The Indian food industry is witnessing a massive transformation. As we move further into 2026, the demand for hygienic, branded, and high-quality vegetarian food is at an all-time high. For entrepreneurs and investors, this shift presents a golden opportunity to enter the market. Starting a business from scratch can be risky, which is why many are turning toward the proven model of a veg restaurant franchise.
India has the largest population of vegetarians in the world. Even non-vegetarians in India consume vegetarian meals several days a week due to cultural or religious reasons. This consistency in demand makes owning a veg restaurant franchise a safer bet compared to other culinary ventures. Whether you are looking for a quick-service model or a fine-dining experience, the market is full of lucrative opportunities.
In this guide, we will explore the top 11 brands that are dominating the sector. We will also discuss why investing in a veg restaurant franchise is a smart financial move and answer common questions to help you get started.
Why Invest in a Veg Restaurant Franchise in India?
Before we look at the specific brands, it is important to understand why this specific sector is booming. The concept of franchising allows you to ride on the success of an established name. You do not have to spend years building a reputation because the brand has already done that for you.
When you invest in a veg restaurant franchise, you get access to standard operating procedures, staff training, and marketing support. This drastically reduces the failure rate that is often associated with independent startups. Furthermore, the vegetarian demographic in India is not just large; it is affluent and willing to pay for quality. The trend of “pure veg” restaurants is growing in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities as well, expanding the scope of your business.
Choosing the right veg restaurant franchise depends on your budget, preferred location, and the type of food you want to serve. Let us look at the best options available in 2026.
Also Read: How Many Licenses Required for Restaurant Business? Beginner’s Guide
1. Haldiram’s
Haldiram’s is arguably the biggest name when it comes to traditional Indian food and sweets. Originating from Bikaner, this brand has become a household name globally. It is not just a sweet shop anymore; it is a full-fledged dining experience. Investing in a Haldiram’s veg restaurant franchise is considered a premium opportunity because of the immense brand recall.
They offer a vast menu that covers North Indian thalis, street food like raj kachori, and South Indian snacks. The company is very particular about quality and hygiene, which ensures loyal customers. While the investment is on the higher side, the returns are substantial because the footfall is almost guaranteed from day one.
Estimated Investment: INR 3 Crores – 5 Crores
Space Required: 2000 – 5000 sq. ft.
2. Sagar Ratna
If you are thinking about South Indian cuisine in North India, Sagar Ratna is likely the first name that comes to mind. Founded in 1986, it has successfully bridged the gap between authentic southern flavors and northern palates. A Sagar Ratna veg restaurant franchise is perfect for those who want to serve healthy, fermented foods like dosas and idlis which are popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The brand has a very strong supply chain network, ensuring that the raw materials used in your outlet match their high standards. They provide extensive training to the chefs, which is crucial for maintaining the authentic taste of their sambar and chutneys.
Estimated Investment: INR 1 Crore – 2 Crores
Space Required: 1500 – 2500 sq. ft.
3. Bikanervala
Similar to Haldiram’s, Bikanervala combines the concept of a sweet shop with a multi-cuisine restaurant. They are famous for their hygienic approach to traditional Indian street food. Taking up a Bikanervala veg restaurant franchise allows you to cater to families who want a clean place to enjoy chaat, chole bhature, and heavy thalis.
They have a very structured franchise model. The support team helps with site selection, interior design that matches their global standard, and marketing strategies. This is a high-revenue model because they also sell packaged snacks and sweets, adding an extra income stream beyond the dine-in sales.
Estimated Investment: INR 2 Crores – 4 Crores
Space Required: 1200 – 3000 sq. ft.
4. Jumboking
Not every franchise needs crores of investment. Jumboking is an excellent example of a low-cost, high-return business model. They positioned themselves as the “Burger of India” by revolutionizing the humble Vada Pav. If you are looking for a quick-service veg restaurant franchise that requires less space and manpower, this is a top contender.
Jumboking focuses on speed and standardization. Their menu is limited but highly optimized for fast sales. This makes it perfect for high-traffic areas like metro stations, bus stands, and busy markets. The operational complexity is low, making it a great entry point for first-time business owners.
Estimated Investment: INR 20 Lakhs – 30 Lakhs
Space Required: 200 – 500 sq. ft.
5. Saravana Bhavan
Saravana Bhavan is not just a restaurant; it is a global ambassador for Indian vegetarian cuisine. With outlets across the world, holding a franchise of this brand carries a lot of prestige. A Saravana Bhavan veg restaurant franchise is ideal for investors who have access to prime real estate and want to run a high-volume business.
They are known for their strict adherence to traditional recipes. The brand demands high operational excellence, so they provide detailed manuals and training. The menu is vast, covering everything from filter coffee to complex thalis, ensuring customers come in throughout the day.
Estimated Investment: INR 2 Crores – 3 Crores
Space Required: 2000 – 4000 sq. ft.
Also Read: Top 20 Must-Have Items in Your Restaurant Crockery List
6. Kailash Parbat
Kailash Parbat has a rich history dating back to the 1950s. They are famous for their Sindhi heritage and incredible street food. Over the years, they have evolved into a casual dining restaurant chain that serves Chinese, North Indian, and Fusion food. Opting for a Kailash Parbat veg restaurant franchise gives you a menu that appeals to the youth and the elderly alike.
Their “pani puri” is legendary, and they have successfully monetized this reputation. The brand offers strong operational support and helps franchisees manage food costs effectively. They have a flexible model that can fit into malls or high-street locations.
Estimated Investment: INR 1 Crore – 1.5 Crores
Space Required: 1000 – 2000 sq. ft.
7. Rajdhani Thali Restaurant
Khandani Rajdhani is famous as the “King of Thalis.” This is a specialized dining concept that focuses on Gujarati and Rajasthani cuisine. A Rajdhani veg restaurant franchise is unique because there is no à la carte menu; they serve a rotational thali menu. This simplifies inventory management significantly compared to other restaurants.
The service style here is a key selling point. Waiters use sign language to communicate, and the hospitality is overwhelming. If you want to offer a cultural experience rather than just food, this is the right veg restaurant franchise for you. The fixed menu also means less food waste and better control over profits.
Estimated Investment: INR 1.5 Crores – 2.5 Crores
Space Required: 1500 – 3000 sq. ft.
8. Cream Centre
Cream Centre is a legacy brand that has been around for decades. It is widely known for its “World’s Best Nachos” and “Original Channa Bhatura.” This brand bridges the gap between traditional Indian tastes and western comfort food. A Cream Centre veg restaurant franchise is a great choice for malls and premium high-street locations where people look for comfort dining.
They attract a younger crowd as well as families. The interior decor is usually modern and upscale. As a franchisee, you benefit from their constant innovation in the menu, which keeps customers coming back to try new dishes.
Estimated Investment: INR 1.5 Crores – 2.5 Crores
Space Required: 1500 – 2500 sq. ft.
9. Sankalp
Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Sankalp is a giant in the South Indian cuisine sector. They hold a Guinness World Record for making the longest dosa. A Sankalp veg restaurant franchise is a highly systematic business. They have a strong presence in Gujarat and are expanding rapidly across India and abroad.
They produce their own batters and masalas in a central factory, which ensures that the taste of the food remains consistent regardless of the chef in the kitchen. This reduces the dependency on skilled labor, which is a major advantage in the restaurant industry.
Estimated Investment: INR 50 Lakhs – 1 Crore
Space Required: 1000 – 2000 sq. ft.
10. Little Italy
Who said vegetarian food has to be only Indian? Little Italy is India’s largest vegetarian Italian restaurant chain. This is a premium dining concept. A Little Italy veg restaurant franchise is perfect for cosmopolitan cities where people enjoy authentic pizzas, pastas, and Mexican dishes without meat.
This franchise allows you to tap into the niche market of vegetarians who crave international flavors but are hesitant to eat at places that also serve meat. The brand provides excellent support in terms of importing ingredients and training chefs in Italian cooking techniques.
Estimated Investment: INR 1 Crore – 2 Crores
Space Required: 1500 – 2500 sq. ft.
11. Shree Rathnam
Shree Rathnam is a rapidly growing chain that focuses on South Indian food, similar to Sagar Ratna. They offer a more budget-friendly model for investors. A Shree Rathnam veg restaurant franchise is gaining popularity in North India because of its delicious food and reasonable pricing.
They have smaller format options which lower the rent and operational costs. For an investor looking for a steady income with a moderate investment, this brand serves as an excellent entry point into the hospitality world.
Estimated Investment: INR 40 Lakhs – 80 Lakhs
Space Required: 800 – 1500 sq. ft.
Also Read: Is Restaurant Business Profitable in India? Complete Guide 2026
Steps to Acquire a Veg Restaurant Franchise
Getting a franchise is not just about paying the fee. You need to follow a process to ensure you are legally and operationally ready.
First, you must conduct thorough market research. Visit existing outlets of the brand you are interested in. Talk to current franchise owners to understand the real challenges. Once you have selected a brand, submit an inquiry through their official website.
Next, you will have a meeting with the brand development team. They will evaluate your financial capability and your proposed location. Location is critical for a veg restaurant franchise; a bad location can sink even the best brand. Once the location is approved, you will sign the franchise agreement and pay the franchise fee. After this, the fit-out process and staff training begin.
Conclusion
The food industry in India is resilient, and the demand for quality vegetarian food will continues to rise in 2026. Investing in a veg restaurant franchise offers a secure pathway to entrepreneurship. You get the dual benefit of a proven business model and the freedom of running your own outlet. Whether you choose a giant like Haldiram’s or a niche player like Little Italy, success depends on your dedication to quality and customer service.
If you are ready to take the plunge, start by shortlisting the brands that fit your budget. Do not wait for the perfect moment, as prime locations are getting booked fast. Reach out to a franchise consultant or the brand directly today and take the first step toward building your culinary legacy.
FAQs
1. What is the average cost of a veg restaurant franchise in India?
The cost varies greatly depending on the brand. A small quick-service model like Jumboking may cost around INR 20 Lakhs, while a premium fine-dining outlet like Haldiram’s or Bikanervala can go up to INR 4 Crores or more. You must also factor in working capital for the first few months.
2. Is a veg restaurant franchise profitable in 2026?
Yes, it is highly profitable. With the growing trend of health consciousness and ethical eating, more people are preferring vegetarian food. A branded franchise ensures higher footfall compared to a new unbranded restaurant, leading to faster break-even and better profit margins.
3. Do I need prior experience to run a veg restaurant franchise?
No, prior experience is not mandatory for most brands. The main advantage of a franchise is the training support. The parent company will train you and your staff on how to manage operations, cook the food, and handle accounts. However, having basic business management skills is always helpful.
4. How long does it take to open a franchise outlet?
Typically, it takes between 2 to 6 months from the time you sign the agreement to the grand opening. This time is spent on interior design, obtaining necessary licenses (like FSSAI, trade license, fire safety), and training the staff.
5. What kind of support does the brand provide?
Most brands provide 360-degree support. This includes site selection assistance, architectural layout, staff recruitment and training, supply chain management for raw materials, and national-level marketing. Some brands also provide a dedicated area manager to help with day-to-day operational issues.
6. Can I change the menu in my franchise outlet?
Generally, no. A veg restaurant franchise relies on standardization. Customers visit the brand expecting a specific taste and menu. You have to follow the menu set by the parent company. However, some brands might allow regional variations or seasonal specials with prior approval.
7. What is the royalty fee?
The royalty fee is a recurring payment you make to the brand for using their name and support. It is usually a percentage of your monthly gross sales, typically ranging from 4% to 8%. Some brands may charge a fixed monthly amount instead of a percentage.
8. Is it better to start my own brand or buy a veg restaurant franchise?
If you are new to the food business, buying a franchise is statistically safer. Building a brand from scratch requires immense effort in marketing, recipe development, and trust-building. A franchise reduces these risks, allowing you to focus on operations and sales.
9. How do I choose the best location for my franchise?
High visibility and high footfall are key. For a fine-dining veg restaurant franchise, look for family-centric high streets or premium malls. For quick-service restaurants, look for locations near colleges, offices, or transport hubs. The brand’s team will usually help you validate the potential of a location.
10. What are the legal requirements for opening a restaurant franchise?
You will need several licenses, including GST registration, FSSAI food license, Shop and Establishment Act registration, Fire NOC, and a trade license from the local municipality. The franchise brand usually guides you on which documents are required for your specific city.
