Third Wave Coffee Expands North Bengaluru Footprint with New Café

Popeyes India is accelerating its expansion across Western India after completing one year of operations in Mumbai, with plans to double its footprint in the region over the next 12 months. The growth strategy follows the brand's strong performance in Mumbai and its recent entry into Pune, where it launched four restaurants in June 2026.

The Louisiana-inspired quick-service restaurant chain said Mumbai has emerged as one of its key growth markets, serving more than 100,000 customers since entering the city. The company also reported that its Mumbai restaurants have consistently maintained an average dine-in rating of over 4.6, reflecting strong consumer acceptance and positive guest experiences.

Building on this momentum, Popeyes plans to significantly strengthen its presence across the West region by expanding its restaurant network and making its offerings more accessible to consumers.

Vibhor Gupta, EVP and Chief Business Officer, Popeyes India, said, "Mumbai has played an important role in Popeyes' journey in India, and we're incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm with which consumers have embraced our brand over the past year. Their trust and love has given us the confidence to think bigger and invest further in this market. We are committing to doubling our footprint in the West region over the next 12 months, thereby introducing more consumers to our distinctive Louisiana-inspired flavours while continuing to deliver the quality and experiences that have made Popeyes a favourite among our guests."

The expansion underscores the continued growth of international quick-service restaurant brands in Western India, where rising consumer demand and increasing urban consumption are creating opportunities for network expansion. With Mumbai and Pune emerging as key growth markets, Popeyes India is entering its next phase of growth by expanding its restaurant network across the region, strengthening customer engagement, and making its Louisiana-inspired offerings more accessible to a wider consumer base.

Faasos, the flagship wrap brand from Rebel Foods, has entered airport retail with the launch of its first-ever airport store at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) Terminal 2, Gate 45, Mumbai. The new outlet marks a significant milestone in the brand's offline expansion strategy, bringing its signature wraps and quick-service menu to one of India's busiest travel hubs.

The airport launch reflects Faasos' growing omnichannel approach as it expands beyond its strong delivery-led business into high-footfall locations. Designed to cater to travellers seeking convenient and flavourful meal options, the outlet offers an extensive menu featuring the brand's Classic Wraps, Signature Wraps, Burger Wraps, Shawarmas, Sides, and Beverages, making it easy for passengers to enjoy a quick meal before boarding or during layovers.

Having served consumers across India for over two decades, Faasos has built its reputation around portable, ready-to-eat meals that combine convenience with bold flavours. The Mumbai T2 outlet extends this proposition to the travel retail segment, allowing customers to enjoy the brand's offerings in a fast-paced airport environment.

Ankush Grover, Co-founder & Global CEO, Rebel Foods, said, "Every journey comes with its own moments, and we wanted Faasos to be part of those memories. Our first store at Mumbai T2 airport brings together everything our consumers love about us: bold flavours, convenience, and food designed for life on the move. Airports are places where experiences begin, and we are excited to bring the Faasos experience into this dynamic environment. From a quick pre-flight meal to a familiar favourite during a layover, this launch is about creating more opportunities for consumers to connect with the brand wherever their journeys take them."

The new outlet has also been designed to offer an immersive brand experience. Featuring vibrant graphics, bold colour palettes, neon elements and youthful interiors, the store reflects Faasos' energetic identity while creating an engaging retail environment for travellers.

The airport debut represents an important step in Faasos' retail growth journey as the brand strengthens its physical presence alongside its established digital and delivery network. By entering high-traffic destinations such as airports, the company aims to increase accessibility while creating additional touchpoints for consumers beyond online ordering.

Founded in 2011, Faasos has grown into one of India's leading wrap and roll brands, operating in more than 75 cities. Its portfolio includes wraps, shawarmas and other handheld meals inspired by global flavours and designed for consumers seeking convenient dining options.

Parent company Rebel Foods, one of the world's largest internet restaurant companies, operates over 450 cloud kitchens across 85-plus cities and manages a portfolio of more than 45 brands across India, the UAE and the UK. The launch of Faasos' first airport store further strengthens the group's omnichannel strategy by complementing its technology-driven cloud kitchen network with physical retail formats in premium, high-footfall locations.

Azure Hospitality's flagship North Indian restaurant brand, Dhaba Estd. 1986, has expanded its presence in Uttar Pradesh with the launch of a new outlet in Civil Lines, Kanpur. The opening marks another milestone in the brand's expansion strategy, with the restaurant witnessing an encouraging response from diners since its launch.

Inspired by the rustic charm of India's iconic roadside dhabas, the new restaurant offers an immersive dining experience centred around authentic North Indian cuisine. Guests can enjoy the brand's signature dishes, including Dal Dhaba, Balti Meat, Galouti Kebabs, robust tandoor specialities, handcrafted Indian breads, and a variety of regional delicacies prepared using traditional recipes.

Adding a contemporary twist to its menu, the restaurant also features Dhaba Estd. 1986's Desi Chinese range, bringing together nostalgic Indo-Chinese flavours with the brand's focus on authenticity, consistency and quality. The expanded menu has been curated to appeal to both loyal patrons and younger diners looking for familiar flavours in a modern dining environment.

The Kanpur outlet was launched under the leadership of Chef Kartik, Regional Brand Chef – Dhaba Estd. 1986, who supervised the entire pre-opening process. His responsibilities included kitchen planning, menu execution, recipe standardisation, chef recruitment, staff training, equipment planning and operational readiness to ensure the restaurant met the brand's culinary and service standards.

Chef Kartik said, "Kanpur has welcomed us with tremendous warmth, and the response since opening has been extremely encouraging. Our vision was to create a restaurant that stays true to the soul of India's legendary dhabas while delivering the consistency and quality expected from a modern hospitality brand."

He further added, "Signature dishes like our Dal Dhaba, Balti Meat, and Galouti Kebabs continue to be guest favourites, while our newly introduced Desi Chinese range has also been exceptionally well received. It reflects our philosophy of preserving traditional flavours while introducing thoughtful innovation that appeals to today's diners."

With more than 15 years of culinary experience, Chef Kartik has played a key role in the growth of Dhaba Estd. 1986 by leading menu innovation, recipe standardisation, restaurant launches and culinary training across the brand's portfolio, helping maintain consistency across its expanding network.

The Kanpur launch forms part of Azure Hospitality's broader growth strategy for Dhaba Estd. 1986 as it continues to strengthen its footprint in the casual dining segment. By combining traditional North Indian flavours with contemporary hospitality standards, the brand aims to deliver authentic dining experiences while expanding into key markets across the country.

Mast Banarasi Paan, one of India's largest organised tobacco-free paan café chains, has crossed the milestone of 400 outlets nationwide and announced plans to expand its network to 600 outlets over the next two years. The company is also exploring growth capital to accelerate its expansion, strengthen technology capabilities, enhance supply chain infrastructure and support its growing franchise network.

The expansion comes at a time when organised players are witnessing increasing opportunities in India's traditionally unorganised paan market. Estimated to be worth over ₹5,000 crore, the category continues to see rising consumer demand for branded, hygienic and standardised retail formats, creating significant growth potential for organised chains.

Currently operating more than 400 outlets across over 320 cities in 20-plus states, Mast Banarasi Paan has established one of the country's largest organised retail networks in the tobacco-free paan segment. The company is now focusing on expanding its footprint across metropolitan cities as well as Tier II and Tier III markets while also evaluating opportunities in international markets with large Indian diaspora populations.

The planned capital infusion will primarily be utilised to strengthen the company's technology infrastructure, centralised sourcing capabilities, supply chain network and franchise ecosystem. The investment is also expected to support geographical expansion and operational efficiencies as the brand scales its nationwide presence.

The company's growth strategy aligns with increasing policy support for traditional Indian food products. Recently, the Uttar Pradesh Government included Banarasi Paan under its One District One Cuisine (ODOC) initiative, aimed at promoting iconic regional cuisines through branding, entrepreneurship and improved market access.

Mast Banarasi Paan has positioned itself as a modern retail destination for India's traditional mouth freshener by offering a 100 percent tobacco-free menu. Its portfolio includes classic varieties such as Meetha Paan and Sada Paan, alongside contemporary innovations designed to appeal to younger consumers.

Panchanand Thakur, Founder & CEO, Mast Banarasi Paan, said, "Paan has long been an integral part of India's culinary and cultural heritage, but the category has remained largely unorganised. We see a growing preference for trusted brands that offer quality, consistency and hygiene while preserving authenticity. Our focus is on expanding responsibly, strengthening our operating capabilities and making the Banarasi paan experience accessible to consumers across the country."

The company operates through a franchise-led business model supported by standardised operating procedures, technology-enabled systems and central sourcing, enabling it to maintain consistency across its expanding retail network. As organised food retail continues to evolve, Mast Banarasi Paan aims to strengthen its leadership position by combining traditional flavours with modern retail practices and scalable franchise operations.

Haldiram's has strengthened its retail footprint in Punjab with the opening of a new outlet in Gurdaspur, further expanding its presence across North India. Located at West Ville, Pathankot Bypass, Amritsar Highway, Dinanagar, the new store combines the brand's signature dining experience with its extensive range of packaged food products under one roof.

Designed as a modern food destination, the outlet offers customers a comfortable dine-in experience while showcasing Haldiram's diverse culinary offerings. The menu features a variety of North Indian and South Indian dishes, popular chaats, traditional Indian sweets, bakery products, and street food, catering to families, travellers and local consumers alike.

Beyond its restaurant services, the store also houses Haldiram's complete portfolio of packaged products, including its bestselling namkeens, sweets, frozen foods, ready-to-eat meals, beverages, bakery items and gifting hampers. The format enables customers to enjoy the brand's products both at the outlet and at home.

The launch reflects Haldiram's ongoing strategy of expanding into emerging regional markets while making its food and FMCG offerings more accessible to consumers. By strengthening its physical retail network, the company continues to enhance customer reach and reinforce its position in India's organised food retail sector.

Over the years, Haldiram's has evolved into one of India's leading food brands with a strong presence across restaurants, packaged snacks, sweets, frozen foods and ready-to-eat categories. Its retail expansion strategy focuses on creating integrated outlets that combine dining, takeaway and packaged food retail in a single destination.

With the addition of the Gurdaspur store, Haldiram's continues to deepen its presence in Punjab while advancing its vision of bringing authentic Indian flavours and quality food experiences to consumers across the country.

World Champion Pizzaiolo Vincenzo Capuano has entered the Indian market with the launch of his first restaurant at Lodha Signet, Lower Parel, Mumbai, bringing his globally acclaimed contemporary Neapolitan pizza concept to the country. The Mumbai flagship marks the brand's India debut and is expected to be followed by expansion into Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru.

Founded by third-generation Neapolitan master pizzaiolo Vincenzo Capuano, the brand has built an international reputation for its artisan pizza craftsmanship. Winner of the World Champion of Contemporary Pizza (Caputo Cup 2022), Capuano has expanded his namesake brand to more than 50 locations across Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Kosovo, Singapore and Hong Kong. The chain is also ranked among the 50 Top World Artisan Pizza Chains in both 2024 and 2025.

The Mumbai outlet introduces the brand's signature Cloud Pizza, prepared using a 30-hour Biga fermentation process with Caputo Nuvola Super flour imported from Naples. The high-hydration dough creates an airy, light crust with the characteristic leopard-spotted finish associated with contemporary Neapolitan pizzas.

Adding to the dining experience, pizzas are served with the brand's signature golden scissors, designed to preserve the delicate structure of the crust instead of using a traditional pizza cutter.

Vincenzo Capuano, Founder, said, "India has one of the most curious, food-forward dining communities in the world. Mumbai was always where this had to begin. We are not bringing a pizza to India, we are bringing a culture, a philosophy, and a craft that has taken three generations and one World Championship to perfect."

The India menu combines classic Neapolitan recipes with dishes created specifically for local diners. Signature pizzas include Diavola alla Nonno Enzo, Margherita con Bufala, Napolitudine, and Tetti Illuminati, alongside India-exclusive offerings such as Chicken Tikka Pizza, Paneer Chimichurri Pizza, Pesto Basilico Pizza, and Tartufo Pizza.

Beyond pizzas, the menu features Italian appetisers including Burrata Classica, Parmigiana di Melanzane, Holy Wings, and Patatine Fritte al Tartufo, while the pasta selection includes Carbonara, Arrabbiata, Aurora Tartufo con Gamberi, and Ragù di Agnello. The restaurant has also developed a dedicated Jain-friendly menu using a specially created root-free San Marzano tomato sauce.

Desserts include Tiramisu, Biscoff Cheesecake, Crème Brûlée, and Chocolate Mousse, complemented by a beverage programme featuring Italian cocktails, wines, draught beers and classics such as Aperol Spritz, Negroni, and Limoncello.

The 110-seat restaurant features an open kitchen, live pizza-making counter and full-service bar. Core ingredients, including Caputo flour, San Marzano tomatoes and Italian extra virgin olive oil, are imported directly from Italy, while dairy products and fresh proteins are sourced from carefully selected Indian suppliers.

The India operations are led by founding partners Himanshu Bakhda, Ajay Kedia, Manish Bhansali, and Rohan G Pai, who are spearheading the brand's expansion in the country.

 Rohan G Pai, Founding Partner, Vincenzo Capuano India, said, "India is in the middle of a third wave of pizza appreciation. The first wave was fast food. The second was casual Italian. The third happening right now in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru is about craft: sourdough, fermentation, artisanal toppings, and the story behind the dough. Vincenzo Capuano does not arrive in India as a trend. He arrives as the man who defined the trend."

The launch reflects the growing demand for premium international dining concepts in India as consumers increasingly seek authentic, experience led culinary destinations. With expansion already planned for other major cities, Vincenzo Capuano is positioning India as a key market in its global growth strategy.

Homegrown quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain Burger Singh has unveiled an aggressive expansion strategy for Karnataka, announcing plans to scale its Bengaluru network from eight operational outlets to 80 locations, while adding 100 more outlets across the state. The move marks the company's largest city-focused expansion to date and reflects its growing confidence in Bengaluru as a high-growth market.

With the planned rollout, Burger Singh aims to strengthen its presence across Karnataka while expanding its nationwide network, which currently spans more than 200 outlets in over 100 cities. The brand has built its identity by combining classic burger formats with bold Indian flavours, offering menu options tailored to local tastes at affordable price points.

Bengaluru has emerged as one of the company's fastest-growing markets, driven by strong consumer demand and increasing acceptance of homegrown QSR brands. Burger Singh currently operates eight restaurants in the city, with five additional outlets scheduled to open next month, further strengthening its presence across key neighbourhoods.

The company has actively engaged with local consumers through marketing initiatives, including its Big Singh Feast campaign held in November 2025 across Sarjapur, HSR Layout and BTM Layout, where it served more than 3,300 complimentary meals in a single day.

Nitin Rana, Co-founder, Burger Singh, said, "Every market teaches you something about pace, and Bengaluru has taught us to move faster than we've ever moved before. Going from 8 outlets to 80 isn't incremental growth; it's a scale-up unlike anything we've done in any other city, and we're doing it because Bengaluru has earned the speed. This is now officially our fastest-growing market in the country, and with another 100 more outlets planned across Karnataka, we're backing that momentum with real commitment, not just ambition."

To support its ambitious growth plans, Burger Singh is actively inviting franchise partners across Bengaluru and other cities in Karnataka. The company aims to strengthen its franchise network while expanding access to its signature menu, which includes popular offerings such as Nikku Singh, Churmur Pandey, Udta Punjab 2.0, Chunky Paneer Pandey, and other India-inspired burgers.

The expansion underscores Burger Singh's continued focus on franchise-led growth and deeper penetration into high-potential regional markets. As organised QSR brands continue to gain traction beyond metropolitan centres, Karnataka is expected to play a pivotal role in the company's next phase of expansion.

Progressive Indian vegetarian restaurant Kahaani has made its debut in Bengaluru, introducing a dining concept inspired by India's centuries-old culinary exchanges across global trade and migration routes. Founded by Haresh and Somshekhar Mirpuri and led by Chef Sibin Lal, the restaurant presents a contemporary vegetarian menu that explores the historical influence of Indian ingredients, flavours and cooking techniques on cuisines around the world.

Built around the theme of "travelled Indian stories," Kahaani reinterprets traditional Indian culinary heritage through dishes that highlight the connections between Indian food traditions and global cultures. The concept seeks to celebrate the evolution of Indian cuisine through centuries of cultural exchange rather than conventional fusion cooking.

The inspiration behind the restaurant dates back to 1998, when co-founder Haresh Mirpuri experienced the Jakarta riots and was escorted to safety after being recognised as Indian. The incident sparked his curiosity about India's culinary influence across Southeast Asia, eventually leading to the creation of Kahaani.

Commenting on the launch, Somshekhar Mirpuri, Co-Founder, Kahaani, said:

"India has one of the most complex, historically connected, globally travelled food cultures on earth its ingredients built spice routes, its techniques predate most of the world's cooking traditions. Kahaani is our way of celebrating this rich culinary legacy one that has travelled across borders, inspired cultures, and evolved through centuries of exchange. We wanted to create a space that acknowledges these shared histories while presenting them through a contemporary dining experience."

To develop the menu, Chef Sibin Lal travelled across Indonesia to better understand the historical links between Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines.

Speaking about the culinary philosophy, Chef Sibin Lal said:

"For us, the menu began with understanding people, places, and traditions rather than recipes. Travelling through Southeast Asia helped us appreciate how deeply connected these food cultures are to India. Kahaani brings those connections together in a way that feels authentic, thoughtful, and approachable."

The menu features signature dishes such as Vada Pav Pita, Paneer Ghee Roast Pita, Banana Galouti Kebab and Lotus Stem & Burrata Chaat, reflecting the restaurant's approach to presenting Indian culinary traditions through a modern vegetarian dining experience.

With its Bengaluru debut, Kahaani aims to offer diners a fresh perspective on Indian vegetarian cuisine while celebrating the country's rich culinary heritage through storytelling and contemporary gastronomy.

Dohful Cookies & Coffee has expanded its presence in the National Capital Region with the opening of a new outlet in Dwarka, New Delhi. The latest store is located at HL Plaza in Sector 12, further strengthening the brand's retail network in the capital.

The announcement was made through the company's official social media channels, where Dohful Cookies & Coffee invited customers to experience its freshly baked offerings at the new location. The outlet officially opened on July 19, 2026.

The new store serves the brand's signature range of freshly baked cookies, desserts and speciality coffee, offering customers a casual café experience centred around handcrafted baked products. Designed as a neighbourhood café, the outlet caters to consumers looking for freshly prepared treats paired with premium coffee and beverages.

Dohful Cookies & Coffee has been steadily expanding its retail presence by introducing stores in high-footfall residential and commercial locations. The brand focuses on freshly baked products made throughout the day, complemented by a menu of hot and cold beverages aimed at students, working professionals and families.

The opening of the Dwarka outlet reflects the company's continued efforts to improve accessibility for customers across Delhi while strengthening its presence in one of the city's prominent residential catchments. With growing demand for café formats centred on artisanal bakery products and speciality coffee, the brand continues to expand its footprint through strategically located neighbourhood stores.

Homegrown quick service restaurant (QSR) chain Burger Singh has announced its largest city-focused expansion plan to date, with a target of opening 180 new outlets across Karnataka. The expansion includes plans to scale its presence in Bengaluru from eight operational stores to 80 outlets, while adding another 100 restaurants across the rest of the state.

The move marks a significant step in Burger Singh's growth strategy as it looks to deepen its presence in South India through a combination of company-operated and franchise-led outlets. According to the company, Bengaluru has emerged as its fastest-growing market, driven by strong consumer response and increasing demand for its India-inspired burger offerings.

Burger Singh currently operates more than 200 outlets across over 100 cities nationwide. As part of its Karnataka expansion, the company said five additional Bengaluru outlets are already in the pipeline and are expected to open next month, providing further momentum to its city-wide rollout.

The brand is also actively seeking franchise partners across Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka to support its expansion plans. Through its franchise model, Burger Singh aims to strengthen its presence in high-potential markets while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs to participate in the organised QSR sector.

Its menu combines classic burger formats with regional Indian flavours, featuring products such as Nikku Singh, Churmur Pandey, Udta Punjab 2.0 and Chunky Paneer Pandey. The company believes this localisation strategy has helped it build a differentiated position within India's competitive burger segment.

Commenting on the announcement, Nitin Rana, Co-founder, Burger Singh, said, "Every market teaches you something about pace, and Bengaluru has taught us to move faster than we've ever moved before. Going from 8 outlets to 80 isn't incremental growth; it's a scale-up unlike anything we've done in any other city, and we're doing it because Bengaluru has earned the speed. This is now officially our fastest-growing market in the country, and with another 100 more outlets planned across Karnataka, we're backing that momentum with real commitment, not just ambition."

The planned expansion reflects Burger Singh's continued focus on strengthening its national footprint while leveraging the franchise model to accelerate growth in high-demand markets. Karnataka is expected to play a key role in the company's next phase of expansion as it seeks to increase its presence in one of India's fastest-growing QSR markets.

Premium fresh beverage brand Berry Brothers has strengthened its offline retail presence with the launch of its seventh company-owned outlet at Palladium Ahmedabad. The opening also marks the brand's debut at a Phoenix Group shopping destination, further expanding its presence across India's premium retail landscape.

Located in the food court of Palladium Ahmedabad, the new outlet features Berry Brothers' flagship 360-degree kiosk format. Designed with an open layout, the kiosk allows customers to watch beverages being prepared while offering an interactive retail experience. The outlet serves the brand's portfolio of fresh juices, smoothies, milkshakes, wellness drinks and other fruit-based beverages made with natural ingredients.

Commenting on the launch, Taranjit Shah Singh, Founder & Owner of Berry Brothers, said: "The opening of our flagship kiosk at Palladium Ahmedabad represents an exciting milestone in our journey. Every new outlet is an opportunity to raise the bar not only in product quality but also in customer experience. We believe Health is the New Luxury, and our mission is to make fresh, premium beverages accessible in India's finest retail destinations. This flagship format reflects the future direction of Berry Brothers as we continue expanding across the country."

With the latest addition, Berry Brothers now operates seven company-owned outlets across premium shopping destinations in India. The brand has established its presence in malls managed by leading retail developers, including DLF, Nexus Malls, Unity One and, now, Phoenix Group.

The Ahmedabad launch also marks the beginning of Berry Brothers' association with Phoenix Group. The company said it is exploring opportunities to expand its presence across the developer's retail portfolio as part of its long-term growth plans.

Founded with a focus on fresh and health-oriented beverages, Berry Brothers offers a range of handcrafted juices, smoothies, shakes and wellness drinks. The brand has been steadily expanding its physical retail network by targeting high-footfall shopping centres and premium malls, aligning its growth strategy with the rising demand for healthier beverage options among urban consumers.

The opening at Palladium Ahmedabad further strengthens the company's presence in western India while supporting its broader strategy of expanding through company-owned outlets in premium retail destinations across the country.

Indian specialty coffee brand Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters has entered the UAE market with the opening of its first café at BurJuman Mall in Dubai. The launch marks the company's latest international expansion and provides a platform for the brand to take its Indian specialty coffee proposition to consumers in the Gulf region.

The Dubai café brings Blue Tokai's focus on Indian coffee origins and specialty brewing to one of the region's established retail and dining markets. The company has also indicated plans to expand further across the GCC, with a second UAE outlet in the pipeline.

Founded in 2013, Blue Tokai has built its business around sourcing specialty coffee from India's key coffee-growing regions. The company works with more than 80 local coffee farms and operates over 250 cafés and three roasteries in India, alongside its international presence in Tokyo, Japan.

The new Dubai outlet follows the brand's farm-to-cup approach, featuring single-estate coffees sourced from different parts of India, seasonal selections and signature blends. The café also offers freshly prepared food, pastries and baked products.

Shivam Shahi, Co-Founder and COO, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, said, "India has a remarkable coffee heritage, yet its potential as a specialty coffee origin is only now gaining global recognition. Over the last 13 years, Blue Tokai has been committed to strengthening the connection between coffee producers and consumers, while creating spaces where people can discover the craft, stories and diversity behind every cup. Entering the UAE marks an important milestone in our journey. The vibrant café culture, diverse community and appreciation for thoughtfully crafted experiences make it an ideal gateway as we build meaningful connections with customers across the region."

The expansion is being supported through a partnership with Ambrosia Gulf. Vishwaroop Narain, Executive Chairman, Ambrosia Gulf, said, "Dubai continues to attract brands that bring distinctive stories, innovation and new experiences to consumers. Blue Tokai’s strong heritage and commitment to craftsmanship make it well positioned for this market. Through our partnership, we look forward to supporting the brand’s growth journey and creating opportunities for more consumers to discover the depth and diversity of Indian coffee."

Blue Tokai's entry into Dubai comes as Indian specialty coffee brands increasingly look to international markets to expand their consumer base and showcase the country's growing coffee culture.

The company has confirmed plans to open a second outlet in the UAE as part of its broader ambition to build a presence across the GCC. The Dubai launch therefore marks the beginning of a wider international expansion phase for the Indian coffee brand.

Nando’s has expanded its presence in Hyderabad with the opening of its second outlet at Sarath City Capital Mall. The new restaurant follows the brand’s first Hyderabad location at RMZ Nexcity and strengthens its presence in the city’s growing premium casual dining market.

The latest outlet brings Nando’s signature flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken experience to a wider customer base in Hyderabad. The brand’s chicken is marinated for 24 hours, flame-grilled to order and served with a choice of PERi-PERi heat levels, ranging from Mild to Extra Hot.

Alongside the new outlet, Nando’s has introduced a weekday lunch offering across both its Hyderabad locations. Available from Monday to Friday, the menu includes complete flame-grilled meals starting at ₹239, along with complimentary bottomless Coke.

The new Sarath City Capital Mall outlet expands Nando’s reach into one of Hyderabad’s key retail and entertainment destinations. The launch comes as the city continues to see growing demand for international restaurant brands and premium casual dining experiences.

“Hyderabad has emerged as a strong and exciting market for us, and the launch of our second Casa reflects the encouraging response we have received from diners in the city,” said Sameer Bhasin, CEO, Nando’s India. “This opening strengthens our presence in the city and brings the signature Nando’s experience bold Peri - Peri flavours, customisable heat levels, and our distinctive flame-grilled offering to an even wider audience.”

Founded in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1987, Nando’s has grown into an international restaurant brand with more than 1,250 outlets across 23 countries. The brand is known for its flame-grilled chicken, signature PERi-PERi sauces and customisable spice levels.

Nando’s has also positioned its food proposition around fresh preparation, with its bastings, marinades and sauces made using fresh ingredients without artificial colours or flavours.

With the addition of its second outlet in Hyderabad, Nando’s continues to expand its presence in India’s major urban markets. The Sarath City Capital Mall opening reflects the brand’s focus on strengthening its restaurant network while bringing its flame-grilled dining experience to a larger customer base.

TATA Starbucks has expanded its premium retail portfolio with the opening of a new Starbucks Reserve store at World St. at 5 Worldmark, Aerocity, New Delhi. The latest launch marks the company's third Starbucks Reserve destination in Delhi-NCR and strengthens its presence in the premium coffee segment.

Located in one of the capital's prominent hospitality and travel hubs, the new store is designed to offer a more elevated coffee experience through premium coffee selections, handcrafted beverages and curated food offerings.

The Starbucks Reserve format features a selection of rare and premium coffees alongside signature espresso-based beverages. The new Aerocity store also introduces a bake-in menu developed to complement the coffee programme. It is equipped with the Black Eagle espresso machine, allowing Coffee Masters greater precision and control over the brewing and extraction process.

The beverage menu includes Starbucks Reserve signature creations as well as zero-proof options. New offerings include the Ube Coconut Martini, featuring espresso and ube cold foam, and the Ube Coconut Cold Brew, made with Starbucks Reserve Cold Brew, coconut water and ube cold foam. Other featured beverages include Jamaican Rum Stardust, Gin Cocobotanica and Espresso Martini.

Commenting on the launch, Adrit Mishra, Chief Operating Officer, TATA Starbucks, said, "The opening of the Starbucks Reserve store at New Delhi Aerocity marks an important milestone for TATA Starbucks, making it our third Starbucks Reserve destination in New Delhi and further strengthening our premium portfolio in the capital. Our growth strategy is centred on expanding thoughtfully across markets and bringing differentiated experiences to customers. As customer appreciation for experiential and premium offerings continues to grow, we remain committed to investing in formats that celebrate the craft of coffee and create meaningful connections within communities."

The Starbucks Reserve store at World St. at 5 Worldmark, Aerocity, opened to customers on July 15, 2026. The store will operate daily from 8 a.m. to midnight, offering customers an experiential coffee destination in one of New Delhi's key commercial and hospitality districts.

Cafe Sandoz has strengthened its presence in New Delhi with the opening of a new outlet at Rajouri Garden Ring Road. The latest launch adds to the brand's growing hospitality portfolio as it continues to develop contemporary dining formats for evolving consumer preferences.

Designed as a lifestyle café, the new outlet caters to a range of occasions, from casual catch-ups and business meetings to lunches and social gatherings. The format combines contemporary interiors with a diversified menu, reflecting Cafe Sandoz's focus on creating experience-led dining destinations.

The menu brings together a mix of global and contemporary offerings, including small plates, Asian specialities, Italian-style pizzas, handcrafted desserts and artisanal coffee prepared using beans sourced from Italy. The beverage menu also features signature cocktails and handcrafted mocktails.

Gurmeet Singh Ahluwalia, Founder, Café Sandoz, said, “For us, Cafe Sandoz is not simply the launch of another outlet, it marks the beginning of a new chapter in our journey. As dining preferences continue to evolve, we wanted to create a concept that brings together contemporary experiences with the warmth, trust, and hospitality that have always defined Sandoz. Every aspect of this cafe has been envisioned to create a destination where people can connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories. As we grow, our commitment remains unchanged: to deliver exceptional experiences while staying true to the values that have shaped our legacy for decades.”

The Rajouri Garden launch forms part of Cafe Sandoz's broader plans to expand across key metropolitan markets in India while also exploring international opportunities. The brand's future growth strategy will focus on culinary innovation, contemporary design and guest-centric experiences as it seeks to build a wider presence in the evolving organised foodservice market.

Haldiram's has expanded its retail footprint in Uttar Pradesh with the opening of a new restaurant in Ayodhya. Located on Ram Path Road near the Railway Station, the outlet is strategically positioned to serve both local residents and the growing number of pilgrims and tourists visiting the temple city.

The new restaurant forms part of Haldiram's ongoing retail expansion strategy, as the brand continues to strengthen its presence across high-growth markets beyond metropolitan cities. With Ayodhya emerging as one of India's fastest-growing religious tourism destinations, the company aims to cater to increasing demand for organised dining and food retail.

The outlet offers Haldiram's wide range of products, including traditional Indian sweets, namkeens, chaats, North Indian and South Indian cuisine, street-style Chinese dishes, bakery products and beverages, providing customers with a comprehensive dining and takeaway experience.

The opening also aligns with Haldiram's ongoing 'Ache Din Aa Rahe Hai!' campaign, which has been rolled out across key markets to engage consumers while celebrating everyday moments with family and friends.

Ayodhya holds special significance for the brand and opening a restaurant in the city marks an important milestone. Haldiram's also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the residents of Ayodhya and the millions of devotees who visit the city every year.

With the latest opening, Haldiram's continues to expand its presence across key retail markets while strengthening its network in prominent religious and tourism destinations across India.

Ministry of Naan has strengthened its presence in Mumbai with the opening of a new outlet in Pali Hill, Bandra. Founded by hospitality entrepreneur Ayush Sahani, the restaurant marks the latest addition to his growing hospitality portfolio, which includes Saltt at Oleander Farms, Karjat, The Plate Karjat and Common House.

Located in one of Mumbai's prominent dining destinations, the new outlet has been built around a focused North Indian menu that highlights traditional cooking techniques, carefully sourced ingredients and consistent execution. According to the company, spices are sourced from local APMC markets and ground in-house, while breads are freshly prepared to order, reflecting the brand's emphasis on authenticity and quality.

Designed as an intimate 10-seater restaurant, the Pali Hill outlet caters to both dine-in and takeaway customers and will remain open until 1:30 am, targeting the neighbourhood's growing late-night dining demand.

The menu centres around freshly baked breads complemented by dishes prepared in the restaurant's Tandoor and Chulha sections. By focusing on traditional North Indian cooking methods and regional flavours, the brand aims to cater to consumers seeking authentic and specialised Indian cuisine.

The Bandra opening forms part of Ministry of Naan's broader expansion strategy. Following its latest launch, the company plans to expand further across Andheri West, South Mumbai and Navi Mumbai while also exploring opportunities in Pune, Bengaluru and Delhi.

The expansion reflects the growing popularity of cuisine focused restaurant concepts and compact dining formats within India's foodservice industry. As the brand continues to scale its operations, Ministry of Naan aims to strengthen its presence across key urban markets while maintaining its focus on authentic North Indian cuisine.

Haldiram's has expanded its retail presence in Uttar Pradesh with the launch of a new store in Gorakhpur, reinforcing its strategy of strengthening its footprint in emerging markets across India. Located at Mouza Chaksaila, Tappa Kasba, Golghar, the new outlet marks another milestone in the brand's offline expansion journey and brings its signature dining and retail experience to consumers in the city.

The store opening follows Haldiram's city-wide "Ache Din Aa Rahe Hai!" teaser campaign, which generated significant consumer interest through a series of red billboards carrying the campaign message across Gorakhpur. With the launch of the new outlet, the company has concluded the campaign by introducing its retail and dining destination in the city.

Designed to offer a comprehensive customer experience, the new outlet features Haldiram's wide portfolio of freshly prepared food alongside its packaged product range. Customers can choose from North Indian and South Indian dishes, chaats, traditional sweets, bakery products and popular street food offerings. The store also houses the company's packaged snacks, sweets, frozen foods, ready-to-eat products and gifting solutions, providing a one-stop destination for dining and retail purchases.

The Gorakhpur launch aligns with Haldiram's strategy of expanding beyond metropolitan markets and strengthening its presence in high-growth cities. By entering emerging consumer markets, the company aims to improve accessibility to its products while enhancing its offline retail network across the country.

The integrated marketing campaign surrounding the launch further reflects Haldiram's focus on building strong consumer engagement alongside physical expansion. The teaser campaign created anticipation ahead of the opening, allowing the brand to connect with local consumers before unveiling the new store.

The addition of the Gorakhpur outlet forms part of Haldiram's broader retail growth strategy, which focuses on increasing its presence in high-demand markets beyond India's major metropolitan centres. Through a combination of experiential retail formats and an extensive food and packaged products portfolio, the company continues to strengthen its market reach while catering to evolving consumer preferences.

With the latest store launch, Haldiram's continues to invest in expanding its brick-and-mortar footprint across India, targeting emerging cities with growing consumption potential. The new outlet in Gorakhpur underscores the company's long-term commitment to retail expansion, enhanced customer accessibility and sustained business growth through strategic market penetration.

Dramique has strengthened its hospitality portfolio with the launch of D'Glasshouse, a premium dining and cocktail destination at its New Delhi property. The new concept marks the brand's expansion into curated dining experiences, complementing its existing entertainment-led offering while broadening its presence in the premium hospitality segment.

Positioned as an exclusive venue within the Dramique property, D'Glasshouse has been designed to offer a more intimate and relaxed environment centred on fine dining, handcrafted cocktails and meaningful social interactions. Unlike the property's high-energy entertainment format, the new concept caters to guests seeking smaller gatherings, conversations and elevated culinary experiences in a sophisticated setting.

The launch reflects Dramique's strategy to diversify its hospitality offerings by creating specialised formats that cater to evolving consumer preferences. By introducing a dedicated premium dining destination, the brand aims to attract a wider audience while strengthening its positioning in Delhi's competitive food and beverage landscape.

D'Glasshouse features floor-to-ceiling glass walls, contemporary lounge style seating and thoughtfully designed interiors that create an open and inviting ambience. The venue follows a profile-based reservation system, offering curated access to guests from corporate, social and creative communities. This approach is intended to foster a more personalised experience while maintaining the exclusivity of the destination.

The culinary programme has been developed around a European-inspired menu with Asian influences, bringing together global flavours through a carefully curated selection of dishes. Complementing the food offering is the venue's signature "Garden-to-Glass" cocktail programme, where beverages are crafted using fresh botanicals, herbs and greens to deliver a distinctive drinking experience.

Beyond food and beverages, D'Glasshouse also integrates curated entertainment into its overall concept. The venue plans to host intimate live performances that combine lighting, visual effects and architectural elements, creating immersive experiences without disrupting the relaxed dining atmosphere. This format allows guests to enjoy entertainment alongside premium dining while preserving the venue's focus on comfort and conversation.

Currently, D'Glasshouse operates from 9 PM every Friday through Sunday, catering to the evening dining and nightlife audience. Looking ahead, the brand plans to expand its programming with curated daytime experiences, including Botanical Brunches, as it continues to evolve the concept and engage customers across different occasions.

The concept is led by Sandy, a member of Dramique's core leadership team, who oversees the creative direction of the venue. Under this vision, D'Glasshouse has been positioned as a lifestyle destination that brings together premium dining, innovative mixology and curated guest experiences within a single hospitality format.

With the launch of D'Glasshouse, Dramique is expanding beyond its established entertainment proposition to build a more diversified hospitality portfolio. The addition of a dedicated premium dining concept reflects the brand's focus on experiential hospitality, offering guests a destination that combines refined cuisine, signature cocktails and thoughtfully designed experiences in the heart of New Delhi.

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL) has partnered with hospitality-tech company FoodMojo to develop 24x7 multi-brand food courts and non-fuel amenities at select highway fuel stations across India, marking a strategic move to strengthen its non-fuel retail business and diversify customer offerings beyond fuel services.

The initiative will combine dining, convenience and mobility services at HPCL fuel stations, catering to the growing demand for organised highway stopovers. By integrating multiple food brands and traveller-focused facilities within its retail network, the state-owned oil marketing company aims to enhance the overall customer experience while unlocking additional value from its highway infrastructure.

The first facility under the partnership will be established at HPCL's Kurgaon Wayside Amenity under the Prayagraj Retail Regional Office. Spread across 8,000 sq. ft., the development will feature a mix of food brands, cafés, regional dhabas, clean restrooms, EV charging infrastructure and other amenities designed for long-distance travellers.

The companies said the project has been conceived as a one-stop highway destination that brings together fuel, food and convenience services under a single roof. The model is expected to improve accessibility for commuters while supporting HPCL's broader non-fuel retail strategy.

Commenting on the initiative, HPCL said, "At HPCL, we don’t just fuel your journey we make every stop worthwhile."

Under the collaboration, FoodMojo will manage the food and hospitality operations through its technology-enabled platform. The company will oversee a portfolio of quick-service restaurant brands, premium cafés and regional dining concepts, while also introducing digital food ordering systems, streamlined supply-chain operations and hospitality training programmes aimed at supporting local employment.

The partnership comes as oil marketing companies increasingly focus on expanding non-fuel revenue streams by developing organised retail and hospitality formats at highway fuel stations. Rising demand for cleaner, safer and more convenient roadside facilities has encouraged fuel retailers to invest in value-added services that extend beyond conventional refuelling.

Highway fuel stations are gradually evolving into integrated retail destinations, with foodservice, electric vehicle charging, convenience retail and traveller amenities emerging as important growth segments. Through this partnership, HPCL is seeking to strengthen its presence in this evolving space while creating a more comprehensive travel experience for customers.

Following the launch of the Kurgaon project, HPCL plans to replicate the model at other high-traffic fuel stations along major national highways across the country. The expansion is expected to further strengthen the company's non-fuel retail portfolio while supporting the development of modern highway infrastructure and organised roadside services across India.