Craveworthy Brands acquires an Indian BBQ restaurant

Craveworthy Brands is growing its portfolio yet again, today announcing the acquisition of Sigri Indian BBQ, a concept founded in New Jersey in 2015 by Jagat Parikh with guidance from Chef Aarthi Sampath. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The acquisition comes on the heels of Craveworthy’s move to acquire Dirty Dough Cookies, first announced in January, adding to the company’s roster that also includes Bd’s Mongolian Grill, Flat Top Grill, Genghis Grill, Krafted Burger Bar Tap, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Pastizza Pizza & Pasta, Scramblin' Ed's, Soom Soom Mediterranean, The Budlong Southern Chicken and Wing It On. With this latest acquisition, Craveworthy will integrate its operating procedures, marketing and finance processes into the Sigri system with a goal of growing the brand nationally through franchising. The concept currently has two locations, in Newark and North Brunswick, New Jersey.

Sigri is named after the traditional clay stove used to cook meals in North India, according to the company. The concept brings this style of cooking to into its menu, which includes Sigri fried chicken, kebabs, Kathi rolls, such as the classic chicken tikka and chickpea masala, make-your-own dishes, snacks, and desserts.

"With a growing appetite for high-quality ethnic concepts like Indian barbecue, we see remarkable potential for Sigri's expansion throughout the country. Sigri's authenticity and innovative service model truly marks the brand as a pioneer in this fast-casual category," Craveworthy CEO/Founder Gregg Majewski said in a statement. "Embedding the Craveworthy team along with our systems and processes into the concept will fuel a new era for Sigri. It's undoubtedly a growth concept that truly complements the brands in our portfolio."

In a statement, Parikh said the Craveworthy partnership adds a “new and exciting chapter” to Sigri.

“Gregg has been an inspiration to me, having collaborated with him for over six years," Parikh said. "When I first founded the brand in 2015, my vision was to introduce fresh and authentic Indian flavors in the U.S., starting with New Jersey. Our brand is not only unique in concept but also in our wide range of diverse, customizable and handcrafted menu items created by the renowned Chef Aarthi. Now, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce Sigri to new markets and guests."

Founded in 2022, Craveworthy Brands projects $1 billion in systemwide sales within approximately five years and plans to acquire additional brands, open nearly 17 corporate locations and open over 60 virtual restaurants throughout 2024.

Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]