Harajuku Tokyo Cafe
Overview
Harajuku Tokyo Cafe is a Japanese casual dining and quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain founded by Gaurav Kanwar in 2021. Based in New Delhi, India, the cafe aims to bring the vibrant and colorful spirit of Tokyo's Harajuku district to its diners. Known for its diverse menu inspired by Japanese cuisine, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe features a range of dishes including sushi, pancakes, and desserts. It has raised $2 million in seed funding to expand its operations across India and further strengthen its market presence. The cafe currently operates in key Indian cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Gurgaon.
Recent Developments
- August 2025: Harajuku Tokyo Cafe raised $2 million in seed funding, with the investment round led by the Indian Angel Network and participation from Samved VC and LetsVenture. This funding is intended to support the cafe's strategic expansion to 90 outlets across 20 Indian cities by 2027, aiming for a revenue target of Rs 200 crore.
- The brand successfully debuted in the Mumbai market at Jio World Drive, Bandra Kurla Complex, in July 2025, which was followed by overwhelming customer response.
- Harajuku Tokyo Cafe plans to diversify and enter the Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) segment, offering packaged food products under its KoiKoi Essentials brand.
- The cafe is exploring franchise opportunities to expand into international markets, particularly targeting locations with significant Indian diaspora populations such as the UAE.
- Harajuku Tokyo Cafe has received positive reviews for its authentic Japanese dining experience, acting as a cultural bridge to make Japanese cuisine accessible and appealing to Indian families.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2021 |
| Headquarters | New Delhi, India |
| Founders | Gaurav Kanwar |
| Revenue | Rs 30 crore as of latest reports |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Indian Angel Network, Samved VC, LetsVenture |
| Industry | Food and Beverage, Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) |
| Number of Employees | Not publicly disclosed |
Early History
Harajuku Tokyo Cafe began its journey in 2021 when Gaurav Kanwar, inspired by his experiences in the UK and Japanese culinary culture, decided to create a cafe that embodies the vibrant ambiance of Tokyo's Harajuku district. The brand launched its flagship store at Select Citywalk Mall in New Delhi, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes. The initial concept celebrated Harajuku's lively street culture through its Instagrammable decor and eclectic menu, quickly gaining popularity among urban diners fascinated by international cuisine trends.
Company Profile and Achievements
Harajuku Tokyo Cafe operates on a hybrid model of casual dining and quick-service formats, catering to a growing demand for Japanese cuisine in India. With its bright and colorful interiors, the cafe offers a unique dining experience focusing on both the visual and gastronomic appeal.
- Business Model: The cafe combines a fast-casual approach with a focus on authentic Japanese flavors, offering a range of dishes from sushi and ramen to dessert pancakes and boba teas.
- Cultural Influence: The cafe draws heavy inspiration from Tokyo's Harajuku district, famous for its fashion-forward and eclectic cultural scene.
- Achievements: Since its inception, the cafe has expanded rapidly across major Indian cities and has reported significant growth in annual recurring revenue.
- Expansion Plans: With recent funding, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe aims to broaden its presence to 90 locations across India, focusing on Tier-II and Tier-III cities significantly underserved by premium cafes.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe is positioned as a leading player in the fast-casual dining sector in India. It differentiates itself through its vibrant decor, themed dining experience, and a menu that resonates with the changing palate of Indian consumers.
- Market Strategy: The cafe continues to scale its operations, with plans to integrate a new line of packaged foods enabling customers to enjoy Japanese cuisine at home.
- Competitive Edge: Its well-curated menu and unique dining ambiance provide a competitive edge in the burgeoning Indian QSR market.
Harajuku Tokyo Cafe Owner
Gaurav Kanwar is the founder and current CEO of Harajuku Tokyo Cafe. His vision for the cafe was shaped by his extensive travels and experiences abroad, particularly his fascination with Japanese culinary diversity. Under his leadership, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe has gained recognition for bringing an authentic slice of Japanese culture to India.
Harajuku Tokyo Cafe Menu
The menu at Harajuku Tokyo Cafe is a comprehensive exploration of Japanese cuisine, featuring:
- Sushi & Sashimi: A variety of sushi rolls and sashimi dishes.
- Japanese Staples: Ramen, tempura, and soba noodles.
- Desserts: Jiggly pancakes, Japanese cheesecakes, whiskey cakes, and matcha-flavored desserts.
- Beverages: A selection of teas, including boba teas and other themed beverages.
Harajuku Tokyo Cafe Gurgaon
Located in Ambience Mall, Gurgaon, the Harajuku Tokyo Cafe brings its signature vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu to another bustling hub in India. The Gurgaon outlet further establishes the brand's presence in the north of India, catering to a diverse clientele seeking authentic Japanese dining experiences.
Conclusion
Harajuku Tokyo Cafe has successfully carved a niche within India's competitive food and beverage sector. Its rigorous focus on quality, immersive dining environments, and strategic expansion decisions position the cafe as a prominent leader in introducing Japanese culinary arts to a broader Indian audience. With ambitious plans for national and international growth, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe is set to continue influencing dining trends while serving as a gateway to Japanese culture.