IHCL’s Soulinaire Partners with IF.BE to Elevate Culinary Experiences at Mumbai’s Restored Cultural Landmark

Introduction

Indian Hotels Company Limited’s (IHCL) lifestyle catering brand Soulinaire has partnered with IF.BE (Ice Factory Ballard Estate) in Mumbai, bringing together curated cultural programming and refined hospitality within a restored heritage space.

A Strategic Collaboration in Mumbai’s Cultural District

IHCL’s Soulinaire has entered into a collaboration with IF.BE, a 150-year-old restored industrial landmark located in Ballard Estate, Mumbai. The partnership marks a strategic move to integrate high-quality culinary experiences into a space known for its cultural and creative programming.

By combining hospitality expertise with a design-led cultural environment, the collaboration aims to create a more cohesive and immersive destination for events, gatherings, and everyday experiences.

Blending Culture with Culinary Excellence

The partnership aligns IF.BE’s curatorial vision with Soulinaire’s strengths in delivering personalised, large-scale catering solutions. Known for its systems-driven approach, Soulinaire introduces consistency, scalability, and refined service standards to IF.BE’s diverse programming calendar.

This integration enhances the food and beverage offering across the venue, adding depth to its positioning as a multi-dimensional cultural hub.

Leadership Perspective

Kamal Malik, Founding Partner, IF.BE, highlighted that the collaboration strengthens the platform’s original vision of bringing together diverse ideas and communities, now supported by elevated culinary experiences.

Abhijit Mehta, Partner, IF.BE, emphasised that Soulinaire’s expertise in high-volume, quality-driven service adds a structured and sophisticated F&B dimension to the venue’s offerings.

Somnath Mukherjee, Executive Vice President – Operations, IHCL, noted that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to craft, culture, and experience, while marking Soulinaire’s entry into one of Mumbai’s historic precincts.

Reimagining a Heritage Space

IF.BE represents a model of adaptive reuse, preserving its industrial legacy while transforming into a contemporary cultural destination. The space features multiple dining and social venues, including a modern Indian restaurant, a courtyard café, and a lounge, alongside flexible event areas.

These venues host a wide range of programming—from art exhibitions and conferences to performances and luxury brand showcases—now complemented by a more integrated and elevated culinary offering.

Strengthening Experiential Hospitality Offerings

This collaboration reinforces IHCL’s focus on expanding Soulinaire’s footprint in experiential catering and curated lifestyle spaces. By aligning with a culturally significant destination like IF.BE, the brand strengthens its positioning in the premium events and hospitality segment.