Looking to start a food franchise under 10 lakhs in India that offers low investment, quick returns, and brand support? This guide lists the most affordable and profitable food franchises for 2025 that you can own with under ₹10 lakhs.

In a country where food is more than just sustenance—it’s a way of life—investing in a low-cost franchise in India is a smart move. With India’s fast-growing middle class and evolving dining culture, small-scale food franchises are thriving, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This post is designed to help first-time entrepreneurs, college graduates, and small-town investors explore high-potential options for owning a food franchise under 10 lakhs in India.

Why Choose a Low-Cost Food Franchise in India?

When compared to starting a food business from scratch, choosing a food franchise under 10 lakhs in India offers lower risk and higher success rates. Here’s why this model is becoming the top choice for aspiring foodpreneurs:

• Low Entry Barrier: With investments starting as low as ₹2–3 lakhs, these franchises are highly accessible, even for first-time business owners.
  
  
• Established Brand Value: Most low-cost food franchises already have brand recognition and a loyal customer base, which means easier footfall from day one.
  
  
• End-to-End Franchise Support: From location scouting to staff training, supply chain management, and marketing—franchisors provide comprehensive support. Mysore Aduge, for instance, offers excellent franchise business support in Mumbai.
  
  
• Success in Small Towns: Many of these brands have proven success models in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where rent is lower and demand for branded eateries is rising.
  
  

By investing in the best franchise below ₹10 lakhs, you’re tapping into a booming market with built-in advantages and reduced setup challenges.

Top 10 Food Franchises Under ₹10 Lakhs in India

 Investing in a food franchise under 10 lakhs in India is a smart decision for entrepreneurs looking for quick scalability, recognizable brands, and strong customer demand—all without breaking the bank. Here’s a detailed breakdown of ten promising food franchise opportunities available in 2025, ideal for aspiring business owners who want to tap into India’s ever-expanding food industry.

1. Mysore Aduge – Authentic South Indian Cuisine

Mysore Aduge has carved a niche for itself by offering wholesome, traditional Mysorean and sattvik food. With classics like Bisi Bele Bath, Puliyogare, and Rava Idli on its menu, the brand caters to both heritage food lovers and health-conscious diners.

• Initial Investment: Under ₹10 Lakhs
  
  
• What Makes It Unique: Focus on vegetarian, no-onion-no-garlic recipes with high appeal in religious and cultural zones
  
  
• Why It’s Among the Best: The brand offers complete franchise support—location scouting, kitchen setup, marketing tools, and digital onboarding, including specific opportunities for a South Indian food franchise in Pune and Mumbai.
• Ideal Location: Pilgrimage cities, Tier 2 towns, areas with a vegetarian customer base
  
  

If you’re looking for a low-cost franchise in India rooted in authenticity, Mysore Aduge is a compelling option that combines tradition with modern branding.

2. Tandooriwala – North Indian & Mughlai Dining

Known for rich, flavorful North Indian dishes, Tandooriwala delivers a premium dining experience without the premium price tag for franchisees. While some formats may exceed ₹10L, kiosk models fall within budget.

• Initial Investment: ₹10–20 Lakhs (kiosk models start under ₹10L)
  
  
• USP: Zero royalty; complete marketing and recruitment support
  
  
• Brand Strength: Rapid expansion in both India and abroad
  
  
• Key Advantage: Strong demand across all Indian metros and non-metros
  
  

This affordable food franchise in India is especially appealing if you’re targeting a middle-to-premium clientele.

3. Tea Time – Scalable Beverage Model

As one of the fastest-growing tea brands in the country, Tea Time capitalizes on India’s tea culture with a lean business model that keeps costs low and returns high.

• Initial Investment: ₹4.5 Lakhs
  
  
• Menu Includes: Over 15 varieties of tea, milkshakes, and snacks
  
  
• Expansion: 3000+ outlets across India
  
  
• Returns: Typically within 6–9 months
  
  
• Why It Works: Extremely low operational costs and broad market acceptance
  
  

For entrepreneurs seeking a food franchise under 10 lakhs in India that’s simple and scalable, Tea Time is one of the safest bets.

4. Zorko – Fast Food Franchise with No Royalty

Zorko gained national attention after appearing on Shark Tank India. It offers a youth-centric fast food model that’s easy to replicate and quick to profit.

• Investment: ₹4.25 Lakhs
  
  
• Menu: Burgers, momos, fries, and pasta
  
  
• Major Benefit: No royalty; 100% profits go to the franchisee
  
  
• Ideal For: Small towns, student areas, and high-footfall zones
  
  

Zorko is currently a top choice for anyone exploring a best franchise below ₹10 lakhs that doesn’t demand heavy operational experience.

5. One Bite – Budget Multi-Cuisine Outlet

One Bite specializes in snacks and meals that appeal to a wide audience—especially the young, urban crowd looking for budget bites.

• Investment Required: ₹8–9 Lakhs
  
  
• Key Offerings: Pizza, wraps, waffles, and pasta
  
  
• Franchise Support: Supply chain, branding, and initial marketing
  
  
• Popular Format: Food courts and mall kiosks
  
  

This is a robust option for those looking for a low-cost franchise in India with a diverse menu and proven popularity

6. Chaat Adda – Revamping Indian Street Food

Chaat Adda brings India’s favorite snacks like pani puri and pav bhaji into a clean, branded format. The interiors are designed to be vibrant and youth-friendly, enhancing customer experience.

• Startup Cost: ₹5–7 Lakhs
  
  
• Revenue Model: Strong margins, especially from quick-service items
  
  
• Location Fit: High-street outlets and mall kiosks
  
  
• Franchise Benefits: Training, decor assistance, and raw material sourcing
  
  

For franchisees who want to capitalize on India’s street food love with hygiene and brand value, this is a standout affordable food franchise in India.

7. Biryani Station – India’s Comfort Food on a Plate

Biryani remains one of India’s most-consumed dishes, and Biryani Station offers a premium take on this staple with options for dine-in and delivery.

• Initial Investment: ₹7–9 Lakhs
  
  
• Menu Focus: Dum Biryani, kebabs, and sides
  
  
• USP: Biodegradable packaging, tech-integrated POS systems
  
  
• ROI Period: 12–16 months
  
  

Ideal for densely populated areas, this food franchise under 10 lakhs in India leverages a strong product category with consistent demand.

8. Momomia – India’s Momo Destination

Specializing in momos with innovative twists like tandoori and chocolate-filled versions, Momomia is a favorite among younger audiences.

• Startup Capital: ₹2–3 Lakhs
  
  
• Why It’s Unique: Quick prep, limited staff needed, low overhead
  
  
• Great For: Kiosks, canteens, and student hotspots
  
  
• Support Includes: Training, equipment setup, and branding kit
  
  

This is one of the best franchises below ₹10 lakhs for compact spaces and budget-conscious entrepreneurs.

9. Amul Ice Cream Parlour – Trusted Dairy Legacy

Amul, a household name, offers franchisees the chance to leverage its brand power through retail outlets and combo parlors.

• Setup Investment: ₹5–10 Lakhs
  
  
• Franchise Fee: None
  
  
• Products: Ice cream, cheese, lassi, paneer, butter
  
  
• Support: Inventory training, freezer supply, brand promotion
  
  

For those seeking a trusted low-cost franchise in India, Amul delivers unmatched brand strength.

10. Giani’s Ice Cream – Legacy Dessert Franchise

With roots dating back to 1956, Giani’s is a heritage dessert brand offering rich flavors and consistent quality.

• Investment Range: ₹8–10 Lakhs
  
  
• Popular Offerings: Sundaes, faloodas, thick shakes
  
  
• Locations Best Suited For: Malls, markets, and leisure zones
  
  
• Why Choose It: Compact setups, strong margins, great brand recall
  
  

If you’re focused on desserts, this is a solid food franchise under 10 lakhs in India with a proven business model.

Tips to Succeed with a Low-Budget Food Franchise

If you’ve chosen a food franchise under 10 lakhs in India, here are tips to increase your chances of success:

• Location is Everything: Choose spots with high foot traffic—malls, colleges, markets, or near public transport.
  
  
• Use Online Platforms: Swiggy, Zomato, and Uber Eats are key revenue drivers.
  
  
• Invest in Staff Training: Uniform service standards improve customer satisfaction.
  
  
• Marketing Matters: Focus on social media marketing, local offers, and influencer tie-ups.
  
  
• Track Inventory and Wastage: Low-cost franchises need tighter budget control.

Benefits of Starting a Food Franchise Under ₹10 Lakhs

• Quick ROI: Break even in as little as 6–12 months
  
  
• Lower Risk: Less capital means less financial stress
  
  
• Franchisor Support: Equipment, supplies, branding, and even staff training
  
  
• Scalability: Once successful, you can open multiple units
  
  
• MSME Loan Eligibility: Easy access to government schemes for small businesses
  
  

These benefits make the food franchise under 10 lakhs in India model both practical and profitable.

Risks and What to Watch Out For

Before jumping in, be aware of potential pitfalls:

• Royalty Fees: These can eat into profits; choose brands like Zorko with zero royalty.
  
  
• Brand Restrictions: Some franchisors limit menu changes, pricing, or promotions.
  
  
• Market Saturation: Pick a unique or underrepresented cuisine in your locality.
  
  
• Staff Turnover: Invest in good HR practices to retain trained workers.

Final Takeaways

Starting a food franchise under 10 lakhs in India in 2025 is not just possible—it’s strategic. From South Indian legacy cuisine to tea stalls and fast-food kiosks, opportunities are everywhere. The best part? You don’t need a culinary degree or massive investment.

Evaluate your interests, research your city’s market demand, and connect with 2–3 franchise brands to request detailed proposals. The food industry rewards those who are consistent, customer-focused, and operationally disciplined.