Founding and scaling a company is never simple, but for women, it is typically filled with even more obstacles—biases, assumptions, and the assumption of doing work and home life simultaneously.
Ever wondered how women are making their mark in the restaurant industry which is a male dominated one? Many women restaurateurs have successfully launched their restaurants marking their success in the industry. Let’s have a look at the women entrepreneurs who made their mark in the restaurant industry. Read to know about their journey, challenges and advice they would like to give for future entrepreneurs.
1. Radhika Dhariwal – Director & Founder of Passcode Hospitality
After completing her degree in psychology in the US and Master’s at NYU, she would often visit speakeasies and cocktail bars. After moving to India, she accidentally entered the F&B industry. Her brother wanted to start a nightclub, but instead, they launched India’s first speakeasy-style cocktail bar, PCO, just around the corner from their house in Delhi.
Thirteen years later, they have 22 restaurants across the country, including brands like Jamun, Pings, Saz, Mister Merchant, and ATM, with locations in Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Pune, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. During COVID, when all the restaurants were shut, they launched Maya Pistola Agavepura—India’s first aged premium agave spirit.
“I would say choose something you are passionate about so that it is easy to stay the course, stay dedicated. Not everything is meant to be easy work hard, stay committed, and you will break through. Be mindful of the world around you, choose your battles wisely, and know when to let things go,” she shared.
2. Minakshi Singh, CEO & Co-Founder, Thirsty Three Hospitality Pvt Ltd
“My journey started when I was in second year of hotel management, did bartending at that time and pursued bartending course after college,” said Singh who is known for brands like Sidecar, Speakeasy, Café Lungta, Bhumi Farms, The Brook and India Bartender week.
Talking about challenges she faced, “I could not do bartending back then as there were hardly any women even though I had done the course. I did beverage marketing, sales, training and much more and I got varied level of exposure which helped me grow as well.”
3. Niketa Sharma, Managing Director, Keish Hospitality
Her journey in the hospitality industry has been a rollercoaster of challenges with learning and incredible growth. Started her career at the age of 22, fresh out of MBA from Les Roches, Switzerland; she is known for creating The Thane Club, Blah, Vivi Italian, South Stories India, Masaledar Thane, and Magna Bar & Kitchen.
From securing the right locations to building a reliable team and ensuring consistency in operations, every aspect of the business required patience and perseverance. Over the years, they have successfully launched 6 restaurants across different locations and are exploring expansion opportunities in Mumbai and other cities.
“To every woman out there dreaming of starting something of her own believes in yourself and take that first step. The road will not be easy, but the challenges you face will only make you stronger. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and understand the value of persistence. The world needs more women in leadership, and your journey, no matter how small it seems today, can inspire the next generation,” she pointed.
4. Mickee (Pratima) Tuljapurkar, Founder La Loca Maria and La Panthera
Opened La Loca Maria as a cozy 25-seater Spanish restaurant with her husband, Chef Manuel Olveira, the restaurant quickly gained popularity. Leading them to expand to a 75-seater within a year, and launched La Panthera, a modern European restaurant with a 100-seater in BKC. She says, “The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been super rewarding to bring these two restaurants to life. It’s a high-pressure job, especially with all the other challenges like managing staff and keeping an eye on costs,” she mentioned suggesting that for anyone in this industry—regardless of gender—is to prioritize two essential areas: your work and the relationships you build.
Understand your limitations, and don’t hesitate to seek help from those who know more than you. Just because you’re still learning doesn’t mean you’re incapable; you can always find a solution. Learn to say no when necessary and trust your judgment from the start.
5. Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder, Samosa Singh
Samosa Singh is empowering women at every level—be it leadership, operations, production, or innovation. Their production workforce today comprises nearly 35-40% women, which is evidence of their commitment towards creating a gender-diverse workplace.
“This International Women’s Day, let us pledge to push for quicker action, break down barriers, and build an industry in which all women can thrive. Because when women thrive, businesses prosper, and society reaps the rewards. Think Big! Let’s lead, let’s inspire, and let’s create a world where every woman entrepreneur can realize her true potential,” pointed Singh.
6. Poornima Somayaji, Founder – Aragma, Pune
Poornima’s journey in the restaurant industry has been deeply personal, driven by a passion for food and storytelling, with a focus on everyday ingredients. She envisioned Aragma as a space where dining becomes an experience.
“Like many women entrepreneurs, I’ve faced challenges—navigating an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated, earning credibility as a first-time restaurateur, and balancing creative vision with business viability. However, each challenge has reinforced my belief that resilience, adaptability, and a strong support system are key to success,” she shared by pointing that the challenges will be real, but the industry needs more women to shape its future, not by fitting in, but by leading in their own way.
7. Lalitha Dutta, Managing Partner, Firewater Neo Kitchen & Bar
“My journey into the culinary world wasn’t a straight path. Growing up, my dad’s pharmaceutical business taught me the dedication, but it was food that truly captivated me. After my MBA and a stint in corporate, I followed my passion,” she said.
With 4 outlets in Hyderabad, the journey has been about self-belief, building a strong team, and proving that hard work and talent can break through any barriers. “Young women aspiring to thrive in any venture: Own your passion with confidence, invest in your skills and connections, and stay curious and adaptable. Success comes from resilience, authenticity, and the courage to challenge norms,” she further added.
8. Arpita Ganesh, Partner and CEO of Catch44 Hospitality
Her journey has been one of resilience, passion, and breaking stereotypes in every industry she has been in as she launched ‘The Bah’ and ‘The South Place under Catch44 Hospitality. Despite the progress made, Arpita has faced challenges, especially in overcoming traditional mindsets and biases, particularly among staff from rural backgrounds. She advocates for a 70/30 female-to-male ratio in frontline roles to further empower women in the industry.
“Believe in yourself, take calculated risks, and push past societal limitations. Women have the potential to lead, innovate, and transform the hospitality industry. With confidence, determination, and a strong support system, they can break barriers and redefine success on their own terms,” commented Arpita.
9. Kareena Bulchandani, Founder, MOKAI
When we started Mokai in Mumbai, had doubts—mainly because it’s on a one-way street, right next to two well-known spots like Veronica’s and Subko. Starting something different without any background in hospitality was tough, Mokai is a café built on unique experiences—nothing is ordinary here. Kareena has played a key role in curating a one-of-a-kind menu featuring over 50 unique beverages, each distinct in flavor yet crafted with unwavering consistency.
“There will always be people who don’t believe in you—let them be. Those same people will be the one eager to work with you once you succeed. This world is full of people who think they know it all but proving them wrong is one of the most rewarding feelings. If you fail the first time, that’s okay. If you have a vision – NOBODY can ever stop, you from achieving it – Just Manifest” she added.
10. Shreya Nayyar, Co-Founder of The Bagh
When Shreya started ‘The Bagh,’ her goal was to build a space that wasn’t just another restaurant or bar, but an experience deeply rooted in a passion for hospitality. Bringing something contemporary yet soulful to Amritsar, a city known for its heritage and culinary legacy, was both thrilling and challenging.
Their latest concept is all set to redefine dining experiences in Amritsar. The new restaurant is a 5,800sqft with globally inspired dishes, indulgent desserts, and a good cocktail programme.
“The world is shifting, and the hospitality industry is no exception. Women are no longer just participants; we are change-makers. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that waiting for the “right moment” is a myth. The moment you decide to back yourself is the right one. Build fearlessly, learn constantly, and never hesitate to take up the space you deserve,” shared Nayyar.
Dining and Cooking