Turning a metro station into a must-visit spot

The character of markets across the city is constantly evolving. For instance, some markets primarily known for electronics suddenly turn into food hubs by hosting some of the best brands in the food and beverage segment.

Nehru Place, primarily an office and electronics hub, has undergone a sea of change and has turned into a restaurant hub. Most restaurants here, which cater to office folk during the day, undergo a makeover at night and emerge as one of the most happening places to head out for a drink or enjoy a relaxed meal.

One of the most unlikely areas for a night out, the Epicuria Food Mall at Nehru Place metro station offers Delhiites numerous options to wine and dine.

Best of brands

The real estate around the station has been converted into a hub serving a multitude of cuisines. The food mall recently unveiled its new upper floor, which boasts restaurants like Social, Nando’s, Pizza Express, Dhaba by Claridges and The Irish House.

Talking about the latest development, Vivek Bahl, the co-founder of Epicuria, told

The Hindu : “The upper floor covers about 60,000 sq feet. We expect the same response we got when we started out three years ago with the food court on the floor below. With this launch, we estimate a footfall of about 8,000 per day. A Taco Bell will be launched soon.”

Not just retail

Not too long ago, the food mall was being used as electronic retail space, much like the rest of the market. But the idea, added Mr. Bahl, was to transform the space into a food destination.

“The aim was to create a first-of-its-kind food and entertainment space in the heart of Delhi,” he added.

The mall already boasts restaurants including Fio, The Flying Saucer Café and Big Wong to international quick-service restaurants like Burger King, Starbucks, L’Opera and Subway. Epicuria’s location in the heart of a business area has set the cash registers ringing.

Crediting the location for its raving popularity, Mr. Bahl added: “This area is a very prominent computer market place. The adjoining residential colonies of Greater Kailash, New Friends Colony and Maharani Bagh ensure a reason for these food joints to offer their best services. Our current revenue is around Rs.100 crore a year and we expect to double this number with the launch of new restaurants.”

( The writer is an intern with The Hindu )