: Ongoing.


Beyond Chinese Food: How Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese Cuisines Are Shaping Dining Trends

Beyond Chinese Food: How Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese Cuisines Are Shaping Dining Trends

By Hariharan U

Published on November 12, 2026

Indian dining habits are evolving, with consumers increasingly looking beyond familiar Chinese menus to explore the flavours and culinary traditions of Japan, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. From sushi and ramen to Korean barbecue, Thai curries and Vietnamese pho, these cuisines are finding a place in restaurant menus across international markets, including India.

According to Chef Pawan, greater exposure to global food cultures, international travel and changing consumer preferences is encouraging diners to explore a wider range of Asian culinary experiences. This shift is also creating opportunities for restaurants, hotels and food service businesses to diversify their offerings.

Beyond Traditional Chinese Menus

Japanese cuisine has established a presence in premium restaurants and contemporary dining outlets. Sushi, ramen, tempura and teppanyaki appeal to consumers interested in distinctive ingredients, specialised techniques and thoughtful presentation.

Korean cuisine is gaining visibility through dishes such as Korean fried chicken, bibimbap, kimchi and Korean barbecue. The international popularity of Korean entertainment and popular culture has also helped introduce more consumers to the country's food traditions.

Thai cuisine, meanwhile, continues to attract diners through its balance of sweet, sour, spicy and savoury flavours. Preparations such as Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai and Thai green curry give restaurants opportunities to introduce aromatic and flavour-driven menu options.

Vietnamese cuisine is emerging as another category of interest. Dishes such as pho, fresh spring rolls and banh mi appeal to diners looking for lighter preparations, fresh herbs and balanced flavours.

Together, these cuisines are broadening the definition of Asian dining, moving beyond a single regional identity towards more specialised culinary experiences.

Changing Consumer Preferences

Today's diners are increasingly open to experimenting with international cuisines and exploring food beyond familiar restaurant menus. Younger consumers, in particular, are showing interest in authentic flavours, interactive dining formats and visually distinctive presentations.

Food delivery platforms and social media have also changed how consumers discover international food trends. Diners can explore dishes and cuisines from different parts of the world without travelling internationally, while restaurants can introduce new offerings to audiences already familiar with them through digital platforms.

This behaviour is creating opportunities for specialised Asian restaurants, fusion concepts and premium casual dining formats. It is also encouraging established hospitality businesses to reconsider how they structure their menus and position their dining outlets.

Opportunities for Chefs and Hospitality Businesses

The growing interest in Asian cuisines creates opportunities for chefs to demonstrate culinary knowledge and technical expertise. Working with traditional ingredients, cooking methods and flavour combinations requires an understanding of the culinary identity behind each dish.

Restaurants are also exploring pan-Asian concepts that bring Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese preparations together under one dining experience. While these formats offer variety, maintaining the distinct character of each cuisine remains important.

Chef Pawan shares his perspective:

"Asian cuisine has enormous potential because every country brings its own identity, ingredients and cooking philosophy to the table. Today's diners are curious and willing to explore new flavours. As chefs, our responsibility is to maintain the authenticity of traditional recipes while presenting them in ways that connect with modern consumers. The future of Asian dining lies in balancing authentic techniques, quality ingredients and creative presentation."

For hospitality businesses, this presents both a culinary and operational opportunity. Sourcing authentic ingredients, developing specialised kitchen teams and maintaining consistency across different preparations will be essential to delivering credible dining experiences.

The Future of Asian Dining

The growing interest in Japanese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese cuisines presents new possibilities for India's food and beverage industry. Restaurants can build stronger identities through specialised menus, authentic ingredients, skilled culinary teams and dining formats that introduce consumers to different food cultures.

However, expanding an Asian menu is not simply about adding popular dishes. Understanding regional cooking techniques, respecting traditional recipes and training kitchen teams are important to maintaining quality and authenticity.

As Chef Pawan points out, the future of Asian dining will depend on how effectively restaurants combine culinary traditions with contemporary expectations. For India's hospitality industry, this shift offers an opportunity to move beyond familiar menus and create more diverse, engaging food experiences.

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