RESTAURANT COMES HOME

Scores of restaurants, hundreds of dishes—all just a few clicks away on the phone...food delivery apps have changed the way urban professionals eat

- By SONAL KHETARPAL

THE DRUDGERY

Till very recently, eating out was occasion-led and most Indians ate home-cooked meals. Moreover, dining out was considered a discretionary expense, even a luxury. For those who couldn't or didn't want to cook, the alternatives were limited to leftovers, instant food, or placing an order over the phone with a neighbourhood restaurant. However, as only a few restaurants offered home delivery, access to different cuisines was severely limited. Even if an order was placed, miscommunication, lack of delivery personnel or confusion over addresses resulted in delays. For instant gratification, such as a late-night snack, people fell back on the trusted instant noodles or a cheese sandwich.

THE EASE OF LIVING