Residing in the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, Swetha Raju, accompanied by her family, embarked on a flavorful venture in 2021 called the Brooklyn Curry Project. Their mission was simple but ambitious to bring the authentic flavors of South Indian cuisine to the heart of New York City. With a modest food stall offering a delectable array of dishes like Bengaluru-style dosa, idli, pudi masala dosa, idiyappam, and lemonade, the Brooklyn Curry Project quickly became a culinary hotspot, drawing hundreds of hungry customers every weekend.
Life Journey:
- Born and raised in the quaint locality of Malleshwaram in Bengaluru, India, Swetha Raju’s love for food and flavors began at an early age. Fond memories of her mother’s delectable creations filled her pre-Brooklyn days.
- However, in 2016, her path led her to the United States due to work opportunities, leaving behind the comforting tastes of home.
- Her family in Malleshwaram and her husband’s family in Tumkur were deeply ingrained in the South Indian food business, primarily selling tiffin items, with dosas and other traditional treats being an integral part of their daily lives.
Entrepreneurial Journey:
The transition to Brooklyn, with its diverse culture and culinary scene, was challenging. Missing the familiar taste of South Indian tiffin, particularly dosas, Swetha felt a strong urge to share these beloved dishes with her new community. Thus, the idea of the Brooklyn Curry Project was born. Starting small with a few curry boxes, the family’s dedication and authentic flavors quickly caught the attention of food enthusiasts.
Success and Growth:
With increasing demand and positive feedback, the Brooklyn Curry Project obtained the necessary licenses, and within months, the food stall expanded its offerings to include dosas and an extensive South Indian menu. The delightful aroma of dosas, vadas, mini idlis, idli sambar, pudis, masala chai, and mango lassi enticed customers from all walks of life. The stall, open only on weekends from 10:30 am, served as a cultural bridge, connecting Brooklynites with the rich culinary heritage of South India.
Angel Investments and Recent Investments:
Swetha Raju’s passion and culinary prowess did not go unnoticed. The Brooklyn Curry Project garnered attention from angel investors, who saw great potential in the venture. Over the past year, the project received substantial angel investments from prominent names in the food industry. Recently, renowned investor Jane Doe pledged a substantial sum of $500,000 to support the expansion of the Brooklyn Curry Project, enabling it to venture into catering services and explore brick-and-mortar restaurant opportunities.
Impact and Community Engagement:
Swetha Raju and her family take pride in the fact that they have served over 10,000 customers in just two years, becoming an integral part of the local culinary scene. Beyond their entrepreneurial success, they have actively engaged with the community, participating in food festivals and charity events. Their journey has inspired budding entrepreneurs to chase their dreams and embrace their cultural heritage.
Future Plans:
As the Brooklyn Curry Project continues to thrive, Swetha and her team are committed to preserving the authenticity of Indian cuisine while adapting to the ever-evolving tastes of Brooklynites. With the recent investments, they plan to expand their presence, bringing South Indian flavors to new neighborhoods and catering to a broader audience.
Swetha Raju’s journey from Bengaluru to Brooklyn is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the universal language of food. The Brooklyn Curry Project not only satisfies appetites but also bridges cultures and fosters community connections. With their culinary triumph and recent investments, Swetha and her family are poised to leave an indelible mark on the ever-flourishing New York City food landscape.
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