Fast-casual concept Tava Indian Kitchen has closed $4.5 million of new equity financing, providing capital to expand the management team and accelerate development in the San Francisco market and beyond.
Tava's Series A1 round was led by the CircleUp Growth Fund, Kensington Capital, Agilic Capital and former Smashburger CEO David Prokupek, through his investment fund HiGrowth Advisors. Prokupek has also joined Tava's Board of Directors as part of the transaction.
"Tava has all of the elements for great success story — a talented team of founders, amazing food and the capital needed to grow," Prokupek said. "I am privileged to be part of this emerging concept and look forward to helping Tava become a leading brand in the fast-casual industry."
Founded in 2011 by three college friends bent on bringing Indian cuisine to the mainstream, Tava Indian Kitchen operates three units in the Bay Area. Its build-your-own menu includes Roti Wraps ("Burrotis"), Rice Bowls and Salad Bowls with choice of all-natural chicken, grass-fed lamb, and vegetarian or vegan proteins. All can be topped off and customized with Tava's signature Tikka or Daal sauces, fresh vegetables and a selection of house-made chutneys.
Tava CEO Jeremy Morgan commented, "Tava is off to a great start here in the Bay Area with consumers really enjoying our fresh approach to Indian food. With this new capital fusion and expansion of our board, we have a real opportunity to take a leadership role in growing the fast-casual Indian food category."