CHEFLING secures Rs 40 lakh from Shark Tank India judges; Know about the startup

In the bustling lanes of Mumbai, an innovative startup named CHEFLING is redefining the culinary landscape of India. Founded by Rounit Gambhir, CHEFLING has embarked on a mission to bring global cuisines into the kitchens of Indian households through its unique Do-It-Yourself (DIY) culinary kits.

These kits are designed to simplify the cooking process of international dishes, making gourmet cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone. 

Founder's journey

Rounit Gambhir, the brain behind CHEFLING, hails from a background steeped in the textile industry. However, the downfall of his family's textile company in 2019 due to bankruptcy propelled him to carve out his own path.

Inspired by the concept of DIY meal kits and recognizing their potential in the Indian market, Rounit founded CHEFLING in 2020. His vision was fueled by the desire to overcome the challenges he faced in accessing international ingredients and recipes, aiming to offer a solution that is easy, economical, and sustainable.

How CHEFLING Works?

CHEFLING operates on a simple yet effective model. It offers DIY culinary kits that contain all the ingredients required to prepare a specific dish. These kits cater to a variety of international cuisines, including Japanese (Sushi and Mochi), Mexican (Chalada and Taco), and Italian (Lasagna). 

Each kit comes with a detailed recipe and, in some cases, a QR code that directs users to a video tutorial, making the cooking process straightforward and enjoyable.

The flagship product of CHEFLING is its sushi kit, which has received significant acclaim for its quality and convenience. The kits are available in different sizes, catering to the needs of individuals, couples, or groups, and are priced competitively.

Despite the high perceived cost, Rounit explains that the kits offer value for money, considering the quantity and quality of sushi they can produce compared to restaurant prices. 

CHEFLING growth

Since its inception, CHEFLING claims to have witnessed impressive sales figures, with Rounit revealing a total sales of over Rs 60 lakh in three years. The startup has also introduced new kits to its lineup, further expanding its product range and market reach.

The DIY food kit industry in India is burgeoning, with projections suggesting it could reach Rs 8000 crore by 2025.

Rounit's ambition for CHEFLING is to capture a significant share of this market. He aims to make international cuisines accessible in every Indian home and to introduce Indian cuisines to the world. His vision extends beyond the current product range, with plans to develop a DIY bar kit and explore other culinary innovations.

Shark Tank India pitch 

In a gripping episode of Shark Tank India Season 3, CHEFLING, a culinary startup, initially sought Rs 40 lakhs for 10% equity, valuing the company at Rs 4 crore.

The pitch sparked a bidding war, leading to two main offers: one from Namita, Azhar, and Piyush at Rs 40 lakh for 20% equity and another combined offer from four investors for 25% equity at the same amount.

Rounit countered with a request for Rs 40 lakh for 15% equity, aiming for a Rs 2.67 crore valuation.

The final deal was struck from Amit, Namita, Azhar, and Piyush at Rs 40 lakh for 16% equity, valuing CHEFLING at Rs 2.5 crore.

Aman's humorous remark, "I always say, bribes are always given first, you're the first person who has learned this," added a light-hearted conclusion to the intense negotiation.