Dawat

About Dawat

Dawat is a London-based Indian and Pakistani restaurant brand with roots dating to 2002, when it opened as Laziza in Tooting. Growing demand led to a move to larger premises in 2009, and the business has since expanded to eight reported UK locations. Its franchise programme launched in 2025, offering two formats: full-service restaurants with an extensive menu and express takeaway outlets designed for faster service. The brand has reported growth beyond London, including Luton, and has identified Slough in its expansion announcements. Dawat says it holds BFA and QFA accreditation and has ambitions to exceed 100 stores within five years, although these claims and targets require confirmation. Franchisees receive assistance with site selection, shop fitting, kitchen planning, suppliers, recruitment, training, marketing and launch operations. Previous hospitality experience is beneficial but not mandatory.

Why franchise with Dawat

• ✓Join an Indian and Pakistani restaurant brand with roots dating to 2002 and eight reported UK sites.
• ✓Choose between a full-service restaurant and a compact express takeaway to suit your location.
• ✓Receive support with site selection, location scoring, kitchen planning and shop-fit guidance.
• ✓Access supplier contacts, product specifications, recruitment tools and comprehensive staff training.
• ✓Benefit from launch marketing, social media assets, opening support and ongoing operational reviews.
• ✓Enter the franchise without previous hospitality experience, with training provided by Dawat’s team.

Investment breakdown

Minimum investment	£200,000
Maximum investment	£450,000
Franchise fee	£20,000
Management service fee	On request
Marketing contribution	On request
Agreement term	On request

What's expected of a franchisee

Property requirements

Dawat offers two property formats. Full-service restaurants require a double-fronted unit from 2,000 sq ft, ideally on a high street or in a busy neighbourhood. Express outlets require a single shop from 1,000 sq ft, suited to high-footfall streets and commuter areas. The franchise team assists with site selection, location scoring, shop-fit guidance and kitchen layout planning. Detailed extraction, planning-use and lease requirements are not disclosed.

Training and support

Dawat provides training for management and restaurant teams, covering kitchen operations, front-of-house service and compliance. Training days are held at head office, while experienced staff deliver additional instruction at the franchisee’s branch during launch. Support also includes site selection, suppliers, recruitment, marketing plans, social media assets, opening assistance and regular operational reviews. The precise training duration is not specified.

Operational requirements

Dawat franchisees operate either a full-service Indian and Pakistani restaurant or an express takeaway. The restaurant format offers the complete menu and dine-in service, while Express uses a streamlined menu designed for speed. Operators must manage food preparation, staffing, customer service and compliance with brand standards. Dawat provides kitchen workflows, product specifications, supplier onboarding and reporting tools. Opening hours and staffing levels are not specified.

Experience required

Previous restaurant or hospitality experience is beneficial but not essential for a Dawat franchise. The company provides training in kitchen operations, customer service, management and compliance, together with support during opening. Applicants should be prepared to oversee staff, maintain food quality and manage business performance. Dawat does not specify minimum net worth, liquid capital requirements or mandatory qualifications in the supplied profile.