10 Best Restaurant Franchise Opportunities in India

March 13, 2025

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Food franchises in India present a promising business opportunity, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Factors like brand reputation, market demand, support from the franchisor, and your budget all play a crucial role in making the right decision. Entrepreneurs often struggle to identify the most profitable and sustainable franchises in this competitive market.

The Indian food industry has witnessed remarkable growth, driven by rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and evolving consumer preferences. According to recent reports, The Indian food services market, which is valued at $80 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $144-152 billion by 2030, with a significant portion of this growth coming from franchise models. With such a dynamic landscape, the right food franchise can offer both rapid growth and long-term profitability.

This blog will help you navigate through the top 10 food franchise opportunities in India, providing the essential insights you need to make an informed and confident choice.

Top 10 Profitable Food Franchises in India

Let's take a look at some of the greatest restaurant franchises currently dominating the Indian food sector. We've compiled a list of the Top 10 food franchises in India to help you get started:

1. Kouzina

Kouzina is a leading player in the cloud kitchen space, offering a multi-cuisine model that focuses on healthy, plant-based meals and quick delivery services. Kouzina stands out with its low initial investment and scalable business model. 

The brand’s focus on providing nutritious, plant-based dishes allows it to cater to a diverse clientele, including vegetarians, vegans, and health enthusiasts. Additionally, with its seamless integration with popular food delivery platforms like Zomato and Swiggy, Kouzina ensures that your business reaches a wide audience right from the start. 

The cloud kitchen setup eliminates the need for expensive real estate and dining space. With robust training, marketing support, and operational guidance, Kouzina provides a strong foundation for franchises to thrive in the competitive food industry.

  • Key Offerings: Nutritious, plant-based meals, healthy snacks, and a variety of cuisines.
  • Investment Requirements: ₹12-15 lakhs
  • Resources and Support: Comprehensive training, marketing, and operational support.
  • Market Demand: High, driven by the growing demand for healthier, sustainable food options.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 20-25%
  • Founded in: 2017
  • Franchising Since: 2018
  • Franchise Units: 100+ across India
  • Initial Investment: ₹12-15 lakhs
  • Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales

2. Frozen Bottle

People know Frozen Bottle for its innovative menu, featuring signature milkshakes and desserts. The franchise offers comprehensive support in training, marketing, and operations, ensuring franchisees have all the resources they need to succeed.

Frozen Bottle stands out with its trendy concept and focus on a niche market. Their commitment to quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations positions them to capture the growing demand for new and exciting beverage experiences.

  • Investment Requirements: Approximately ₹20-30 lakhs
  • Resources and Support: Full support in training, marketing, and operations.
  • Market Demand: High, driven by the popularity of unique, premium milkshakes.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 20-25%
  • Founded in: 2017
  • Franchising Since: 2018
  • Franchise Units: 100+ across India
  • Initial Investment: ₹20-30 lakhs
  • Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales

3. McDonald's

McDonald's doesn't need much introduction. Its brand recognition is unparalleled, and its standardized operations ensure consistent quality across locations. The relatively low investment cost makes it an attractive option for first-time franchisees.

McDonald's, with its strong global brand recognition, offers a reliable franchise opportunity with relatively low investment costs for a worldwide brand. Franchisees benefit from extensive support in site selection, training, marketing, and operations.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹6-14 crores
  • Resources and Support: Comprehensive support, including site selection, training, marketing, and operations.
  • Market Demand: High, due to brand loyalty and recognition.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 20%
  • Founded in: 1940
  • Franchising Since: 1955
  • Franchise Units: Over 38,000 worldwide
  • Initial Investment: ₹6-14 crores
  • Royalty Fees: 4% of gross sales

4. KFC

KFC is famous for its unique taste and menu customized for Indian preferences. The franchise is well-supported, with robust training and operational systems. KFC offers a delightful selection of fried chicken buckets, wings, and tenders, all bursting with their signature flavor. They've cleverly adapted their menu to Indian preferences, introducing vegetarian options like Veg Krispy Strips.

KFC uses the power of a globally recognized brand while catering to the local palate. Its menu adaptations demonstrate its understanding of the Indian market, making it a strong contender for fried chicken lovers.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹1.5-2.5 crores
  • Resources and Support: Extensive training, marketing, and operational support.
  • Market Demand: High, especially for its customized menu for Indian tastes.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 15-20%
  • Founded in: 1930
  • Franchising Since: 1952
  • Franchise Units: Over 24,000 worldwide
  • Initial Investment: ₹1.5-2.5 crores
  • Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales

5. Subway

Subway transformed the fast-food landscape with its "build-your-own" sandwich concept. They offer a wide variety of fresh ingredients, allowing customers to create personalized sandwiches or salads that cater to their dietary needs and preferences.

Subway offers a welcome alternative to traditional fast food. Their focus on customization caters to a broad audience and dietary restrictions, making them a relevant choice for health-conscious consumers.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹50-90 lakhs
  • Resources and Support: Comprehensive support including training, marketing, and operational assistance.
  • Market Demand: Steadily increasing, driven by demand for healthier fast-food options.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 15-20%
  • Founded in: 1965
  • Franchising Since: 1974
  • Franchise Units: Over 40,000 worldwide
  • Initial Investment: ₹50-90 lakhs
  • Royalty Fees: 8% of gross sales

6. Domino's Pizza

Domino's Pizza is renowned for its expertise in pizza delivery, with adaptations for the Indian market that have made it a household name.

Domino's is a household name synonymous with delicious pizza delivered hot and fresh to your doorstep. They offer a wide variety of pizzas with innovative crusts, toppings, and flavors, catering to every pizza craving. Their expertise lies in swift delivery and a focus on the Indian market, with options like the Cheesy Golden Corn pizza.

Domino's has mastered the art of pizza delivery, ensuring convenience and quality for its customers. Its understanding of the Indian palate through localized menu options positions it as a leader in the pizza delivery segment.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹30-50 lakhs
  • Resources and Support: Full support in site selection, training, marketing, and operations.
  • Market Demand: Very high due to convenience and popularity of pizza.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 15-20%
  • Founded in: 1960
  • Franchising Since: 1967
  • Franchise Units: Over 17,000 worldwide
  • Initial Investment: ₹30-50 lakhs
  • Royalty Fees: 5.5% of gross sales

7. Café Coffee Day (CCD)

Café Coffee Day (CCD) is more than just a coffee shop; it's a cultural hub. It offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxing cup of coffee, a quick bite with friends, or even a productive work session. The menu extends beyond coffee, featuring an array of beverages, snacks, and light meals.

CCD has carved a niche as a casual hangout spot, catering to India's growing cafe culture. Their diverse menu and welcoming ambiance make them a popular choice for people across demographics. 

Additionally, CCD offers franchise options like Square, Lounge, and Value Express, allowing you to choose a format that fits your budget and target audience.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹10-15 lakhs
  • Resources and Support: Comprehensive support in training, marketing, and operations.
  • Market Demand: High due to the growing coffee culture in India.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 15-20%
  • Founded in: 1996
  • Franchising Since: 2000
  • Franchise Units: 1,700+ in India
  • Initial Investment: ₹10-15 lakhs
  • Royalty Fees: 8% of gross sales

8. Barbeque Nation

Barbeque Nation offers a unique and interactive dining experience.  Their tables are equipped with built-in grills, allowing patrons to cook a variety of marinated meats and seafood right at their tables. This creates a fun and social dining atmosphere, perfect for a memorable evening with family or friends.

Barbeque Nation stands out from the crowd with its interactive dining concept. The do-it-yourself grilling experience fosters engagement and social connection, making it a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹1.5-2.5 crores
  • Resources and Support: Extensive training, marketing, and operational support.
  • Market Demand: High, driven by the unique dining experience.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 20%
  • Founded in: 2006
  • Franchising Since: 2008
  • Franchise Units: 140+ in India
  • Initial Investment: ₹1.5-2.5 crores
  • Royalty Fees: 5% of gross sales

9. Haldiram's

Haldiram's is a beloved Indian brand synonymous with delicious snacks and sweets. It offers a wide variety of snacks and sweets and is known for its quality and taste, making it a trusted name in Indian households.

Their expansive menu features a wide variety of regional specialties, from savory namkeens (savory snacks) to melt-in-your-mouth sweets and ready-to-eat meals. They've built a reputation for high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors.

Haldiram capitalizes on the strong brand loyalty and trust it enjoys among Indian consumers. Its diverse menu caters to a wide range of taste preferences, making it a one-stop shop for all things snacky.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹1-3 crores
  • Resources and Support: Comprehensive support, including training, marketing, and operations.
  • Market Demand: Very high due to brand recognition and quality products.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 20-25%
  • Founded in: 1937
  • Franchising Since: 2000
  • Franchise Units: 50+ in India
  • Initial Investment: ₹1-3 crores
  • Royalty Fees: 7% of gross sales

10. Taco Bell

Taco Bell brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to India, offering a unique and affordable fast-food experience. Their menu features tacos, burritos, nachos, and other Mexican staples, all with a delightful Indian twist in terms of spice levels and flavor profiles.

Taco Bell offers a distinct taste compared to other fast-food chains. Its focus on affordability caters to a budget-conscious audience, making it a popular choice for a quick and flavorful meal.

  • Investment Requirements: ₹1.5-2.5 crores
  • Resources and Support: Full support in site selection, training, marketing, and operations.
  • Market Demand: Growing due to the increasing popularity of Mexican cuisine.
  • Profit Margin: Approximately 15-20%
  • Founded in: 1962
  • Franchising Since: 1964
  • Franchise Units: Over 7,000 worldwide
  • Initial Investment: ₹1.5-2.5 crores
  • Royalty Fees: 5.5% of gross sales

Kouzina is another such cuisine business that has successfully established 11 brands, each with its own distinct identity and serving over 80 cities.

Read our article: Top 15 Most Profitable Food Franchise Opportunities In India.

Reasons to Invest in a Food Franchise in India

Restaurant franchises are sizzling their way across India, becoming major players in the food industry market. But what exactly makes them so important? Let's explore the key ingredients that contribute to their success:

  • Reduced Risk & Proven Model: Franchises offer a well-established business model with a proven track record. This reduces the risk of failure often associated with starting a new restaurant from scratch.
  • Brand Recognition & Marketing Support: Franchisees benefit from the franchisor's established brand name and marketing expertise. This can significantly reduce marketing costs and attract customers from day one.
  • Standardized Operations & Training: Franchises provide comprehensive training and operational manuals, ensuring consistency in food quality, service, and customer experience across all outlets.
  • Supply Chain & Purchasing Power: Franchisees leverage the franchisor's established supply chain network, often leading to better deals on ingredients and equipment.

Overall, restaurant franchises or fast food franchises play a crucial role in the growth and dynamism of the Indian food industry. They offer a win-win situation for aspiring entrepreneurs, consumers, and the economy. 

Also Read: Top Famous Food Franchise Opportunities In India: A Guide to Success In The Market

Trends in the Restaurant Franchise Industry

The restaurant franchise industry in India is rapidly evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences, advancements in technology, and evolving market dynamics. Here are some key trends shaping the future of the restaurant franchise landscape:

  • Rise of Cloud Kitchens: Delivery-only kitchens are reducing overheads and offering low-cost, scalable business models. The demand for cloud kitchens like Kouzina is growing, driven by convenience and health-conscious eating.
  • Health-Conscious Eating: Increasing demand for healthier fast food options, with franchises like Subway gaining popularity for plant-based and low-calorie alternatives.
  • Food Delivery and Takeaway Growth: Delivery and takeaway have become essential, with apps like Swiggy and Zomato boosting business. Cloud kitchens are capitalising on this trend. The meal delivery market in India is projected to reach $14.81 billion in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 4.98%. ​
  • Technological Integration: Use of AI, online ordering, and automation streamlining operations and improving customer experiences in many franchises.
  • Sustainability Practices: Consumers are seeking brands with sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly packaging and ethical sourcing of ingredients.
  • Interactive Dining: Unique dining experiences, like table-side cooking and build-your-own meals, are gaining popularity among customers.
  • Expansion into Smaller Cities: Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are seeing growth as franchises target less saturated markets and tap into rising disposable incomes.
  • Fusion Cuisines: Offering innovative menu items that combine traditional Indian flavours with global influences, appealing to adventurous eaters.
  • Customer Experience Focus: Franchises are enhancing customer service and dining atmospheres, improving satisfaction and encouraging repeat visits.
  • Franchisee Support: Increased training and flexible franchise models are being offered to support business owners in diverse environments.

How to Start the Right Franchise with Kouzina?

Starting your journey with Kouzina is straightforward and efficient. Follow these steps to become part of the Kouzina family:

  1. Visit Kouzina's website
    Explore franchise opportunities by visiting Kouzina’s official website to learn about their business model and offerings.
  2. Submit an Application
    Complete the franchise application form to become Kouzina’s franchise partner, providing details about your location preferences and business objectives.
  3. Consult with the Team
    The Kouzina franchise team will review your application and reach out to discuss the next steps in the process.
  4. Complete Training and Launch
    After completing Kouzina’s training, you'll be ready to launch your cloud kitchen and start serving healthy, yummy meals to customers.

One of the key benefits of partnering with Kouzina is the Kouzina Partner Kart. This single platform allows you to easily order all your essential raw materials, inventory, and packaging. Check out Kouzina to learn more and take the first step towards building a successful business!

The Final Bite

The Indian food industry is full of opportunities, and restaurant franchising is a great way to build a successful business. To thrive, you need more than just great food—you need the right tools to streamline operations, cut costs, and drive revenue.

That’s where Kouzina comes in. As a leader in the cloud kitchen space, Kouzina not only offers a strong franchise model but also provides powerful tools to help food entrepreneurs succeed:

  • Kouzina Partner Kart – A one-stop platform to order raw materials and packaging at the best prices, with doorstep delivery to your kitchen.
  • Kouzina Admin Console – A central dashboard to manage orders, staff, tickets, reports, and key operational metrics effortlessly.
  • Knowlys – An AI-powered platform for SOP management, micro-learning, and upskilling to improve efficiency and boost revenue.

With Kouzina, you don’t just get a franchise—you get a complete support system to make your food business a success. Visit their website or get in touch today to start your journey as a foodpreneur in India!

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