Gourmet Investments to double India footprint to 100-125 stores, launches Olive Garden

Indian operator of Chili's and PizzaExpress plans to nearly double its restaurant count from 55 to 100-125 over three years. The group is also debuting Darden's Olive Garden in India as premium casual dining with vegetarian additions, targeting 10+ outlets within three years.

— Source publishedMon, 18 May, 2026, 10:00 IST·First seen Mon, 18 May, 2026, 10:41 IST·Source ET Hospitality

What happened

Gourmet Investments Hospitality Group · Gourmet Investments Hospitality, Indian operator of Chili's and PizzaExpress, plans to double restaurant count from 55

Key facts

  • 55 stores currently
  • 100-125 stores target
  • 10+ Olive Garden restaurants in 3 years

Why this matters

Darden's Olive Garden entry via Gourmet Investments validates the franchised-master-operator model for India premium casual dining and may accelerate competitive licensing deals from other US chains seeking vegetarian-adapted formats.