Union Budget 2025: Strengthening Hospitality & Tourism with Infrastructure and Skilling Initiatives

Union Budget 2025: Strengthening Hospitality & Tourism with Infrastructure and Skilling Initiatives

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 4, 2025

The Union Budget 2025 has unveiled significant initiatives aimed at strengthening India's hospitality and tourism sector. With infrastructure status granted to hotels in 50 top tourist destinations, the government seeks to enhance financial access and investment opportunities. Additionally, the introduction of Mudra loans for homestays and a focus on skill development through National Centres of Excellence signal a promising shift toward sustainable tourism growth. Industry leaders weigh in on the impact of these measures.

Dr. Vikram Kamat, Chairman of the VITSKAMAT Group, expressed optimism about the budget’s impact on the sector. "The infrastructure status for hotels in top tourist destinations is a significant step forward, allowing easier financing and encouraging investments. The emphasis on homestays through Mudra loans empowers small entrepreneurs while providing travelers with authentic experiences. Additionally, the focus on skill development through five National Centres of Excellence ensures that India's workforce remains globally competitive. However, addressing GST input credit for hotels and structured tax benefits would further strengthen the sector’s growth."

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Dinesh Yadav, Founder and MD of Fine Acers, lauded the government’s commitment to developing the top 50 tourist sites in collaboration with state authorities. "This initiative, alongside Mudra loans for homestays, will stimulate private investments and promote regional tourism. Additionally, leveraging medical tourism and cultural attractions like those associated with Lord Buddha's history will diversify India's tourism offerings. Improved infrastructure will encourage long-term investments in hotels, resorts, and allied services, making this an opportune period for hospitality sector expansion."

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Pranav Rungta, Co-founder and Director of Nksha restaurant and Vice President of NRAI Mumbai, welcomed the tax relief measures but highlighted the restaurant sector's ongoing challenges. "The government's move to reduce income tax outlay, leading to Rs 1 lakh crore in citizens’ savings, is expected to boost discretionary spending. This could elevate our sector’s projected growth rate from 8.3% to 10-12%. While infrastructure status for hotels is a positive step, the restaurant industry’s long-standing demand for industry status remains unmet. Additionally, the lack of recognition as a labor-intensive sector and the continued challenge of GST input credit remain major concerns for our growth. The budget presents a mixed outlook for the restaurant sector, with some positive steps but crucial gaps left unaddressed."

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With these developments, the hospitality industry anticipates accelerated growth and increased investment, though further policy refinements could unlock even greater potential for the sector.


Unmissable Romantic Restaurants Across India for a Perfect Valentine’s Day

Unmissable Romantic Restaurants Across India for a Perfect Valentine’s Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 12, 2025

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to step away from the daily rush and indulge in a memorable dining experience with your special someone. Across India, several restaurants offer enchanting settings—from poolside elegance and seaside charm to cozy garden retreats and rooftop celebrations. Here are some of the best places to celebrate love this year.

1. ViVi Poolside Café, Thane

For couples seeking a tranquil, poolside escape, ViVi Poolside Café at The Thane Club offers an intimate setting with candlelit ambiance and indulgent Italian flavors. Guests can enjoy signature wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted pasta, and decadent desserts, paired with a selection of fine wines, sangrias, or mocktails. Dine under the stars, with the serene reflections of the pool adding a magical touch to the evening.

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Where: The Thane Club, ViVi Italian Bar & Kitchen, Thane West, Maharashtra
When: February 14, Valentine’s Day Dinner

2. Rude Lounge, Multiple Locations

For those who love a lively and vibrant Valentine’s celebration, Rude Lounge is the perfect pick. With locations in Powai, Malad, and Vashi, this rooftop hotspot offers a dynamic atmosphere with great food, upbeat music, and stunning sunset views. Couples can enjoy a mix of signature cocktails, loaded nachos, and juicy burgers, all while soaking in the energetic vibe. As a special touch, guests can snap a selfie, tag Rude Lounge on Instagram Stories, and receive a complimentary ‘Red Velvet Hearty’ Brownie - a sweet treat to celebrate love!

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Where: Rude Lounge, Powai, Malad, Vashi
When: February 14

3. Pantree by Nestay, Mumbai

For couples looking to escape the city rush, Pantree by Nestay offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature. This hidden gem near Karnala Bird Sanctuary creates the perfect setting for a leisurely, off-the-grid Valentine’s lunch. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully crafted meal in a cozy, serene ambiance, followed by a visit to the sanctuary to admire native and migratory birds. Whether you’re sharing a romantic meal or taking a scenic nature walk, Pantree promises an experience of tranquility and togetherness.

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Where: Tara (Karnala), Post: Barapada, Mumbai-Goa Highway, Panvel, Maharashtra
When: February 14

4. Dot in the Park, Goa

Nestled in the heart of lush greenery, Dot in the Park offers a laid-back yet intimate dining experience. Designed as a picnic-style retreat, this charming space allows couples to enjoy freshly prepared Goan delicacies, artisanal dishes, and handcrafted cocktails under the stars. Adding to the unique experience, guests can take a dip in Goa’s only natural swimming pool, making this celebration of love truly one-of-a-kind. With an open-air setting, warm ambiance, and a perfect blend of nature and romance, this is an escape like no other.

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Where: 1689, Panchayat, behind DevKuteshwar Temple, Anjuna, Goa
When: February 14

5. Zeno by the Sea, Vagator, Goa

For a romantic Santorini-inspired coastal experience, Zeno by the Sea at Ozran Beach, Vagator is the perfect destination. Sprawling across 10,000 sqft with breathtaking ocean views, this newly launched spot offers exquisite two-level seaside dining. The menu, curated by Celebrity Chef Nishant Chaubey, features a delightful mix of coastal and Mediterranean flavors—including Mini Koobideh, Truffle Mushroom Cream Cheese, and Korean Chicken Wings. Guests can toast to love with signature cocktails while watching the sun dip below the horizon, making this an unforgettable Valentine’s celebration.

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Where: Zeno by the Sea, Ozran Beach, Vagator
When: February 14, noon onwards

Celebrate Love with an Unforgettable Dining Experience

Whether you’re in the mood for poolside serenity, rooftop revelry, a garden escape, or seaside romance, these handpicked restaurants promise a memorable Valentine’s celebration. With enchanting settings, indulgent menus, and special touches designed for love, this Valentine’s Day is all about creating beautiful moments with your special someone


Bengaluru’s Hotel Prices Surge Ahead of Aero India 2025 & Global Investors’ Meet

Bengaluru’s Hotel Prices Surge Ahead of Aero India 2025 & Global Investors’ Meet

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 11, 2025

Bengaluru is gearing up for two major global events - Aero India 2025 and the Global Investor's Meet, bringing a surge in visitors and a significant rise in hotel prices.

With business leaders, investors, and aviation enthusiasts set to arrive next week, the city’s hotels are almost fully booked, even in the outskirts. The soaring demand has resulted in a 20% hike in room tariffs, with star hotels charging up to INR 15,000 per night.

Hotels at Maximum Capacity:

According to Veerendra Kamat, Secretary of Bangalore Hotels Association, the simultaneous occurrence of Aero India and the Global Investor's Meet has doubled the usual demand, pushing prices higher than ever.

 Pre-Bookings Drive Up Price:  

 Sanjay Sonar, AVP of Sales & Marketing at Vividus Hotels, noted that early bookings started a month ago, causing a steady rise in room rates. “We expected an increase, but the demand took us by surprise,” he said.

Global Exposure for Bengaluru’s Hospitality Sector:  

This spike in bookings is seen as a golden opportunity for Bengaluru’s hotels to showcase their services to a diverse international audience. Abhijith R, F&B Manager at Hyatt Centric Hebbal, highlighted how the event allows hospitality brands to engage with a global clientele.

Prime Locations See Peak Demand:

  Hotels near event venues and the airport are particularly in demand. Anuradha Venkatachalam, Hotel Captain at Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud, emphasized that their proximity to key locations makes them an ideal choice for visitors.

Corporate & Defense Bookings Surge:

The CBD area hotels are witnessing a massive influx of corporate and defense personnel, according to Sathish Kumar, Front Office Manager at Citadel Sarovar Portico, Race Course. “We leave only 1% of rooms for last-minute travelers, but prices will continue to rise due to demand,” he added.

With just days left until Aero India 2025 and the Global Investor's Meet, Bengaluru’s hospitality sector is experiencing one of its busiest seasons, reaffirming the city’s status as a key global business and aviation hub.


Big Bowl Expands to 200 Cloud Kitchens with Hyderabad Launch, Targets 500 by 2028

Big Bowl Expands to 200 Cloud Kitchens with Hyderabad Launch, Targets 500 by 2028

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 10, 2025

Big Bowl, the go-to destination for flavorful Indian and Chinese bowls, has officially launched its 200th cloud kitchen at M Cube Mall, Attapur, Hyderabad. A part of Lenexis Foodworks, this milestone marks Big Bowl’s continued dominance in the bowl-based QSR category and its rapid growth in India’s cloud kitchen industry.

With a presence in 35 cities, Big Bowl aims to double its network by expanding to 500 kitchens within the next three years. The focus will be on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, catering to the increasing demand for convenient, customizable, and flavorful meal options.

Big Bowl Surpasses ₹100 Crore ARR, Eyes ₹150 Crore in FY26

In FY25, Big Bowl crossed ₹100 crore ARR within just four years of launch, a testament to its strong market presence. Looking ahead, the brand is projected to achieve ₹150 crore ARR in the first half of FY26. This aligns with Lenexis Foodworks' ambitious expansion strategy, targeting a ₹650 crore sales run rate by March 2025 and ₹1000 crore in sales by FY26.

Founder’s Vision: Scaling Big Bowl’s Success

Reflecting on this milestone, Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & Director of Lenexis Foodworks, shared:

“Hitting the 200th cloud kitchen mark is a proud moment for us and a testament to our commitment to making high-quality, flavorful bowls accessible across India. Our journey from a single kitchen to becoming a category leader in bowl-based QSR has been incredible, and this is just the beginning. With an aggressive expansion plan in place, we are determined to bring Big Bowl to even more cities, catering to the growing demand for convenient, flavorful, and customizable meals.”

What’s Next for Big Bowl?

  • Expansion: Aggressive growth into Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities

  • New Flavors: Launching regionally inspired bowl flavors in 2025

  • Promotions & Engagement: Offering value deals, influencer collaborations, and engaging digital content

Big Bowl’s journey from a single kitchen to a nationwide leader is a remarkable testament to India’s evolving food industry. With its visionary growth strategy, the brand is set to reshape how consumers experience Indian and Chinese cuisine.

 Available at a cloud kitchen near you!

 Follow Big Bowl on Instagram & YouTube

About Lenexis Foodworks

Lenexis Foodworks is a leading quick-service food company in India, crafting exceptional culinary experiences across high streets and malls. It operates a portfolio of distinct brands—Chinese Wok, The Momo Co., and Big Bowl—offering a diverse range of flavors and cuisines. Founded in 2015, Chinese Wok is the flagship brand under Lenexis Foodworks, revolutionizing how Desi-Chinese cuisine is enjoyed in India. With a commitment to high-quality, hygienic, and affordable Chinese food, it has expanded to 200+ outlets across 30+ cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Vadodara, Pune, Chennai, Coimbatore, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

With an eye on future innovations, Lenexis Foodworks is set to introduce new concepts and categories, further redefining India’s QSR landscape.

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