India’s F&B sector fuels 4 million sq. ft. of retail leasing across top cities

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India’s food and beverage sector is reshaping the country’s retail landscape — becoming a primary anchor for leasing activity across malls and high streets. According to JLL India, F&B brands have leased over 4 million sq. ft. of retail space in the past 10 quarters, with Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi NCR leading the expansion.

Developers are increasingly dedicating up to 25% of mall space to food formats, recognizing their role in driving footfall, dwell time, and repeat visits. From quick-service restaurants and cloud kitchens to premium cafés and experiential dining zones, F&B is no longer a secondary tenant — it’s a strategic centerpiece.

“Food is now the heartbeat of retail,” said Piyush Gupta, MD of Capital Markets at JLL India. “It’s what brings people in, keeps them engaged, and complements the shopping journey.”

High streets continue to dominate leasing transactions, offering visibility, accessibility, and flexible formats for both legacy brands and new entrants. Bengaluru alone accounted for nearly 1 million sq. ft. of F&B leasing, followed by Mumbai and Delhi NCR, which are seeing strong demand from both domestic and international chains.

The trend reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior, where dining out is increasingly seen as a lifestyle experience rather than a transactional need. Developers are responding with curated food courts, rooftop dining, and integrated entertainment zones to maximize engagement.