Our Story

A Taste of South India That Conquered the World.

In the bustling metropolis of Chennai, a culinary journey was about to begin in 1981, one that would not only transform South Indian cuisine but also take it to the far corners of the globe. This is the extraordinary tale of Hotel Saravanaa Bhavan, the world's largest South Indian vegetarian restaurant chain.

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The Humble Origins:
It all started when Mr. P. Rajagopal opened a modest grocery shop on the outskirts of Chennai. In those days, Chennai had few dining options. However, Rajagopal's vision and passion for South Indian flavours would change that forever.

The Global Vision:
In the 1990s, the Saravana Bhavan chain had already become a beloved name across neighborhoods in Chennai. But it was in 2000 that the real adventure began. Saravana Bhavan's first branch outside India was inaugurated in Dubai, a city teeming with Indian expatriates longing for a taste of home. From there, the company embarked on an ambitious journey, spreading its wings to several major cities worldwide.

From Chennai to the World:
As the years passed, Saravana Bhavan's aroma of authentic South Indian cuisine wafted through the air in cities like Paris, Frankfurt, London, New York City, Dallas, Toronto, Stockholm, Doha, and Auckland. While these restaurants have garnered the love of a diverse clientele, their core focus remained on serving South Asian expatriates who yearned for the flavours they grew up with.

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A Global Culinary Ambassador:
Hotel Saravanaa Bhavan is not just a restaurant chain; it's a cultural ambassador, taking the essence of South Indian cuisine across borders. In doing so, it has embraced the role of a high-volume, low-margin venture, deeply committed to delivering the authentic taste of South India.

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A Labor of Love:
Saravana Bhavan is a labour-intensive venture. It is known for sending skilled workers from India and the United States to operate their foreign branches. These overseas outlets are run by dedicated franchisees, extending the brand's reach even further.

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A Taste of Home, Everywhere:
Today, Hotel Saravanaa Bhavan is synonymous with the rich and diverse flavours of South India. With over 33 outlets in India, including 20 in Chennai, and 47 more in various countries such as Australia, the UK, France, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United States, Canada, and the Middle East, it has firmly established itself as the go-to destination for authentic South Indian vegetarian and vegan cuisine.

Bringing the World Closer Through Food:
Saravana Bhavan is not just a restaurant; it's a bridge that connects people from different corners of the world through a shared love for exquisite South Indian dishes. The journey from a small grocery shop in Chennai to an international culinary phenomenon is a testament to the vision, dedication, and culinary artistry of Hotel Saravanaa Bhavan.

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Join us at Saravanaa Bhavan to savour the authentic flavours that have transcended borders and brought the heart of South India to your plate.