If you’ve ever tasted Mughlai food in Old Delhi, chances are you’ve heard of Karim’s. It’s not just another restaurant chain—it’s a 100+ year-old legacy. People queue up for their mutton korma and seekh kebabs and for good reason.
So, what if you could own one of these outlets? Tempting, right? Let’s talk about how to start a Karim’s franchise in India, what it costs, and whether it’s worth it.
Why Karim’s is a Big Deal
Karim’s has something most brands don’t—trust. Decades of serving the same authentic taste. If you put their name on your signboard, you already have a fan base waiting. That’s half the battle won.
How Much Does It Cost to Open a Karim’s?
This is the first thing everyone wants to know. On average, you’re looking at an investment of ₹20–30 lakhs. This usually covers:
- Interiors and branding (they’re strict about design)
- Kitchen equipment and setup
- Initial stock
- Licensing and compliance
Could it go higher? Yes, if you’re planning a prime location or a large dine-in format.
Outlet Formats You Can Choose
One size doesn’t fit all here. Karim’s offers three main options:
✔ Dine-in Restaurant – Full experience for foodies. Works in high-end markets.
✔ Takeaway Counter – Good for crowded markets or malls.
✔ Cloud Kitchen – If your area is big on food delivery.
Tip: Do your homework on local demand before choosing the model. For instance, in metros, cloud kitchens are killing it.
Location—Don’t Rush This Part
Honestly, your location can make or break your outlet. Karim’s usually looks for:
- High footfall areas
- Strong residential or office zones
- Visibility and easy access
Once you shortlist a place, the brand team will check it out before approving.
Maintaining That Karim’s Magic
The taste is what people come for, right? So, you can’t mess this up. The brand has strict standards:
- Ingredients from approved suppliers
- Original recipes only (no shortcuts)
- Hygiene and service protocols
Follow them and you’re golden.
What About Training?
Don’t worry if you’ve never run a restaurant before. Karim’s trains your chefs and staff, right down to plating and portion sizes. They even guide you on day-to-day operations and customer service.
Marketing and Launch Support
Opening day buzz is everything. Karim’s will help with:
- Social media promos
- Launch campaigns
- Seasonal offers
That said, local marketing is your job too. Think influencers, food bloggers and maybe even tie-ups with nearby offices for bulk orders.
What About ROI?
Most outlets break even in 18–24 months (sometimes faster if the location clicks). It’s not an overnight thing, but with a brand like Karim’s, chances of failure are low—if you play by the book.
And Here’s Where Abtta GTM Comes In
Abtta GTM is basically the bridge between you and Karim’s. We handle:
✔ Franchise application
✔ Location scouting
✔ Legal stuff
✔ Operational setup
We even work with other big names like Moti Mahal Delux, Bombay Brasserie, Nainital Momos and non-food brands like Mohanlal Sons, if you want to explore later.
FAQs
Q1. What is the total cost to open a Karim’s franchise in India?
The Karim franchise price is between ₹20 lakhs and ₹30 lakhs, depending on the chosen format—whether dine-in, takeaway or cloud kitchen. This covers setup, equipment, stock, and license fees.
Q2. How profitable is a Karim’s franchise?
Karim’s franchises aim for a payback within 18 to 24 months. Thanks to strong brand recognition, loyal diners, and an operational support system, this Mughlai food franchise delivers a reliable return path.
Q3. Which formats are available for a Karim’s franchise?
You can choose from dine-in, takeaway, or cloud kitchen formats. Each suit’s specific locations and customer needs, allowing flexibility in investment and operational focus for franchise partners.
Q4. Do I need experience in the food business to run a Karim’s outlet?
No prior experience is necessary. Karim’s provides full training for chefs and staff, plus ongoing support in operations and customer service—making it manageable for first-time franchisees.
Q5. How do I apply for a Karim’s franchise through Abtta GTM?
Apply via Abtta GTM’s official franchise page. They assist through every stage: format selection, site evaluation, legal formalities, launch planning, and operational setup for your Karims restaurant franchise in India.
