IHCL’s Soulinaire partners IF.BE for culinary collaborations in Mumbai

Indian Hotels Company Limited’s (IHCL) experiential dining platform Soulinaire has partnered with IF.BE in Mumbai to introduce a series of culinary collaborations, the company said in April 2026, aiming to expand curated food experiences through chef-led events and pop-ups in the city.

The collaboration was announced this week in Mumbai, where both entities confirmed plans to host structured dining events featuring guest chefs, themed menus and curated culinary formats. The initiative is positioned to engage urban diners seeking experiential food offerings.

Partnership announced in Mumbai

IHCL said Soulinaire will work with IF.BE, a cultural and hospitality space located in Mumbai, to develop and host collaborative dining experiences. The events will be held at IF.BE’s venue, which is known for hosting design, art and culinary programmes.

Officials stated that the collaboration will bring together chefs from IHCL’s portfolio along with independent culinary professionals. The company did not disclose the number of events planned but confirmed that the programme will be rolled out in phases during 2026.

Focus on curated dining formats

The initiative will include chef residencies, pop-up dining concepts and limited-period menus designed around specific cuisines and themes. IHCL said the format is intended to provide differentiated dining experiences beyond traditional restaurant settings.

A company spokesperson said the partnership aligns with Soulinaire’s focus on “curated culinary engagements that connect chefs and guests through immersive formats.” The events are expected to target both hotel guests and the wider local audience.

Expansion of Soulinaire platform

IHCL launched Soulinaire as part of its strategy to expand its food and beverage vertical through experiential offerings. The platform has been used to host collaborations, tastings and chef-driven events across multiple locations.

Officials said partnerships with independent venues such as IF.BE allow the company to extend its reach beyond hotel properties. The approach supports IHCL’s broader asset-light and brand extension strategy in the F&B segment.

Role of IF.BE as venue partner

IF.BE will provide the venue infrastructure and operational support for the events, including space design, guest management and event coordination. The company said the venue’s flexible layout allows for multiple formats, including sit-down dinners and interactive sessions.

Representatives from IF.BE said the collaboration will integrate culinary programming into its existing cultural calendar, which includes design and community-focused activities.

Background and current status

IHCL operates a portfolio of hotels and dining brands across India and international markets, with increasing emphasis on standalone and experiential F&B formats. The company has been expanding partnerships to strengthen its presence in urban lifestyle segments.

As of April 2026, the Soulinaire and IF.BE collaboration is active, with initial events in planning stages and schedules expected to be announced in the coming weeks, according to the company.