Author: Jaideep Solanki

Categories
Fast Food Franchise

Most Profitable Food Franchise in India

animated image of people ordering and eating in a fast food restaurant

India’s quick-service restaurant (QSR) market is projected to grow at an annual rate of around 23% between FY21 and FY25. In FY20, the overall food services market was valued at ₹4,236 billion, with organised QSRs making up ₹348 billion of that. The growth in this area will be led by QSR chains, which made up 54% of the market in FY20. According to Edelweiss, this figure is expected to reach 64% by FY25. The fast food franchise business is growing in India, with a lot of people opting for this route instead of starting a new venture from scratch. Launching a new business can be quite a hassle, but with a fast food franchise, you can jump into the industry with the backing of a well-established brand. In this blog, we’ll look into some of the most profitable QSRs in India, providing insights into the profit margins and investment costs associated with these franchises to help you understand the financial overview and determine the best food franchise

Table of Contents

  1. Ajay’s Cafe
  2. Haldiram’s
  3. Belgian Waffles
  4. Wow! Momos
  5. Chai Sutta Bar
  6. Tibbs Frankie
  7. The Chocolate Room
  8. Concluding Thoughts

Ajay’s Cafe

Gujarat’s fastest growing food franchise Ajay’s Cafe has been in the fast food business for the last 10 years. They are known for serving the best burgers, pizzas and coffee.  Ajay’s Cafe entered the franchise market in the year 2018 and since then they have opened 178 franchise outlets in 44 cities all over the country. Ajay’s Cafe offers an affordable franchise model for new QSRs passionate people. The minimum area requirement to own an Ajay’s cafe franchise is 200 sq. ft.

The investment for the franchise is approximately ₹9.9 lakhs is significantly lower than most franchises and with no royalty fees, your profits are maximised. Ajay’s Cafe manages the entire outlet setup, ensuring a smooth launch and a fast payback period for all its locations.

Ajay’s Cafe offers comprehensive support throughout your journey, from selecting the perfect location before opening to providing ongoing operational guidance and staff training. They even take care of initial marketing and branding, ensuring your cafe starts strong.

Investment: ₹9.9 lakhs

Return on Investment Duration: 12 to 15 months

Outlet count: 178 outlets in 44 cities

Haldiram’s

Haldiram’s is well-known for its snacks, desserts and a wide range of prepared meals. With stores in various metro cities and urban, Haldiram offers three different types of franchise models: quick service restaurants, kiosks and casual dining where people can enjoy their meals at the restaurant. However, starting a restaurant requires a significant investment of around ₹1-4 crores. This covers rent, staff salaries, utility bills, food supplies and more, with costs potentially rising to ₹15-18 crores. The required space is approximately 4000-5000 sq ft.

Haldiram’s began in Bikaner in 1941 as a small shop and has now expanded to about 80 countries, becoming the largest snack company. Haldiram’s is currently serving a monthly profit margin of ₹2-5 lakhs to their fast food franchises.

Picture of a Haldiram’s outlet

Investment: ₹1-4 crores

Profit Margin: ₹2-5 lakhs/month

Outlet count: 150 outlets in 23+ countries

Belgian Waffles

Belgian Waffle is one of the best food franchise businesses in India. Since 2015, they’ve been serving delicious on-the-go sandwich waffles and now boast over 565 stores in more than 199 cities. With an initial investment of around ₹12 lakhs, which includes ₹3.5 to 5 lakhs for franchise fees and about ₹8.5 lakhs for setup costs in a cafe model, you can open a franchise. They do take an 8.5% royalty fee, but the strong support and brand recognition make it worthwhile.

To start a franchise, you need a minimum of 200 sq ft of space. The profit margin is impressive, standing at 20% on sales, making it a lucrative option. People love the taste and convenience of Belgium Waffle, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to enter the food industry.

picture of interior of Belgian waffle’s outlet

Investment:  ₹12 lakhs initially

Profit margin: 20% on sales

Outlet count: 565 stores in 199+ cities

Wow! Momos

Wow! Momo is a fantastic example of a profitable fast food franchise in India. Founded in 2008, this fast-food chain specialises in dumplings, momos and other Nepalese and Tibetan delicacies. With over 1120 outlets in more than 16 Indian cities and a valuation of ₹860 crores, Wow! Momo has certainly made its mark.

Starting a Wow! Momo franchise requires an investment between ₹1 lakh to ₹8 lakhs. You’ll need a food licence, space for the outlet, electricity and the necessary permits and equipment. Franchise owners can expect a profit margin of ₹85,000 to ₹1 lakh monthly.

Investment:  ₹1 lakh to ₹8 lakhs

Profit margin: ₹85,000 to ₹1 lakh/month

Outlet count: 1120 outlets in 16 cities

Chai Sutta Bar

Chai Sutta Bar is quickly becoming one of the most profitable food franchises in India. Launched in 2016, it now has over 550 outlets in more than 320 cities, catering to the nation’s love for tea. Setting up a Chai Sutta Bar outlet requires an investment of about ₹30 lakhs, which includes a brand fee of ₹6 lakhs plus GST.

The investment covers all necessary equipment and furniture, tailored to the shop size and location. Marketing support is robust, with brochures, pamphlets and other materials provided to ensure a strong launch and continued market presence. Franchisees receive extensive field assistance, a detailed training program and operating manuals for smooth operations.

With a royalty fee of just 4%, profit margins range from 35% to 40% or around ₹90,000 per month. The return on investment is an impressive 108%, with a payback period of 12 to 15 months.

Investment:  ₹30 lakhs initially

Profit margin: 35% to 40% (₹90,000/month)

Outlet count: 550 outlets in 320 cities

Tibbs-Frankie

When it comes to QRS franchises in India, Tibb’s Frankie stands out as one of the best food franchises. Founded by Amarjit Singh in 1969, Tibb’s Frankie currently has over 160 outlets across fifteen Indian cities. However, two franchise outlets cannot be too close to each other and should ideally be located in malls or crowded areas.

Starting a Tibb’s Frankie franchise requires an investment of ₹3 lakhs to ₹5 lakhs. You’ll need a spacious outlet, basic infrastructure, equipment, decor, licences and a dedicated team. The profit margin for a Tibb’s Frankie franchise is around ₹30,000 monthly.

Picture of a Tibbs Frankie outlet

Investment:  ₹3 lakhs to ₹5 lakhs 

Profit margin: ₹30,000/month

Outlet count: 160+ outlets in 15 cities

The Chocolate Room

The Chocolate Room, launched in Ahmedabad in 2007, has swiftly become one of the most profitable food franchises in India. With over 300 outlets across 50+ cities, it’s a favourite among chocolate enthusiasts. Opening a Chocolate Room franchise requires an investment of ₹30-35 lakhs, which includes a ₹10 lakh franchise fee plus GST.

This franchise model comes with a fully equipped kitchen, complete with a suitable platform and workspace, adding to the initial investment. The company provides chefs and employees, ensuring you have a skilled team ready. The required area for a franchise is between 500 and 700 sq. ft.

With an 8% royalty fee, franchisees can expect a monthly profit of ₹2 to ₹3 lakhs.

Picture of the exterior of the chocolate room outlet

Investment: ₹30-35 lakhs initially

Profit margin: ₹2 to ₹3 lakhs /month

Outlet count: 300+ outlets in 50+ cities

Concluding Thoughts

As the fast food franchise market in India continues to grow, Ajay’s Cafe stands out as a top choice for aspiring entrepreneurs. With a proven track record of supporting over 100 first-time franchisees, Ajay’s Cafe offers a support system that includes comprehensive training, marketing assistance and operational guidance.

With its popular menu and strong brand recognition, Ajay’s Cafe is not just the best fast food franchise but a pathway to a profitable and rewarding venture. Seize the fast food opportunities with Ajay’s Cafe and join a successful network that’s redefining the fast food business in India.

Categories
General

How do you convince your friend to give you a party?

A group of friends guys drinking cold coffee during a party at a fast food place

You might be served with the best burger in India, but do you know what makes it taste the best? When your friend is paying for it! 🤑

Whether you are 15 years old or 50 years old, we all get a kick from demanding a burger party or a pizza treat from our friends. But then our friends are none better than us. The more we demand a party from them, the more creative excuses they come up with to avoid taking out their wallets.

Lekin ab bahane nahi chalenge! Having overheard too much banter among friends at Ajay’s Cafe on who gives the treat, we have compiled some of the most compelling reasons for you to convince your friend to give you a party!

Table of Contents

  1. Place a bet they will never win
  2. Guilt trip always works
  3. Tarakki unki, toh treat bhi unki!
  4. Remind them how you know all their secrets
  5. Birthday pe toh banta hai yar!
  6. Chota disclaimer

Place a bet they will never win

This first one has actually been tried and tested on our dost-yaar. Give them a challenge which they will definitely lose. E.g. Challenge your friend to a truth and dare game. Next, give them the dare to go and ask their crush out for a cold coffee date. And if they lose, they have to give you a cold coffee treat.

Now, you are very well aware that the probability of your friend’s crush agreeing to go out on a coffee date is close to zero. This means you just earned yourself a treat! While your friend is recovering from the heartbreak, be a nice friend and do offer them a sip too. But make sure bill voh bhare!

Guilt trip always works

It is said that guilt can make people do unimaginable things. It also includes finally agreeing to the burger party the whole group has been demanding since the first year of college! Now, there are many ways to guilt trip your friend. Remind them how they were able to pass the semester because you let them copy from your answer sheet. Remind them how you picked up their crush’s birthday cake late at midnight so that they could pull off the midnight surprise. Guilt them into remembering all the instances when you got late to lectures and offices while picking them up because they were lazy and couldn’t wake up on time.

Wow, the list can just go on… One thing is for sure, the best pizza topping apart from cheese is GUILT. Acche accho ko line pe laa de!

Tarakki unki, toh treat bhi unki!

When your friend scores very good marks in the exams, when they get a raise or a promotion at their job or when their crush finally said YES to them – You are the happiest! Not because you want your friend to grow and prosper, but also because this calls for a PARTY!

Because when it’s such ‘khushi ka mauka’, you can’t help but say ‘jashn ki taiyyari karo’. Though it’s your friend who will end up paying for all the burgers, pizzas and fries you polish off, even from their tray!

Remind them how you know all their secrets

We don’t think anything could beat this one! From raja-maharajas to common people like us, everyone has used the legendary trick of Tera secret bata dunga haa to get something they want. To ensure you rarely have to pay for a burger, pizza or coffee till the time the friendship lasts, you must start keeping notes (if you haven’t already) of every scandalous thing that has happened with your friend.

And when the right opportunity comes or cravings strike, sneakily bring up the topic – The secret could be anything, from having multiple backs or ATKTs in their running semesters to catching them red-handed reading articles on how to get a girlfriend. And watch your friend make the offerings of your favourite burger and pizza treat.

Birthday pe toh banta hai yar!

It is your janma-siddh adhikaar to demand a big fat treat from your friend on his/her birthday. No laws or rules come into effect on this day. They must wholeheartedly fulfil your demands to give you a burger party or a pizza treat without asking any questions.

And if your friend tries to make ridiculous bahanas to avoid giving you a party, read point number 2 and 4 and use them on your friend. Fir dekho, how they agree to give you a treat!

But, but… here’s a chota disclaimer

All the above applies to your friend too… This means your friend can use all the above tricks and tips to get a burger party at Ajay’s from you too. And what is the point of calling yourself friends if you’re not always looking for reasons, no matter how silly they are, to demand a party from each other?

Now, just pray that your friend has not read this before you. Good luck!

Categories
Food

Best Burger in India

A burger made with a veggie patty with some mayonnaise and onions between the bun

So you have landed up here looking for the best burger in India. You see, having some patty or a tikki or a vada placed between buns, with some condiment like a chutney, is not a new concept for us Indians. People in Bombay have been enjoying it since the late 1960s. (Yes, it is exactly what you’re thinking).

Burgers, the ones that the USA made famous worldwide, first came into India sometime in the 1980s through a burger franchise named Wimpy’s. But we Indians only started to accept it beyond junk food and started making it one of our comfort foods only after it evolved over the years to suit the Indian taste buds. We uncover and identify what is the best burger in India.

Table of Contents

  1. Making An American Favourite Famous in India
  2. The perfect burger
  3. Making the best burger in India
  4. Some concluding thoughts

Making An American Favourite Famous in India

We are a country with diverse tastes, with a wide variety of food options available to eat out, especially when it comes to street food. But America is known to have popularised fast food and globally revolutionised the way people eat out. Thanks to the numerous TV shows popularising the idea of hanging out with friends at a cafe or a fast food joint enjoying pizza and burgers. And India was not to be left behind.

While a couple of brands tried to get Indians to start eating burgers, it was only in the mid-90s that the whole idea of ‘going out for burgers‘ caught on. This was because the globalisation of 1991 opened doors to American food chains, including a popular burger franchise to set up shop in India. While this was in 1996, legend says their ice cream machines and soda fountains don’t work properly to date.

The perfect burger

A simple internet search about what makes the perfect burger will throw up a ton of articles and videos. But let’s make it extremely simple for everyone to understand.
  1. The Bun: You need to have fresh, good-quality buns that are soft enough to bite into, while firm enough to hold the patty and the sauces without falling apart.
  2. The patty: This is the hero of the burger. It should not be too thick or too thin – Just about 120 grams. And it should be seasoned well and cooked to perfection.
  3. The stuffing: Now this could include the sauce and the vegetables. Enough to complement and add flavour to the burger and not overpower the patty.
Realistic image of a veggie burger on a wooden platform

Making the best burger in India

Serving burgers for close to a decade now, we at Ajay’s Cafe have cracked what makes the best burger in India. First, the veggie patties with a crispy exterior and a punchy flavour on the inside. Because we Indians have grown up eating tikkis. Now, what makes these burger ‘tikkis’ from Ajay’s special, is that they can be enjoyed by Jain Vegetarians too. Secondly, spread the flavoured mayonnaise on the inside of the bun so that it starts soaking up the flavour. And thirdly, avoid tomatoes that leak a lot of water, instead choose something that all Indians love – Onions.

When you bite into this burger, you experience the texture of soft, crisp and crunch, followed by the punchy flavours from the seasoning and onions. Trust us, neither the king nor the clown could offer you this. This no-nonsense formula created the Ajay’s Cafe Apna Burger, i.e. the best burger in India.

Some food, or say a burger, for your thoughts…

Trust us when we say this – Burgers are an emotion. We all have some of our best memories of eating our first burger and the best burger ever. For some, it has a nostalgic value of eating burgers and fries in childhood, while others may have the memory of fulfilling the aspiration of enjoying a burger just like they saw their favourite movie or cartoon character on TV.

Burgers are no longer just a fast food snack. Over the mid-2010s, burger franchises like Ajay’s Cafe have started seeing families and groups of friends coming over in the evening after work or classes to enjoy a meal together.

At Ajay’s Cafe, we understand the Indian taste palate very well, hence we have developed flavours like Tandoori and Schezwan Burgers for our customers to keep trying something new every time they visit any Ajay’s Cafe. So, when are you coming over to try the best burger in India?

Categories
Food

How to start a fast food business in India

Have you ever dreamt of owning your own fast food business? You might be familiar with the term “fast food,” but in the industry, it’s also known as the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR). The Indian QSR market is booming! It’s estimated to be worth a whopping ₹1.85 lakh crore in 2024 and is expected to reach a sizzling ₹2.80 lakh crore by 2029. That’s a massive growth opportunity! But, it is also important to understand that the fast food business is also a highly competitive and risky industry to jump into. One has to be absolutely aware of the opportunities to win and the factors that may cause losses to your investment too.

However, starting a fast-food business can feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin? What permits do you need? How do you build a successful menu? Here at Ajay’s Cafe, we understand these concerns. In this blog, while we list down the basics of getting started in this industry, we will also unravel how someone with little to no experience can join in too. With over 160 successful fast-food outlets across Gujarat, we’ve got the experience to help you navigate the exciting world of choosing the best QSR franchise in India. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps you need to turn your fast-food dream into a delicious reality!

Table of Contents

  1. Market Research & Concept Development
  2. Know Your Competition
  3. Licensing and Permits
  4. Build A Business Plan
  5. Plan Your Financing
  6. Hiring Right People
  7. Why franchising is a safer bet?
  8. Some Concluding Thoughts

Market Research and Concept Development

Before sizzling up your fast-food dream, understanding your target audience is crucial. This is where market research comes in – it’s like taking the temperature of the market to see what kind of food is heating things!

So, how do you get started?

  • Look around: Observe the local food scene in your city. What kind of fast food outlets are popular? What are the missing pieces? Are there long queues at specific restaurants or cafes? This basic observation can provide valuable insights.
  • Talk to the People: Don’t be shy! Chat with potential customers, friends and family. Do they prefer burgers and fries or pizza? Is there a specific brand that they love?
  • Online Platforms: Utilise online resources like Swiggy and Zomato to see popular food trends and cuisines in your city. You can also use Google Trends to see what people are searching for food-wise.

Once you understand your customers’ preferences, it’s time to choose your fast-food concept. The type of business you choose (cafe, restaurant, kiosk, food truck) can significantly impact your location selection.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Cafes: Ideal for high-foot traffic areas like malls or office complexes. They offer a more relaxed atmosphere with a wider range of beverages and lighter bites.
  • Restaurants: Provide a sit-down dining experience with a more extensive menu. Consider areas with ample parking and seating space if you choose this route.
  • Kiosks: Perfect for grabbing a quick bite on the go. Look for high-traffic locations with limited seating space, like transportation hubs or busy markets.
  • Food Trucks: Offer flexibility and cater to events or areas with high foot traffic but limited permanent food options.

Remember, your concept should not only satisfy customer cravings but also influence your location choice, leading to a recipe for success! This initial research will lay the groundwork for a thriving fast food franchise.

Know Your Competition

In the fast food business, knowledge is power. Before starting up, it’s essential to understand who your competitors are. They’re not the enemy, but rather, fellow food enthusiasts offering their unique flavours. By analysing the competition, you can identify gaps in the market and carve out your niche.

Here’s why competitor analysis is crucial:

  • Spot trends: See what’s working well for other fast-food businesses in your city. Are there specific cuisines or menu items particularly popular?
  • Identify weaknesses: Analyse competitor menus and pricing. Can you offer a better deal, a more unique twist or a more convenient service?
  • Learn from the best: Observe how some of the best fast food franchises operate. What makes their customer service exceptional? How do they manage their online presence?

By understanding your competition, you can position your fast food business for success.

Licensing and Permits

Missing permits can put a stop to your business and cause unnecessary headaches. Don’t worry, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is a crucial but achievable step. These ensure your business operates legally, safely and smoothly, protecting both you and your customers.

Here’s a breakdown of some key licenses you’ll need for your fast food business in your city:

  • FSSAI Food Safety And Standards Authority License: This is the most important license, ensuring food safety and hygiene standards. You can apply online through the FoSCoS portal.
  • GST Registration: This is mandatory for businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 lakh. You can register online on the GST portal.
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) From The Fire Department: A fire safety inspection is necessary to obtain this NOC. Cooperate with the fire department to ensure your outlet meets all safety regulations.
  • Shop & Establishment Act License: This license is required for operating any commercial establishment. The application process is usually handled by your local municipality.

Obtaining these licenses is an investment in your business’s long-term success. It demonstrates your commitment to food safety, customer well-being and operating within the legal framework.

Pro Tip: While navigating legalities can seem complex, consider consulting a local Chartered Accountant (CA) for personalised guidance. They can help you understand specific requirements and ease the application process.

Build A Business Plan

A well-thought-out business plan is your fast-food franchise’s roadmap to success. It’s a document outlining your concept, strategies and financial goals, guiding you every step of the way. Some important aspects of your business plan include:

  • Standalone Outlet or Franchising? This crucial decision impacts your overall strategy. Do you envision running an independent outlet or leveraging the established brand and support of a food franchise opportunity like Ajay’s Cafe? Each option has its advantages and considerations – weigh them carefully in your plan.
  • Financial Projections: Don’t be intimidated! Outline your anticipated startup costs, operating expenses and projected sales. There are online templates and resources available to help you create realistic financial forecasts.
  • Marketing Approach: How will you entice customers and build brand awareness? Your plan should outline your marketing strategy, considering online presence, local partnerships and promotional offers.

Here’s why a well-structured plan is crucial:

  • Be watchful of the money being poured in: While it is a great thing that you can fund the entire business venture yourself, a plan in place will ensure you have proper checks and balances on where and how much money are you putting in.
  • Securing Funding: Investors and banks often require a business plan to assess your venture’s viability. A clear plan showcases your passion, market knowledge and financial understanding, increasing your chances of securing the necessary funding. Franchise business operators usually come in handy with their guidance in securing such loans.
  • Guiding Operations: Your plan becomes your operating manual. It defines your target audience, menu strategy, staffing needs and marketing approach, keeping you focused and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
  • Reaching Your Goals: Financial projections are a key part of your plan. They involve forecasting your sales, expenses and potential profits. This helps you set realistic goals, track progress and make informed decisions for future growth.

A well-crafted business plan is a powerful tool. It demonstrates your preparedness and increases your chances of success.

Plan the Financing

Turning your fast-food dream into reality requires planning your finances.

Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses to anticipate:

Startup Costs

This is your initial investment to get things rolling. Here are some areas to consider:

  • Kitchen Equipment: Fryers, grills, ovens, refrigerators – these are the heart of your operation! Costs can vary (₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh or more) depending on the size and complexity of your menu.
  • Setting Up Shop: Seating, counters, attractive signage and decor all contribute to your ambience. Budget anywhere from ₹3 lakhs to ₹8 lakhs or more for this.
  • Licenses & Permits: Remember the FSSAI license, GST registration and others? Budget ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh to cover these essential permissions.
  • Initial Inventory: Stock up on fresh ingredients and packaging materials. Plan for ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh to kickstart your inventory.

Operational Costs

These are the ongoing expenses to keep your business running smoothly:

  • Rent: Location is crucial! Rent can vary greatly (₹10,000 to ₹50,000 or more per month) depending on size and location. Choose wisely!
  • Salaries: Your team is essential. Budget for salaries of cooks, servers and cleaners. This can vary based on the number of employees and their roles.
  • Utilities: Electricity, water, gas – these keep the lights on and the grills hot! Plan for ₹20,000 or more per month for utilities.
  • Marketing & Advertising: Spread the word! Budget for promoting your business online, through flyers or local ads. This can vary depending on your marketing strategy.

Working Capital

Don’t forget a buffer! Having working capital (₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh) helps cover day-to-day expenses until your business becomes profitable. By understanding these key expenses, you can create a realistic financial plan.

Hiring Right People

Your fast-food business is only as good as the team behind it! Here’s a quick look at some key roles you might need to fill:

  • Cooks: It is important to hire trained cooks who can prepare the dishes well and maintain the unique taste. However, this is eliminated when you opt for an Ajay’s Cafe Franchise that does not require a cook.
  • Servers & Cashiers: The friendly faces at the forefront. They’ll take customer orders, handle payments and keep things running smoothly.
  • Other Kitchen Staff: These are the backbone of your operation. They’ll prep ingredients, clean equipment and assist the cooks.

A passionate and well-trained team is essential for exceptional customer service and a thriving business.

Why franchising is a safer bet?

Starting a fast-food business from scratch can be exciting, but it also comes with risks. Franchising with a successful brand like Ajay’s Cafe can help mitigate these risks and offer a smoother path to success.

Franchising might be a safer choice because:

  • Reduced Risk: Franchises benefit from established brand recognition, proven business models and ongoing support from the franchisor. This minimises the risk of failure often associated with starting a new business independently.
  • Lower Costs: Setting up a new outlet can involve high initial costs for equipment, marketing and staff training. Franchises often offer economies of scale, helping you save on these costs through bulk purchasing and established training programs.
  • Proven Success: Franchises leverage the success of the existing brand. You’ll benefit from tried-and-tested recipes, marketing strategies and operational procedures, increasing your chances of profitability.

Ajay’s Cafe, with over 160 successful outlets across Gujarat, is a prime example of a thriving food franchise. By partnering with such QSR brands in India, you gain access to our expertise, established brand identity and a support system to help your fast-food dream become a reality.

Some concluding thoughts

Owning a fast-food business can be a delicious journey filled with satisfied customers and entrepreneurial fulfilment. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you the knowledge and steps to navigate the exciting world of the fast food business.

And venturing into a competitive industry like the fast food market needs someone experienced to guide you through. This is where trusted franchise brands like Ajay’s Cafe come into the picture, where the team backs the franchisee right from the beginning and trains them and their team, all the while educating them about the dos and don’ts of surviving the quick-service restaurant industry. Remember, success is a recipe with many ingredients – thorough planning, financial understanding and a passionate team are key.

Categories
Food

Famous Foods from Different Cities of Gujarat

A metallic plate consisting of small portions of various Gujarati dishes

While the world eats to live, Gujaratis live to eat, so much so that Gujaratis have even become millionaires by making the world eat off their hands. The humble Khakhra has travelled to every continent and the spongy Dhoklas have even featured in the menus of prominent Michelin Star Indian restaurants globally.

We have created the ultimate guide to famous foods and their cities in Gujarat for you. Read it and share it with your friends living all over the country and worldwide.

Table of contents

  1. Locho – Surat
  2. Umbadiyu – Valsad
  3. Sev Usal – Vadodara
  4. Vanela Ganthiya – Bhavnagar
  5. Kutchi Dabeli – Mandvi & Bhuj
  6. Khaman – Lodra, Gandhinagar
  7. Khari Sing – Bharuch
  8. Tikha Ghughra – Jamnagar
  9. Puff – Nadiad
  10. Leeli (Green) Chutney – Rajkot
  11. Gota – Dakor
  12. Khavsa – Surat

Locho - Surat

Source: Milk And Cardamom

Locho is a tasty steamed snack made from gram flour, popular in the city of Surat. Instead of being a solid lump, it comes as little dumplings with an irregular shape. This is exactly the word Locho means too, inconsistency and confusion. And this dish looks like a well-seasoned lump of pudding. The dumplings are seasoned with toppings like sev, melted butter, spices, onions, and fresh coriander leaves. This gives Locho a delightfully spicy and savoury flavour. Being made from gram flour, it is gluten-free and quite filling due to the dense texture of the dumplings. Surat is renowned for perfecting the recipe of Locho over many years. That’s why this unique snack from Surat has become a famous treat across Gujarat and beyond.

Umbadiyu - Valsad

Umbadiyu (or Ubadyu) is a local, seasonal delicacy from the Valsad district of South Gujarat. It is especially popular in rural Valsad areas and along National Highway 48 between Dungri and Umargam. This hearty winter dish is also found in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman and Diu. Key ingredients are potatoes, green beans, purple yam and sweet potatoes. What makes umbadiyu unique is the earthy aroma of kalar (Indian nettle) and kamboi (black honey shrub) added to it. The dish is slowly cooked in a rounded earthen pot placed upside down over a fire. Umbadiyu was even featured on the popular Hindi TV show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, where Jethalal organised an Umbadiyu brunch!

Sev Usal - Vadodara

Sev Usal is the most famous dish from the city of Vadodara. It is similar to the popular Maharashtrian snack misal pav. This is because the former rulers of Vadodara were Marathi, which influenced the local cuisine. Sev Usal consists of a spicy, flavorful curry made from legumes like peas, moong, lentils and black-eyed beans. It is topped generously with crispy sev and chopped onions. This unique dish is served with tiny, soft pav (dinner rolls) and a zesty red chutney on the side. From its Marathi origins, Sev Usal has become a beloved dish across Gujarat and India. No visit to Vadodara is complete without trying this iconic local delight.

Ajay’s Asks: Should we experiment with creating small sliders using these tiny Pav buns, as a fun addition to our menu of best burgers?

Vanela Ganthiya - Bhavnagar

Vanela Ganthiya is a popular Gujarati snack made from gram flour (besan) and spices. The name ‘vanela’ refers to how the dough is rolled and twisted into a particular shape, which gives these bite-sized treats their unique soft texture. They are cousins of the famous Fafda and Papdi, which most Indians are familiar with, as they use very similar ingredients. Just like Jethalal from Taarak Mehta loves Fafda-Jalebi, all these crispy, savoury snacks are beloved across Gujarat. However, the finest quality Fafda, Papdi and Vanela Ganthiya are produced in the city of Bhavnagar and even exported globally! So when in Bhavnagar, don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy them, especially with the chutney, sambharo and fried chillies.

Kutchi Dabeli - Mandvi & Bhuj

Kutchi Dabeli is a world-famous street food snack originating from the Kutch region of Gujarat. At its base is a soft pav stuffed with a delicious mashed potato mixture. This potato filling is cooked with special dabeli masala, topped with crunchy masala peanuts and a tangy red chutney. The stuffed Dabeli is then served with even more chutneys – like spicy green chutney, sweet date chutney and tart tamarind chutney. Crispy sev and pomegranate seeds provide a contrasting texture. Hailing from cities like Mandvi and Bhuj, this snack offers an explosion of flavours in every bite and it has made the humble dabeli an international favourite. It’s a convenient, tasty snack that’s easy to assemble but hard to stop eating!

Khaman - Lodra

Khaman is a soft, spongy delicacy made from gram flour (besan) that has put the small village of Lodra in Gandhinagar district on the map. Though similar in appearance to dhokla, khaman has a distinct yellow colour and different batter and cooking methods. The gram flour batter is steamed, then cut into pieces and doused in a flavorful mixture of water, sugar, salt and green chillies. This provides Khaman with its unique taste. Unlike the plain white dhokla, khaman can be eaten for breakfast or lunch, either plain or with chutneys or a special kadhi. Lodra’s khaman is renowned for being extra soft and delicious. So much so that street stalls selling fresh Lodra Khaman can be found all over Gujarat!

Khari Sing - Bharuch

Source: Babubhai Zaverbhai Chanawala

While Bharuch is known to be a textile industry town, it is actually more famous for its salted peanuts. If you happen to mention to any Gujarati that you’ll be visiting or travelling across Gujarat, they’ll insist you try the Khari (salted) Sing (peanuts) available from any of the shops in Bharuch. Now, what makes these peanuts special is the fact that they are surprisingly larger in size compared to conventional peanuts and have a nice crunch and bite to it when roasted and tossed with rock salt.

Tikha Ghughra - Jamnagar

Tikha Ghughra is a popular spicy street food from the city of Jamnagar in Gujarat. It consists of deep-fried dumplings stuffed with a fiery potato filling. These dumplings are then topped with various tasty chutneys like tangy-sweet tamarind chutney and green coriander-mint chutney. Spicy roasted peanuts and crispy sev noodles provide an extra crunchy texture. Tikha Ghughra gets its name from the Gujarati words for “spicy” and the dish itself. While a sweet version exists, it’s the spicy potato variety that has become a real local favourite. The dumplings deliver a delightful combination of sour, spicy and masala flavours in every addictive bite. Both young and old simply can’t get enough of this iconic Jamnagar street food delight!

Nadiad - Puff

Unconventional, isn’t it? But Yes, Nadiad in Gujarat is actually well known for its absolutely flaky Aaloo Matar (Potatoes & Peas) and Vegetable Puff. It is believed to have started from a small bakery at IG Marg in Nadiad sometime in 1971, where they started selling these flaky pastries filled with spicy aloo matar filling straight out of the oven. These puffs are usually triangular or rectangular in shape and are served with sev, cheese, chutneys, mayonnaise – basically any additional topping or condiment you prefer.

Leeli (Green) Chutney - Rajkot

Source: Eat More Art

Rajkot is renowned for its delicious green chutney, a versatile condiment loved across Gujarat. This bright green ‘leeli chutney’ has a tantalising flavour that complements many snacks. It’s the perfect dip for samosas, theplas (flatbread), and even chaat dishes. But locals particularly relish it with katri (sun-dried potato crisps) and leelo chevdo (a savoury trail mix). The chutney’s vibrant taste enhances the crispiness of these favourite tea-time snacks. So famous is Rajkot’s green chutney that no one visits the city without taking home multiple packs from iconic shops like Maganlal. Whether used as a dip, spread or topping, just a spoonful of this zesty green chutney instantly uplifts any snack or meal with its legendary flavour.

Gota - Dakor

Gota is a traditional Gujarati type of pakoda or fritter, hailing from the village of Dakor in Gujarat. It is one of the most loved snacks after dalwadas and is made by combining lentils, semolina and various spices. The ingredients are mixed together into a thick, dense mixture which is then shaped into small round or oblong gota pieces. Despite its simple composition, Dakor’s gota has a delightfully complex flavour due to the special blend of spices used. This age-old snack has been made in Dakor for generations, perfected over time. Gota can be eaten at any time of day, either hot or at room temperature, sometimes accompanied by chutneys or just like that. Though little-known outside Gujarat, this humble delicacy from Dakor deserves wider appreciation for its tasty appeal.

Khavsa - Surat

They say humans get solace and mukti once they’ve had Surat nu Jaman (Food from Surat) and Kashi nu Maran (death in Kashi). And hence the last dish in this list is again Surti. Khavsa is a delightful Surti twist on the traditional Burmese coconut soup known as Khow Suey. This street food delight from Surat, Gujarat’s diamond city, exemplifies the local love for fusion flavours. While the original has vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions, let’s focus on Surat’s take. The locals have rechristened it as ‘Khavsa’ – a runny, spice-laden soup served with crispy besan or flour papdis for dipping. Each vendor adds their own special touch, but the signature Schezwan sauce provides a real spicy kick that Suratis adore. Khavsa offers an enticing blend of textures and flavours – the soupy coconut broth, the crunch of papdis and peanuts and the zing of Schezwan chillies. One sip transports you to food nirvana that only Surat can deliver!

But, what do modern Gujaratis love to eat?

Modern Gujaratis have embraced a diverse, cosmopolitan palate. While deeply rooted in their love for traditional delicacies like Surti Locho, Khaman and Dabeli, they equally relish global favourites like cold coffees, pizza and burgers. In cities like Ahmedabad, it’s common to find students and professionals enjoying a steaming hot bowl of Surti Locho sold on the street outside Vastrapur Lake and later asking their friends to recommend places that serve the best burgers and best pizza.

And this beautiful chaos is visible in bustling spots like Ajay’s Cafe. This is because cities like Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat and Navsari are known to have thriving eating-out cultures that have grown and evolved over the years. While a lot of the dishes mentioned above continue to be a staple among Gujaratis everywhere, the food choices have seen a shift when it comes to eating out, especially in the company of friends, colleagues and siblings. This is why places like Ajay’s Cafe are always buzzing with people, young and old, sipping on cold coffees, burgers and pizzas. Gujaratis today have welcomed global cuisine with open arms, yet still cherish their regional icons.

Categories
franchise

Top 10 Franchise Business Opportunities in India

concert artwork showing franchising in business

Did you know franchising has a higher success rate than starting a business from scratch? It’s a great option for first-time entrepreneurs or those seeking a stable investment with comparatively lower risk. We’ve compiled a list of the top franchise business opportunities in India, ranging from quick service restaurants (QSRs) to salons and even logistics.

Now, this list will help many entrepreneurs to identify the business and industry which suits their interests. However, it advised to reach out to the respective brands directly to know more about their offerings for franchise opportunities, as Ajay’s Cafe cannot offer consultancy on franchising beyond its quick service restaurant business.

Table of Contents

  1. Ajay’s Cafe
  2. CarzSpa
  3. Amul
  4. Delhivery
  5. Lenskart
  6. Jockey
  7. Kidzee
  8. Subway
  9. FabIndia
  10. Lakmé Salon
  11. Concluding Thoughts

Ajay’s Cafe (Starting at ₹15 lakhs)

Known for its cold coffees, pizza and burgers, Ajay’s Cafe has been a prominent player from Gujarat, among the leading QSR franchises in India. Having started in 2014 from Navsari, Ajay’s Cafe has over 150 outlets all over Gujarat, helping many first-time entrepreneurs live their dreams and make the most of the food franchise opportunities in India.

Over the past decade, Ajay’s Cafe has found solid footing in the highly competitive market consisting of major multinational fast-food and burger franchises, because of the strict adherence to quality and great flavour options in their burgers and pizza and other major cities. The brand trains its franchise owners and their staff in running the outlets and further supports them – right from setting up the cafe space to its grand launch and promotion to draw customers regularly. Here’s what one needs to start an Ajay’s Cafe.
Investment
₹15 Lakhs
Area (sq.ft.)
Min 400
Brand Fee (₹)
₹0
Royalty
0%
Marketing Levy
0%

CarzSpa Detailing Studios (Starting at ₹20 lakhs)

CarzSpa Detailing Studios is a leading name in car care and detailing, offering a franchise opportunity for ₹20 lakhs. This investment amount can vary depending on the city and size of your outlet. But the potential rewards are high, with franchisees enjoying a net profit margin of 20-25%, which is well above average in this industry.

CarzSpa is a premium car detailing brand that’s changing the way people think about car care in India. As the car market keeps growing, more and more car owners are looking for professional detailing services to keep their vehicles looking their best. CarzSpa offers high-quality services to meet this growing demand, making it a smart choice for anyone who wants to enter a profitable and in-demand business.
Feature
Detail
Industry
Automobile Service & Detailing
Area Required
1500 sqft
Investment
₹20 Lakhs (varies depending on city and outlet size)
Profit Margin
20-25% (average)

Amul (Starting at ₹2 lakhs)

A shot of Amul Parlour

Another opportunity worth your time and money is Amul. Needless to say, Amul is a brand that is well-recognised and trusted by India, thanks to its high-quality products. It has very high brand loyalty and customer base. It is literally “The Taste of India” All of this means that you don’t have to go through the laborious process of winning over the customers’ loyalty. The groundwork has already been laid.

Depending on the location of the outlet, the expected sales turnover can be anywhere between ₹5 lakhs to 10 lakhs per month. What’s more, is that you do not have to pay any royalty fee. This is an ideal choice if you’re looking for low-cost investment and higher stability and surety of returns.
Format
Amul Parlour
Ice Cream Scooping Parlour
Investment (₹)
2 Lakhs (approximate) (inclusive of brand fee)
6 Lakhs (approximate) (inclusive of brand fee)
Area (sq.ft.)
100 - 150
> 300
Royalty
0%
0%
Return On MRP
Pouch Milk - 2.5% Milk Products 10% Ice Cream 20%
Recipe Based Ice Creams - 50% Pre Packed Ice Creams - 20% Other Products - 10%

Delhivery (Starting at ₹50,000)

If retail is not your cup of tea, you can venture into the logistics territory with Delhivery. With over a decade of operation, Delhivery has garnered an immense reputation and loyalty. All you need to set up a franchise is a commercial area of around 100 to 200 sq. ft. and about ₹ 5 to 10 Lakhs investment. Delhivery will provide training, field assistance, current IT systems and expert guidance from the Head Office.
Investment (₹)
5 - 10 Lakhs
Brand Fee
50000
Royalty
20%
Space
100 - 200 Sq Ft
Exp. ROI
15%

Lenskart (Starting at ₹20 lakhs)

A variety of glass frames arranged on shelves in a Lenskart store

With quality products and over a decade of operation, Lenkart has become the go-to brand for eyewear. It has made a name for itself and carved out a space in the eyewear industry. Of course, then, it only makes sense that they take meticulous care of their franchisees in order to ensure smooth operation.

With low investment costs, high return and a breakeven period of 15 to 18 months, Lenskart proves to be a very attractive opportunity. Not only in terms of finances but also in terms of the support that franchise owners get. Lenskart promises stock correction (there will be no dead stock), site selection, interior furnishing, personnel recruitment and training, and expert support in branding. Franchise owners are fully supported and taken care of so that operations become smoother.
Investment (₹)
20 - 30 Lakhs
Brand Fee
224000
Royalty
25%
Space
100 - 200 Sq Ft
Exp. ROI
15%

Jockey (Starting at ₹50 lakhs)

Exterior shot of a Jockey franchise
Jockey offers high-quality innerwear

If you want to enter the clothing market and especially the innerwear market, opting for Jockey is a no-brainer. Jockey is the ideal choice because it has an already established brand reputation and high brand loyalty. In fact, it has become synonymous with high-quality innerwear.
Investment (₹)
50 Lakhs - 1 Crore
Brand Fee
₹0
Royalty
Not publicly available
Required Space
1000 - 1500 Sq Ft

Apart from the major advantage in terms of the brand image, you also get assistance from the company. They’ll help you out with choosing a nice spot for the outlet, designing the interior and exterior, and training the employees.

Kidzee (Starting at ₹10 lakhs)

Teacher teaching kids in a classroom
Kidzee provides a safe and stimulating environment for kids to learn

Education is another sector that has proven to be very profitable. Parents want to ensure that their kids get a safe and friendly environment to learn and grow. Kidzee is a name parents can trust their kids with. It is a difficult trust to gain.

Moreover, Kidzee provides its franchise owners with all the learning resources, updates on current educational developments, help with setting up the place and support in enrollments through marketing. This especially makes it easier for people entering the industry for the first time since all the support is with you to guide you.
Investment (₹)
10 - 20 Lakhs
Brand Fee
500000
Royalty
20%
Required Space
2500 - 3000 Sq Ft

Subway (Starting at ₹24 lakhs)

Interiors of a Subway outlet
Subway has set high standards for quality sandwiches

There is generally high brand loyalty in the QSR sector and young people are in love with Subway. Subway has become synonymous with high-quality fresh sandwiches. In fact, they call their employees sandwich “artists” and for good reason. Working with a brand that has such high standards for its products and services can be very beneficial for you. Besides, Subway assists its franchise owners with setting up the franchise, training the employees and even with advertising and marketing.
Investment (₹)
24 Lakhs - 30 lakhs
Franchise Fee
₹6.5 lakhs
Royalty
Not publicly available
Required Space
400 - 600 Sq Ft

FabIndia (Starting at ₹50 lakhs)

Interiors of a FabIndia store
FabIndia offers a wide range of high-quality products

Selling products ranging from menswear and womenswear clothing to home decor and furniture to organic food products, FabIndia has carved out a niche for itself in the sense that all the products it sells are made from traditional techniques, skills and handmade processes, FabIndia is the go-to brand for artisans, designers and customers in this niche. Their brand loyalty is built on the high product and process standards they have set for themselves.
Investment (₹)
50 Lakhs - 1 crore
Brand Fee
₹3 lakhs
Royalty
Not publicly available
Required Space
1000 - 2500 Sq Ft

Lakme Salon (Starting at ₹30 lakhs)

Lakmé is a reputed name in the beauty and salon industry. When it comes to beauty, customers don’t take a chance and remain loyal to the one brand that they trust. Lakmé is that brand. Started in 1980, Lakmé Salon has over 40 years of experience delivering outstanding service and gaining customer loyalty.

Lakmé Salon also provides its franchise owners with expert guidance from the Head Office, field assistance, current IT systems and detailed operating manuals. They also provide training at their own training centres.
Investment (₹)
30 - 50 Lakhs
Brand Fee
₹0
Royalty
Not publicly available
Required Space
800 - 1200 Sq Ft

Concluding Thoughts

So, there you have it. There are various options available ranging from a burger franchise to an eyewear franchise to a Salon franchise, requiring various amounts of investment. Depending on the industry you want to enter and the size of available capital, the ideal choice for you would change.

However, the one franchise opportunity that stands apart among all the brands across industries is Ajay’s Cafe. With low investment costs, an outstanding support system for franchisees, growing demand in the QSR sector and excellent product quality, Ajay’s Cafe makes the most sense to invest in.

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in the article above is from publicly available sources online. Ajay’s Cafe does not guarantee the complete accuracy of the information provided. We recommend verifying the information with the franchises directly for the latest updates. If you want any of the information in this article to be updated, reach out to us at care@ajays.co.in.

Categories
General

Red flags in friendship: The Ultimate Guide

two men standing next to each other, the second one reading his hand out on the shoulder

Alexa, please play dost dost na raha!

That’s our writer, he just had a friendship break up because he compiled a list of red flags to spot in friends. And guess what, out of the seven red flags on the list, his friend ticked 6!

While we comfort him with some cold coffee and a barbeque burger to cheer him up, why don’t you go through this list below and see if any of your so-called friends check this list?

Table of Contents

  1. Their first response is always a NO
  2. Never respond or react to your memes
  3. They think cold coffee is a childish drink
  4. They never pay their share after outings
  5. They keep saying “Bas 5 minutes mein pohoncha!”
  6. Can’t keep a secret
  7. Chooses other burgers over Ajay’s
  8. Some concluding thoughts

Their first response is always a NO

This is the easiest and one of the first red flags to identify in a friend. Inke NAA mein aur HAA mein, dono mein NAA hi hai. Whether it is to bunk classes to watch a movie, plan a midnight birthday surprise for someone or simply hang out at Ajay’s Cafe after college, their first answer is always a no. They agree only when a lot of people give them bhaav, try and convince them and make them feel they’re like some superstar. The only time their first response is a YES is when you offer them fries!

Never respond or react to your memes

It is an unsaid rule of friendship in the digital age, that one must at least use a crying-with-laughter emoji when a friend sends a reel or a meme on Instagram. Who are hese psychopaths jo seen pe chhod dete hai memes ko yar! Never trust people who claim to be your friends and do not respond or react to your memes. So what if they had seen the same meme just an hour ago on some meme page on Instagram?

They think cold coffee is a childish drink

If your friend says no to ordering cold coffee, it is fine. No kalesh, everyone has their choice. But if they then make you feel bad about it – then you must doubt if they’re actually your friend, yaa iske bheje mein koi chemical locha hai? There is nothing childish about cold coffee. Drag that friend to Ajay’s and make them try the Classic Cold Coffee. Deewana ho jayega! If they still think cold coffee is childish hai, we request you don’t go full Prajakta Koli from Mismatched from them. Bas apni thandi cold coffee se cool down your anger!

They never pay their share after outings

Nobody likes a mufti! And we have noticed from behind the counters of our Ajay’s Cafes, that there’s always that one fellow who will be the first one to order and the last one to pay their share of the total bill. Keep an eye out for such friends. They are probably hanging out with you because you always pay for their burgers, box cricket and even chai at the tapri below your office. We’re in the age of UPI, it hardly takes a few seconds to pay that ₹100 no!

They keep saying “Bas 5 minutes mein pohoncha!”

Have you ever wondered why ‘that one friend’ from the group is never on time? This person always arrives after the teams for the box cricket match are decided and always shows up after everyone has given their orders. And worse, he reaches the theatre much after the movie has started. And their bahanas? The cat fell sick, the neighbour’s house had no water, there was no fuel in the scooter and whatnot. Maybe, just maybe, the so-called friend never wanted to hang out with you all and was coming late on purpose. Spot this red flag and cut it off if you can.

Can't keep a secret

The most untrustworthy of them and one of the reddest flags in friendship is this. The foundation of any friendship is that you keep each other’s kaand and karam a top secret. If they go around telling your secrets to everyone, then you cannot be their friend. They’re the ones who will tell your mother that you were with your boyfriend/girlfriend instead of going to college.

Choose other burgers over Ajay's

This is the biggest red flag and the most non-negotiable red flag in any friendship. How can one choose a clown or a fake king’s place to hang out after work or class, when the best burgers can be found only at Ajay’s? In fact, we are pretty sure even the best pizza can be found at Ajay’s Cafe and not at the many American fast-food outlets that claim to make good pizza. Samajh lo, dost, vo saccha dost nahi jo Ajay’s Cafe ke burgers ko naa bole!

Some concluding thoughts

Phew! That was a lot of red flags, wasn’t it? Remember, friendships should be a source of joy, support and laughter. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries and walk away from friends who bring you down or say that cold coffee is a childish drink and they don’t believe that the best burgers are from Ajay’s Cafe. The world is full of amazing people waiting to be your true companions. Now go forth and find those friends! Just maybe grab a cold coffee (because seriously, who can resist?) and celebrate the fact that you’re now a certified pro at spotting red flags.

Categories
General

Don’t Eat These Together – Foods You Must Never Combine

hand holding a burger on a yellow background

Butter on Paranthas is a match made in heaven, kimchi adds a lot more flavour to your favourite ramen and when dahi (curd) is served with some piping hot Khichdi, it’s the ultimate soul food to many Indians. While these combinations score full marks from everyone, are there exactly polar opposite food combos that should never happen?

Let’s say the team here at Ajay’s Cafe is too curious when it comes to researching the best and worst things to have happened to food. They have come up with a list of foods that must never be combined, for the sake of humanity and one’s taste buds and tummy too. Let’s check them out!

Table of Contents

  1. Noodles and Curd/Yoghurt
  2. Burger with Hari (Green) Chutney
  3. Pav with Kadhi
  4. Cold Coffee and Any Citrus Fruits
  5. Dosa with Jams
  6. Pizza with Chai
  7. Some concluding thoughts

Noodles and Curd/Yoghurt

Can we start by acknowledging the dedication to scenes that Shah Rukh Khan has, when he actually ate a plate of noodles with curd in the movie Ra One, to poke fun at South Indians eating Curd Rice?

Ra0ne Curd GIFfrom Ra0ne GIFs

But, that doesn’t mean anyone should consider this stunt without expert supervision or the doctor just a call away. Noodles are supposed to be spicy, tangy and in some cases, a bit sour too. When curd or yoghurt is mixed in the seasoning or had alongside noodles, it actually kills the kick of the varied flavours one might enjoy.

Burger with Hari (Green) Chutney

Alright, alright… Before the team starts getting DMs that this combo might actually taste good, trust us, it won’t. What makes any burger the best burger is the simple science of layering it right. There’s the soft buns, spread with mayonnaise of your favourite flavouring, then comes the perfectly cooked patty or tikki, with some cheese on top and maybe ketchup, if you’re up for it.

The hari chutney (made with green chillies, coriander and mint leaves) tastes best when combined with our desi foods like the OG Indian burger Vada Pav of Mumbai or maybe with the evergreen Theplas from Gujarat. Why ruin the classic flavours of burgers with a forced condiment, from a cuisine that is legendary in its own, right?

Pav with Kadhi

Dekho aisa hai, just because there’s leftover kadhi from the previous night’s Khichdi Kadhi dinner and you’re a bit lazy to steam some rice (PS: it is very easy) doesn’t mean it should be eaten with anything.

We are all for innovative combos, but some foods lose their originality and essence when paired with things that are not meant to be. Kadhi is such a delicious buttermilk-based gravy, that it deserves to be paired with something equally warm and soulful like steaming hot rice or any type of khichdi.

But Pav, which is made with wheat or maida, may not taste well with it. These breads taste great when served with vadas, tikkis, bhurjis, spreads, bhajis or some vegetable-based stews. Samjhe bandhu?

Cold Coffee and Any Citrus Fruits

Cold Coffee is a completely satisfying drink in itself. It has the caffeine kick, the perfect sweetness and a delicious creaminess to it. When something is so perfect, why ruin it by adding flavours that actually cut through the other instead of blending with it?

cold coffee bottles with oranges lying around on a table
We know it’s a good photo, but don’t try it!

This is why our chefs at Ajay’s Cafe HQ in Navsari just couldn’t agree upon adding flavours like lemon or orange in creating new variants of our cold coffees. Think about it, Orange in itself has a refreshing, citrusy punch to it. And coffee works as the perfect kicker on a day when the energy levels are low (thanks to all the late-night texting with your potential girlfriend/boyfriend). When you mix the flavours of milk, caffeine and citrus together, they cancel out each other and will leave a weird after-taste on your tastebuds.

Dosa with Jams

When we Gujjus think of doing something daring with a chance of a blowback, we call it akhatro. That is exactly what this combo is. Dosas are a gift from our South Indian brothers and sisters. They’ve also taught us how to pair it with perfect condiments like coconut and tomato chutneys, sambar, Milagai Podi (gun powder) and even ghee (remember the Davangiri Dosa at Ajay’s Food Court?). Why cause controversy by mixing it with Jams or worse, jelly spreads? And if you’re thinking of chocolate or Nutella, we want you to stop right there and think of something else.

Dosas are great Indian pancakes or crepes that, unlike their European counterparts, need any form of sweet, syrupy pairing. DOSAS ARE SAVOURY! There, we couldn’t have made it more clear.

Pizza with Chai

Agreed, that we Gujaratis are very daring with our food choices and we’re the inventors of the legendary Pineapple Sandwich and Maggi Bhajiya. But even we won’t go to the extremes of ordering a Pizza and a garma garam chai along with it.

The best pizza and drink pairing would be a cold coffee or a tall glass of Coke – it goes without saying. Hot beverages are not the best drink of choice to go with pizzas. And since we’re talking about chai, maybe have a Vada Pav or a Bombay Masala Toast with it. When you’re thinking of pizza in Ahmedabad, don’t go to the nearest galla to pick up a cutting chaa, but head to the nearest Ajay’s Cafe and go for Cold Coffee and a Margherita Pizza.

Some concluding thoughts

Kya bolti public? It’s good to be innovative with your food pairings, and never stop experimenting. If you have friends who may or may not be very experimentative or have no clue what should or not be paired while eating, send them this blog. Punya ka kaam hai dosto.

And if you have more suggestions for us and our readers, DM us on Instagram on @ajayscafeofficial.

Categories
franchise Franchise Opportunities

Top cafe franchise business opportunities in India

The minimalist interiors of a cafe

The cafe culture in India is booming! Owning a cafe franchise can be a lucrative and fulfilling venture. But hefty initial investments might hold you back. This blog unveils the top cafe franchise options in India, perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs. We’ll explore investment ranges, space requirements and potential return on investments (ROI) for each brand. So, grab a cuppa and read on!

Table of Contents

  1. Ajay’s Cafe
  2. The Chocolate Room
  3. Starbucks
  4. Cafe Frespresso
  5. Momo Nation Cafe
  6. Concluding Thoughts

Ajay's Cafe

A burger and coffee outlet with customers sitting at tables
Ajay’s Cafe sees constant footfall of customers thanks to their cold coffee and burgers

With the Indian QSR sector growing rapidly, Ajay’s Cafe is a great choice for first-time entrepreneurs who want to take advantage of this exciting market. Their low investment, comprehensive support, and delicious menu make them a winning franchise opportunity.

Their unique franchise model is ideal for new business owners. With an investment of around ₹15 lakhs and a space of 400 sq. ft., Ajay’s Cafe makes franchising accessible to more people.
Investment (₹)
15 Lakhs
25 Lakhs
50 Lakhs
Area (sq.ft.)
400
1000
6000
Franchise Fee (₹)
₹0
₹0
₹0
Royalty
0%
0%
0%
Marketing Levy
0%
0%
0%

There are no franchise fees or royalties to pay, so franchise owners can keep more of the profits. The team of Ajay’s Cafe helps every step of the way. Their team will handle everything from finding a good location to setting up your outlet, branding, and even initial marketing.

Additionally, the franchise owner and the franchise outlet staff receive a thorough 15-day training program from Ajay’s Cafe before the opening. This compulsory training covers everything that’s required in running a successful Ajay’s Cafe franchise, from food preparation to providing excellent customer service.

After the opening, the team from Ajay’s Cafe offers ongoing support with sales and marketing strategies, regular check-ins and business advice from experienced professionals.

The Chocolate Room

An outlet of The Chocolate Room with indoor and outdoor seating in Ahmedabad

The Chocolate Room is a delightful cafe franchise concept celebrating all things chocolate. With three distinct models to choose from, aspiring entrepreneurs can find the perfect fit. The standard model requires an investment of ₹50-55 lacs, including a franchise fee of ₹15 lakhs, for a spacious 800-1200 sq.ft. area. The compact model offers a more economical option, with a total investment of ₹35-40 lakhs and a franchise fee of ₹10 lakhs for a 500-700 sq.ft. space. For those seeking a smaller footprint, the kiosk model demands an investment of ₹15-20 lakhs and a franchise fee of ₹5 lakhs for a 100-300 sq.ft. area. Regardless of the model, franchisees can expect an 8% royalty on net sales and a 2% marketing levy.

Model
Standard
Compact
Kiosk
Investment (₹)
50-55 Lakhs
35-40 Lakhs
15-20 Lakhs
Franchise Fee (₹)
15 Lakhs
10 Lakhs
5 Lakhs
Area (sq.ft.)
800-1200
500-700
100-300
Royalty
8%
8%
8%
Marketing Levy
2%
2%
2%

The table above will help you understand their franchise cost better.

Starbucks

An Indian Starbucks Coffee offers a coffee cup a customer wearing a bag
Starbucks in India has become synonymous with premium American coffee

Starbucks, a world-famous name synonymous with exceptional coffee and a premium cafe experience, is a perfect example of a successful food franchise opportunity in India. Established in India through Tata Alliance, Starbucks offers aspiring entrepreneurs a chance to be part of this global brand’s legacy.
Model
Tata Starbucks Franchise
Investment (₹)
25-40 Lakhs
Franchise Fee (₹)
Not publicly available
Area (sq.ft.)
Not publicly available
Royalty
Not publicly available
Marketing Levy
Not publicly available

All the above data is provided only to applicants by Tata Starbucks Pvt Ltd

Owning a Starbucks franchise means instant brand recognition and customer loyalty. Tata Starbucks provides extensive training and support to its franchisees, ensuring a smooth operation that upholds the brand’s high standards for quality and customer service. While Starbucks offers a premium coffee experience, if the focus is on a high-energy cafe with a constant buzz and repeat customers, then a brand like Ajay’s Cafe might be a better fit, as they target a younger demographic with a more casual vibe.

Ultimately, the choice between a Starbucks franchise and other food franchise opportunities depends on the entrepreneurial goals and target market.

Cafe Frespresso

The serving counter of a cafe with its menu display in the backdrop
Frespresso is a brand trying to make its mark in the highly competitive QSR industry

Cafe Frespresso has carved a niche as one of the best cafe franchises in India, offering a delectable range of beverages and delicacies at affordable prices. Beyond its delicious coffee, the brand takes pride in its comprehensive menu prepared with utmost care and high-quality fresh ingredients, ensuring a truly satisfying cafe experience for every customer.

Aspiring franchisees can look forward to an array of benefits with Cafe Frespresso, including a supportive franchise model with one of the best investment requirements in the segment. The brand’s commitment to customisation allows franchisees to cater to local trends and clientele, while its growth-oriented and transparent work policies foster a supportive environment.

Frespresso provides comprehensive training and guidance from a team of internationally trained coffee professionals, equipping franchisees with the skills and knowledge to establish a successful business. Additionally, franchisees gain access to numerous marketing tools and hands-on assistance, from pre-opening to regular operations, ensuring a seamless start and ongoing support.

Investment Franchise Fee Royalty Fee
₹10 lakhs - ₹20 lakhs
₹3 lakhs
6%

With an investment ranging from ₹10 lakhs to 20 lakhs, a franchise fee of ₹3 lakhs and a 6% royalty, Cafe Frespresso presents an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking a foothold in the cafe industry. The brand’s flexible formats, including master and multi-unit franchises, cater to diverse investment capacities and growth ambitions.

Momo Nation Cafe

mo Nation is trying to cash in on people's growing love for momos and growing cafe culture

Momo Nation Cafe presents a diverse range of franchise models catering to varying investment capacities and business goals. For entrepreneurs seeking a compact and cost-effective option, the MNC EXPRESS model offers a minimal investment starting from ₹6 lacs for a 100 sq.ft. space, with an average payback period of 9-10 months.

The KIOSK model requires an investment of around ₹8 lakhs for a 150-200 sq.ft. area ideal for high-street and food court locations. Similarly, the CLOUD KITCHEN model, designed for residential and high-street areas, demands an investment of approximately ₹8 lakhs for a 150-200 sq.ft. space, with an average payback period of 8-9 months.

For those seeking to offer a more substantial dine-in experience, the DINE-IN model offers a minimum of 300 sq.ft. area, with an investment starting from ₹12 lakhs and an average payback period of 9-10 months. Lastly, the DINNER model caters to larger spaces of at least 900 sq.ft., with an investment beginning at ₹17 lakhs and an average payback period of 8-9 months.

Feature MNC EXPRESS KIOSK CLOUD KITCHEN DINE-IN DINNER
Investment
₹6 lacs+
₹8 lakhs
₹8 lakhs
₹12 lakhs+
₹17 lakhs+
Area
100 sq.ft.
150-200 sq.ft.
150-200 sq.ft.
300 sq.ft.+
900 sq.ft.+
Payback Period
9-10 months
Not specified
8-9 months
9-10 months
8-9 months
Franchise
Included in Investment
Fee
-
Agreement Period
5 Years

Across all models, Momo Nation Cafe operates on a franchisee-owned franchise-operated (FOFO) model, with franchisee fees included in the investment amount. The brand offers a 5-year agreement period, providing ample time for franchisees to establish and grow their business.

Concluding Thoughts

The Indian cafe franchise market is growing, offering exciting opportunities for new business owners! These are some of the top cafe franchise options available.

Out of all the cafes, Ajay’s Cafe stands out as a fantastic choice, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. This Indian Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) brand, with its incredible support system for franchise owners, comes out as a great option. And what proves this point is that in just the last 3 years (since 2020), Ajay’s Cafe has helped over 100 first-time entrepreneurs become successful franchise owners.

With its popular cold coffee, great burgers and a great vibe at the cafe, Ajay’s Cafe caters to the growing demand for convenient and quality dine-in options in India. Their competitive investment costs, comprehensive support system and focus on helping new business owners make them the perfect launchpad for a cafe franchise idea!

Categories
burger cold coffee Food

Burger King vs McDonald’s: The Ultimate Guide

Two signboards of a McDonald’s and a Burger King appear next to each other

When one thinks of fast food in India, the first visuals that come into mind are of either a large golden yellow M or a burger that’s wearing a crown. Yes, no points in guessing that we are going to talk about McDonald’s and Burger King today. It’s been close to two decades now that both brands have hundreds of burger franchises in India. But, which one’s the best? Or are they even worth considering, given how one brand is accused of using ‘fake cheese’ in their burgers while the other is known to send legal notices to anyone who uses the words burger and king together?

Let’s find out by comparing their best burgers, fries and drinks. But wait, there’s more! We’ll also be exploring a third challenger to these two, that might surprise you, offering the taste that we Indians love, alongside these international fast-food chains. (Yes, our writer was in the mood for some kalesh while writing this)

Table of contents

  1. History of Burger King & McDonald’s in India
  2. The Menu Showdown
  3. Brand USPs
  4. But wait, have you been to Ajay’s Cafe?
  5. The final verdict?

History of Burger King & McDonald's in India

When it comes to fast food, Indians love their chaats, vada pav and pakoras. The idea of pizza and burgers wasn’t even a part of the local conversations until McDonald’s came into the picture. McDonald’s arrived in India first, opening its first outlet in New Delhi and Mumbai in 1996. Back then, the idea of a hamburger was new for many Indians. To win the Indians over, McDonald’s introduced the McAloo Tikki, a delicious veggie burger with a potato patty and yummy spices.

A McDonald’s outlet in India
For close to 3 decades, McDonald's is synonymous with fast food in India

Burger King came a bit later in 2014, but they brought their flame-grilled taste and famous Whopper burgers. Both brands quickly learned that the Indian customer seeks the best food for the best prices. They had to adapt their menus and further introduce more vegetarian options in most burgers and add some flavoursome twists. Let’s see what both brands have to offer for one of its largest markets outside the United States.

Both Burger King and McDonald’s have the 3 most common contenders in the competition for best food in the fast food categories, i.e. Burgers, Fries and Chilled Beverages. Let’s take a look at how they stand out with their menus.

Most Popular Products

When it comes to burgers, both franchises have their champions. McDonald’s is famous for the Big Mac, a double-decker burger with special sauce, while Burger King boasts the Whopper, a flame-grilled powerhouse with a generous helping of veggies. Both are delicious contenders for the “best burger” title, but the choice depends on your taste!

An Indian girl enjoys a burger
McDonald's made Indians fall in love with burgers, but Burger King seems to be changing loyalties

Indian Options

Both burger franchises understand the importance of catering to Indian preferences. McDonald’s offers the McSpicy Paneer burger, a spicy delight with a crispy paneer patty and the McAloo Tikki, a veggie classic. Burger King counters with the Veg Whopper, a veggie twist on their signature Whopper and the Spicy Veg Whopper, packing a flavourful punch.

Sides & Drinks

No burger is complete without yummy sides and refreshing drinks! Both McDonald’s and Burger King offer crispy French Fries, perfect for dipping in ketchup or their special sauces. Craving something different? McDonald’s offers their signature McCafe beverages, including hot and cold coffee. Burger King has a range of soft drinks and their signature frozen drinks.

a hand holding a pack of Burger King fries
It's a common cause of argument for McDonald's & Burger Kinf - Whose fries are the best

Price and Value Comparison

Both franchises offer similar value for money. A typical burger and fries combo will cost around ₹150-₹200. However, special offers and deals can sometimes tip the scales in favour of one brand or the other. It’s always a good idea to check their apps or websites before you visit!

Brand USPs

When it comes to grabbing a quick and tasty bite, both McDonald’s and Burger King have their own ways of charming customers. McDonald’s is known for its familiar taste and convenience. Their bright restaurants, friendly service and iconic Happy Meals with fun toys for the little ones make them a popular choice for families. They also excel at offering special deals like McSaver menus and using their app to give you the best offers on your favourite burgers and fries.

Burger King, on the other hand, takes a more playful and youthful approach. Their flame-grilled burgers boast a distinct smoky taste compared to McDonald’s griddle/pan-cooked options. Burger King is known for offering more customisable options, letting you “Have It Your Way” by adding extra cheese, crispy onion rings or spicy jalapenos to your burger. They also tend to have more exciting and limited-time offers, like introducing unique flavours like the Indie Tikka Whopper for a short period, keeping their menu fresh and interesting for repeat customers.

But wait, have you been to Ajay's Cafe?

So far, we’ve been comparing the burger giants, but what about delicious options closer to home? That’s where Ajay’s Cafe comes in! Forget the struggle of choosing between Big Macs and Whoppers. Ajay’s Cafe offers a taste of India, bursting with flavour and catering perfectly to our desi preferences.

Craving a juicy burger? Look no further than their signature Barbeque Cheesy Burger, packed with a flavourful patty and their house mayonnaise. Feeling extra cheesy? The Barbecue Cheesy Delight is a must-try, oozing with cheese and a delicious barbecue sauce.

In the mood for something different? Ajay’s Cafe takes the humble wrap and gives it a desi twist. Their Paneer Bhurji Tortilla Wrap is a delightful explosion of scrambled paneer with veggies, while the Cheesy Aloo Masala Tortilla Wrap is a comforting classic.

And if you’re looking for a pizza, Ajay’s Cafe doesn’t disappoint! Their Makhani Pizza is a unique creation, combining the creamy goodness of butter masala with cheesy pizza perfection. Prefer a bit of spice? The Paneer Chilli Pizza is a flavourful option with capsicum and delicious paneer.

And all of this, when paired with their signature Cold Coffee, it’s the perfect combo that comforts your soul.

The final verdict?

NONE of the above! Yes, that’s right. Despite all the claims about their burgers, fries and drinks and desserts, believe us when we say it that even their most loyal customers will stop visiting them – if they ever got to know how the burger patties are prepared and stored, if the shakes served at these places contain any actual ingredients from its name or when was the last time the fryer was deep cleaned.

Further, these global fast food chains have turned many people into wannabes who want to make a noise and stand out but eventually end up eating a flappy burger, half cooked fries and sugary soda, but with different names for it – maybe even pretend to be the so-called royalty with cardboard crown.

But the OGs will be the ones who stay true to their local roots. They are the ones who are vocal for local brands and support them in going against the global biggies, who serve substandard food in the name of classic fast food. They are the ones who go to Ajay’s Cafe and order a burger that’s truly Apna, choose a pizza that brings together the flavours of Paneer Chilli with the cheesiness of Italians and pair it with the best cold coffee served within minutes. Because that’s the whole point of fast food, right?