Karnataka (India), March 22: Nestled in the heart of Kuvempu Nagara, Mysuru, Karnataka, Mr. Idli emerged as a humble eatery, igniting taste buds with its pure vegetarian delights. With over a decade of culinary excellence, Mr. Idli has blossomed into a distinguished restaurant chain, renowned for its authentic, nutritious, and contemporary South Indian delicacies.
Mr. Idli celebrates the rich tapestry of South Indian cuisine, weaving together the vibrant flavours and culinary traditions from Andhra, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The journey of Mr. Idli is one of tradition and innovation. By combining the wisdom of seasoned master chefs with the creativity of young culinary talents, the brand has introduced fusion varieties that captivate the senses and redefine South Indian dining.
The menu at Mr. Idli offers a delightful array of South Indian classics and innovative fusion dishes, catering to every palate. From the quintessential Idli served in various styles to the savoury Vada and an assortment of Dosas, there’s something for everyone. Uttapam lovers can indulge in options like Onion Uttapam and Mix Veg Uttapam. For those seeking a hearty meal, the Breakfast and Lunch Combos provide a satisfying combination of flavours, while the Biryani and Rice section offers tantalizing choices like Mushroom Biryani and Paneer Biryani. Additionally, the Fusion section boasts delectable dishes like Paneer Chilly and Mushroom Manchurian, perfect for those craving a twist on traditional flavours. To complete the culinary experience, a selection of beverages including Filter Coffee and Lassi is also available to complement the meal. With such a diverse and mouthwatering menu, Mr. Idli promises an unforgettable dining experience for all.
Presently, Mr. Idli spans across Mysuru, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Hyderabad, and international locales in the USA, UK, and Malaysia, boasting 250 plus thriving outlets. But the aspirations soar higher, with plans for 54 new locations and a vision to reach 1000 stores across India and beyond within five years.
Ketan Dave: The Visionary CEO of Mr. Idli
Mr. Ketan Dave is a seasoned leader with over 12 years of experience in the hospitality and retail sectors. Ketan holds a degree in Hotel Management from Las Vegas, USA, and has held prestigious positions throughout his career. Previously, Ketan worked as the Food & Beverage Director at Carlene Cruise, the world’s largest cruise company, where he honed his skills in delivering exceptional dining experiences. He was the youngest Asia General Manager at McDonald’s, where he pioneered the brand’s vertical, Mc Cafe.
Ketan’s journey also includes a significant role at the ITC Group, where he served as the South India Head in the hospitality sector. In his most recent role as Group CEO of Shree Balaji Group, Ketan demonstrated his prowess in managing diverse sectors including malls, retail, and hospitality, further solidifying his reputation as a dynamic and visionary leader. With an impressive track record of success, Ketan Dave continues to inspire and innovate in the ever-evolving landscape of business and hospitality.
Sharing his thoughts on the vision of the company, Mr. Ketan said, “At Mr. Idli, our vision extends far beyond culinary excellence; it encompasses a world where every individual can savour the essence of South Indian heritage, no matter where they are.We are committed to fostering a network of thriving franchise restaurants worldwide, where quality, affordability, and innovation converge. Our aim is to make Mr. Idli a favourite spot for delicious and affordable food.”
The Evolution of Mr. Idli
Since its inception in 2009 with the opening of its first store in Mysuru, Mr. Idli has embarked on a journey marked by significant milestones and achievements. The brand rapidly expanded its footprint, with notable highlights including the establishment of its 12th franchise store in South Delhi in 2012 and its first international outpost in Sharjah, UAE, in 2013. In 2014, Mr. Idli took a leap forward in innovation with the launch of its Research & Development facility, focusing on creating fusion and ready-mix recipes to tantalize taste buds. The year 2018 saw the brand’s commitment to skill development and empowerment, as it initiated a training institute and placement support program. However, perhaps the most transformative moment arrived in 2021 when Mr. Idli was acquired by CnerG Foods Ltd., setting the stage for accelerated growth and expansion. The brand continued to innovate, introducing the FOCO (Franchise Owned Company Operated) model in 2023, further solidifying its position as a leader in the culinary landscape. These milestones reflect Mr. Idli’s unwavering dedication to serving happiness through its delectable offerings and commitment to excellence.
Mr. Idli extends an invitation to embrace the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, encapsulating the authentic essence of South Indian cuisine. As the brand persistently carves its path in the culinary world, one certainty remains: the narrative of Mr. Idli is an ever-evolving tale, promising an abundance of culinary delights yet to be discovered.
