This Indian Pizza Hut worker now owns a cafe business with 50 outlets. How he brewed his success
Shiju Pappen has transformed his life into a remarkable entrepreneurial success story. Today, he is the founder of The Chatpata Affairs, a popular cafe chain that boasts 50 outlets across India and generates an impressive Rs 8 crore in annual revenue. Pappen’s journey began in a small town in Rajasthan, where he faced significant challenges after losing both his parents at a young age. This hardship motivated him to seek a better life, leading him to Delhi in 1997. He started his career at Pizza Hut, taking on various roles, from cleaning tables to serving customers.
Reflecting on those early days during an interview with Startuppedia, Pappen shared, “I was earning only Rs 5,000-6,000 per month for almost a year straight. It was tough to manage rent, electricity, and food. However, I had no option but to manage with whatever I was earning.”
Discovering A Market Gap
With over two decades of experience in the fast-food industry, including a notable tenure as CEO of Southern Fried Chicken, Pappen identified a glaring gap in the market: the underrepresentation of Indian street food. His passion for authentic flavors and a desire to elevate these dishes led him to establish The Chatpata Affairs in 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the business landscape.
The Chatpata Affairs has a diverse menu featuring nearly 200 items, ranging from the traditional litti chokha of Bihar to the crispy tangy chaat from North India. Pappen’s vision is bold: he aims to position Indian street food alongside global
