Kotadia Cooks is an urban café concept in New York City designed for college students who crave affordable, home-cooked meals in a cozy, community-driven space. It bridges the gap between fast food and expensive restaurants, offering wholesome comfort food that f...
Kotadia Cooks – Business Summary
Kotadia Cooks is an urban café concept in New York City designed for college students who crave affordable, home-cooked meals in a cozy, community-driven space. It bridges the gap between fast food and expensive restaurants, offering wholesome comfort food that feels like home.
Vision:
“To be the most loved off-campus café where students find comfort, community, and home-cooked meals at student-friendly prices.”
Concept:
In NYC’s fast-paced lifestyle, students often rely on unhealthy or costly dining. Kotadia Cooks provides nutritious, homemade-style meals that are affordable, satisfying, and ideal for studying or socializing. The café aims to be a warm hub with Wi-Fi, friendly staff, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Offerings:
A rotating menu includes baked ziti, curries, roasted chicken, lentil stew, pasta bakes, and shepherd’s pie, with sides like garlic bread and roasted vegetables. Beverages include coffee, teas, smoothies, and desserts such as muffins and banana bread. Dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options ensure convenience.
Value Proposition:
1. Affordability– Meals priced for student budgets.
2. Quality – Fresh, wholesome dishes made with local ingredients.
3. Community– A second home for students to eat, study, and connect.
Market:
Targeting NYC students aged 18–26 near NYU, Columbia, and The New School, along with young professionals. Market demand focuses on healthy, affordable meals and calm study spaces. Competitors like Starbucks and Panera lack the “home-cooked” feel Kotadia Cooks offers.
Operations:
Open 10 AM–10 PM with a team of six including a chef, cooks, baristas, and a manager. Located near student housing (600–800 sq. ft.). Ingredients sourced locally; sustainability and minimal waste prioritized.
Marketing:
Social media campaigns on Instagram and TikTok, campus partnerships, flyers, and loyalty rewards. Hashtags like #StudyAtKotadiaCooks build brand awareness. Events, influencer tie-ups, and referral programs drive engagement.
Financials:
Startup cost: ~$45,000. Monthly expenses: ~$25,000. Expected revenue: $30,000/month with 100 daily customers at $10 average spend. Break-even within 9–12 months, then steady profit growth.
Growth:
After success near NYU, expansion will follow via franchises in other college cities, catering, and meal subscriptions. Merchandise and university meal plans will enhance brand reach.
Community Impact:
Committed to sustainability, student employment, and food donations. The café will host open-mic nights and art events, creating a supportive social hub.
Conclusion:
Kotadia Cooks blends comfort, affordability, and community—offering students a home away from home. With wholesome meals, a welcoming vibe, and a sustainable mission, it’s set to become NYC’s favorite off-campus café where comfort meets community.
Size: 27.81 MB
Language: en
Added: Oct 07, 2025
Slides: 11 pages
Slide Content
Kotadia Cooks: Business Proposal A Cozy Café Offering Affordable, High-Quality Home-Cooked Meals Prepared by: Keval Kotadia Enrollment No.: 23BIT285D Div: 2 Batch: H4 Type of Business: Café – Home-Cooked Meals | Location: Near college campuses, NYC
Executive Summary: Comfort Food for College Life The Concept Kotadia Cooks is a student-friendly café in NYC specializing in affordable, high-quality home-cooked meals. The Goal To become the go-to off-campus spot, providing nourishment and value to busy college students. The Offering A rotating menu of fresh, wholesome comfort food served in a warm, community-focused environment.
Business Description & Atmosphere Kotadia Cooks will operate as a small café near major NYC colleges (e.g., NYU, Columbia). We specialize in home-style cooking inspired by global traditions, such as hearty stews, slow-cooked curries, and classic comfort foods, all with student-friendly pricing. We bridge the gap between fast food and quality dining by providing nutritious, affordable meals in a relaxing, café-style atmosphere designed for studying and connecting.
Market Analysis: The Need for Affordable Quality NYC has over 100,000 college students who often lack access to home-cooked meals. Current options are typically fast food or expensive health alternatives. 1 Strong Demand Need for affordable, nourishing, and flavorful meals served quickly without sacrificing quality. 2 Target Market College students (18–26) who are budget-conscious and health-aware diners. 3 Study Space Seekers Students looking for comfortable, study-friendly environments with food options.
Menu & Services: Wholesome Variety Our menu rotates weekly, emphasizing freshness and variety, alongside essential student services. Core Menu Examples Baked ziti with garlic toast Chickpea curry with basmati rice Roasted chicken with mashed potatoes Vegetarian chili with cornbread Fresh soups, salads, and daily baked treats Additional Services Study-friendly seating and free Wi-Fi. Student discounts and loyalty programs. Weekly or monthly meal plan subscriptions. Take-out and delivery via major apps.
Operations Plan: The Daily Flow Hours 10 AM – 10 PM, 7 days a week. Staffing 1 head chef, 2 line cooks, 2 cashiers/baristas, 1 manager. Location Small leased space (600–800 sq. ft.) near NYU campus. Suppliers Local produce markets and bulk dry goods wholesalers for fresh inventory.
Marketing Strategy: Engaging the Student Body Our strategy focuses on high brand visibility and direct engagement with the college community. Digital Presence Social media promotions on Instagram and TikTok targeting students. Campus Outreach Flyers, campus posters, and collaborations with student clubs and events. Incentives Launch-day promotions, referral discounts, and loyalty punch cards/meal bundles.
Financial Plan: Estimated Startup Costs The total estimated startup cost is $45,000, covering essential operational and legal requirements. Café lease deposit & rent (3 mo) 15000 Kitchen equipment & furniture 18000 Permits & licenses 2000 Initial inventory 5000 Marketing & branding 3000 Contingency fund 2000 Total Startup: $45,000
Projected Monthly Financials (Year 1) Revenue Projection 100 Customers/Day Target daily customer volume. $10 Average Sale Estimated average transaction value. $30K Monthly Revenue Projected gross revenue per month. Estimated Monthly Expenses Staff wages: $12,000 Inventory: $6,000 Rent & utilities: $5,000 Marketing & overhead: $2,000 Total Expenses: $25,000
Key Financial Takeaways & Next Steps Net Profit Estimated Net Profit of $5,000 per month based on projections. Break-Even Point Expected to break even within 9–12 months of operation. Kotadia Cooks is positioned to capture a significant market share by offering a unique value proposition to the large NYC college student population.