With its vibrant atmosphere, authentic flavors and elevated dining experience, newly opened Bombay Republic is poised to fill a culinary niche in the Richardson dining community.

“We wanted to bring something authentic from India, which has a blend of North Indian, Chinese and a little bit of South Indian [cuisine],” franchise owner Soumya Karthikeyan said. “We are catering to the preferences of people who love creamy North Indian food, as well as people who love typical South Indian spicy food.”

The Karthikeyans set out to create an authentic Indian dining experience here in Richardson, a community they felt was lacking in high-quality, fine dining Indian restaurants. Opening the restaurant also fulfilled Soumya’s long-standing desire to open a restaurant and share her passion for food, culture and life.

“[Soumya] is a natural chef,” said Karthikeyan Sridharan, Soumya’s fellow co-founder and husband. “We are blessed to have her at home. We try different cuisines, so that’s where the thought came from in terms of, ‘Hey, if this is what you want to do, let’s do it.’”

The stars aligned when they connected with the Kailash Parbat Group, an esteemed, global restaurant franchise that’s been showcasing authentic Indian cuisine for more than 60 years. The Bombay Republic brand emerged in 2023 from this collaboration and specializes in both nonvegetarian and vegetarian dishes. It also boasts a full bar alongside an impressive selection of beverages, including unique Indian mocktails, cocktails and lassis.

“You typically don't come across Indian restaurants with a fine dining style and a full-fledged bar. [Bombay Republic] is unique in that way,” Karthikeyan said.

The Karthikeyans carefully crafted the Bombay Republic’s menu in collaboration with Michelin-star chef Hari Nayak, who designed the unique fusion of traditional and contemporary Indian dishes. Some of the standout menu items include the burrata chicken, which features cheese paired with grilled chicken in a tomato-based gravy, as well as the butter chicken baos—steamed buns filled with the classic butter chicken dish.

“The burrata chicken is good. We have burrata cheese. It makes it more of a fusion. The butter chicken baos are our favorites, too,” Soumya said.

During the restaurant’s daily lunch buffet, diners enjoy an assortment of dishes and bask in Bombay Republic’s rich ambience of themed decor knowing that they can eat a quality meal fast. Walls are decorated with pictures to replicate Mumbai-style decor, and one wall is dedicated to photos of Bollywood actors.

“As soon as you enter, it gives you the bright orange, vibrant color inside the restaurant. That itself is very welcoming,” Soumya said.

The Bombay Republic team plans to continue expanding its menu, incorporating more South Indian spices and fusion dishes like special dosas, sizzlers and burgers. They’re also focused on engaging with the community by offering catering services, hosting private events and supporting local organizations.

“We want to give back to the community as well. If there's any nonprofit organizations in the area, we would love to work with them,” Soumya said. “They can always give us a call.”

Stop by to experience the vibrant colors, lively atmosphere and authentic flavors electrifying Richardson’s local dining scene. To learn more, visit the Bombay Republic website.

The above story was produced by Community Impact's Multi Platform Journalist Jacquelyn Chorush with information solely provided by the local business as part of its "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.