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Former Smashburger CEO invests in Indian fast casual brand

Tava Indian Kitchen has closed $4.5 million of new equity financing, providing capital to expand the management team and accelerate new unit growth in the San Francisco Bay area and other new markets in 2016 and beyond.

June 22, 2015

Tava Indian Kitchen has closed $4.5 million of new equity financing, providing capital to expand the management team and accelerate new unit growth in the San Francisco Bay area and other new markets in 2016 and beyond, according to a company press release.

“We are excited to expand our footprint across the Bay Area this year, and look forward to entering new markets beginning in 2016," stated the company.

Tava, founded in 2011 by three college friends, has three locations across the San Francisco Bay Area, serving a modern approach on Indian food, in a fun fast casual environment for $8 to $10, said Tava CEO Jeremy Morgan.

All of Tava’s dishes are made-to-order with all-natural ingredients, offering guests the ability to create-their-own Indian cuisine experience. Tava has multiple options including a Roti Wrap, Rice Bowl, and Salad Bowl that are served with a choice of all-natural chicken, grass-fed lamb, and vegetarian or vegan proteins. These are then topped with Tava’s signature Tikka or Daal sauces, garnished with fresh veggies, and one of five flavorful housemade chutneys.

“Tava is off to a great start here in the Bay area with consumers really enjoying our fresh approach to Indian food. With this new capital fusion and expansion of our board, we have a real opportunity to take a leadership role in growing the fast casual Indian food category.” Morgan said. “We are excited to expand our footprint across the Bay Area this year, and look forward to entering new markets beginning in 2016.”

Tava’s Series A1 round was led by the CircleUp Growth Fund, Kensington Capital, Agilic Capital and former Smashburger CEO David Prokupek, through his investment fund HiGrowth Advisors. Prokupek was named Fast Casual’s No. 1 Mover and Shaker in 2012, and has joined Tava’s board of directors as part of the transaction.

"We are thrilled to have Dave joining our board of directors. His experience building one of fast casual’s most respected brands will be immensely valuable as we look toward future growth,” said Vijay Brihmadesam, Tava co-founder and board chairman.

Prokupek said “Tava has all of the elements for great success story — a talented team of founders, amazing food, and the capital needed to grow."

 “I am privileged to be part of this emerging concept and look forward to helping Tava become a leading brand in the fast casual industry," he added.