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India’s Food Service Market to Outgrow Japan by 2028!

“Imagine walking into your favorite café or ordering from a cloud kitchen, knowing that you’re part of a massive transformation in India’s food service industry. What seems like a simple act of grabbing a bite is actually fueling one of the fastest-growing markets in the world! By 2028, India’s food service market is expected to surpass Japan, trailing only behind the US and China.”

India’s f&b market is set to outgrow Japan in terms of market size by 2028.
Specifically, India’s food service industry will surpass Japan to become the third-largest food service market globally, behind only the US and China. This growth is measured by the overall market value, which is projected to reach ₹7.76 trillion by 2028.

In contrast, Japan’s food service industry will be smaller than India’s in terms of revenue, despite Japan being a more developed market. Additionally, India is expected to be the second-fastest growing food service market globally, trailing only Brazil, further emphasizing its rapid expansion compared to Japan.

But how did we get here, and what does this explosive growth mean for the future?

The Beginning of a Culinary Boom

It wasn’t too long ago that eating out was an occasional treat for most Indians. But fast forward to today, and the landscape has changed dramatically. According to a report by the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the food services market, currently valued at ₹5.7 trillion, is projected to skyrocket to ₹7.76 trillion by 2028. This represents a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1%, with the organized sector growing even faster at a CAGR of 13.2%.

What’s driving this growth?

The answer lies in the habits of the modern Indian consumer. Whether it’s the joy of dining out with friends, the convenience of ordering in, or the trend of trying new cuisines, Indians are eating out more frequently than ever before. Today, the average Indian dines out or orders in 7.9 times per month, compared to 6.6 times in 2019. And this number is only set to grow.

A Market Set to Surpass Giants

By 2028, India’s f&b market will surpass Japan, becoming the third-largest in the world, right behind the US and China. Even more impressively, it’s predicted to be the second-fastest-growing market globally, trailing only Brazil.

What’s fueling this boom?

It’s not just the increase in dining frequency but a broader shift in urban lifestyles. Rising incomes, urbanization, and changing eating habits are creating a perfect storm for growth. Whether it’s the busy professional grabbing a quick meal between meetings or families bonding over weekend dinners, India’s love for food is now driving the economy in unexpected ways.

But it’s not just the volume of meals being served; it’s the transformation within the market itself. The organized food service sector—which includes chain restaurants, cafes, and cloud kitchens—is expected to grow to 52.8% of the total market by 2028. This marks a sharp rise from the current 43.8%, while the unorganized segment, dominated by small, independent outlets, will shrink to 47.2% from 56.2%.

Cafes, Cloud Kitchens, and a New Era of Dining

One of the most exciting aspects of this growth is the rise of niche food segments. The NRAI report highlights that cafes, quick-service restaurants (QSRs), dessert parlors, and ice cream shops will be among the fastest-growing sectors. Cafes are expected to grow at an 18.6% CAGR, QSRs at 17.5%, and dessert/ice cream shops at 15%. These spaces are becoming more than just places to eat—they’re community hubs where people meet, work, and socialize.

And then there’s the rise of cloud kitchens. With more people ordering in than ever, these delivery-only operations are taking the food industry by storm, projected to grow at an astonishing CAGR of 35.2% by 2028. Cloud kitchens are revolutionizing the way we think about food service, providing a low-overhead, high-efficiency model that meets the needs of today’s fast-paced world.

Challenges on the Horizon

Of course, no growth comes without its challenges. Rising input costs, regulatory hurdles, and limited hours of operation have food service operators on their toes. Delivery dynamics, in particular, present a complex problem. As online ordering grows, restaurants and cloud kitchens alike are grappling with how to balance food quality with delivery logistics.

Industry leaders have started pushing for solutions to ease these challenges. They are calling for industry status to be granted to the food services sector, the creation of a separate food services ministry, the implementation of “One Nation, One Norm” regulations, and the allowance for longer operating hours to meet the increasing demand.

The Road Ahead: Bigger, Better, and More Delicious

As India’s food service market continues its incredible growth, the journey ahead looks bigger, better, and more delicious than ever. This boom isn’t just a matter of statistics; it represents a cultural shift in how we eat, work, and connect with others. Whether you’re a consumer enjoying more dining options or an entrepreneur looking for opportunities in this thriving industry, the road ahead holds immense potential.

Beyond the Numbers, the impact is deeply personal. This market surge means more choices, better quality, and greater convenience for every Indian consumer. And it’s not just about business growth—it’s about creating a dining experience that’s as accessible in a small town as it is in a big city. The millions of jobs created will shape lives and contribute to the economy in profound ways, affecting how we live, work, and interact with food every day.

A Taste of Tomorrow

In a world where dining habits are rapidly evolving, India’s food service market is set to lead the way. With growth rates outpacing many of the world’s largest economies, this is more than just a business story—it’s a cultural revolution.

So the next time you sit down to order from your favorite cloud kitchen or visit your local café, know that you’re part of a much bigger story. The future of India’s food service industry is being written one meal at a time—and it’s a story that’s only going to get more delicious.

Data Source: National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) Report
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Busting the Top 5 Myths About Restaurant Financing and Loans

When it comes to get financing for your restaurant business, there’s no shortage of misinformation out there. These myths can stop aspiring restaurateurs from achieving their dreams. But don’t worry, we’re here to set the record straight!

Understanding Restaurant Financing

The restaurant business is a highly dynamic and competitive industry. Whether you’re planning to open a new location or expand an existing one, having access to capital is crucial. Financing plays an essential role in growing your business, but with it comes a sea of myths that can leave restaurateurs hesitant to apply for loans.

“Success in the restaurant industry doesn’t just come from a great menu; it also stems from making informed financial decisions!”

says financial expert Emily Moore.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths about restaurant financing and debunk them one by one.

Myth #1: You Need Perfect Credit Score to Get a Loan

Lenders often look beyond credit scores and consider other key elements, such as your business plan, cash flow, and the overall profitability of your restaurant.

“Lenders are much more interested in your ability to repay the loan than just your credit score.”

notes restaurant consultant Jane Smith.

If you can demonstrate a solid business plan and a track record of managing cash flow effectively, your credit score won’t be the only determining factor.

A strong vision and strategy can often outweigh a few credit dings!

Breaking It Down:

Credit is one part of the equation: Lenders consider your restaurant’s financial health and growth potential.
Cash flow matters: Even with average credit, strong cash flow shows you’re capable of repaying the loan.
Your business plan is critical: A well-thought-out business plan can make a significant difference.

Myth #2: Only Big Chains Can Secure Funding

Wrong! Independent restaurants and even startups can absolutely secure funding. In fact, many lenders love to support small, unique, and local restaurant concepts. Whether you’re launching a neighborhood café or a high-end dining experience, there’s financing out there tailored just for you.

“The local gem and the trendy new spot are just as worthy of funding as the household names.”

Lenders are interested in working with businesses that show unique promise, whether through a creative menu, a strategic location, or a dedicated customer base.

Key Takeaways:

Lenders want diversity: They’re looking for unique, locally owned restaurants to diversify their portfolio.
Niche markets can be lucrative: A smaller, community-focused restaurant can attract lenders just as easily as a large chain.
Success isn’t tied to size: A strong local following and great business metrics matter more than your restaurant’s size.

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Myth #3: All Restaurant Loans Are the Same

Just as every restaurant has its own personality, every loan has its own unique set of terms, conditions, and structures. Unfortunately, some restaurateurs fall into the trap of thinking that one loan fits all. This myth leads business owners to accept the first loan they’re offered, without exploring all available options.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all recipe when it comes to financing—choose what’s best for you.”

Knowing the terms, interest rates, and repayment schedules associated with each loan type is crucial for making an informed decision.

What to Consider:

Loan terms: Different loans come with varying interest rates, fees, and repayment schedules.
Tailored solutions: Some loans are better suited for equipment purchases, while others are ideal for working capital or expansion.
Shop around: Don’t settle for the first loan offer—compare different options to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Myth #4: It’s Only About Getting the Money

Many restaurant owners mistakenly believe that securing funding is the hardest part of running their business. While financing is undoubtedly important, it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. A strong financial plan that includes budgeting, cash flow management, and a clear understanding of operational costs is essential for long-term success.

“Getting the money is the first step—knowing how to use it smartly is the secret sauce!”

says Alex Turner, a restaurant finance coach.

Too many restaurateurs focus on obtaining the loan but overlook the importance of financial planning once they receive the funds.

Mindful advertising can be successful ROI for your restaurant business!

Remember:

Budgeting is key: Knowing where your money is going and staying within budget helps avoid unnecessary debt.
Cash flow management: Restaurants can be prone to cash flow issues, so keeping a close eye on income and expenses is critical.
Operational costs: Don’t forget the costs associated with running your restaurant, such as wages, inventory, and utilities.

Myth #5: Once You Get the Loan, You’re Set

Getting approved for a loan is a significant milestone, but it’s far from the end of the road. Running a restaurant is a continuous financial journey that involves tracking revenue, managing expenses, and staying on top of loan repayments. Some restaurant owners mistakenly believe that once they have secured financing, their financial challenges are over.

“Think of securing a loan as the beginning, not the end!”

says restaurant owner and entrepreneur Rachel Adams.

The key is using the loan wisely and making sure you have a plan to generate enough revenue to cover your operating costs and repayments.

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Strategies for Success:

Track expenses regularly: Monitor your restaurant’s expenses and adjust your budget as necessary.
Revenue management: Ensure that your restaurant generates enough revenue to cover both operating costs and loan repayments.
Financial planning is ongoing: Revisit your financial plan regularly to account for changing market conditions or unexpected costs.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Myths Hold You Back

Restaurant financing can be daunting, but by understanding the truth behind these myths, you can make more informed decisions and put your restaurant on the path to success.

Don’t let myths hold you back from pursuing your restaurant dreams. With the right financial strategy, a solid business plan, and an understanding of the loan options available to you, securing the funds you need is well within your reach.

“Dream big, plan smart, and make your restaurant the next must-visit spot!”

Moreover, this article is curated by content experts at Billberry, the industry leading Restaurant Management Paltform to Scale your restaurant business! To know more about Billberry, book a Free Demo Today!

Also Read:
Restaurant Tagline Ideas
How to Register Your Restaurant on Swiggy?
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Top 9 Restaurant Food Packaging Ideas to Boost Delivery

These days online orders, takeaways, and doorstep deliveries, food isn’t the only thing making an impression, packaging plays a starring role too. Restaurant food packaging has become equally important as digital presence.

Good food packaging does more than just contain a meal. It protects your dishes, maintains their freshness, builds your brand identity, and creates a lasting customer experience. For food businesses of all sizes, from cloud kitchens to QSRs and fine-dine outlets, thoughtful food packaging can be the secret sauce to standing out in a competitive market.

Let’s explore nine smart and practical food packaging ideas that not only preserve food quality but also reflect your brand’s professionalism and care.

1. 🍃 Eco-Friendly Packaging: Go Green, Win Hearts

Sustainability is no longer just a trend, it’s an expectation. Many customers now actively seek out businesses that align with their eco-conscious values.

Switching to eco-friendly packaging materials like bagasse (made from sugarcane waste), Kraft paper, biodegradable plastics, or bamboo utensils shows your commitment to the environment. These options decompose naturally, reducing landfill waste and your brand’s carbon footprint.

Eco-packaging also sends a strong message: your restaurant cares, not just about food, but also about the planet. That’s a reputation customers love to support.

2. 🎨 Customized Packaging: Let Your Brand Travel with Every Meal

Your packaging is often the first physical interaction a customer has with your restaurant. So why not make it count?

Custom-designed boxes, wrappers, or carry bags with your restaurant’s logo, tagline, or color scheme create an instant visual connection. It also helps build brand recall, especially if your packaging stands out on social media when customers post unboxing stories or food pics.

A well-designed packaging not only protects your food but also tells your story, whether you’re a street-style kitchen or a gourmet brand.

3. 📦 Compartments & Dividers: Keep the Flavors Separate

No one likes soggy fries or dessert soaked in curry. That’s where smart packaging with secure compartments comes into play.

Whether you’re serving a thali, a combo meal, or a multi-item box, dividers and multi-section containers help maintain the integrity of each item. Crispy snacks stay crunchy, sauces stay put, and cold items remain untouched by heat.

The result? The food reaches your customer just the way you intended it, fresh, presentable, and delicious.

4. 🔥 Insulated Containers: Serve it Hot (or Cold) Every Time

Temperature is everything when it comes to food quality. A hot dish served cold, or a chilled dessert melted on arrival, can ruin the experience.

Invest in insulated delivery bags, thermal containers, or temperature-control liners. These help maintain heat for soups, curries, or biryanis, and keep desserts, beverages, or salads cool and crisp.

This extra step ensures your food tastes as if it came straight from the kitchen, even if it traveled 10 kilometers.

5. 💧 Leak-Proof Packaging: Avoid Messy Accidents

Imagine the disappointment of a customer opening a delivery bag only to find spilled curry or oily stains. Not only does it look bad, but it also risks customer complaints or refunds.

Use leak-proof and tightly sealed containers, especially for liquid or semi-liquid items like dals, gravies, or sauces. High-quality lids, strong locking mechanisms, and durable material are essential here.

Clean packaging leads to clean impressions, and clean reviews.

6. 👀 Clear Window Packaging: Let the Food Speak for Itself

People eat with their eyes first. By using restaurant food packaging that includes clear lids or viewing windows, you allow customers to get a glimpse of the delicious meal inside.

This kind of packaging works wonders for bakery items, salads, desserts, and even gourmet meals, any food where presentation matters.

It builds anticipation, reassures the customer of what they ordered, and adds a premium feel to your delivery.

7. 🔖 Branded Stickers and Seals: Add a Finishing Touch

Small details can leave a big impression. Branded stickers or tamper-evident seals give your packaging a finished and secure look.

They can serve both branding and safety purposes. Stickers with your logo, hashtags, or discount codes not only strengthen brand identity but also encourage customers to connect with you online.

Tamper-proof seals also build trust by assuring customers that the food hasn’t been opened or altered during delivery.

8. 📱 Interactive Packaging: Go Beyond Just Food

Want to make your packaging truly memorable? Add a layer of interaction.

Include QR codes that lead to:

~ A video showing how the meal was prepared

~ A thank-you message from the chef

~ Nutritional details or allergy information

~ Fun games or discount offers

This tech-savvy, personalized touch turns your packaging into more than just a box, it becomes a conversation.

9. 🍴 Sustainable Cutlery: The Perfect Companion to Your Packaging

Don’t let your thoughtful food packaging get overshadowed by a plastic spoon.

Include eco-friendly utensils made from bamboo, wood, or compostable bioplastics. They’re sturdy, stylish, and biodegradable, just like the rest of your sustainable brand experience.

Customers feel good about not adding more plastic waste to the planet.

Good Packaging is Good Business

Restaurant food packaging is no longer a back-end task, it’s a frontline experience. It safeguards your food, reflects your restaurant’s personality, and leaves a lasting mark on your customer.

By focusing on freshness, functionality, sustainability, and storytelling, your packaging becomes a powerful marketing tool.

So the next time you box up an order, remember: you’re not just delivering food, you’re delivering your brand, your care, and your promise of quality.

Brought to You by Billberry

This article is curated by BillBerry, an industry-leading restaurant management software built to simplify your operations, scale your outlets, and ensure smooth day-to-day functioning for food businesses across India.

Want to streamline your restaurant processes and take your delivery game to the next level?

👉 Book a Free Demo Today and explore how Billberry can help you grow smarter, faster, and with complete control.

Also Read:
10 Best Decoration Ideas for Small Restaurant
How to Register Your Restaurant on Zomato?
Reduce Paper Waste at Restaurant: A Sustainable Approach

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Top Restaurant Phrases and Expressions for Staff-Guest Conversations

If you’re planning on dining out at a restaurant where English is the primary language spoken, it can be helpful to brush up on some common expressions and phrases used at restaurants. Upscaling your restaurant English conversation by knowing the right expressions, phrases, and questions can make the entire dining experience with the restaurant staff much easier.

That’s why we’ve divided this article into 7 segments that will provide you with useful phrases for various situations you may encounter at a restaurant. From ordering food and drinks to asking for the bill, you’ll find a variety of expressions, phrases, questions that you can use to help you navigate the dining experience with confidence.

The first segment covers basic phrases you’ll need to know while making a restaurant reservation.

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The second segment focuses on asking to be seated at the restaurant facility that will assist you with asking to be seated properly. The third segment covers asking for menu at a restaurant. The fourth segment provides expressions and phrases for asking questions about the menu.

The fifth segment is all about expressing satisfaction by appreciating the food items served at the restaurant establishment. The sixth segment covers how to ask for the bill, while the final segment provides some useful phrases for asking for payment options that are accepted along with phrases for leaving the restaurant respectfully.

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By learning these common restaurant English phrases, expressions, and questions relating to restaurant English conversation, you can feel more confident when dining out and make your experience at the restaurant much more enjoyable.

Phrases And Questions To Use While Making A Restaurant Reservation

I would like to make a dinner reservation for four.
We are planning to dine at your restaurant this Friday and we will need the reservation for the same.
Do you have any private dining rooms available?
Will there be any live music or special events during the time of our reservation?
Can we bring our own cake or dessert for a special occasion?
Is there a parking lot or valet parking available at your restaurant facility?
Can the restaurant accommodate dietary restrictions or food allergies?

How To Ask To Be Seated Properly At A Restaurant?

A table for two, please.
I booked a table for four at 8PM under the name of Ross Geller.
Could we have a table near the window, please?
Do you have any tables outside?
May we sit at this table?
Is it possible to have a quieter table?
Can you accommodate a larger group if we have more people joining us?
Is there a time limit for the table, or can we stay as long as we want?

How To Ask For A Menu At Restaurant?

Excuse me, could we see the menu please?
Could you recommend any dishes? Or should we take a look at the menu first?
Do you have a digital QR based menu?
Can I see the dessert menu please?
May I have a menu, please?
Could you bring us the menu, please?
Do you have a menu we could see?
I’m sorry, but could we have a look at the menu?

Questions To Ask About The Menu At Restaurant

What are your most popular dishes?
Do you have any gluten-free options?
What are the chef’s specialties?
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options?
Are there any spicy dishes on the menu?
Can you tell me more about this dish and its ingredients?
Is there anything you would recommend for someone who has never been here before?
Do you have any specials or seasonal dishes available?
Are there any local or regional specialties on the menu?

How To Appreciate Food At Restaurant

I love the flavours in this dish.
The presentation of this dish is beautiful.
I’m really enjoying the texture of this dish.
The ingredients in this dish complement each other so well.
I can taste the freshness of the ingredients in this dish.
The seasoning in this dish is spot on.
This is the best dish I’ve ever had!
The chef really has some exceptional cooking skills.

How To Ask For Bill At Restaurant?

Excuse me, could we get the bill, please?
I’m ready to pay, could we have the bill, please?
Could you bring us the check, please?
May we have the bill, please?
Could you please split the bill between us?
We are done eating. Could we have the bill, please?

How To Ask For Payment Options At Restaurant?

Excuse me, could you tell me what payment options you accept?
Do you accept credit cards for payment?
Can I pay with card or is it cash only?
Do you accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay?
Are there any fees associated with using a certain payment method?
Can I split the bill between multiple credit cards?
Is it possible to pay with a gift card or voucher?
Do you accept foreign currencies or only local currency?

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing useful restaurant phrases, expressions, and questions is crucial for customers when dining out.

These phrases can help customers communicate with the server, ask for recommendations, understand the menu, appreciate the food, and pay the bill.

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By using polite and friendly language, customers can have a pleasant dining experience and enjoy their meal to the fullest.

Whether you’re a seasoned diner or a first-time restaurant goer, these phrases will help you navigate the restaurant experience with ease.

Remember to be courteous and respectful, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or clarification if you need it.

This article is curated by the content experts at Billberry that is an all-in-one Restaurant Management System catering restaurant businesses to flourish all over the globe. If you are a restaurant owner and want to upscale your business, then must contact us today!