The Unapologetic Foods empire is changing the way Americans view Indian food, one innovative dish at a time. Led by CEO Roni Mazumdar and executive chef Chintan Pandya, the restaurant group focuses on bold, regional Indian flavors and has gained attention for its unique offerings. Despite facing challenges as the only Indian restaurant in the US with a Michelin star, the team remains committed to pushing boundaries and transforming perceptions of Indian cuisine.
Mazumdar and Pandya’s journey as entrepreneurs is deeply personal, with Mazumdar immigrating from Kolkata as a child and Pandya coming from Mumbai in his 30s. Together, they have launched seven restaurants since 2017, including an Indian fried chicken joint named Rowdy Rooster. Their success lies in their ability to execute their vision and challenge the status quo, as evidenced by their restaurants making it onto the New York Times’ list of the 100 best restaurants in New York City.
The duo’s commitment to showcasing regional Indian cuisine is evident in their innovative menu offerings. They have faced skepticism for serving dishes like goat brains and testicles, but have managed to strike a balance between familiarity and novelty. With a focus on keeping costs low and spending wisely, Mazumdar and Pandya have built a reputation for creating high-quality and authentic Indian dishes that stand out in a competitive culinary landscape.
The achievement of receiving a Michelin star for Semma marked a significant moment for the team, as they became the only Indian restaurant in the US with this prestigious accolade. This recognition brought increased scrutiny and raised questions about maintaining their core values and authenticity in the face of new expectations. Mazumdar’s personal connection to his entrepreneurial journey, shaped by his father’s lack of opportunities, adds depth to their mission of reshaping how Indian food is perceived in America.
As the Unapologetic Foods empire continues to grow and innovate, they are faced with new challenges, such as combating reservation bots and expanding into new markets like Las Vegas. Despite these hurdles, Mazumdar and Pandya remain committed to their vision of showcasing the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine. Their ability to find success at the intersection of passion and innovation is a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating meaningful connections through food.
The bond between Mazumdar and Pandya is characterized by a shared passion for creativity and a willingness to take risks. Their ability to find common ground and push each other to new heights has been instrumental in their success. By challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to enjoy Indian food in America, the Unapologetic Foods team is setting a new standard for culinary excellence and cultural appreciation.
