L Catterton to invest $30m in South Indian restaurant chain Nandhana Foods

The consumer-focused private equity firm will take a minority stake in Bengaluru-based Nandhana Foods, valuing the 27-outlet chain at about ₹2,000 crore. The capital will support expansion across South India and into new markets.

— Source publishedWed, 16 Sept, 2026, 11:03 IST·First seen Wed, 16 Sept, 2026, 11:11 IST·Source Mint · Companies

What happened

L Catterton will invest about $30 million for a minority stake in Bengaluru-based South Indian restaurant chain Nandhana Foods, supporting expansion across

Key facts

  • $30 million (₹288 crore) investment
  • About ₹2,000 crore expected valuation
  • 27 restaurants
  • More than three decades in operation
  • L Catterton has invested in about 30 restaurant businesses

What changed

L Catterton will invest about $30 million for a minority stake in Bengaluru-based South Indian restaurant chain Nandhana Foods, supporting expansion across South India and new markets. Nandhana operates 27 restaurants in Bengaluru and Chennai.

Why this matters

Nandhana Foods’ $30 million minority investment from L Catterton gives the 27-unit South Indian chain capital to accelerate regional and new-market expansion.

What to watch

  • Outlet opening pace versus announced expansion plans and the share located outside Bengaluru.
  • Evidence of successful launches in new South Indian markets, including local demand retention after opening promotions end.
  • Same-store sales growth, average order value, restaurant-level margins, and new-store payback periods.
  • Management hires and investments in commissaries, warehousing, procurement, and technology.
  • Menu, pricing, or format changes aimed at protecting margins amid food inflation and wage pressure.