Written By: Resham Daswani

Even in the year 2026, Mumbai remains the most prominent franchise in India. A less flashy revolution is taking place in smaller spaces, where low-cost franchises under ₹10 lakhs provide consistent profit with less risk, while premium global and Indian brands dominate malls and high streets.

Because of their low startup costs, quick payback periods, and adaptability to many environments (e.g., residential areas, train stations, tech parks, and busy streets), these firms are attracting the attention of serious investors.

Several modern businesses are causing a stir as the top franchise in Mumbai for modest but scalable investments, catering to the growing demand for quick-service food, drinks, cosmetics, and tech-enabled micro-services in India.

Reasons Why Investors Are Eyeing the ₹10 Lakh Market

Deciding to invest less than ₹10 lakhs does not imply being insignificant. It denotes using one's brain.

• Get in small and grow when things settle down; the barrier to entry is low and the adaptability is high.
• Potentially high return on investment (ROI): Thanks to high-demand items and quick turnover, many of these companies reach break-even in a year.
• With an eye towards scalability, franchisors are creating modular models that can serve as carts, kiosks, or even just little stores.
• Brands on the rise: Urbanites love new franchises because they offer something different.
• Reduced management stress because of operational simplicity: fewer staff and smaller spaces.

These low-capital ventures are particularly appealing to Mumbai's investment community because of the city's broad customer base, which includes both college students and corporate workers.

The Best New and Lucrative Franchises in Mumbai That Can Be Started for Less Than 10 Lakhs (2026 Edition)

This year's greatest franchise in Mumbai might be one of these carefully selected options: they're affordable, scalable, and building a strong brand.

Dolly Chaiwala [Dolly Ki Tapri]

• Capital required: ₹4.5-8 lakhs
• Food and Drink Franchise Kiosk 
• Unique Selling Proposition: A youth-oriented, visually striking, and viral street-style chai brand.

When it comes to franchises that have captivated India, few can compare to Dolly Ki Tapri. The brand, which has its roots in the allure of street chai culture, is now available in organised franchise models in major cities. Stylish tea stations that combine traditional chai with a modern, Instagram-worthy presentation give off an approachable vibe, which is the charm.

Why Do Investors Find It Appealing?

• Durable name recognition is a result of widespread online exposure.
• Easy to set up and requires very little room (100-200 sq ft).
• Speedy service concept with easy procedures.
• ROI Potential: With consistent daily traffic, you can expect to break even in 10 to 12 months.

Mumbai Chai Franchise:

• Total investment: 6-7 lakhs
• Type of Franchise: Miniature Tea Shop
• Unique selling point: reasonably priced luxury meets traditional Maharashtrian chai café culture.

The Mumbaikars' sentimental attachment to their morning brew is the inspiration for Mumbai Chai. Its stores also serve as gathering places, making them ideal for people on the move or those in the area.

Arguments in Favour of It:

• Powerful sense of place and dedicated regulars.
• We also have fusion quick eats and snacks on the menu.
• Small personnel and a compact layout make it easy to manage.
• Profitability for Investors: Consistent daily revenue with minimal wastage and consistent foot traffic.

Desi Burger:

• Financial Outlay: ₦5-8 lakhs
• Fusion burgers that incorporate Indian flavours into international formats are the unique selling point of this fast food kiosk franchise.

Desi Burger is a fast food joint that showcases both the aesthetic appeal and the comforting flavours of Indian cuisine. Students and young professionals looking for cheap and fast food are big fans.

Notable points:

• Small kitchen, quick meals.
• Great potential for advertising on social media.
• Margin stability achieved through streamlining the supply chain.
• Return on Investment (ROI): Depending on sales volume, it is possible to return investment within 14-16 months.

Kathi Junction Franchise:

• Investment amount: 8-10 lakhs
• Category of Franchise: Roll & Wrap Express Express 
• Speciality of the restaurant: Reimagined fast food—tasty, affordable, and easy to copy.

Quick rolls made with standard recipes and an easily expandable system are now at your fingertips at Kathi Junction. The hectic pace of life in Mumbai is a great fit for the format of the brand.

Investors Have Faith in It:

• Category of products with a high production volume.
• Efficient idea for delivery.
• Deliveries and walk-ins both contribute to the bottom line.
• Profitability in less than a year is possible with daily sales ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 rupees.

Tandoor Express Franchise:

• Cost: 8 to 9 lakhs rupees
• Small Tandoor Kitchen Franchise
• Distinctive selling point: genuine North Indian tandoori food available for takeaway.

Tandoor Express is a tiny, affordable model that serves traditional Indian cuisine. Setting up and running the business are both made easier using semi-cooked ingredients and small electric tandoors.

Attracting Investors:

• Not relying heavily on staff.
• The model is compatible with cloud kitchens.
• Sales in the evening and on weekends generate strong margins.
• Financial break-even point Duration: 12–15 months with regular daily dosing.

Chai Dosti Amruttulya:

• Cost: ₹3-10 lakhs (model dependent)
• Tea shop or standalone outlet franchise
• USP: Combines a sense of nostalgia with the professionalism and uniformity of branding.

Popular among students and working-class consumers, Chai Dosti Amruttulya is known for its inexpensive beverages of reputable quality.

Benefits to Investors:

• This model has been successfully implemented throughout Maharashtra.
• A consistent demand and straightforward operations.
• Reasonably priced raw materials provide attractive profit margins.
• The best places to invest are those close to schools and public transport stations.

Sweet World:

• Capital required: ₹3-5 lakhs
• Type of Franchise: Miniature Candy and Dessert Shop
• Confections and sweets at affordable prices, perfect for everyday desires or as a gift.

Due to their reliance on festival sales, Sweet World franchises are able to weather economic downturns. Local markets or areas close to schools are ideal for compact stores.

Pros for Investors:

• Desserts are in high demand year-round.
• Easy to put up and take care of.
• Regular customers flock to stores throughout holiday seasons.
• Long-Term Strategy: Increase exposure and revenue by offering online delivery choices.

Strategies for Locating the Most Cost-Effective Franchise in Mumbai for Less Than Ten Lakhs

Compare each brand using these six criteria to help you make a smart investment decision:

Therefore, here’s a framework, how to choose the best franchise fit in Mumbai 2026:

• Inspect the location's visibility, foot traffic, and rental yield to assess its potential.
• Check the franchisor's financials and operational history to see if they are credible.
• Comprehend the entire price tag, which should incorporate working capital, interior design, and licenses.
• Evaluate return on investment (ROI) timeframes; a ten to twelve month ROI is better.
• Go check out the current locations and see how consistent the performance is for yourself.
• Nonetheless, strike a balance by negotiating lower royalties at the outset.
• Future scalability - Look for brands who are willing to let you own several units.

To Conclude,

Pay attention to categories that have little operational complexity, strong brands, and everyday demand if you're a serious investor looking for the greatest franchise in Mumbai around ₹10 lakhs

• Dolly Ki Tapri, Mumbai Chai, and Desi Burger are our top picks for 2026. Dolly Ki Tapri has the most potential for growth and innovation, while Mumbai Chai has the most loyal customers and consistent demand. Therefore, In terms of youth appeal and modern quick-service restaurant pricing, we recommend Desi Burger.
• Chai Dosti Amruttulya and Sweet World are two reliable options for a stable income that pays out quickly.
• Both Tandoor Express and Kathi Junction have potential for future multi-location growth.

Small but scalable, culturally entrenched yet profit-driven, these prospects embody the entrepreneurial heartbeat of Mumbai.

FAQs

1. Which sector has the most promising chances for inexpensive franchises?

Cloud kitchens, small-format service kiosks, beauty parlours, and food and also drink continue to rank highest in terms of profitability.

1. To what extent am I responsible for my own success as a franchise investor?

Always stick to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) provided by the franchisor, keep operational costs in check, use hyperlocal marketing, and keep quality high.

1. Do I need more than ₹10 lakhs to launch a franchise in Mumbai?

Yes. With a total investment of less than ₹10 lakhs (including interiors and equipment), several dessert, snack, and tea brands provide compact models.

Disclaimer: The brands mentioned in this blog are the recommendations provided by the author. FranchiseBAZAR does not claim to work with these brands / represent them / or are associated with them in any manner. Investors and prospective franchisees are to do their own due diligence before investing in any franchise business at their own risk and discretion. FranchiseBAZAR or its Directors disclaim any liability or risks arising out of any transactions that may take place due to the information provided in this blog.