The aroma of sizzling spices, the clatter of friendly chatter, the comfort of a familiar tablecloth – at NKP Empire, these are more than just restaurant staples, they’re the threads woven into the tapestry of our 50-year legacy.
We’re not just another food company; we’re a community built on a shared passion for serving people and pushing the boundaries of culinary delight. Our story begins not in sterile boardrooms, but in the crucible of early Bangalore, where my grandfather, Late Mr. Abdul Rahim’s staunch belief in serving the maximum number of people planted the seeds of what would become a culinary empire.
Profit was never the driving force for my grandfather; it was the joy of bringing people together over a table laden with delicious, affordable food. This philosophy became the bedrock of our growth and innovation, guiding us as we embarked on our journey with Empire Restaurant, a humble eatery dedicated to offering healthy, hygienic, and satisfying meals for everyone.
As Bangalore boomed, so did our aspirations. Empire Hotel, the lodgings division of the Empire Restaurant answered the call of weary travellers seeking a warm bed and familiar flavours. But growth wasn’t just about numbers; it was about staying true to our core values. Quality was never compromised. We built a team bound by respect, trust, and a shared passion for excellence.
And through it all, the spirit of innovation never faltered. We understood that food isn’t just fuel, it’s an adventure for the senses. So, we embraced every opportunity to offer something new and exciting.
Bangalore’s pulse has always been our guide. As the city transformed, so did our menus, each new brand a response to a growing need.
From Empire Juice quenching thirst with vibrant concoctions when basic options ruled, we dared to dream bigger, setting a trend with unique blends and a commitment to quality. Soon, juice bars sprouted across Bangalore, echoing our passion for flavour.
Underpinning this expansion was the establishment of our Central Kitchen in 2009. This game-changer ensured new heights of quality, hygiene, and efficiency, allowing us to deliver consistently delicious experiences across our brands. Additionally, the launch of our dedicated call centre played a crucial role in ensuring our impeccable home delivery service, further cementing our commitment to convenience and customer satisfaction.
Continuing our diversifying trajectory, for the fast-paced urbanite, EasyBites was born, offering quick, convenient, and delicious eats on the go. Vegetarea emerged for those seeking mindful indulgence, a symphony of plant-based flavours from around the world, proving vegetarian food could be bursting with character. And when the city craved vibrant community experiences, Karama arrived, an explosion of colour and aroma transporting us to bustling streets, where food fuelled laughter and memories in “Majlis” gatherings.
Today, with over 30 outlets of our brands across the city and beyond, we stand as a proof to the power of dreams, dedication, and resolute commitment to our people and our patrons. We didn’t just serve food; we listened, we experimented, and we created experiences that touched hearts and tantalised taste buds. And that, for us, is the true recipe for success – a delicious blend of passion, innovation, and a deep connection to the people we serve. But our journey is far from over. I, along with my cousins, the third generation of the NKP Empire family, stand poised to take the legacy to new heights, fuelled by the same passion and values that have guided us for five decades. We will continue to innovate, to experiment, to weave stories of flavour and community with every dish we serve.
So, next time you bite into a succulent biryani at Empire, raise a glass of freshly squeezed juice at Empire Juice, or share a plate of aromatic kebabs at Karama, remember you’re not just savouring a meal, you’re experiencing a legacy.
Here’s to the next chapter, filled with countless stories waiting to be written, one delicious bite at a time.