The Indian food and beverage industry is a powerhouse of opportunity. For aspiring entrepreneurs, franchising offers a structured way to business ownership which is backed by already famous and established brand names with proven operational models.
As we look towards 2025, identifying the right brand to partner with is more important than ever. India’s diverse palate and growing disposable income make it a fertile ground for restaurant businesses. From quick-service giants to niche culinary experiences, the options are endless. Success depends on more than just great food because it requires strong brand recognition, efficient supply chains, strong marketing and comprehensive training.
This comprehensive and detailed guide will help you explore the top 10 restaurant chains in India for franchise success and will offer you a detailed look at brands that are not only popular but also provide strong support systems for their partners. We will also look into what makes each of these brands a contender for the top 10 restaurant chain in India and why they represent a sound investment for your entrepreneurial journey.
Unlocking Success: Why Choose a Top Restaurant Franchise?
Partnering with one of the leading names in the industry mitigates many of the risks associated with starting a business from scratch. These brands have already overcome the challenges of market entry, product development and building customer loyalty.
A major benefit is immediate brand recognition. Customers are more likely to trust and visit a restaurant they are already familiar with. Additionally, top franchises provide a comprehensive support system. This includes everything from site selection and outlet design to staff training and marketing campaigns.
You are not just buying a name, you are buying into a proven formula for success. The collective expertise of a large network makes navigating the complexities of the food business much smoother, solidifying the appeal of joining a top 10 restaurant chains in India.
Also Read: How Many Licenses Required for Restaurant Business? Beginner’s Guide
The Ultimate List: Top 10 Restaurant Chain in India for 2025
Selecting the right franchise requires careful consideration of investment levels, brand ethos and target audience. Here is our curated list of the top 10 restaurant chain in India, each offering you unique strengths.
1. McDonald’s
It is already a global icon as it has masterfully adapted its menu to suit Indian tastes with offerings like the McAloo Tikki and Chicken Maharaja Mac. Its operational efficiency is legendary which makes it a benchmark in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) sector.
- Why Franchise?
McDonald’s offers unique brand strength and a world-class supply chain. Franchisees receive extensive training at every level of operation, right from food preparation to customer service and financial management. Their marketing muscle is immense which will help you ensure a steady stream of customers.
- Investment: The investment is substantial which often runs into crores but the returns and stability it offers are equally significant.
2. Domino’s Pizza
Its “30 Minutes or Free” promise revolutionised the food delivery landscape and cemented its place in the hearts of millions. They continuously innovate their menu with localised toppings and sides.
- Why Franchise? Managed by Jubilant FoodWorks in India, Domino’s provides a strong technological backbone which includes a user-friendly app and efficient delivery tracking. The brand’s aggressive marketing and strong recall value make it a highly profitable venture. Its inclusion in any list of the top 10 restaurant chain in India is a given.
- Investment: It requires a significant capital outlay but the high-volume business model promises quick and substantial returns.
3. KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)
KFC’s “finger lickin’ good” chicken has a massive fan following across India. Its unique recipe gives it a distinct edge in the crowded fast-food market. This brand has successfully introduced vegetarian options to cater to a wider audience.
- Why Franchise? KFC provides its partners with a globally recognised brand and time-tested recipes. Franchisees benefit from a well-established supply chain for its key ingredients and comprehensive operational support. It’s a powerful brand for anyone looking to enter the QSR space.
- Investment: A KFC franchise demands a high investment, covering the franchise fee, store construction and equipment.
4. Wow! Momo
What started as a small kiosk in Kolkata has exploded into a nationwide phenomenon. Wow! Momo capitalised on the popularity of momos and created an organised QSR chain around them and offers steamed, fried and pan-fried varieties with unique fillings.
- Why Franchise? Wow! Momo offers a relatively lower investment compared to global giants which makes it more accessible. This brand has a strong connection with younger demographics and a simple, scalable business model. Its innovative product range which includes moburgs (momo-burgers), keeps the menu exciting. This brand is a strong contender for the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
- Investment: Moderate, with flexible models ranging from kiosks to full-sized outlets.
5. Subway
Subway has built a strong reputation in India for its fresh and healthier fast food approach through its made-to-order submarine sandwiches. Customers can personalise their meals by selecting their preferred bread, fillings and sauces which creates a satisfying and customised dining experience.
- Why Franchise? Subway has one of the lower entry barriers among international QSR brands. The operational model is straightforward with no complex cooking involved. This franchisee receives support in site selection, training and marketing. Its focus on health goes well with a growing segment of urban consumers. Subway is a definite feature in the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
- Investment: Relatively low compared to other major international QSRs which makes it a popular choice for first-time entrepreneurs.
6. Haldiram’s
Haldiram’s has evolved from a traditional sweets and snacks shop into a full-fledged vegetarian restaurant chain.
- Why Franchise? Haldiram’s enjoys immense trust and brand loyalty across generations. Its business model combines restaurant dining, a sweets counter and packaged goods which creates multiple revenue streams from a single outlet. Its reputation for quality and hygiene is a major selling point. It is undeniably a top 10 restaurant chain in India.
- Investment: High, given the large format of its outlets and the extensive menu. However, the returns are exceptionally stable.
7. Chaayos
Chaayos has transformed India’s love for chai into a trendy café experience. It offers over 1,200 customisation options for tea along with a curated menu of snacks that pair perfectly with it. It has successfully created a “third place” for people to work and socialise.
- Why Franchise? Chaayos targets a niche yet massive market. Its tech-driven approach, right from ordering to customer loyalty programs to increased efficiency. It has a strong urban presence and appeals to millennials and Gen Z. Its unique concept is why it is on our list of the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
- Investment: Moderate, with a focus on high-footfall locations in urban centres.
8. Lassi N Shakes
This brand originated in South India and has quickly expanded with its focus on delicious and affordable beverages.
- Why Franchise? This brand presents a low-investment and high-return opportunity. The operational model is simple and requires minimal space and staff. It is an excellent option for entrepreneurs in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities where the demand for organised beverage outlets is growing. This accessibility earns it a spot in the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
- Investment: Low, making it one of the most accessible franchise options on this list.
9. Biryani by Kilo (BBK)
Biryani by Kilo has carved a niche by delivering authentic and slow-cooked biryani in traditional handis. The brand focuses on premium quality and an authentic dining experience even in a delivery format.
- Why Franchise? BBK’s unique selling proposition of delivering fresh biryani in the very handi it was cooked in sets it apart. The brand has a strong focus on a single product category which simplifies operations. It has built a loyal customer base that values quality and authenticity which makes it a worthy member of the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
- Investment: Moderate to high as it requires a well-equipped kitchen to maintain its quality standards.
10. Belgian Waffle Co.
The Belgian Waffle Co. popularised the concept of on-the-go waffles in India. Its small-format kiosks serve freshly baked waffles with a variety of toppings which makes it a popular dessert and snack option.
- Why Franchise? The business model is simple with a small footprint and low overheads. The product is popular among all age groups, especially the youth. It provides standardised premixes and consistent quality across all outlets. It is a fun and profitable franchise to own and a fitting conclusion to our list of the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
- Investment: Low to moderate, best for entrepreneurs looking for a kiosk or small café format.
Also Read: How to Open a Restaurant in India: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Analysis of the Top 10 Restaurant Chain in India
This list of the top 10 restaurant chain in India demonstrates the incredible diversity within the country’s food industry. From global giants like McDonald’s and KFC to homegrown heroes like Wow! Momo and Haldiram’s, there is a franchise opportunity for nearly every investment level and business aspiration.
The QSR segment, represented by Domino’s, Subway and KFC, continues to dominate due to its focus on speed, affordability and convenience. However, niche players are gaining ground. Brands like Chaayos, Biryani by Kilo, and The Belgian Waffle Co. show that a focused product offering can build a powerful and loyal following. The success of Haldiram’s proves the enduring power of traditional Indian cuisine when presented in a modern and organised format. The analysis confirms that a place on the top 10 restaurant chain in India list is well-earned by these brands.
When evaluating which top 10 restaurant chain in India to partner with, consider your budget, your passion and the local market demand. A low-investment model like Lassi N Shakes might be perfect for a Tier-2 city while a high-investment brand like McDonald’s thrives in a prime urban location. The key is aligning the brand’s strengths with your entrepreneurial goals. Each of these brands has proven its mettle, making them a strong contender for franchise success in 2025. This curated list of the top 10 restaurant chain in India serves as a vital starting point for your research.
Conclusion
The journey into the food franchise business is both exciting and challenging. The Indian market in 2025 is ripe with opportunities but success hinges on making an informed choice. The brands listed here represent the pinnacle of the franchise world, each offers you a unique blend of brand power, operational support and profitability. From the global dominance of McDonald’s to the innovative spirit of Wow! Momo, this list of the top 10 restaurant chain in India provides a comprehensive overview for any aspiring restaurateur. These companies have not only captured the taste buds of the nation but have also created robust systems to ensure their franchise partners can thrive.
Are you ready to take the first step towards owning your own successful restaurant? Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Contact us today for a detailed consultation on these franchise opportunities. Our experts can help you assess your budget, understand the specific requirements of each brand, and guide you through the application process. Let us help you turn your entrepreneurial dream into a reality with one of the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
Frequently Asked Questions about Top 10 Restaurant Chains in India
1. What is the usual investment needed to open a franchise from the top 10 restaurant chain in India?
The cost to start a franchise can be very different for each brand. Low cost brands like Lassi N Shakes or The Belgian Waffle Co. can start from around ₹10 to ₹20 lakhs. Mid range brands like Wow! Momo or Chaayos usually need around ₹20 to ₹50 lakhs. Big global brands like McDonald’s, KFC and Domino’s need very high investment, often more than ₹1 to ₹2 crores. This money covers the franchise fee, store setup, equipment and starting working capital.
2. How much profit can I expect from a restaurant franchise?
The profit depends on many things like location, how well the outlet is managed and how strong the local demand is. In general, quick service restaurants and busy outlets aim for a net profit margin of around 10 to 20 percent. The brand will usually share estimated profit and loss details during discussions, but these are only projections. Your skill in controlling costs and increasing sales plays a big role. Every top 10 restaurant chain in India offers different return potential.
3. Do I need previous experience in the food business to own a franchise?
Having experience in the food industry helps but it is not always required. Most well known franchisors, including those from the top 10 restaurant chain in India, offer detailed training. This training covers kitchen work, staff handling, marketing and basic accounts. They mainly look for people who are serious, ready to learn and willing to follow their system.
4. What kind of support does a franchisor give?
A good brand usually provides site selection help so you can find the right location, complete training for you and your team, a strong supply chain for raw materials and products at better prices, marketing support through national and local ads, ongoing help with operations and access to standard manuals and technology support such as billing systems and delivery platform integration.
5. How long does it take to open a franchise outlet?
The time to open a franchise can be anywhere between 2 to 9 months. The process includes applying, getting approval, signing the agreement, arranging money, finding the right location, building the outlet, hiring staff, training the team and finally opening the store. The store size and local government approvals can change the timeline.
6. Can I own more than one outlet of the same franchise?
Yes, many brands allow and even encourage people to open multiple outlets. Normally, you must first run one outlet successfully. Once you show good performance, the brand may allow you to open more locations and grow further with the top 10 restaurant chain in India.
7. What are the hidden costs I should take care of?
It is very important to carefully read the franchise disclosure document. Apart from the starting fee and setup cost, there are regular ongoing costs. These may include royalty fees, marketing fees and technology charges. You should also plan money for rent, electricity, water, staff salaries and emergency expenses. Most top 10 restaurant chain in India are clear and transparent about their fees.
