Rogan Josh and Galouti Kebab (Representative Image)
Lamb preparations have attracted an international following due to their varied and flavorful culinary characteristics. Spanning from tender kebabs found in the Middle East to fragrant curries in India, and robust stews across Europe, these meat offerings present an extensive array of tastes and consistencies that appeal to diverse cultural preferences.
Considering this, Taste Atlas, an immersive online guide to traditional cuisine, which compiles genuine recipes, critiques by food experts, and research pieces about renowned ingredients and dishes, has recently unveiled its compilation of the ’50 Best Lamb Dishes in the World’.
Securing the top position is Turkey’s Iskender kebab, a delectable creation named in honor of Iskender Efendi, the pioneering butcher behind this savory delight.
“It consists of thinly sliced lamb that is grilled and combined with a spicy tomato sauce and pita bread, while melted sheep butter and yoghurt are traditionally drizzled over the dish at the table,” the guide noted.
Claiming the second spot is another Turkish delicacy, the Cag kebabi. Hailing from the Turkish city of Erzurum, this kebab variant involves marinating lamb with a mixture of onions, salt, and pepper. The seasoned meat is then threaded onto a sizable horizontal skewer and expertly cooked over an open wood fire.
Next in line is Iran’s Kabab torsh, a dish deeply rooted in tradition and predominantly linked to the provinces of Gilan and Mazandaran.
“The kebab is usually made with lean cuts of beef or lamb which are marinated in a flavourful combination of pomegranate molasses, walnuts, garlic, parsley, and olive oil,” Taste Atlas noted.
Domino’s India is elevating the Independence Day celebrations with the much-awaited “FreeDOM Feast” promotion. Acknowledging the connecting essence of food and its capacity to unite individuals, Domino’s is embodying the essence of the event by presenting an extraordinary offer. As the 76th Independence Day draws near, customers have the opportunity to relish a substantial 76% reduction on specific appetizers and drinks, given that the minimum cart value reaches INR 350.
This special promotion encompasses a variety of side options, such as Garlic Breadsticks, Choco Lava Cake, Potato Cheese Shots, Butterscotch Mousse Cake, Taco Mexicana – Veg (single), Veg Parcel, and Chicken Parcel.
During an era where culinary adventures are closely linked with overall delight, Domino’s alluring promotion, including items like Garlic Bread, Choco Lava Cakes, and beyond, provides customers with a range of irresistible selections that amplify the importance of the 76th Independence Day festivities.
Sandeep Anand, Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer at Domino’s India, expressed his enthusiasm about the new offer, stating, “We are delighted to introduce the FreeDOM Feast Offer in conjunction with the 76th Independence Day celebrations. This occasion signifies freedom, unity, and shared moments. Through this exclusive offer, we aim to elevate our customers’ festivities and provide them with an opportunity to relish exceptional food experiences with their loved ones.”
The “FreeDOM Feast” promotion is applicable from August 11th, 2023, to August 15th, 2023, and is exclusively accessible via the Domino’s App, dine-in, and takeaway choices.
Restaurant Brands International (Representative Image)
Restaurant Brands International Inc, the proprietor of Tim Hortons, Burger King, and Popeyes, has achieved a strong performance in the second quarter. The company witnessed a notable 14% year-over-year growth in consolidated system-wide sales, surpassing $40 billion. Additionally, there was a commendable global comparable sales surge of over 10%.
RBI is also the owner of Firehouse Subs.
According to the statement, Restaurant Brands Inc has surpassed the milestone of 30,000 restaurants.
The brand achieved a net income of $351 million compared to $346 million in the year 2022.
Additionally, it reported an adjusted EBITDA of $665 million, marking a 10.3% organic increase from the previous year.
“I am very proud of the continued performance of our teams and our franchisees who helped drive 14% growth in system wide sales and another quarter of improved franchisee profitability. We are generating positive momentum and results behind each of our iconic brands by focusing on new menu innovations, supported by exceptional marketing and operations,” shared CEO Josh Kobza by adding that the team is very motivated by the significant growth opportunities ahead of them in their home markets and around the world.
With an annual system-wide sales exceeding $35 billion and a presence in over 100 countries, Restaurant Brands International Inc. stands as one of the globe’s leading quick service restaurant enterprises, boasting a network of over 29,000 restaurants.
The inauguration of this groundbreaking food delivery service took place over the weekend at R CITY
R CITY, the prominent shopping and entertainment hub in Mumbai, has joined forces with Versicles Technologies Pvt Ltd to introduce the exclusive launch of Vend‘N’Go throughout the entirety of the mall’s premises.
Vend‘N’Go, an innovative micro-commerce platform, revolutionizes the way customers can place food orders within R CITY. This pioneering platform enables shoppers to conveniently order from various restaurants, cafes, and food outlets all in one go, as they explore the mall, with the added convenience of having their selections delivered to a designated kiosk pickup point. Making its debut in Mumbai at R CITY, this unique service marks a first-of-its-kind within a mall setting, building upon its successful implementation in Southern malls. The inauguration of this groundbreaking food delivery service took place over the weekend at R CITY.
To offer a seamless and hassle-free food ordering experience, the smart kiosks will be strategically placed at various locations in the mall for customers seeking a more convenient way to order food.
The mall’s patrons can effortlessly browse through their menu, simply place their order, make payments directly through the kiosks or the mobile app, and track the progress of their order in real-time. This streamlined procedure not only saves time but also provides the flexibility of having the food delivered (as per your preference), ensuring an extraordinary food ordering experience and customer satisfaction.
Fundraising is an important aspect of growing and expanding a food business. Whether you’re seeking investments from venture capitalists, angel investors, or crowdfunding platforms, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of financial terms related to fundraising.
When it comes to fundraising for your food business, understanding financial terms is essential. As an entrepreneur seeking investment or financing, having a solid grasp of these terms enables you to effectively communicate your business’s financial health, demonstrate your financial acumen, and negotiate favourable terms with potential investors or lenders.
By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you can better communicate your business’s financial position, make informed decisions, and increase your chances of securing the necessary funding for your food business.
Understanding financial terms is vital for fundraising in the food business as it enhances communication, facilitates valuation assessments, enables effective financial planning, instils investor confidence, and aids in risk mitigation. By mastering these financial concepts, you can navigate the fundraising landscape more effectively and increase the likelihood of securing the necessary funds for your food business.
Here we will explore eight key financial terms that every food business owner should know to navigate the fundraising process effectively.
1. Valuation
Valuation refers to the estimated monetary worth of a business. It is crucial to determine the valuation of your food business before seeking funding as it determines the ownership percentage that investors will receive in exchange for their investment. Valuation is often influenced by factors such as revenue, growth potential, market share, and competitive landscape.
2. Equity
Equity represents the ownership interest in a company. When fundraising, equity is typically offered to investors in exchange for their capital infusion. Understanding equity is essential as it determines the ownership structure of your food business and the rights and responsibilities associated with each stakeholder.
3. Pre-money and Post-money Valuation
Pre-money valuation refers to the value of a company before it receives any external investment, while post-money valuation is the value after the investment has been made. These terms are important as they help determine the dilution of existing shareholders’ ownership and the value of newly issued shares.
4. Return on Investment (ROI)
ROI is a financial metric that calculates the profitability of an investment over time. Investors are often interested in understanding the potential ROI they can expect from their investment in your food business. It’s important to present a compelling business plan and growth strategy to demonstrate the potential for attractive returns.
5. Burn Rate
Burn rate refers to the rate at which a company is consuming its cash reserves or funding. Understanding your burn rate is crucial as it helps you manage your financial resources effectively and demonstrates to investors that you are using their funds wisely.
6. Runway
Runway refers to the length of time a company can operate before depleting its available funds. Calculating your runway helps determine how much funding you need to raise and when. A longer runway gives you more time to generate revenue, validate your business model, and attract additional investors.
7. Debt Financing
Debt financing involves borrowing money from lenders with the agreement to repay the principal amount plus interest over a specified period. Understanding the terms associated with debt financings, such as interest rates, repayment schedules, and collateral requirements, is important for considering this funding option for your food business.
8. Equity Financing
Equity financing involves selling a portion of ownership in your food business to investors in exchange for capital. Understanding the different types of equity financing, such as angel investment, venture capital, or crowdfunding, and their associated terms and conditions is crucial for evaluating and negotiating investment deals.
Navigating the fundraising process for your food business requires a solid understanding of key financial terms. These terms provide valuable insights into your business’s financial health, profitability, and growth potential. Remember, seeking professional advice and consulting with experts can also provide valuable insights and guidance as you navigate the fundraising landscape.
In the bustling world of culinary arts, where flavors dance and textures harmonize, few individuals possess the ability to craft culinary experiences that not only tantalize the taste buds but also tell a story. One such individual is Chef Pawan Bisht, a name that has become synonymous with innovation, dedication, and a passion for locally sourced ingredients. With a career spanning an impressive 16 years, Chef Pawan has carved a niche for himself in the industry, and his journey from a quaint village to spearheading a culinary empire is a testament to his prowess.
From Village to Plate: A Culinary Odyssey Begins
Hailing from the serene village of Chhoi near Corbett Park in the picturesque Nainital district of Uttarakhand, Chef Pawan’s journey into the culinary world commenced with an innate curiosity and a determination to master the art of cooking. The spark was ignited when he enrolled at the esteemed IHM Mumbai after completing his schooling. For three dedicated years, he honed his culinary skills, learning the intricacies of kitchen operations that would later become the cornerstone of his success.
However, Chef Pawan’s culinary expedition didn’t stop there. His exceptional talents caught the eye of the renowned Olive Bar and Kitchen, and he was handpicked for their exclusive Chef Training Program in New Delhi. Under the mentorship of industry stalwarts, he refined his techniques and gained valuable insights at Olive at the Qutab and Olive Beach, setting the stage for his meteoric rise.
In 2015, Chef Pawan Bisht embarked on a new chapter as the Executive Chef of Junglee Billee in the heart of New Delhi. Here, he showcased his mastery by offering a contemporary twist to traditional cuisines such as Mumbai, Konkan, Malvani, and Gujarati. It was during this time that his love for locally sourced ingredients truly flourished. Believing in the power of fresh and healthy produce, he seamlessly integrated local treasures into his creations, elevating flavors and celebrating the diverse culinary heritage of India.
A Journey of Innovation and Leadership:
Chef Pawan’s journey of innovation and leadership truly took flight when he assumed the role of Corporate Chef and R&D Executive at One8commune by Virat Kohli, a renowned establishment with a presence in multiple cities including New Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, and Mumbai. His vision, creativity, and operational finesse shone as he not only managed kitchens but also inspired culinary teams to push boundaries and redefine the gastronomic landscape.
His influence extended beyond the confines of individual kitchens. As a Culinary Advisor at Neuma by Karan Johar, he lent his expertise to shape culinary concepts that resonated with the brand’s vision, further solidifying his reputation as a visionary in the industry.
Chef Pawan Bisht’s Perspectives on Culinary and Restaurant Trends:
In the ever-evolving world of culinary arts and restaurant management, Chef Pawan Bisht’s insights shed light on the multifaceted dynamics that influence success. These insights encompass the evolving preferences of discerning consumers, the pursuit of innovation, the fascination with diverse global cuisines, and the creation of immersive dining environments that align with the latest trends. It’s not just important but imperative to embrace and understand these factors in today’s competitive landscape.
Navigating the Post-Pandemic Dining Scene: Chef Pawan’s Observations
The pandemic has triggered a seismic shift in the dining landscape, and Chef Pawan Bisht provides keen observations on these changes. The emphasis on hygiene and cleanliness has become paramount, leading diners to prioritize establishments that prioritize these aspects. The value of using locally sourced, fresh ingredients has soared, shaping consumer choices. Moreover, the surge in demand for home deliveries has reshaped the dining experience, and the adoption of QR codes as a contactless menu solution has been swiftly embraced.
Crafting Exceptional Post-Pandemic Dining Experiences: Chef Pawan’s Expertise
Drawing from his extensive experience, Chef Pawan Bisht offers strategic insights into creating exceptional dining experiences in the post-pandemic era. Streamlining reservation processes and upholding impeccable hospitality form the foundation. Swift and efficient service, whether at the bar, in the kitchen, or during delivery, emerges as pivotal for ensuring customer satisfaction. Consistency in delivering delectable culinary offerings further enhances the overall dining journey. Chef Pawan emphasizes the significance of attentive staff, creating inviting waiting areas, and facilitating seamless payment methods—all contributing to unforgettable memories for patrons.
Exploring Culinary Landscapes: Chef Pawan’s Regional Insights
Chef Pawan Bisht’s deep understanding of culinary diversity extends to the varied landscapes of North and South India. In his perspective, North India’s culinary fabric is woven with influences from Punjabi, Rajput, and Mughal traditions. This gastronomic expedition highlights the abundant use of dairy and fresh produce sourced from the fertile land, showcasing the rich geography of the region.
Meanwhile, delving into South India’s culinary panorama reveals a tapestry of flavors and techniques that transcend the iconic Dosa and idli. Each subregion boasts a unique culinary identity, resulting in an awe-inspiring array of tastes. The coastal blessings of the South infuse seafood with prominence, catering to a wide spectrum of palates, from meat enthusiasts to avid vegetarians. Chef Pawan’s insights celebrate the inclusive and culturally rich culinary tapestry that characterizes South India.
Final Thoughts:
Chef Pawan Bisht’s perspectives on culinary and restaurant trends encapsulate the essence of a rapidly evolving industry. His insights navigate the shifting preferences of diners, the innovative spirit driving culinary exploration, and the creation of immersive dining encounters that reflect contemporary trends. As we stand at the crossroads of a post-pandemic era, his observations on hygiene, ingredient sourcing, and technology integration offer valuable guidelines for restaurateurs. Furthermore, his appreciation for the diverse culinary landscapes of North and South India showcases a profound understanding of regional flavors. Chef Pawan Bisht’s journey through the culinary world serves as an inspiring roadmap for fellow chefs, restaurant owners, and food enthusiasts alike, encouraging them to embrace change, celebrate tradition, and continuously redefine the art of dining.
Trimacare, India’s first prenatal pregnancy supplement based on the Multi-Micronutrient model (MMN), has attained a patent, signifying the dawn of a novel era in prenatal care and marking a significant milestone within the expansive Indian pregnancy market.
With one of the globe’s most substantial populations, India offers a vast pregnancy market. However, the prenatal supplement sector has long been controlled predominantly by iron and calcium supplements. The issuance of a patent to Trimacare marks a transformative moment, establishing it as the inaugural supplement in India tailored precisely to the distinct requirements of each pregnancy trimester.
Developed by Co-Founders Sameer Agarwal and Surbhi Gupta, Trimacare introduces an innovative approach that departs from the prevalent Iron-Folate-Calcium model. This pioneering method, grounded in the advanced MMN framework, gives rise to a prenatal supplement meticulously crafted to enhance optimal brain development, foster organ growth, support healthy weight gain in infants, and ensure maternal well-being.
Amidst a market flooded with generic supplements, Trimacare emerges as a groundbreaking notion. Driven by the company’s commitment to pioneering and taking the lead, a distinctive category has been birthed within the realm of the pregnancy market. This category acknowledges and addresses the distinctive requirements of expectant mothers and their burgeoning infants, showcasing the innovative vision that propels Trimacare forward.
Up until now, Trimacare has been recommended by more than 5000 medical practitioners, garnering a contented user community of 100,000 patients. Remarkably, even with its launch coinciding with the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic on January 16, 2021 – the same day as the release of COVAXIN – Trimacare has achieved undeniable triumph in the market.
Secured with the patent grant, Trimacare is poised to extend its influence and revolutionize the market landscape. The company’s strategy involves a direct approach to expectant mothers, facilitated by ongoing gynaecologist endorsements. This empowers pregnant women to select a comprehensive and trimester-tailored prenatal care remedy, thereby amplifying the brand’s reach and impact.
In addition to delivering essential nutrients in a single dosage, Trimacare is leading the path towards improved patient adherence and simplified usage, effectively tackling the issue of adhering to multiple pills.
As Trimacare takes the helm of this emerging category within India’s pregnancy market, it carries the inherent capability to revolutionize prenatal health on a national scale. This granted patent stands not just as a validation of Trimacare’s ingenuity, but also as a guiding light illuminating a healthier path for the forthcoming generations of India.
In line with its ongoing expansion strategy, VRO Hospitality, a rapidly growing food and beverage chain in India, has revealed the inauguration of four additional PlanB establishments in Bengaluru. This move elevates the total count of outlets within the city to thirteen.
Emerging as one of the swiftest-growing hospitality enterprises headquartered in Bengaluru, VRO Hospitality possesses a collection of upscale bars and restaurants in both Bengaluru and Mumbai. Originating shortly after their college years, two companions named Dawn Thomas and Safdhar Adoor initiated an event management agency called Rices Obliquity, which swiftly became a sensation in the Bengaluru party scene. Later on, seasoned restaurateur Sharath Rice joined forces with Dawn and Safdhar, resulting in the triumvirate’s establishment of VRO Hospitality in May 2018.
Since its inception, VRO Hospitality has introduced a roster of highly acclaimed brands such as Badmaash Lounge, Hangover, Mirage, Nevermind, One Night in Bangkok, and Tycoons, providing its clientele with a diverse and exquisite culinary voyage. Beyond traditional physical eateries, VRO Hospitality also operates well-received cloud kitchens — including Burgers and Beyond, Holy Doh Pizzas, and Smashed and Whacky Chang. Additionally, the founders embarked on another venture named SteppinOut, an online platform for curating events and experiences, which was acquired by Times Internet Limited in early 2021.
VRO Hospitality’s expansion plan involves opening four additional outlets situated in key locations: Domlur, Jayanagar, Yelahanka, and Electronic City. To accommodate this growth, the company will be securing over 13,000 square feet of real estate space. Notably, among these new establishments, the Electronic City outlet will stand out as the largest among the four.
The upcoming PlanB outlets will feature cutting-edge contemporary graffiti artwork that adds a modern flair to their aesthetics. VRO Hospitality has entered into a partnership with Lefthander, a prominent graffiti artist hailing from Malappuram, Kerala. Lefthander has earned recognition as a pioneer in the South Indian graffiti arena. Known for a distinctive artistic approach and an unwavering commitment to innovation, Lefthander has engaged in numerous dynamic collaborations with well-known brands. These collaborations have consistently pushed the envelope of street art, infusing urban spaces with vibrant and captivating visual experiences.
Commenting on the expansion, Sharath Rice, COO & Co-Founder of VRO Hospitality, said, “Over the last 13 years, PlanB has been delighting customers with its mouth-watering flavours and vibrant ambience. On its 13th anniversary it is ironic that this expansion will take the number of PlanB outlets in Bengaluru to 13. With a strong presence now in four cities across India, PlanB is committed to providing a memorable culinary experience through its diverse menu offerings, including chicken wings, burgers, pizzas, and a variety of main courses. Known for its chill and youthful ambience and daily offers, PlanB continues to be a favourite destination for food enthusiasts nationwide. We are committed to providing an unforgettable dining experience that caters to the diverse tastes of its customers.”
This expansion comes at a time when VRO is spreading its wings across India with PlanB now present in Kochi, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, in addition to Bengaluru. With the addition of four new outlets, PlanB is now a 16-outlet chain in India.
In celebration of this significant milestone anniversary, PlanB is unveiling an irresistible array of thirteen novel grilled chicken wing flavors. Among these delectable options are Smoked Sweet Chilli, Citrus Peri Peri, Southern Flame, Green Lime & Cracked Pepper, Korean Sweet Gouchujang, Mexican Chipotle, Whiskey Glaze, Truffle Parmesan, Bacon Sauce, Herb Grilled, Mediterranean Spice, Basil Pesto & Chilli, and Teriyaki. These unique and tantalizing flavors are exclusively on offer until August 15, adding an extra layer of excitement to the occasion.
Carefully crafted to captivate the adventurous taste buds of PlanB’s loyal customers, these flavors retain the signature quality and taste that has firmly established the brand as a household name. Prepared with meticulous care and attention, the grilled wings showcase an impeccable equilibrium between succulence and the enticing smoky essence. With every bite, a tender and juicy center is revealed, harmoniously complemented by the tantalizing charred flavors that stem from the grilling process.
The pricing for the wings is set at INR 450 (plus taxes) for half a dozen, INR 630 (plus taxes) for a dozen, INR 630 (plus taxes) for grilled wings, and INR 330 (plus taxes) for veggie wings. This enticing offer extends across all four cities, as PlanB becomes the destination of choice, welcoming customers from every avenue.
It’s not only tomatoes and vegetables that have caused an increase in the daily grocery expenses for households; the cost of the daily fruit assortment has also surged. Fruits, which accounted for 0.3 percentage points of the food inflation in FY23, might contribute even more this year due to anticipated price hikes surpassing previous estimates, as suggested by experts.
In August, the retail cost of apples escalated by 15%, reaching INR 175.63 per kg, a notable increase from the May average of INR 158.2 per kg.
“Late arrival of monsoon and heavy monsoon rains have impacted crops, leading to higher prices. The impact of fruits could be 0.4-0.5 percentage points or even higher this year,” said Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist, Bank of Baroda.
While the impact of a strong base effect is anticipated to maintain low inflation, experts highlight the potential for an increase in fruit inflation during the latter part of the year.
“There is a high base effect, which will keep fruit inflation low in the near term. It could rise to 5% as the winter season arrives in December 2023,” said Paras Jasrai, Senior Analyst, India Ratings and Research.
Within the retail inflation basket, fruits (excluding nuts) make up 2.26% of the total, with apples contributing a quarter of this portion. Apples have experienced a significant surge in prices.
In June, fruit prices experienced a 1.3% increase, a notable jump from the 0.5% growth observed in the preceding month, with apple prices specifically surging by 6.3%.
Fruit prices are expected to increase further. “On a CPI-weighted basis, fruit prices were higher by 5.0% MoM in July,” said Gaura Sengupta, India Economist, IDFC First Bank.
Information sourced from the National Horticulture Board indicates that there was a sequential increase of 12% in apple prices during July.
According to experts, retail inflation is projected to surpass 6% in July due to escalating food costs and is anticipated to maintain its high level throughout August. Notably, tomato prices have surged by a factor of 5.8, averaging INR 137.35 in August, a significant increase from the May average of INR 23.61.
Delhi-based Wraps Kathi Rolls is charting out plans for an expansion into different regions of India – spanning the north, west, and south.
Established in 2009 by Aseem Sharma, the enterprise presently manages over 20 outlets across three cities.
“We are confident of our taste to make this a success in other markets in which we are planning our expansion. Considering we already have good coverage in Delhi-NCR, we are looking into expanding to other markets in the North, West and Southern part of India,” he shared by pointing that what sets Wraps Kathi Rolls apart from its competitors is their quality of gourmet wraps and the freshest ingredients.
Although Wraps remain the focal point, Wraps Kathi Rolls boasts a diverse menu that encompasses not only wraps but also includes momos, catering to the palates of their customers. The selections are affordably priced, maintaining the balance between delectable flavors and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Operating primarily through the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) model, the company intends to replicate a similar concept for its expansion endeavors.
“After our expansion in the North, we will continue by tapping at least one or two more big cities throughout the course of the following year,” he pointed.
The brand has successfully inaugurated over 15 new outlets to date and aims to conclude the year by adding a minimum of 15 additional locations to its portfolio. Notably, five of these new ventures are currently in the developmental stages.
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