Written By: Bandana Gupta

Dining out in India has evolved significantly from simple restaurant visits to immersive experiences that seamlessly blend food, fun, and entertainment. Global trends are influencing urban India’s lifestyle choices, and one segment that’s catching fire is “eatertainment,” a hybrid of eating and entertainment. But can this concept of Dave & Buster's franchise model thrive in India’s evolving food and leisure market?

Let’s dive into the rise of gaming and restaurant franchises, analyse the potential of launching Dave & Buster’s in India, and explore how this format fits into the larger picture of entertainment-driven dining.

Global success of Dave & Buster’s business model in the entertainment dining industry

Dave & Buster's operates on an "Eat. Drink. Play. Watch." model, combining a full-service restaurant and bar with an extensive arcade, sports viewing areas, and often other attractions like bowling or virtual reality. Their success in North America stems from offering a one-stop destination for various forms of entertainment, appealing to a wide range of age groups for everything from family outings to corporate events and adult nights out.

Globally, Dave & Buster's is actively expanding its international footprint, with strategic partnerships in various countries, including India. They plan to change their menu to include popular local foods and drinks. They'll also adjust their prices to fit better what people in the area are willing to pay and prefer. This adaptability is crucial for any international brand venturing into India.

 Dave and Buster's franchise in India:

 Dave and Buster’s, a prominent U.S. brand known for merging food with fun, is widely recognised for its arcade games and has come to India with plans to open 15 outlets. The first outlet opened in Bangalore, and the second one will soon open in Mumbai. They offer a mix of games, food, and drinks, aiming to become a popular spot for socializing and entertainment in India.

 Key Highlights

• Games and Entertainment: The Bangalore store features a state-of-the-art midway with world-class games, including Godzilla VR, NBA hoops, and India's first bowling experience with Nitro Lighting and Sparks technology.
• Menu: The store offers a unique blend of American and Pan-Asian cuisine, with a curated drinks menu featuring signature cocktails and mocktails.
• Strategic Alliance: In India, Dave & Buster’s has joined hands with the Malpani Group, a multi-sector business group involved in renewable power, consumer goods, and property development.

Expansion Plans

• Dave & Buster’s aspires to be a familiar name across Indian cities by offering a distinctive space for gaming, eating, and connecting with others.

• The brand plans to introduce its "Eat, Drink, Play, and Watch" experience to Indian audiences, with a tailored menu and localized pricing models.

Why experiential dining is the future of the food business in India

India's food and beverage scene is evolving rapidly. Today's consumers, especially younger generations, crave more than just a meal – they want an immersive experience. Several factors drive this trend:

• Rising incomes enable people to spend more on leisure and entertainment.
• India's youthful population is eager to try new things, loves social media, and seeks visually appealing experiences.
• With socialising being a natural part of Indian lifestyles, experiential dining easily fits into this tradition.
• Global influences and increased travel have broadened consumer tastes, fueling demand for international concepts.
• People are constantly looking for fresh ways to spend their free time, beyond traditional dining and cinema.

As a result, India's full-service restaurant sector is poised for significant growth, with a focus on sophisticated dining experiences that blend global flavours with local twists. 

Best gaming and restaurant franchise opportunities for Indian entrepreneurs

The concept of combining dining with entertainment, often featuring gaming, is gaining significant traction in India. This "eatertainment" model appeals to a diverse demographic, particularly the youth and families looking for more than just a meal.

• Growing Market: India's gaming industry is booming, fueled by increasing smartphone penetration, affordable internet, and a rising interest in esports. This naturally extends to physical gaming experiences.
• Diverse Formats: Franchises in this space range from dedicated gaming lounges with F&B options to full-fledged entertainment centres.
  • Simply Gaming: It gives you a chance to open your own gaming store or experience centre with an investment of up to ₹50 lakhs. They offer a tried-and-tested business plan, help you earn back your money quickly, and provide full setup, daily support, and marketing help.
  • The Studs Sports Bar & Grill: Positions itself as India's #1 Sports Bar and Grill, offering a lounge bar vibe alongside sports viewing and F&B.
  • FranchiseBazar: Lists various "Sports, Video, and Gaming Centers" franchise opportunities with investments ranging from ₹2 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs, indicating a wide spectrum of options for entrepreneurs.
• Key Drivers: Increased affordability of gaming setups, a growing esports culture, and rising disposable incomes are accelerating demand for high-quality gaming products and hubs.
• Community Engagement: Successful gaming and restaurant franchises often organize events, esports tournaments, and workshops. Therefore, to foster community and enhance customer engagement.

 Know about Dave & Buster’s business model in India:

  While Dave & Buster's is growing in India, it's important to know how their business works.

• Master Franchisee Model: Dave & Buster's does not offer individual franchise opportunities in the USA and Canada. However, they are actively pursuing international expansion through a master franchisee model. In India, the Malpani Group serves as their master franchisee. Moreover, responsible for developing and operating Dave & Buster's locations across the country.
• No Direct Individual Franchising: This means that as an individual entrepreneur, you cannot directly apply to open a single Dave & Buster's outlet in India through their standard franchising program, unlike many other F&B franchises. The Malpani Group holds the exclusive rights for India.
• Required Qualifications for Master Franchising: If you were considering becoming a master franchisee for a brand of this scale, the requirements are substantial:
  • Financial Capacity: Prospective master franchisees for international markets (outside USA and Canada) are typically expected to have a minimum net worth of $10 million, with at least $5 million in liquid assets.
  • Hospitality Experience: Extensive experience in entertainment centers (arcade, esports), nightclub, bar, multi-unit restaurant, retail, and live music is highly valued.
  • Supply Chain Management: Experience with retail and F&B supply chains, including importation of goods, and existing vendor relationships.
  • Franchise Experience: Prior experience owning or operating a franchise business in the target country/region.
  • Management Experience: Proven managerial and operational experience, both domestic and international.
  • Market Connections: Good knowledge of the local market and strong business contacts.
  • Sales, Marketing, Promotional & PR Experience: Ability to effectively market and promote the brand in the local market.
• Alternative for Entrepreneurs: For entrepreneurs in India interested in the "eatertainment" space, the path is likely to explore existing domestic or international gaming and restaurant franchises. Moreover, that offer individual unit franchising, or to develop an entirely new concept.

Emerging Eatertainment Trends in Indian Cities:

Indian cities are buzzing with "eatertainment"—places "offering more than just food. They provide full social experiences with games, live music, sports, cool designs, and interactive fun. These spots attract families, young people (for trendy, shareable experiences), corporate groups, and sports fans. Technology is key, from VR games to easy booking. Successful places also adjust their food and drinks to local tastes. Big indoor amusement centers are popping up in malls, and the growth of live events helps this trend. It's a competitive market, so unique ideas, great service, and good value are essential for success.

Key Considerations Before Starting a Dave & Buster’s Franchise in India

1. Licensing & Franchise Availability: As of now, Dave & Buster’s does not publicly offer international franchising. Verify if the brand is currently offering international franchise opportunities. Or also considering a master franchise model specifically for the Indian market.
2. High Capital Investment: Dave & Buster’s locations are large-format entertainment venues with arcade games, sports bars, and dining areas. Be prepared for an investment upwards of ₹25–₹50+ crore, depending on location and size.
3. Real Estate Requirements: You’ll need a spacious location (25,000–40,000+ sq ft), ideally in high-footfall malls, commercial zones. Or also destination retail spaces in Tier-1 cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, or Delhi NCR.
4. Market Fit & Cultural Adaptation: Assess how well the concept aligns with Indian consumer tastes and entertainment habits. While urban youth and families may embrace the experience, food offerings, pricing, and gaming styles may require localization.
5. Licenses & Compliance: Setting up a gaming, F&B, and bar-driven entertainment centre in India involves complex licensing. Like, FSSAI, GST, liquor license (state-specific), amusement centre permits, fire safety, etc
6. Operations & Supply Chain: Managing multiple verticals (kitchen, bar, arcade, events) needs robust backend operations and trained manpower. You’ll need strong SOPs and possibly vendor partnerships for games and food supplies.
7. Return on Investment (ROI): Due to the scale of investment and operational costs, ROI could be long-term (5–7 years). Financial projections should account for initial slow traction and seasonal trends.
8. Competition Landscape: Assess existing players like Smaaash, Timezone, or Snow World, which already combine entertainment, gaming, and food. Consider how to differentiate the Dave & Buster’s experience.
9. Franchisor Support & Training: If a deal is possible, evaluate the level of operational, training, and marketing support provided by the parent company, especially in an unfamiliar international market.

Conclusion:

In essence, while directly opening a Dave & Buster's as an individual franchisee isn't an option in India, the booming "eatertainment" sector offers numerous other promising franchise avenues for entrepreneurs keen on combining dining and entertainment. The success of such ventures will increasingly depend on deep localization, innovative experiences, and strong operational execution.

Disclaimer: The brands mentioned in this blog are the recommendations provided by the author. FranchiseBAZAR does not claim to work with these brands / represent them / or are associated with them in any manner. Investors and prospective franchisees are to do their own due diligence before investing in any franchise business at their own risk and discretion. FranchiseBAZAR or its Directors disclaim any liability or risks arising out of any transactions that may take place due to the information provided in this blog.