KRAVE INDIAN™ was born from the culinary passion and vision of its Founder, CEO, and Executive Chef, Nikhil Baxi, whose journey in the food industry began nearly three decades ago with the prestigious Taj Group of Hotels in Mumbai.

“I was privileged to start my career at the Taj, where I had the opportunity to master a wide range of global cuisines—Thai, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, and, of course, Indian cuisine,” recalls Nikhil. This foundation in classical hospitality and world cuisines helped shape his refined yet soulful approach to food.

Raised in a family where cooking was a way of life, Nikhil’s love for food was nurtured early on. “Growing up in a foodie household, I was surrounded by the aromas of spices and the warmth of home-cooked meals. That passion naturally led me to pursue formal training and become a professional chef.” Childhood memories of Dal Baati, Panchratna Dal, and slow-cooked Laal Maans continue to influence his culinary sensibility today.

While working in luxury hotel kitchens, Nikhil’s curiosity extended beyond fine dining. His travels across Rajasthan—Udaipur, Jaipur, Kota, Sri Ganganagar, Chittorgarh, and across India to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Chandigarh, and beyond—led him to explore local street food and regional cuisines. “Wherever I travelled, I sought out local flavours and tried to understand what made each dish so crave-worthy. Those experiences shaped my philosophy of honest, flavour-driven cooking.”

Nikhil’s deep passion for Rajasthani cuisine, a cuisine rarely represented outside India, became the defining force behind KRAVE INDIAN™. His commitment to authenticity, traditional techniques, and bold flavours has positioned KRAVE INDIAN™ among the pioneers introducing Rajasthani cuisine to the Canadian food industry, bringing a rich regional culinary tradition into the mainstream.

The menu at KRAVE INDIAN™ is a tribute to the culinary heritage of Northwest India, with signature dishes such as Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Subzi, and Laal Maans, alongside other regional specialties—each crafted with care, balance, and respect for tradition.

After five successful years of operation in Vaughan, Ontario, KRAVE INDIAN™ has built a loyal following for its authentic flavours and warm hospitality. Today, the brand proudly becomes part of Toronto’s downtown food landscape, bringing the soulful flavours of Rajasthan to Parkdale Village and its vibrant, multicultural community.

“Dining is more than just eating—it’s a celebration of flavours, culture, and togetherness,” says Nikhil. “At KRAVE INDIAN™, we invite you to experience the food you crave and create memories that last.”

 

Our Vision | Mission | Value Statement

 

Vision

Our vision is to offer a variety of authentic regional specialties and street food from India that one craves served in a casual and friendly atmosphere. To create multiple such profit centers.

 

Mission

To capture the essence of our vision by creating a casual Indian diner that offers high quality, authentic Indian food that one craves from various regions of India. It emphasises our commitment to quality of ingredients, authenticity and hospitality. 

 

Value Statement

Authentic flavours you crave.​​