PRESERVING THE PAST,
EMBRACING THE FUTURE

STRIKING THE PERFECT BALANCE

At NKP Empire, we’ve mastered the art of culinary time travel, where the past meets the future on every plate. For over five decades, we’ve cherished our heritage, preserving the authenticity of our recipes while embracing innovation. Our unswerving commitment to quality and our staunch belief in the power of teamwork have transformed us into creators of beloved food brands, each restaurant becoming a cherished neighbourhood haven, consistently delivering unparalleled customer satisfaction. We’ve embraced the philosophy of unity, recognising that our people, the backbone of our success, are the driving force behind our journey. At NKP Empire, ‘people before profit’ is not just a slogan; it’s the foundation of our culture. Together, united in our vision, we will continue to craft beloved food brands and culinary experiences that captivate taste buds for generations to come.

SHAKIR HAQ, CEO – NKP EMPIRE VENTURES PVT. LTD.

Shakir Haq, CEO of NKP Empire Ventures

OUR LOVE STORY WITH BENGALURU:
A JOURNEY OF PASSION AND DISCOVERY

Empire: Where History Meets Taste

Empire has always been more than just a restaurant. It is a part of Bengaluru’s history and culture, a witness to its growth and transformation, since Late Mr. Abdul Rahim Haji brought his vision of delicious and hygienic food to the city.

From the dawn of the space age to the rise of the IT industry, from the triumphs of cricket and football to the joys of metro travel, we have celebrated with Bengalureans every step of the way. The late Mr. Abdul Haq, the architect of NKP Empire Ventures, was a visionary who helped to shape Empire into the culinary destination it is today. Under his leadership, Empire became synonymous with consistently delicious non-veg food in Bengaluru. From mouth-watering biryanis to refreshing juices, Empire offers a wide range of delectable options to satisfy every craving, including satisfying vegetarian delights.

A JOURNEY OVER FIVE DECADES…
AND COUNTING!

WALK THROUGH OUR MEMORY LANE

Once upon a time, in the heart of Bengaluru, Empire, a humble restaurant, began its journey. Over the years, it has grown and evolved, witnessing numerous milestones that have shaped its history and made it the beloved brand it is today. Witness our progression through decades!

  1. 1966

    NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd was founded, setting the stage for a remarkable journey.

  2. 1977

    • The late Mr. Haq joined the family business.
    • In those early days, the absence of water facilities meant a daily one-kilometre trek for water, which was transported back via bullock cart.

  3. 1985

    Transitioned from firewood to gas and upgraded from stone to cast iron vessels for improved efficiency.

  4. 1992

    The Juice Division was established, diversifying the menu, and setting a new benchmark for restaurants in Bengaluru.

  5. 1994

    Grilled chicken made its debut on the menu, adding a new flavour dimension, a crowd favourite even 3 decades later.

  6. 1996

    The iconic non-veg thali became part of the offerings, enhancing the variety for customers.

  7. 1997

    A pivotal year as the Rooms Division (lodging) was introduced, adding 32 rooms and expanding seating capacity from 120 to 350.

  8. 2002

    A significant expansion unfolded with the establishment of Kammanhalli Juice and Dosa Kitchen, marking a pivotal moment for NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd. This move wasn't just about introducing a new outlet; it was a strategic decision aimed at broadening the company's presence and diversifying its offerings.

  9. 2003

    • Church Street Restaurant and Rooms Division commenced operations.
    • Billing transitioned from manual to computerized systems.

  10. 2004

    Recognising the evolving preferences of patrons and seeking to elevate the dining experience, NKP Empire Ventures introduced an unlimited buffet option. This strategic move went beyond just providing a variety of dishes; it was a deliberate effort to enhance customer satisfaction and cater to a broader audience.

  11. 2007

    • A year of significant expansion – the call centre which was critical in ensuring our impeccable home delivery service was initiated.
    • Serviced Apartments were established at Castle Street, and the Koramangala Rooms Division began operations.

  12. 2009

    • The Central Kitchen was established, ensuring new heights of quality, hygiene, and efficiency.
    • The milestone of a 1000-strong team was reached.
    • Fraser Town Outlet opened, expanding our footprint.

  13. 2010

    • Indiranagar Outlet was launched.
    • Unveiled a groundbreaking concept with the Maddur Outlet, introducing a pioneering dining experience known as the Highway Concept. This innovative approach aimed to transform the traditional dining landscape by offering a unique and engaging environment along highway routes. The concept not only catered to travellers but also became a destination, providing a distinctive blend of convenience, quality, and ambiance for patrons on the move.

  14. 2011

    • Received a game-changing invitation from Infosys to establish a presence within their campus. This collaboration not only marked a significant turning point for the company but also presented a unique set of challenges. This partnership required us to align with an exceptionally stringent audit system which led to the company elevating its standards, streamlining operations, and implementing rigorous quality control measures to meet the exacting requirements of any corporate. The experience not only strengthened our position as a reliable partner but also propelled us to raise the bar in terms of efficiency and service excellence.
    • Mysore Outlet was inaugurated. This marked another expansion outside Bengaluru.

  15. 2015

    • Recognising the evolving landscape of the food industry, NKP Empire Ventures strategically entered aggregator associations. This transformative decision involved partnering with popular food delivery platforms, unlocking access to a vast and diverse audience. By listing on these platforms, the company broadened its reach, making its offerings available to a larger customer base. This move not only facilitated convenient food delivery services for existing patrons but also tapped into a new market segment, leading to a surge in orders.
    • Introduced Karama, a multifaceted venture that not only added diversity to the company's offerings but also marked a celebration of Karachi, Punjabi, and Arabic cuisine. This unique establishment transformed Central Bengaluru District's dining scene, offering a vibrant and one-of-a-kind experience.

  16. 2016

    • A new chapter unfolded with the introduction of Vegetarea. It wasn't just another addition to the menu; it was a culinary revelation that catered to the growing demand for healthy, fresh, and flavourful plant-based options.
    • Kunigal Outlet commenced operations.

  17. 2017

    • A new player emerged with the initiation of EasyBites. Designed with the on-the-go lifestyle in mind, EasyBites offered a haven for individuals craving a quick yet nutritious snack.
    • The menu was a symphony of flavours, offering something for everyone. From the crispy indulgence of fried chicken to the succulence of juicy burgers and sandwiches, and the freshness of salads to the oceanic allure of seafood, EasyBites curated a selection that catered to diverse tastes.
    • Arkere and JP Nagar Outlets were added.

  18. 2018

    Rajajinagar and Kolar Highway Outlet opened, expanding the geographical reach.

  19. 2019

    • A moment of pride – received the prestigious Hurun Award.
    • Vasantnagar Outlet was added to the portfolio.

  20. 2020

    Hassan Highway and Brookefield Outlets opened.

  21. 2021

    Kothanur Outlet became part of the expanding network.

  22. 2022

    Kanakpura and Lulu Outlets were inaugurated.

  23. 2023

    Continuing the growth trajectory, Devanahalli and Chikkaballapur Outlets opened, further solidifying NKP Empire Ventures’ position in the market.

  24. 2024

    We are all set to revolutionise food safety with the launch of our Center of Excellence (COE), a game-changer in kitchen hygiene. Witness the culmination of our unwavering commitment to quality as we raise the bar for the entire industry. Also, stay tuned for the launch of our water plant, further solidifying our dedication to pure and healthy experiences.

    NKP Empire Ventures has come a long way since the inception of Empire, overcoming challenges, embracing new technologies, and constantly striving for excellence. With our rich history and dedication to innovation, Empire has solidified itself as an iconic brand, a testament to the enduring passion for quality and flavours that have been our driving force since the beginning, and a story of success, resilience, and hope.

OUR PASSION FOR FOOD: THE EMPIRE STORY

To be the most preferred neighbourhood eatery, serving the Empire taste.

THE POWERHOUSE BEHIND NKP

  • Late Mr. Abdul Rahim Haji

    Late Mr. Abdul Rahim Haji

    NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd.

    The late Mr. Abdul Rahim Haji, came to Bengaluru from Malaysia, and in 1966 started the first Empire Restaurant with the purpose of serving reliable, tasty, and affordable food.

  • Late Mr. Abdul Haq

    Late Mr. Abdul Haq

    NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd.

    The late Mr. Abdul Haq was the architect of NKP Empire Ventures. The Empire became synonymous with consistently delicious non-veg food in Bengaluru under his leadership. Defined by his empathy, especially for his employees, his forward-looking business savvy continues to guide his successors today.

CONTINUING THE LEGACY, INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE

  • K.P.C. Mohamed Kunhi

    K.P.C. Mohamed Kunhi

    NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd.

    A highly accomplished individual with a diverse professional background, K.P.C. Mohamed’s priorities lie in growth and brand building, adapting to changing customer needs while expanding the business. This strategic approach showcases his understanding of the industry and dedication to exceptional experiences. "We give quality food paramount importance. Continuous innovations and menu experiments have helped us achieve growth every year and made us win the trust of all our stakeholders. As we embrace new, we have also well-preserved all the traditional offerings that have helped us reach so far. Along with those who put their trust in us, it is with different generations of our family that we have been able to achieve excellence in all spheres of our restaurant and hospitality business."

  • Abdul Azeez

    Abdul Azeez

    NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd.

    Abdul is a visionary leader who has played a significant role in the group's remarkable growth. With a focus on empathy, creativity, and keen observation, he leads with respect and trust, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration. His priorities include strategic decision-making, international expansion, brand introduction, and the establishment of the Empire Central Kitchen to optimise operations and create a sustainable business model. "The idea is not to live forever, but to create something that will live forever."

THE NEXT CHAPTER: TASTE, TRADITION, AND TECHNOLOGY

  • Shahid Haq

    Shahid Haq

    NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd

    Meet Shahid, the dynamic force behind NKP Empire Ventures. Representing the third generation of the family, he infuses the company with his strategic vision and passion. With extensive experience in the restaurant industry and entrepreneurship, he excels in areas such as business development, procurement, supply chain management, restaurant design and execution, space management and new concept development. Shahid's typical day involves overseeing new outlet design, managing sales and profitability, and ensuring quality standards are met. "Your business is only as good as your team. Many can come up with ideas, but learning to choose the right people to build a team and bring those ideas to life is one of the strongest qualities a businessperson can possess."

  • Shakir Haq

    Shakir Haq

    NKP Empire Ventures Pvt. Ltd

    A renowned leader in the restaurant industry, Shakir comes with an extensive experience excelling in business management, strategy, and leadership. His typical responsibilities include overseeing outlets, analysing performance, and managing operations. He prioritises achieving sustainable growth, upholding the brand promise, and driving operational excellence. Shakir's recent projects reflect his ability to turn vision into reality and elevate the organisation to new heights. "In the ever-evolving world of business, success is not a destination, but a journey fuelled by constant experimentation and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge. I firmly believe in the power of learning from both failures and triumphs, using them as stepping stones towards our goal. At NKP Empire Group, we embrace agility, adaptability, and the spirit of innovation to carve our path to success."

  • Masoud Mohamed

    Masoud Mohamed

    EasyBites

    A highly qualified and passionate individual, Masoud’s responsibilities revolve around ensuring the success of the outlets he oversees, with a focus on optimising profitability and scalability. Notable achievements include the successful rebranding of EasyBites and substantial growth in the aggregator platform. By introducing new offerings regularly, Masoud keeps the brand fresh and appealing to customers. With an analytical mind and a deep understanding of market patterns and behaviours, he is no stranger to product development and innovation, constantly seeking out ways to optimise operational flow and enhance the overall customer experience. "In the ever-evolving world of business, success is not a destination, but a journey fuelled by constant experimentation and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge. I firmly believe in the power of learning from both failures and triumphs, using them as stepping stones towards our goal. At NKP Empire Group, we embrace agility, adaptability, and the spirit of innovation to carve our path to success."

  • Mohamed Zahrin

    Mohamed Zahrin

    Empire Juice

    Mohamed is a highly qualified and accomplished individual with a strong focus in operations management, menu planning, growth, and team leadership. In his role, Mohamed prioritises quality, safety, efficiency, staff training, and technology integration. His recent achievements include a remarkable 120% increase in sales at the Empire Juice Shop through strategic decision-making and adaptability to market trends. "Growing a business means always learning. Keep seeking knowledge, welcome change, and adjust to new market trends." "In the ever-evolving world of business, success is not a destination, but a journey fuelled by constant experimentation and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge. I firmly believe in the power of learning from both failures and triumphs, using them as stepping stones towards our goal. At NKP Empire Group, we embrace agility, adaptability, and the spirit of innovation to carve our path to success."