* Yearly orders increased from 6,984 in 2019 to over 50,054 in 2025
* Founded in 1949, the third-generation family business continues to carry forward its legacy with a second outlet in Lucknow
Lucknow: Sharma Ji Ki Chai, the iconic Lucknow tea brand known for its chai, bun makkhan and signature round samosas, has recorded over 7x growth in yearly order volumes since onboarding on the Zomato platform in 2018. Founded in 1949 by Om Prakash Sharma as a humble tea stall near the lively streets of Hazratganj, the brand has grown into a cherished part of Lucknow’s food culture while continuing to be run by the third generation of the Sharma family.
Speaking about the brand’s journey, Manav Sharma Owner, Sharma Ji Ki Chai, said, “For over seven decades, Sharma Ji Ki Chai has been about keeping things simple: good chai, fresh snacks and the warmth of familiar conversations. What began with my grandfather as a small tea stall has grown with the love and trust of generations of customers. Zomato has helped us take this legacy beyond Hazratganj and introduce our food to a new generation of customers, while staying true to the flavours that have always defined us.”
Aditya Mangla, CEO, Zomato, said, “The growth of Sharma Ji Ki Chai reflects their strong legacy and dedication to authentic flavours. We’re happy to be their partners as they expand thoughtfully and bring their food to even more customers.”
The story of Sharma Ji Ki Chai began in 1949, when Om Prakash Sharma recognised the strong chai culture and daily footfall around Hazratganj and set up a small, self-funded tea stall. Built gradually through growing customer support, the stall became a popular gathering place for people to enjoy chai and conversations. Its menu centred around classic Lucknow tea-time favourites, with bun makkhan and the brand’s distinctive round samosas becoming signature offerings.
Over the decades, Sharma Ji Ki Chai has welcomed a diverse set of customers, from everyday chai lovers to national leaders and celebrities, while preserving the character and flavours that have made the brand a part of Lucknow’s culinary heritage.
Since onboarding on Zomato, the brand has:
Registered over 7x growth in yearly order volumes, from 6,984 orders in 2019 to 50,054 orders in 2025
Expanded its online customer base beyond its iconic Hazratganj location
Continued its physical expansion with the launch of a second outlet at Lucknow’s Food Valley
To help small restaurants scale quickly, Zomato has introduced several initiatives in recent years. These include a DIY onboarding tool that helps restaurants get listed on the platform in just 15 minutes and access to the Restaurant Services Hub, a curated marketplace of verified vendors offering licensing, staffing, and hygiene audit services. In select cities, new restaurants also benefit from 0% commission for the first 30 days, along with credits for ads and Hyperpure services. As of Q1 FY27, Zomato has an average of 328,000 monthly active food ordering and delivery restaurant partners on the platform.
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