A new culinary journey

 With the festive season approaching in India, experts estimate a surge in discretionary spending triggered by a consumption boom. Among others, dining out has emerged as one of the experiences witnessing heightened interest amongst consumers.

This World Food Day, let’s take a closer look at one of Aditya Birla Group's newest and most delectable portfolio additions, one that marks the Group’s journey into the culinary world! The recent acquisition of KA Hospitality by Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality (ABNAH) is a strategic move that not only signifies the first of many steps into the hospitality and food & beverage industries, but also paves the way for Michelin-star fine-dining experiences to become more accessible to Indian consumers. But how did it all start?

Beginning the culinary odyssey with a taste of London 

Founded in 2011, KA Hospitality began with a goal – to redefine India's food industry. Its mission was to introduce Michelin-starred restaurants in a stand-alone format, setting culinary trends for the discerning Indian diner. This odyssey commenced with Hakkasan (Mumbai), the Michelin star-awarded London-based establishment, which would go on to become an iconic institution in the Indian gastronomic landscape. Hakkasan brought a slice of the vibrant international culinary scene to Mumbai, offering a tantalising blend of modern Cantonese cuisine in a contemporary setting.

A fusion of flavours

Building upon this success, next in line was Yauatcha, London's beloved dim sum and tea house. Yauatcha, synonymous with innovation and elegance, soon found a new home in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. It quickly became the go-to destination for those seeking a fusion of dim sum, European patisseries, and mixology, all within a chic ambiance.

In 2017, the vibrant Thai culinary landscape became a part of the portfolio with the introduction of Nara Thai at two of Mumbai's most happening locales – Bandra Kurla Complex and Colaba. Nara Thai, a Bangkok-based hospitality brand renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine, has created a comfortable, family-friendly ambience that transports diners straight to the heart of Thailand. It is indeed a gastronomic voyage that celebrates the rich, diverse flavours of Thailand, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

Cultivating a home-grown brand

With the dining out segment witnessing a surge, it made absolute business sense to build home-grown culinary brands that resonated with India's diverse palates. The first of these was CinCin, an Italian-inspired restaurant and bar that made its debut in Mumbai in 2017. CinCin aimed to capture the essence of the Amalfi Coast of Italy and bring it to the city’s commercial centre in BKC. With a focus on cicchetti, handmade pasta, and an extensive wine selection, CinCin offers diners a taste of Italy in the heart of Mumbai. The restaurant's aesthetics draw inspiration from the colourful houses of the Amalfi Coast, transporting diners straight to the charming streets of coastal Italy.

A new venture awaits

In 2023, Aditya Birla Group acquired a 100 percent stake in KA Hospitality via its hospitality arm, ABNAH. This strategic acquisition reflects Aditya Birla Group's long-term vision to offer exceptional premium casual dining experiences to India's burgeoning middle class. These four new restaurants are now part of ABNAH’s exclusive hospitality portfolio, alongside Club Jolie’s, its members-only luxury club located in Worli, Mumbai.

This acquisition by Aditya Birla Group represents an exciting milestone in India’s food and hospitality landscape, where Michelin stars shine brighter, and culinary excellence knows no bounds!