Focus on Celebrating Calcutta’s Culinary Heritage
Speciality Restaurants, the parent company behind renowned dining brands such as Mainland China and Oh! Calcutta, is embarking on a journey of domestic and international expansion. Founder and managing director Anjan Chatterjee emphasizes the importance of celebrating and promoting Calcutta’s rich culinary heritage in an exclusive interview.
The 25-Year Legacy of Oh! Calcutta
Oh! Calcutta, which pays homage to the diverse flavors of Calcutta, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The brand began as ‘Only Fish’ in Mumbai, dedicated to showcasing Calcutta’s unique cuisine. Building on this foundation, Speciality Restaurants launched ‘Chourangi’ in 2021, aiming to introduce the city’s culinary delights to a global audience.
Chatterjee attributes the success of both Mainland China and Oh! Calcutta to their authentic and consistent approach. The menus are inspired by regional diversity, and early strategic investments have solidified their reputations as premier destinations for Asian and Bengali cuisine.
A Diverse Portfolio
In addition to Mainland China and Oh! Calcutta, Speciality Restaurants is known for other popular brands like Asia Kitchen by Mainland China, which offers a fusion of Asian cuisines, and Sigree Global Grill, celebrated for its international barbecue offerings.
As competition intensifies in the dining industry, Chatterjee emphasizes the importance of consistency—an essential pillar of the company’s 30-year legacy.
Expansion Plans
Domestic Growth
Speciality Restaurants is focusing on expanding its domestic footprint with Mainland China and Asia Kitchen by Mainland China. Recent openings include Episode One in Powai, Mumbai, and a new outlet at Viviana Mall in Thane, with plans for further expansion in Delhi and Bengaluru.
International Ventures
On the international front, Speciality Restaurants is looking to expand Chourangi—its first brand in London—into the US and Dubai. The company is also in discussions to introduce Mainland China into Europe, highlighting its ambition to showcase Calcutta’s culinary heritage on a global scale.
Chatterjee explained the motivation behind entering the London market: “Our decision was driven by a deep appreciation for Calcutta’s culinary heritage, which has been shaped by British, Armenian, and French influences over 300 years. We aim to showcase these underrepresented flavors on a global stage.”
Leveraging Technology for Growth
The Role of AI
Chatterjee mentioned the company’s plans to integrate AI to enhance productivity and customer experience. Collaborating with AI experts, they aim to optimize operations such as inventory management, customer service, and personalized marketing.
The anticipated impact of AI includes deeper insights into customer preferences and streamlined supply chains, which could ultimately drive growth across their brands.
Future Innovations
Looking ahead, Speciality Restaurants is focused on enhancing its established brands while constantly evaluating opportunities for growth, including the possibility of introducing new dining concepts or fine-dining establishments.
Chatterjee concluded, “While our immediate focus is on solidifying our presence in key brands, we are excited about the potential for innovation and growth in the dynamic culinary landscape.”
Through this commitment to excellence and innovation, Speciality Restaurants aims to remain a leading choice for dining experiences that resonate with customers both domestically and internationally.
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