Indian on the rise: MerziIndian on the rise: Merzi

Lisa Jennings

Kaz Kazmi doesn’t call his fast-casual concept Merzi an Indian restaurant.

“It’s Indian-inspired,” he said, noting that “merzi” means “choice” in Hindi. “Food from India doesn’t have to be thick, heavy curries. It can be something different.”

With one location that opened in December in Washington, D.C.’s downtown, Kazmi borrowed elements from Chipotle with a customizable menu that allows guests to choose from a rice bowl, naan bowl, roti wrap, salad or chaat – the latter with a chickpea base for diners avoiding carbs.

The average check is about $8.50.

Though still early, Kazmi said sales are trending well and he is looking for new investors to grow the concept.

“It’s surprising that people haven’t been able to take Indian cuisine and do it for the masses,” said the U.K.-born Kazmi.

He said he looks forward to the day when Americans can enjoy Indian flavors without feeling the need to take along a “sherpa,” an Indian friend to translate the menu.

Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].
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