As the hospitality industry in India prepares to step into 2026, operators are reflecting on a year marked by recovery, refinement, and renewed ambition. According to Pranav Rungta, Co-Founder & Director of Nksha Restaurant and Vice President of NRAI Mumbai, 2025 proved to be a strong year both for his brand and for the wider dining ecosystem.

“Nksha had a strong 2025, earning high praise for its modern North Indian cuisine, elegant ambience, and innovative cocktail programme,” Rungta shared. “Our patrons truly valued the overall experience, from exceptional service to thoughtful presentation, even within the premium dining segment.”

Operating in Mumbai’s highly competitive fine-dining space, Nksha’s ability to deliver consistent quality and value helped it stand out as a destination restaurant. The positive response has also encouraged the brand to look beyond its current footprint.

Looking ahead, Rungta revealed that Nksha is actively exploring expansion plans for 2026. “We are evaluating a new location in Mumbai and also studying opportunities in the GCC region, where we have received very encouraging feedback for the concept,” he said.

From an industry standpoint, Rungta believes 2026 will be shaped by a clear shift in demand patterns. Tier II and Tier III cities such as Pune, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Raipur, and Indore are emerging as strong growth markets. “The demand in these cities is growing faster, and there is a massive appetite for established metro brands, provided menus are localised,” he noted.

Premiumisation is expected to continue, particularly in fine dining and craft cocktails, as Indian diners increasingly seek elevated, experience-led outings. At the same time, Gen Z-driven personalisation is set to play a larger role. “AI-powered chatbots, customised health-focused menus such as low-carb or vegan options, and immersive experiences like virtual tastings will become more common,” Rungta added.

As restaurants balance expansion with innovation, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where thoughtful growth, technology-led personalisation, and premium experiences define the next phase of India’s hospitality journey.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC has announced the appointment of Mr. Ayodhya Tiwari as its Director of Revenue, further strengthening the hotel’s leadership team. With over thirteen years of experience across some of India’s most respected luxury and upscale hospitality brands, he brings a strong blend of strategic thinking, analytical expertise, and consistent revenue-driven performance.

Over the course of his career, Mr. Tiwari has built deep expertise across Revenue Management, Reservations, and Distribution, supported by a solid foundation in commercial operations and market optimisation. He has previously worked with renowned hospitality brands including Novotel, Hyatt Regency, Pride Plaza, and The Leela, contributing to several landmark properties and high-performing portfolios.

In his most recent role, he led revenue strategy for multi-property operations, delivering record occupancy levels and sustained RevPAR growth. Across his earlier assignments, he has played a key role in strengthening digital performance, enhancing market positioning, and supporting hotel openings and operational transitions, establishing a strong track record of sound commercial judgement and revenue-first thinking.

In his new role at Sofitel Mumbai BKC, Mr. Tiwari will be responsible for leading the hotel’s revenue strategy through a forward-looking and data-driven approach. His focus will include dynamic pricing, refined distribution strategies, and strengthening market share across all business segments, while supporting the hotel’s long-term growth objectives. His ability to anticipate trends, optimise multi-segment demand, and drive a profitable business mix is expected to further enhance the property’s standing in Mumbai’s luxury hospitality market.

Known as a collaborative leader with strong interpersonal skills and a solutions-oriented mindset, Mr. Tiwari brings a commitment to building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of excellence. His experience across diverse markets and his adaptability to evolving industry dynamics have shaped him into a results-driven professional with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.

Speaking about his appointment, Ayodhya Tiwari shared, “I am honoured to join Sofitel Mumbai BKC and look forward to deepening my understanding of the hotel’s distinctive positioning and operational strengths. In my role as Director of Revenue, I am committed to advancing the property’s commercial performance by driving strategic revenue initiatives, strengthening promotional effectiveness, and optimising business mix across segments. I look forward to working closely with the team to deliver meaningful and sustainable results.”

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the iconic luxury landmark in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, has announced the appointment of David Eldridge as its new Executive Chef, as the historic property continues to enhance its fine-dining and culinary offerings.

A South African national, Chef David brings over 20 years of international luxury hospitality experience, having worked across eight countries, including the Maldives, Thailand, Vietnam, Tanzania, the UAE, Qatar, Seychelles and South Africa. Prior to joining Raffles Hotel Le Royal, he served as Director of Food, Beverage & Culinary at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort.

His career includes senior culinary leadership roles with some of the world’s most respected hospitality brands, including Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Kempinski Hotels, and The Luxury Collection by Marriott, giving him a strong foundation in both destination dining and refined hotel gastronomy.

At Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Chef David will oversee the hotel’s celebrated dining venues, including Restaurant Le Royal, known for its elevated Khmer fine-dining experience, and Le Phnom 1929, a classic French-style brasserie that draws inspiration from the hotel’s colonial heritage.

Welcoming the appointment, Dagmar Lyons, General Manager, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Chef David and his wealth of culinary expertise to Raffles Hotel Le Royal. His vision and talents will help us continue to deliver the finest dining experiences in Cambodia and the region to both hotel guests and the local community.”

Originally opened in 1929, Raffles Hotel Le Royal features 175 rooms and suites, restored in 2019 to seamlessly blend modern comfort with French colonial elegance, Khmer influences, and Art Deco design. Chef David’s appointment aligns with the hotel’s commitment to preserving heritage while evolving its contemporary dining narrative.