12 Best Food Franchise in India

Because there is more money and interest in different foods among Indians, the food franchise model is a lucrative option for entrepreneurs. According to predictions, the Indian foodservice market will grow at an impressive pace, leading to a huge increase from its current size by 2028. Population boom and rising demand for convenience in eating are mainly influencing the restaurant industry, especially the QSR segment, which will increase its CAGR by 9.36% from 2025 to 2030.

Expansion of the food sector is greatly helped by the franchise model, making up a big part of the organized food area. What attracts many are the proven ways to run the business, the well-known brand that supports it, and the extra help offered to new venture owners. Taking part in the food business is more than a job for most Indians; it’s a dream, and franchising helps turn this dream into a success.

Since people have busier schedules now and enjoy new things, more and more Indian consumers find comfort in branded restaurants that offer quality meals, cleanliness, and a familiar feeling each time they visit. Because people are eating more meals at reputable food franchises, it’s an ideal moment to look into investing in this field. With people using more food delivery services, the best food franchise in India can make more money and provide their products to customers who cannot come to their restaurants.

Market Overview

Most people notice that the Indian food franchise sector is full of both multinational and local companies. There are many market sections, including fast-food, QSRs, casual dining places, fine dining, cafes and bistros, and ice cream parlors. QSR stands out in the franchise market since its meals are cost-effective, served fast, and liked by young people as well as the working public.

The main reasons for market growth are urbanization, a large number of young people who like ready-made food outside, more women working, and the popularity of Western-style meals. Also, the rise of food delivery platforms on the internet has transformed the relationship restaurants have with consumers, giving franchises more money and helping them enter new markets, mainly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 areas.

Nevertheless, there are some issues that face the market. Among the problems faced by franchisees are high property rates, strong competition, how customers’ expectations change, and the constant requirement to provide quality at all locations. While facing some difficulties, the industry is still positive and has many possibilities for those who operate the right brand and manage their work properly.

Criteria for Ranking the Best Franchises

Deciding on the best food franchise in India relies on someone’s ability to invest, business skills, and what they are interested in. Still, to give the most balanced assessment, we have included objective criteria to rank the franchises: 

• Brand Strength and Reputation: The brand’s strength, popularity, and visibility in the Indian market.
• Investment Level: The total investment required to start the franchise: initial franchise fee, setup costs and working capital.
• Profitability and Return on Investment (ROI): Potential profit margins on investment and how long it typically takes to break even.
• Franchise Support and Training: The level of franchisor support on training, marketing, and operations.
• Product Innovation and Menu Offerings: The appeal of the menu, the variety of product offering, and the brand’s ability to innovate and change with the tastes of consumers.
• Market Presence and Growth: Number of existing outlets and expandability plans for the future.

Comparison Table

Franchise	Cuisine Type	Initial Investment	Profit Margin (Approx.)	Key Feature
KFC	Fast Food (Chicken)	₹1 Crore – ₹2.5 Crores	15-20%	Global Brand Recognition
Domino’s Pizza	Pizza	₹50 Lakhs – ₹1 Crore	8-15%	Market Leader, Strong Delivery
Subway	Sandwiches & Salads	₹60 Lakhs – ₹1.1 Crores	12-15%	Healthy Options, Lower Investment
Wow! Momo	Momos & Tibetan	₹25 Lakhs – ₹40 Lakhs	18-22%	Innovative Menu, Indian Brand
McDonald’s	Fast Food (Burgers)	₹6 Crores – ₹14 Crores	15-20%	Global Icon, High ROI
Burger King	Fast Food (Burgers)	₹2.5 Crores – ₹5 Crores	15-18%	Growing Brand, Flame-Grilled Burgers
Amul	Dairy & Ice Cream	₹2 Lakhs – ₹10 Lakhs	5-10% (on MRP)	Trusted Indian Brand, Low Investment
Giani’s Ice Cream	Ice Cream & Desserts	₹15 Lakhs – ₹30 Lakhs	20-25%	Legacy Brand, Traditional Flavors
Tibb’s Frankie	Indian Street Food	₹8 Lakhs – ₹12 Lakhs	25-30%	Popular Product, Low Investment
Kathi Junction	Indian Street Food	₹5 Lakhs – ₹15 Lakhs	25-35%	Low Investment, High Profit
The Belgian Waffle Co.	Waffles & Desserts	₹20 Lakhs – ₹35 Lakhs	30-40%	Trendy Concept, High Profit Margin
Chai Sutta Bar	Tea & Snacks	₹6 Lakhs – ₹10 Lakhs	35-45%	Low Investment, Youth Appeal

List of 12 Best Food Franchise in India

You will find here a selected list of 12 best food franchise in India for 2025, with different menus and funds required.

1.KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)

Yum! owns Kentucky Fried Chicken as one of its subsidiaries. Everyone recognizes Brands as a leader in fast food because of its renowned fried chicken. The company has made its menu in India interesting for customers, featuring dishes for vegetarians and its standard non-vegetarian choices. Because the brand is loved across the country, many people want to invest in its franchise.

KFC franchises enjoy the benefits of a well-known name, a tested business method, and strong marketing backing. The franchise gives in-depth training to its partners and their entire staff, so that they maintain the company’s quality and customer service.

By always finding new menu items and ways of advertising, the brand continues to attract a large customer following. It is the best food franchise in India. To open a KFC outlet, you need to invest a considerable amount of money, but what you earn is likely to be worth it because of the company’s strong reputation. As part of the franchise, franchisees are encouraged to start more than one outlet in the territory given to them.

• Franchise Models: Non-Traditional, Traditional, and Multi-unit ownership.
• Investment: ₹1 Crore – ₹2.5 Crores
• Profit Margins: Approximately 15-20%
• Key Highlights: Strong global brand, extensive menu with vegetarian options, robust marketing and operational support.
• Apply From Here: https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us

2. Domino’s Pizza

In India, Domino’s Pizza under Jubilant FoodWorks is the top choice when it comes to pizza. Domino’s success is due to its bold advertising, organized way of bringing food, and offers containing a mix of international dishes popular among Indians. Domino’s franchises are very profitable because the company’s brand is famous and customers remain loyal.

The firm assists its franchisees with choosing a location, designing their stores, preparing workers, and marketing activities. People love Domino’s because it promises one thing: 30 minutes or your pizza is free. Domino’s always finding new pizza, side, and dessert dishes to keep the menu fresh.

The amount you need to invest in a Domino’s franchise is high, yet sales and profits are big enough to make it worthwhile. Pizza Hut checks the background and passion for food of every potential franchisee before making its decision.

• Franchise Models: Traditional and Non-Traditional Stores.
• Investment: ₹50 Lakhs – ₹1 Crore
• Profit Margins: Around 8-15%
• Key Highlights: Market leader in the pizza segment, strong delivery network, excellent marketing and operational support.
• Apply From Here: https://www.jubilantfoodworks.com/contact/

3. Subway

The company is famous across the world for making submarine sandwiches along with the “Eat Fresh” and customizable food ideas. With an increasing number of people in India choosing healthy meals, this brand’s presence in the country is enormous. Since a Subway franchise costs less than other fast food chains, it is a good choice for people getting into business for the first time.

The idea is straightforward, stressing the usage of fresh food and fast serving. Franchisees at Subway are offered in-depth guidance and help, taking them through all stages of running a restaurant, servicing customers, and preparing the meals.

The menu suits everyone since it has a large selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. People in India are attracted to information about using healthy, fresh products. Subway’s small size enables it to fit well in popular shopping places, such as high streets, malls, and food courts.

• Franchise Models: Single and Multi-Unit Franchise.
• Investment: ₹60 Lakhs – ₹1.1 Crores
• Profit Margins: Approximately 12-15%
• Key Highlights: Global brand with a focus on healthy eating, lower investment compared to other QSRs, simple and efficient business model.
• Apply From Here: https://www.subwayfranchise.com/

4. Wow! Momo

Wow Momo! Has a wide range of innovative momos, Indian quick service restaurants now look different because of Momo. A tiny kiosk in Kolkata turned into a popular chain loved by people all across the country.

A Wow! Momo franchise makes it possible for people to take advantage of the great popularity of momos in India. Besides the common steamed momos, the menu allows people to try fried, pan-fried, and tandoori momos, plus momo burgers and desserts. It is the best food franchise in India. The company supports its franchisees all the way, offering help for setting up the site, building the store, providing training, and supporting marketing.

The exciting and youthful look of the Wow! brand Whether you are a family or a university student, Momo is appealing to you. Fast food chains are common in food courts, throughout the city, and at tech centers. What it costs to attend Wow! With distinct products and a loyal group of fans, the Momo franchise can earn good returns, although it is not very high risk.

• Franchise Models: Kiosk, Food Court, and High Street models.
• Investment: ₹25 Lakhs – ₹40 Lakhs
• Profit Margins: Around 18-22%
• Key Highlights: A leading brand in the momo segment, innovative and diverse menu, strong brand recognition, and a proven business model.
• Apply From Here: https://www.wowmomo.com/

5. McDonald’s

McDonald’s operates all over the world and has made its mark in the Indian food market. In India, two master franchisees, CPRL (North and East) and Westlife (West and South), look after the operations of the brand. The franchise belongs to the prestigious category, highly pays back what you put in, but the process of selection is strict.

Many people recognize the brand for operating efficiently, maintaining a high level of consistency, and using Indian-style dishes that suit the country’s preferences. The company gives its franchisees top-quality training and assistance to guarantee that each store follows McDonald’s global standards. Due to their unforgettable marketing messages, McDonald’s draws both existing and new customers to the restaurant.

A McDonald’s franchise is a reliable investment that promises a constant and good profit. The company prefers franchisees who have plenty of experience in business and can afford to open more than one restaurant.

• Franchise Models: Traditional Restaurant, Satellite Location, and Business Facility Lease.
• Investment: ₹6 Crores – ₹14 Crores
• Profit Margins: Approximately 15-20%
• Key Highlights: One of the most recognized brands globally, a highly efficient operational system, extensive marketing support, and a proven track record of profitability.
• Apply From Here:

6. Burger King

With its fast expansion, Burger King is turning into a leading fast-food chain in India. The brand is well known for its flame-grilled burgers and the menu has choices for everyone, vegetarians and meat lovers. Running a Burger King franchise gives people the possibility of working with an expanding international business.

The company offers its franchisees guidance on picking a location, building the restaurant, teaching them, and advertising. Indian consumers, and in particular the youth, have liked Burger King’s distinctive marketing efforts and its offerings that are good value for their money. Shops by this brand are set up in airports, malls, and high streets.

There is a high initial cost for a Burger King franchise, but because of how well-known the brand is and the increasing number of buyers, the return on investment can be good. The firm tries to find franchisees who are good at business and can support the development of several branches.

• Franchise Models: Individual and Multi-Unit Franchise Agreements.
• Investment: ₹2.5 Crores – ₹5 Crores
• Profit Margins: Around 15-18%
• Key Highlights: A rapidly growing global brand, famous for its flame-grilled burgers, strong marketing support, and a diverse menu.
• Apply From Here: https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-process

7. Amul

Many people in India know the brand Amul as one of the most reputable and recognized businesses. New entrepreneurs can find a great business opportunity in an Amul franchise since it is cost-effective and has good returns.

There are three options available from the brand, such as Amul Preferred Outlets, Amul Scooping Parlours, and Amul Kiosks, depending on how much investment and space applicants can provide. Amul provides a lot of support to its franchisees by offering help with branding, equipment, products, and marketing. It is the best food franchise in India.

Customers keep coming back to Amul outlets because the business offers a large range of milk, dairy, desserts, beverages, and snacks. Many customers visit the brand because it is known for top quality and low prices. In addition, providing business opportunities on a royalty-free basis attracts many investors. Amul is a safe business to start since it gives a quick payoff.

• Franchise Models: Amul Preferred Outlet, Amul Scooping Parlour, Amul Kiosk.
• Investment: ₹2 Lakhs – ₹10 Lakhs
• Profit Margins: 5-10% on MRP of products.
• Key Highlights: A highly trusted Indian brand, low investment, no royalty fees, a wide range of products, and strong brand support.
• Apply From Here: https://amul.com/m/amul-parlour

8. Giani’s Ice Cream

Giani’s is a famous ice cream brand hailing from Delhi, primarily focusing on deliciously rich and creamy traditional Indian and classic ice creams, faloodas, and shakes. Opening a Giani’s franchise means you are part of a legacy brand and established customer base. The brand promises expansion plans to grow across India and to support the franchisee in piloting a sweet (and profitable) brand. Giani’s also offers tremendous support for their franchisees, helping with initial site selection, store set up, training of staff, and marketing of the store.

The brand also promotes a diverse menu that creates delicious and memorable experiences that appeal to traditional Indian flavours, as well as contemporary additions to the ice cream family, thus providing additional business opportunities for the franchisee.   The right franchisee can help promote key brand values such as quality and natural ingredients, which all rely on staying true to their respective childhood experiences when associating dessert, ice cream and pleasure. 

With a moderate investment of capital, the franchisee can make good profits in high foot patrolled locations such as markets or large residential neighbourhoods. This franchise is appropriate for those that like to enjoy running a fun and rewarding business that will satisfy their passion for desserts.

• Franchise Models: Kiosk and Parlour models.⁴⁸
• Investment: ₹15 Lakhs – ₹30 Lakhs
• Profit Margins: Approximately 20-25%
• Key Highlights: A legacy ice cream brand with a strong following, a diverse menu of traditional and modern desserts, and a profitable business model.
• Apply From Here: https://www.gianisicecream.com/franchisee/

9. Tibb’s Frankie

Tibb’s Frankie helped launch the Indian QSR scene by bringing the famous Frankie to customers. The brand offers its food all around the country and is loved by those who want a quick, tasty, and satisfying snack. The Tibb’s Frankie franchise is popular for offering a quick return and requires minimal effort to manage because its food is easy and follows the same recipe.

Being small, a Tibb’s Frankie outlet can be set up in many places, including malls, train stations, and areas where there is a lot of foot traffic. It is the best food franchise in India. Because the brand is easy to remember and costs less, it records high sales. Tibb’s Frankie is perfect for anyone interested in running a food business that is both profitable and not too difficult to operate.

• Franchise Models: Kiosk and small outlet models.
• Investment: ₹8 Lakhs – ₹12 Lakhs
• Profit Margins: Around 25-30%
• Key Highlights: A well-established brand with a popular product, low investment, simple operations, and high profitability.
• Apply From Here: https://tibbsfrankie.com/be-our-partner/

10. Kathi Junction

Kathi Junction is gaining popularity for its many Kathi Roll dishes, which are very popular on the streets of India. Customers from many walks of life can enjoy both excellent food and low prices at this brand. A Kathi Junction franchise is an affordable business with the chance to make good profits.

It gives all the necessary assistance to its franchisees, from starting the business to training its employees and providing marketing help. The menu has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian sushi rolls, making sure all customers are happy.

Due to its effort to use tasty and hygienic ingredients, the brand is well liked by many. It is an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs who would like to join the street food segment with a familiar and well-organized business. The model for franchises allows businesses to make profits and operate easily.

• Franchise Models: Food Court, Takeaway, and Small Restaurant models.
• Investment: ₹5 Lakhs – ₹15 Lakhs
• Profit Margins: Approximately 25-35%
• Key Highlights: A popular brand in the Kathi Roll segment, low investment, high-profit margins, and strong franchisor support.
• Apply From Here: https://www.kathijunction.com/

11. The Belgian Waffle Co.

The Belgian Waffle Co. has captured the attention of Indian dessert lovers with its great-tasting and new flavors of waffles. Because of its many sweet and savory options, plus pancakes and beverages, many dessert lovers choose the brand.

The trending Belgian Waffle Co. business gives entrepreneurs the chance to make money by meeting the demand for dessert specialties. The company takes care of all aspects for their franchise businesses, for example, planning outlets, picking the right equipment, training, and marketing. It is the best food franchise in India.

The lively and up-to-date style of the stores makes them welcoming for people who visit. The list of choices keeps growing and changing with new flavors to attract guests. An investment in a Belgian Waffle Co. franchise is considered low while the chances of profit are very good in areas with more young people and city settings. Because small outlets are easy to manage, they are suitable for entrepreneurs.

• Franchise Models: Kiosk and Café models.
• Investment: ₹20 Lakhs – ₹35 Lakhs
• Profit Margins: Around 30-40%
• Key Highlights: A leading brand in the waffle segment, innovative and trendy menu, strong brand appeal among the youth, and high-profit margins.
• Apply From Here: https://thebelgianwaffle.co/food-franchise/franchiseapplication/

12. Chai Sutta Bar

Chai Sutta Bar is becoming very popular and is building a fast-growing reputation as it offers a modern, slightly different version of Indian tea. People can have a good time and enjoy various drinks and snacks at this casual space the brand has made.

The model of a Chai Sutta Bar is an inexpensive and popular choice for most people, particularly the young. It is the best food franchise in India. The company takes care of everything needed by its franchisees, starting from opening their outlets and teaching employees through promoting and delivering products.

Because Chai Sutta Bar franchise outlets are so lively and charming, many people come to hang out there. The fact that the brand offers great service and low prices has made it very successful. Anyone who’s young and eager to contribute to a fast-growing brand can join the company as a franchise holder. The franchise system is made to provide benefits fast and sustain them in the future.

• Franchise Models: Kiosk and Café models.
• Investment: ₹6 Lakhs – ₹10 Lakhs
• Profit Margins: Approximately 35-45%
• Key Highlights: A rapidly growing tea franchise, low investment, high-profit margins, strong brand appeal among the youth, and a proven business model.
• Apply From Here: https://www.chaisuttabarindia.com/enquire-franchise/

How to Choose the Right Franchise

Selecting a food franchise is a critical choice that could impact your future as a business owner. Here are some steps to help make that choice less frustrating:

• Self-Assessment: Consider who you are. Before you start looking for franchises, take a close look at your own skills, interests and financial capacity. Do you have a passion for food? Do you have any management experience? What would you like to invest in?
• Research: After you have a better understanding of yourself – research some franchise opportunities. Look beyond the “big names” and the more concerning option of boutique brands that have the opportunity for greater growth.
• Review the Franchise Disclosure Document: The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) provides important information that could help you decide if it is worth investing your time and money. This document lays out the opportunity in great detail and can save you lots of time and headache as a potential franchisee and future business owner. Pay particular attention to investment costs, royalty fees, contributions for marketing and what you and the franchisor’s basic rights and obligations are.
• Talk to Franchisees: Speaking with existing franchisees is typically the best option if you want to receive an unbiased account of the franchise. Find out what type of experience franchisees have had with the franchisor, the type of support that the franchisor provides to them, etc. Ask franchisees if they are profitable or could they have done better as an independent operator.
• Assess the Training and Support: A solid franchisor provides initial training and support to their franchisees. Assess the quality of the training and the extent of it as well as the ongoing support offered in areas such as marketing, operations, and technology.
• Analyze the Local Market: Your franchise success depends on the local market. Examine the demographics, competition, and preferences of consumers in their target market to confirm that there is viable demand for the franchise they are considering.

Conclusion

There are lots of chances for those interested in starting a business in India’s booming franchise market. While the food sector is a top choice, with options from low-priced businesses to high-priced international chains, other rapidly growing sectors like the Courier Franchise in India also present excellent opportunities. Regardless of the industry, making a franchise business successful means doing more than investing your money. You should do detailed research, care about your chosen field, and ensure you help your customers in the best way possible.

If you pick the right and best food franchise in India, benefit from the franchisor’s support, and market well locally, your food franchise business in India will bring you success and be very rewarding. You can use the brands and ideas shared in this article to help you start as an entrepreneur. The most important thing is to start, using the knowledge you have and a clear picture of your future in food.

FAQs

Which is the food franchise that brings the most profit to its owners in India?

Profit from a food franchise depends mostly on investment, place of operation, and business operations.

What is the least expensive franchise for food in India?

For as little money as ₹2-5 Lakhs, people can open an Amul or Kathi Junction food franchise in India.

Is it necessary to have experience in the food or restaurant service before signing a franchise?

You can be a good fit for this career even if you do not have experience. Most franchisors offer their franchisees specialized training that covers everything in running the business.

How quickly can you get your money back from running a food franchise?

How much money you earn within a certain period is influenced by the franchise and its success. Average food franchises in India need around 2-4 years before they start making profits.