The Indian food industry is growing fast, with trending profitable food franchise opportunities. With a diverse consumer base, rising disposable incomes, and urban migration, the fast food sector is expanding at a CAGR of over 10%, making it one of the most beneficial segments in the food and beverage industry.
The food service market in India is set to grow from USD 85.19 billion in 2025 to USD 139.75 billion by 2030, driven by international brands like McDonald’s and KFC and domestic leaders like Haldiram’s and Wow! Momo. The Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market, valued at USD 25.46 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 38.71 billion by 2029.
This article lists the 15 best food franchise in India, helping investors choose profitable opportunities, including fast food franchises and low-cost franchises business under 5lakh to10 lakhs. Whether looking for high-growth brands or affordable options, this guide provides key insights for making wise investment decisions.
Factors Contributing to the Success of Food Franchises in India
- Growing Fast Food Culture: The combination of Western dietary customs and quick lifestyles created a growing market for fast food franchises in India. The population favors eating meals that are both quick to prepare and convenient to enjoy as well as delectable.
- Brand Recognition & Trust: Founded brands maintain a dedicated fan base which enhances their status as secure business ventures. The best food franchises in India for investment reach multiple cities throughout the nation.
- Affordable Investment Options: Food franchise opportunities exist at every budget level for investors. Business owners can invest in food franchises starting under 5 lakhs in India or select premium franchises that require more substantial financial commitments.
- High-Profit Margins: The food franchises that deliver the highest profit margins in India provide exceptional revenue streams with reduced risks. Fast food companies maintain extensive customer demand which leads to high sales numbers.
- Diverse Cuisine Preferences: Indian consumers show strong interest in consuming a wide range of culinary dishes. The market welcomes every type of food which includes pizzas and burgers alongside biryanis and momos.
- Support from Franchise Owners: The franchise owner networks of established food business franchises offer training and operational support in addition to marketing services which enables new franchisees to succeed.
List of 14 Best Food Franchise in India to Invest
1. McDonald’s
- Founder: Richard & Maurice McDonald
- Founded In: 1940
- No. of Outlets in India: 600+
- Franchise Model: Master Franchise
- Investment: ₹6-14 Cr
- Profit Margin: 15-20%
- Rating: 4.9/5
McDonald’s operates as the planet’s top fast food franchise throughout India where customers enjoy their famous burgers alongside fries along with drinks. With a strong brand reputation and widespread presence, McDonald’s attracts huge customer footfall. The McDonald’s franchise in India achieved great financial success throughout India because of its well-organized operating model combined with its creative menu offerings alongside its powerful promotional approaches. Franchise investors choose McDonald’s because of its reasonable pricing along with its dependable performance standards. The company continues to expand its vegetarian offerings which have been specially designed for the Indian market to attract more customers.
2. Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)
- Founder: Colonel Harland Sanders
- Founded In: 1952
- No. of Outlets in India: 500+
- Franchise Model: Master Franchise
- Investment: ₹1-3 Cr
- Profit Margin: 20-25%
- Rating: 4.6/5
The food franchise KFC maintains high success rates in India through its offerings of crispy chicken alongside burgers and wraps. KFC maintains high popularity levels mainly through its non-vegetarian customer base. KFC maintains quality standards throughout all its outlets through its established supply chain network which operates globally. The best food franchise in India to invest in because of its high profits and increasing consumer interest. KFC introduces plant-based chicken as part of its innovative product range to serve a wide range of consumers.
3. Burger King
- Founder: James McLamore & David Edgerton
- Founded In: 1954
- No. of Outlets in India: 300+
- Franchise Model: Master Franchise
- Investment: ₹2-5 Cr
- Profit Margin: 15-22%
- Rating: 4.8/5
As a prominent fast food franchise in India Burger King delivers flame-grilled burgers with crispy fries and beverages to its customers. McDonald’s confronts fierce competition in the Indian market where Burger King has built an influential business presence through affordable premium-quality food. The brand has achieved significant growth in Indian metro areas before moving into towns of smaller size. Burger King franchise in India maintains its status as the best Restaurant franchise opportunities to invest because of its distinctive flame-grilled flavor and its tailored menu which guarantees dependable investor returns.
4. Haldiram’s Franchise
- Founder: Shivkisan Agrawal
- Founded In: 1937
- No. of Outlets in India: 150+
- Franchise Model: FOCO & FOFO
- Investment: ₹30-50 Lakh
- Profit Margin: 20-30%
- Rating: 4.7/5
Haldiram’s franchise in India stands as one of the longest-established trusted food franchise companies operating across India. The business is well-known for manufacturing traditional Indian snacks along with its range of sweets while offering complete restaurant dining services. Haldiram’s maintains a devoted customer network alongside elevated product demand which enabled the company to achieve international and domestic business success. The Food Franchise in India represents the perfect chance for investors wanting to support an Indian brand while gaining from its respected brand reputation. Through franchising businesses gain exceptional profits together with assured customer visits.
5. Pizza Hut
- Founder: Dan & Frank Carney
- Founded In: 1958
- No. of Outlets in India: 450+
- Franchise Model: Master Franchise
- Investment: ₹1.5-3 Cr
- Profit Margin: 18-22%
- Rating: 4.7/5
Pizza Hut stands as an Indian leader in pizza franchises offering customers delicious pan pizzas with pasta and side dishes. Pizza lovers consistently select this brand among its competitors because of its strong market position. The brand positions itself at the top through its superior product quality and restaurant dining concept and diverse crust selections. The home delivery system at this business extends its operational scope. Pizza Hut franchise in India operates as the most profitable food franchise in India which presents investors with the chance to join a globally famous brand that delivers promising sales figures.
6. Tibbs Frankie
- Founder: Amarjit Singh Tibb
- Founded In: 1969
- No. of Outlets in India: 300+
- Franchise Model: FOFO
- Investment: ₹5-10 Lakh
- Profit Margin: 25-30%
- Rating: 4.8/5
The Indian food franchise Tibbs Frankie operates under 10 lakhs budget in India as it produces rolls and wraps with Indian flavors. The brand offers an attractive price point for small investors who value its widespread recognition and it continues to be a favorite among this segment of franchise owners. The brand operates throughout multiple cities by providing quick foods which serve working professionals and students. Tibbs Frankie maintains a reputation for tasty fillings and economical prices so entrepreneurs with limited budgets can make it their best food franchise in India to invest.
7. Biryani Corner
- Founder: Mahesh Talim
- Founded In: 2010
- No. of Outlets in India: 100+
- Franchise Model: FOFO
- Investment: ₹10-20 Lakh
- Profit Margin: 20-25%
- Rating: 4.2/5
Biryani Corner functions as an expanding food franchise business which serves authentic biryani culinary creations in numerous versions. Biryani Corner established its business at the right time to capitalize on the rapidly growing manufacturer demand for this popular traditional Indian dish. Customers prefer Biryani Corner because it provides high-quality ingredients combined with traditional recipes together with quick service methods. A moderate investment at the franchise level leads to rewarding returns to investors. Biryani Corner stands as one of the most profitable food franchise in India because of the rising interest in regional food offerings.
8. Kathi Junction
- Founder: Navneet Sajwan
- Founded In: 2009
- No. of Outlets in India: 150+
- Franchise Model: FOFO
- Investment: ₹5-10 Lakh
- Profit Margin: 20-25%
- Rating: 4.2/5
As a leading fast food chain in India Kathi Junction delivers fresh wraps and rolls with kebabs to its numerous customers nationwide. The restaurant found widespread success because consumers enjoy its special tastes and budget-friendly prices together with its rapid service delivery. The brand’s low-cost investment model makes it an attractive food franchise under 5 lakhs in India.. The growth in urban customers’ taste for street foods has made Kathi Junction a lucrative business opportunity. First-time entrepreneurs should consider putting their money into this opportunity because it has a straightforward business structure along with strong consumer interest.
9. Wow! Momo
- Founder: Sagar Daryani & Binod Homagai
- Founded In: 2008
- No. of Outlets in India: 600+
- Franchise Model: FOCO & FOFO
- Investment: ₹15-25 Lakhs
- Profit Margin: 15-20%
- Rating: 4.8/5
Wow! As India’s biggest momo chain Momo operates through a network that specializes in creative products such as tandoori fusion momos and chocolate-filled momos along with pan-fried stuffed momos. The quick-paced expansion of this business into major locations such as malls as well as metro stations together with high streets makes it a best food franchise in India to invest. The entire youth demographic along with working professionals adore this brand. Wow Momo’s franchise in India fundamental marketing approaches combined with economic prices and strong customer loyalty enable it to produce the highest profits among India’s food franchises thus ensuring continuous revenue increase.
10. Subway
- Founder: Fred DeLuca & Peter Buck
- Founded In: 1965
- No. of Outlets in India: 700+
- Franchise Model: FOFO
- Investment: ₹70 Lakh-1 Cr
- Profit Margin: 15-20%
- Rating: 4.7/5
The internationally known food franchise business Subway provides fresh nutritious sandwiches salads along with wraps to its customers. The fast food restaurant attracts health-focused individuals who seek quick healthy meals. Subway offers franchise systems adaptable to investor needs which makes it an attractive Food Franchise in India. Subway franchise in India continues to receive strong customer loyalty because of its rising demand for better fast food choices. This franchise combines small initial costs with substantial returns because it produces high-profit items alongside a recognizable brand.
11. Domino’s Pizza
- Founder: Tom Monaghan & James Monaghan
- Founded In: 1960
- No. of Outlets in India: 1,500+
- Franchise Model: Master Franchise (Jubilant FoodWorks)
- Investment: ₹50 Lakh-3 Cr
- Profit Margin: 18-25%
- Market Demand: Very High
- Rating: 4.9/5
Domino’s Pizza operates more than 350 cities across India where it runs its most successful pizza delivery chain. The food franchise holds the top position in terms of profitability within India yet remains well-known for delivering rapid service at reasonable costs and accessible deals. The solid connection between Domino’s online platform and distribution mechanism allows the company to collect substantial sales numbers. Dominos Pizza has gained additional strength through both its creative product line and its customized regional products. With excellent brand value and customer trust, Domino’s remains a top choice for Best Food Franchise in India.
12. Barbeque Nation
- Founder: Sajid Dhanani
- Founded In: 2006
- No. of Outlets in India: 150+
- Franchise Model: FOCO
- Investment: ₹2-6 Cr
- Profit Margin: 15-20%
- Rating: 4.9/5
Barbeque Nation is a premium food franchise business offering a unique live-grill dining experience. It is a preferred choice for family gatherings, corporate events, and special occasions. The brand is known for its high-quality food, unlimited buffet concept, and excellent customer service. With a strong presence in metro cities and a growing expansion plan, Barbeque Nation offers high-profit margins. Its brand loyalty and upscale dining experience make it one of the best food franchise in India to invest.
13. Bikanervala
- Founder: Kedarnath Aggarwal
- Founded In: 1950
- No. of Outlets in India: 100+
- Franchise Model: FOCO & FOFO
- Investment: ₹1-3 Cr
- Profit Margin: 20-30%
- Rating: 4.8/5
Bikanervala provides an established franchise opportunity that offers a wide selection of Indian sweets and snacks along with complete meal options. Bikanervala has built a wide presence in India and abroad by serving customers who seek conventional Indian cuisine. Bikanervala maintains a devoted customer following which solidifies its position as India’s most profitable food franchise business. The brand continues to grow because it maintains emphasis on hygiene standards and authentic products and innovative practices. The food franchise presents an excellent financial opportunity to anyone who wants to join the Indian food market with an established brand name.
14. Belgian Waffles
- Founder: Shrey Aggarwal
- Founded In: 2015
- No. of Outlets in India: 250+
- Franchise Model: FOFO
- Investment: ₹10-20 Lakh
- Profit Margin: 25-30%
- Rating: 4.3/5
Belgian Waffles operates as one of the fastest-expanding dessert chains across India. The business produces its waffles daily and offers multiple filling and topping selections for customers. The brand attracts both young consumers and enthusiasts of desserts. Belgian Waffles franchise in India operates as an affordable food franchise under 10 lakhs in India which delivers quick service using innovative flavors to generate substantial returns. This business opportunity attracts investors because of its minimal operational costs together with significant market demand.
How to Choose the Right Food Franchise in India to Invest
- Budget & Investment: Evaluate your financial capability by setting your investment limit between a food franchise under 5 lakhs in India and higher options. Every prospective franchise owner needs to calculate their expenses for the franchise fees alongside building infrastructure while covering the operational costs.
- Market Demand: Select a brand that attracts many consumers in the area where you want to operate. The best food franchises in India maintain a loyal group of customers.
- Brand Reputation: Establish your business with well-known brands which have developed a strong customer base. A franchise operating in India provides its customers with dependable support structures and well-tested business strategies.
- Profit Margins:Fast food franchises in India feature varying profit margins between different brands. Investors should examine how much profit comes from each sale before making their investment decisions.
- Support & Training: Choose franchises which offer marketing support operational guidance and training programs to their partners.
- Legal & Contractual Terms: Review every clause of your franchise agreement together with royalty fees and contractual obligations before making a signature.
Conclusion
Food franchise investments present a promising business opportunity as India expands its food industry sector. The Indian market offers several franchise choices between fast food outlets and traditional Indian cuisine businesses. Various domestic and global brands appear in this list of food franchises which show promising success potential for investment opportunities in India. You can make an investment that leads to profits by analyzing all aspects of your investment combined with market demand and brand reputation.
The food franchise in India, industry offers investments at different levels from low-cost options under 5 lakhs in India to premium brands that require larger capital. The current moment represents an ideal opportunity to start food franchises for anyone interested in this business sector.
FAQs
What is the most lucrative food franchise business in the Indian market?
McDonald’s, KFC, Domino’s Pizza, and Wow! The food franchise Momo maintains a strong position among the most lucrative chains in India.
Which franchise proves the most advantageous among all Indian business ventures?
The selection of India’s best franchise depends on multiple variables including overall budget and business worth together with market trends.
Are there any food franchise opportunities in India that cost less than 5 lakhs?
The Indian market supports two types of small-scale food franchises that operate below 5 lakhs: kiosks and cloud kitchens.
What are the best food franchise business in India to invest in?
Investors should consider McDonald’s Haldiram’s and Pizza Hut as the top food franchise options for India.
Does the food franchise industry generate profitable returns in the Indian market?
The food franchise business remains highly profitable because India’s population demands more high-quality food choices.
