Bombay Eats is an Indian fast casual restaurant offering a customizable dining experience. Situated at 1763 Freedom Drive in Naperville, the establishment is owned by Ali and Falguni Dewjee, long-time residents of Chicago.
Business Overview
Operating in Naperville for four years and with a total of 16 years in the restaurant industry, Bombay Eats offers a menu inspired by Indian street food. Patrons can pick and choose their meals, drawing inspiration from the popular fast-food chain, Chipotle.
Business Journey
Bombay Eats began in 2010 under the name Bombay Wraps, located in the Loop as the first Indian fast casual eatery in Chicago. Initially offering a modest selection of four meat and four vegetable items, along with sides and drinks, the menu has expanded over the years. Nowadays, it includes rice bowls, salads, and sandwich rolls.
The Naperville branch is the first to carry the name Bombay Eats, with additional locations in Chicago’s Loop, Streeterville, and Lakeview. These locations serve a diverse customer base, including tourists and local residents.
Operating Hours
Bombay Eats operates between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. from Monday to Saturday. All locations remain closed on Sundays to provide staff with a day off.
Innovations and Challenges
“We launched our BombayRito to provide value amidst rising inflation,” Ali Dewjee explained. “It has become quite popular.”
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant hurdles, followed by the challenges of inflation and labor shortages. Despite these obstacles, the unique fast casual format of Bombay Eats continues to draw customers.
A Glimpse Into the Owners’ Background
Before founding Bombay Eats, Ali had a 12-year career in consumer packaged goods marketing, including roles at PepsiCo and Tropicana. This experience in innovation and strategy has been instrumental in running the restaurant business. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, both Ali and Falguni cherish the experience of introducing people to Indian food and culture.
What Makes Bombay Eats Stand Out
Bombay Eats differentiates itself with a format uncommon among Indian restaurants. The Naperville location employs four people across two shifts, with Ali often traveling between locations.
Future Prospects
The Dewjees see potential for further expansion within Chicagoland. They receive frequent franchise requests and consider locations like Evanston, Hyde Park, and Schaumburg as prospects for new branches.
Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
“The most important component of a restaurant is its food. Yet, one must also focus on finance, people management, marketing, procurement, and customer service,” Ali advises.