Health-Conscious Home-grown Brands Blossom into Cafes Amid Soaring Demand

Health-Conscious Home-grown Brands Blossom into Cafes Amid Soaring Demand

The foundation of Millets of Mewar's culinary prowess lies in the meticulous selection of locally-sourced, raw, vegan, and exceptionally fresh ingredients.

By Sakshi Singh, Contributory Author

Oct 10, 2023 / 8 MIN READ

In the realm of India's culinary landscape, a remarkable trend is emerging as homegrown, small-scale health-conscious food brands find themselves venturing into the realm of cafes. This development comes in response to the growing demand for nutritious dining options among the Indian populace.

At the forefront of this movement stands Anju Kalhan, the visionary founder of "Bliss in a Box." Her mission is to provide homemade, healthy snacks that satiate cravings without compromising on nutritional value. What began as a humble kitchen endeavor has evolved into a thriving enterprise. Recognizing the common habit of indulging in unhealthy snacks during moments of hunger, Anju embarked on a culinary journey to offer a more wholesome alternative. Her snacks quickly gained popularity, leading her to showcase her delectable creations at various pop-up stalls, including the vibrant Sunder Nursery Sunday market.

As the word of mouth about Bliss in a Box spread and the demand for its products skyrocketed, Anju Kalhan faced a pivotal decision. She realized that her brand had the potential to reach an even larger audience of health-conscious consumers. Thus, she made the bold decision to transition Bliss in a Box from the confines of her home kitchen to a physical store. The newly launched Bliss in a Box cafe in CR Park is more than just a place to purchase favorite snacks; it stands as a testament to Anju's unwavering commitment to promoting healthy snacking. Beyond the familiar array of wholesome treats, the store now offers a diverse range of intriguing plant-based dishes, elevating its culinary offerings to a whole new level.

Anju Kalhan has keenly observed a significant shift in consumer behavior over the past few years. There has been a notable surge in people's inclination toward healthier snacking choices. In today's world, where awareness about nutrition is on the rise, individuals have become incredibly discerning about what they consume. They no longer impulsively grab a snack; instead, they meticulously scrutinize ingredient labels, seeking out products that align with their health and wellness goals.

Bliss in a Box is not an isolated example of a homegrown brand transitioning to a physical store. Across India, numerous passionate entrepreneurs are recognizing the escalating demand for healthier options and are taking their homemade creations to the storefront. This trend represents a burgeoning movement where local, homegrown brands are answering the call of health-conscious consumers.

In the bustling city of Delhi, another brand has mastered the art of invoking nostalgia while effortlessly transporting customers to cherished memories of yesteryears. Swarna's Creations, a culinary venture based in Delhi, is the brainchild of Swarna Gothi, a retired schoolteacher with a deep passion for cooking and gardening. After dedicating an illustrious 35-year career to educating young minds, Swarna embarked on a new chapter of her life, one fueled by her love for culinary artistry and nurturing her rooftop garden.

In a fast-paced world where the connection to our cultural roots is often lost amidst the chaos of modern life, Swarna's Creations stands as a beacon of tradition and a custodian of taste. The flavors of homemade goodness and the sentiment attached to it continue to thrive through Swarna's dedication and passion.

Meanwhile, Millets of Mewar, India's pioneering establishment dedicated to millet-based cuisine, has been proudly operating since 2011. It has garnered a devoted and passionate clientele, drawn to its culinary offerings that encompass a fusion of traditional and reimagined Indian and Rajasthani dishes. The restaurant has become renowned for its unwavering commitment to promoting millets, in addition to providing organic, gluten-free, vegan, raw, and dietary options to its discerning patrons.

The foundation of Millets of Mewar's culinary prowess lies in the meticulous selection of locally-sourced, raw, vegan, and exceptionally fresh ingredients. This careful sourcing ensures that each dish is a harmonious blend of flavors that not only nourish the body but also tantalize the palate. The origins of Millets of Mewar trace back to a humble beginning when the focus was on creating wholesome millet-based snacks and catering to the local community in Udaipur through online orders.

Co-founders Manoj and Sunny share their journey, stating, "We began experimenting with health food in 2005 with the firm: Jasso Ann Vasso Mann (we are what we eat). After traveling across India, we learned and took inspiration from tribals, locals, old men and women who carry our heritage and visionary people. Thus, the essence of life with food became an integral part of our lives. We later returned to our hometown of Udaipur and started creating recipes that highlighted local millets/grains, vegetables, and spices. Encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive response to their food, we then started providing catering for events, hosting food festivals, and running a food cart in the city twice a week. Then in 2011, Millets of Mewar was born."

In conclusion, the transition of homegrown, health-conscious food brands into cafe spaces in response to the burgeoning demand for nutritious options marks a notable evolution in India's culinary landscape. These passionate entrepreneurs, such as Anju Kalhan, Swarna Gothi, and the founders of Millets of Mewar, are not only satisfying the cravings of health-conscious consumers but also enriching the culinary scene with their dedication to wholesome and flavorful offerings. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift toward mindful eating and a deeper appreciation for the connection between food, health, and tradition.

In the realm of India's culinary landscape, a remarkable trend is emerging as homegrown, small-scale health-conscious food brands find themselves venturing into the realm of cafes. This development comes in response to the growing demand for nutritious dining options among the Indian populace.

At the forefront of this movement stands Anju Kalhan, the visionary founder of "Bliss in a Box." Her mission is to provide homemade, healthy snacks that satiate cravings without compromising on nutritional value. What began as a humble kitchen endeavor has evolved into a thriving enterprise. Recognizing the common habit of indulging in unhealthy snacks during moments of hunger, Anju embarked on a culinary journey to offer a more wholesome alternative. Her snacks quickly gained popularity, leading her to showcase her delectable creations at various pop-up stalls, including the vibrant Sunder Nursery Sunday market.

Featured Collections

  • Retail and Business
  • Technology
  • CPG
  • Food Service