India’s food and beverage (F&B) industry is undergoing a major transformation, with experiential dining emerging as a key driver of consumer engagement. At the forefront of this shift is Jayant Gandhi, a hospitality entrepreneur who is redefining how urban India dines out through his brand Ilios Kitchen & Bar.
With successful outlets in Rajouri Garden and Gurgaon, Ilios is quickly becoming a go-to destination for those seeking more than just food – offering a blend of global cuisine, immersive ambience, and curated social experiences.
In this exclusive interaction with Circle of News, Jayant Gandhi shares insights on the evolving dining landscape, the philosophy behind Ilios, and what lies ahead for India’s hospitality sector.
Dining Today is About Emotion, Not Just Consumption
“When I started, dining out was primarily about food and convenience. Today, it’s about emotion, experience, and connection. People don’t just want to eat – they want to feel something when they step into a restaurant.”
This shift in consumer behavior has been central to Gandhi’s approach. With nearly two decades of experience, he has consistently focused on creating spaces that go beyond traditional dining formats.
The Idea Behind Ilios Kitchen & Bar
The concept of Ilios Kitchen & Bar was born out of a vision to bring global dining aesthetics to India while keeping the experience relatable for Indian audiences.
As per Jayant Gandhi – “We wanted to create a brand that feels international yet rooted in the Indian social culture. Mediterranean and Greek inspirations offered the perfect canvas – vibrant, warm, and immersive.”
From curated interiors to a diverse menu featuring Mediterranean, Italian, and modern Indian cuisines, Ilios is designed as a holistic lifestyle destination rather than just a restaurant.
Rajouri Garden vs Gurgaon: Two Markets, One Vision
The brand’s presence in Rajouri Garden and Gurgaon reflects a strategic approach to market expansion. Jayant Gandhi said, “Rajouri Garden gave us scale and strong customer engagement. It’s a high-energy market where people love to socialize and celebrate. That helped us build a solid foundation.”
He added, “In Gurgaon, the audience is slightly different – more premium, more experimental. It allowed us to elevate the design, ambience, and overall experience.”
This dual-market strategy has enabled Ilios to balance volume-driven growth with premium brand positioning, a key factor in its rising popularity.
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Why Experiential Dining is the Future of Restaurants in India
According to industry experts, experiential dining in India is expected to grow significantly as urban consumers increasingly prioritize experiences over transactions. Gandhi believes this is not a passing trend but a long-term shift.
Jayant Gandhi said, “Consumers today are globally exposed. They compare experiences, not just menus. Restaurants need to evolve constantly – whether it’s through design, music, service, or storytelling.”
He adds that social media has further accelerated this shift, making ambience and visual appeal critical for brand visibility and customer acquisition.
The Role of Design, Ambience, and Social Media
At Ilios, design is not an afterthought – it is a core part of the brand identity. As per Jayant Gandhi, who is also the founder of Jungle Jamboree, a popular themed restaurant chain in India, “When someone walks into Ilios, we want them to feel transported. The lighting, textures, and overall vibe are carefully curated to create that effect.”
In the age of Instagram and short-form content, such design elements also serve as organic marketing tools, driving footfall and online engagement. However, Gandhi emphasizes that aesthetics alone are not enough.
“While design attracts customers, it’s the overall experience – food, service, and consistency – that ensures they come back.”
Challenges in India’s Competitive F&B Industry
The Indian restaurant industry is highly competitive, with new concepts emerging rapidly. Maintaining consistency while staying innovative is a constant challenge. Jayant Gandhi said, “Hospitality is one of the toughest businesses. You have to get everything right – every single day. Consistency is what builds trust, and trust is what builds brands.”
He highlights the importance of team training, customer feedback, and operational efficiency in sustaining long-term success.
Expansion Plans and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Gandhi, who also started Design Fork in 2004, is optimistic about the growth potential of Ilios Kitchen & Bar. Jayant Gandhi stated, “We definitely see Ilios expanding into other key cities. But for us, growth is not just about numbers – it’s about maintaining the experience and the essence of the brand.”
The focus will remain on strategic expansion, premium positioning, and continuous innovation, ensuring that the brand stays relevant in a dynamic market.
Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Entrepreneurs
For those looking to enter the F&B space, Gandhi offers practical advice: Jayant Gandhi added, “Enter this industry only if you are truly passionate. It requires patience, resilience, and constant learning. Focus on fundamentals – quality, service, and customer experience.”
He also stressed the importance of adaptability in a fast-changing environment.
Conclusion: A New Era of Dining in India
As the Indian dining landscape evolves, brands like Ilios Kitchen & Bar are setting new benchmarks for what restaurants can offer. Under the leadership of Jayant Gandhi, Ilios is not just serving food – it is shaping experiences that resonate with a new generation of consumers.
With its strong presence in Rajouri Garden and Gurgaon, and plans for further expansion, the brand is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for experiential dining in India.
