Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 28, 2024

Shankar Distillers, the latest venture by tech entrepreneur Varchasvi Shankar, has officially opened in Troy, Michigan. This advanced distillery features a state-of-the-art 45-foot continuous distillation column, so large that the distillery's roof had to be modified to accommodate it. Located in an industrial park, the distillery's glass ceiling is a distinctive landmark visible from I-75, just north of the 14 Mile exit near Oakland Mall.

Varchasvi Shankar, the first Indian immigrant to open an American whiskey distillery, celebrated the grand opening of Shankar Distillers on Friday, July 12. Shankar has also expanded into international markets, making the Varchas Whiskey line the first American craft bourbon exported to India. The distillery team includes master distiller Kylash Sivakumar and senior advisor Dennis Archer Jr., who have together crafted several award-winning spirits. Among their accolades is the Varchas Reserve 102 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which won gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its smooth, earthy flavor profile featuring notes of wood, leather, tobacco, and caramel.

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Shankar expressed his enthusiasm for sharing these whiskeys directly with the public. “This is a dream come true for me. I never imagined that I would open a distillery in the USA. I came here for a technology career, but whiskey has always been my passion, and I'm thrilled to bring this unique cultural experience to the people of this country,” he said. “I'm excited to see visitors experience in person the fusion of Eastern and Western traditions in our spirits.”

Shankar Distillers offers a range of spirits, including Varchas Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Varchas Straight Rye Whiskey, Dasara Gin, and Varchas Vodka. Visitors can purchase these products along with branded merchandise like whiskey glasses, flasks, and T-shirts. The tasting room features plush lounge seating and a premium atmosphere, with a diverse cocktail menu that includes classics like Manhattans and barrel-aged sazeracs, as well as a unique gin and tonic made with Indian tonic. House specialties also include the “Gimme Some More,” made with Varchas Vodka, cucumber, and elderflower liqueur.

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Shankar Distillers stands out not just for its story of transitioning from tech to distilling but also for the beauty of its bottles. The 750 ml glass bottles feature a two-headed eagle on the label, a symbol of Shankar’s home state of Mysore in southern India, and a 3D eagle on the cork, highlighting Shankar’s accomplishments in the United States. The distillery is proud of its Michigan roots, using locally sourced water and corn in its products.

For those interested in visiting, Shankar Distillers at 1030 Chicago Road in Troy is open from 3-10 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday, 3 p.m.-midnight on Friday, 11 a.m.-midnight on Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Tours are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. 

For more information, visit shankardistillers.com.


Haldiram’s Eyes Global Palate with Talks to Bring Jimmy John’s to India

Haldiram’s Eyes Global Palate with Talks to Bring Jimmy John’s to India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 16, 2025

Indian sweets giant Haldiram Group is reportedly in advanced talks with US-based Inspire Brands to bring the American sandwich chain Jimmy John’s to India. The move marks a significant step for Haldiram’s as it looks to enter the Western-style quick service restaurant (QSR) space, appealing to younger, urban consumers with global flavours.

According to reports, the talks are at an advanced stage, and the franchise deal could be finalised soon. The partnership would represent one of Haldiram’s boldest strategic shifts, expanding its reach beyond its traditional Indian offerings. Analysts suggest the move could reshape both Haldiram’s business trajectory and the competitive landscape of India’s ₹7.76 lakh crore food services market.

Founded in 1983, Jimmy John’s is a popular American sandwich and wrap chain known for its fast delivery and customisable menu. The brand operates over 2,600 restaurants across the US, Canada, South Korea, and the UAE. Its parent company, Inspire Brands, manages over 33,000 restaurants globally and has expressed strong interest in expanding Jimmy John’s international footprint.

For Haldiram’s, this move aligns with its growing ambitions in the hospitality sector. A member of the Agarwal family told Economic Times that the group aims to compete with international brands like Subway and Tim Hortons while connecting with aspirational young Indians who prefer Western café formats.

If finalised, the QSR venture will operate under Haldiram’s restaurant division, which already manages over 150 outlets nationwide and generates around ₹2,000 crore in annual revenue. This would be separate from its FMCG business, which reported ₹12,800 crore in revenue and ₹1,400 crore in net profit for FY24.

The development follows a series of strategic moves by Haldiram’s. In April 2025, the company merged its Delhi and Nagpur FMCG arms and attracted major investors, including Temasek and Alpha Wave Global. Earlier this year, Kamal Agrawal, a family member, led a ₹150 crore investment in Wow! Momo, hinting at Haldiram’s growing appetite for the QSR segment.

Industry experts note that India’s QSR market is entering a new phase, driven by rising disposable incomes and growing demand from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. As western chains such as Subway, Tim Hortons, and McDonald’s expand aggressively, Haldiram’s move could create a unique fusion of Indian trust and international appeal.

By combining its strong domestic legacy with Jimmy John’s global brand power, Haldiram’s may well bridge the gap between India’s traditional food culture and its fast-modernising dining habits, offering a new recipe for the next generation’s appetite.


Wendy’s India Launches New Cajun Burgers: Taste the Craze from Louisiana

Wendy’s India Launches New Cajun Burgers: Taste the Craze from Louisiana

By Hariharan U

Published on November 14, 2025

Wendy’s India, in partnership with Rebel Foods, continues to redefine the gourmet QSR experience with the launch of its latest flavour innovation the Cajun Burgers, available in both veg and non-veg variants.

Inspired by the vibrant, spice-rich cuisine of Louisiana, the new lineup brings a bold, creamy, and fiery twist to Wendy’s menu in India. The range features three indulgent options, Cajun Spicy Chicken, Cajun Spicy Paneer, and Cajun Potato, all layered with Wendy’s signature Cajun sauce made from black pepper, red chillies, garlic, herbs, and a dash of lemon. Priced from ₹149, the Cajun Burgers are available across all Wendy’s India outlets and on major delivery platforms including EatSure.

Wendy’s India has carved a niche for itself in the gourmet burger space with its global flavour portfolio, offering creations like Argentina’s Chimichurri, Korea’s fiery Buldak, Mexico’s Nachoburg, America’s BBQ, India’s Tandoori, and the Cheeseblast Burgers. The addition of the Louisiana Cajun series strengthens Wendy’s reputation as the flavour pioneer of India’s burger scene.

The Cajun Burgers have been developed with Indian consumers in mind, especially young, flavour-driven audiences seeking bold and authentic experiences. Combining Louisiana’s essence with India’s love for spice, Wendy’s invites customers to “Taste the Craze from Louisiana”, blending international inspiration with local intensity.

Commenting on the launch, Mohit Mahajan, AVP Marketing, Rebel Foods, said: “As we continue to grow Wendy’s India across the country, our priority is to make bold, never-seen-before flavours easily accessible to consumers everywhere. The Cajun Burgers bring an authentic Louisiana taste story with the punch and indulgence India loves. With our expanding network and delivery reach, we’re excited to bring this unique flavour experience to more cities.”

Currently operating in 200+ kitchens across India, Wendy’s India continues to expand through dine-in and delivery formats, with plans to reach deeper into Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities by year-end. The launch of the Cajun Burgers marks another milestone in the brand’s flavour revolution, a testament to its mission of making global gourmet burgers accessible to Indian consumers.


Come Home to ORLO: The Great Indian Family Table

Come Home to ORLO: The Great Indian Family Table

By Hariharan U

Published on November 14, 2025

There’s a new table to come home to Orlo, The Indian Cuisine Restaurant, where every meal feels like family and every flavour says “Aur lo.” Designed as a celebration of India’s culinary heritage and spirit of togetherness, Orlo invites guests to gather, share, and rediscover the joy of dining.

Born from the founders’ desire to create an intimate and inclusive space, Orlo captures the soul of Indian hospitality, where generosity and connection are the true ingredients of every dish. It’s a place that feels as warm as home and as lively as an evening with friends.

Orlo’s menu pays homage to India’s regional diversity through its three defining pillars, Community-Forward, Honest, and Vibrant. Every plate at Orlo is a reflection of India’s rhythm: playful, colourful, and bursting with authenticity. From soulful curries to spiced tikkas and nostalgic desserts, the food honours tradition while embracing contemporary sensibilities.

Orlo transforms through the day, offering two distinct yet harmonious experiences.

By Day, it’s a bright and cheerful urban mess-style restaurant serving wholesome thalis and regional set meals from Punjab, Rajasthan, Bengal, and Assam. The focus is on quick, fresh, and nourishing food that comforts and delights.

By Night, Orlo evolves into a spirited highball bar and elegant dining space overlooking Hyderabad’s iconic Cable Bridge and Durgam Cheruvu. Evenings here flow effortlessly — from sundowners to conversations over cocktails. Each drink at the highball bar is “high on India,” inspired by quarter bottles from thekas, fizzy sodas from paan shops, and summer banta nostalgia, reimagined into refreshing, playful mixes.

Orlo is part of Vikksit Hospitality, a new-age group built on the philosophy of “Intentional Hospitality” — creating genuine human connections through warmth and authenticity. Every detail, from the interiors to the interactions, is designed to make guests feel welcomed, valued, and part of a larger community.

Timings: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Lunch) | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Dinner)
Contact: +91 90631 69910 |

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