Sahil Rahman and Rahul Vinod, the cofounders of Rasa, are determined to revolutionize the way Indian cuisine is perceived and enjoyed in America. Both of them were raised in the world of small businesses, as their fathers co-owned an Indian restaurant in Rockville. After working in corporate jobs for a few years, they decided to follow through on a business plan they had developed a decade earlier. Their vision was to introduce a modern twist to Indian cuisine, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
Established in 2017, Rasa is not just a combination of the founders’ names but a realization of their dream to create a dining experience that reflects their cultural heritage. The name “Rasa” itself is derived from Sanskrit and many Indian languages, meaning taste or flavor. The restaurant offers a range of vibrant bowls made with locally sourced ingredients, priced between $11 to $15, making Indian food more affordable and approachable compared to traditional sit-down restaurants.
Rahman and Vinod felt that Indian food was often perceived as expensive and intimidating due to the complex menus and high prices at traditional restaurants. They wanted to change that narrative and make Indian cuisine as popular as other international cuisines like Mexican, Chinese, and Italian. With the support of investors and industry veterans like Troy Alstead, Rasa has been able to expand its presence in the D.C. metropolitan area and beyond.
The restaurant’s colorful and inviting ambiance, inspired by the rich culture of India, aims to make customers feel at home and welcome. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rasa has managed to grow and open multiple locations, creating job opportunities for many individuals. The founders have also learned from their early mistakes in hiring and have implemented a better strategy to build a strong and efficient team.
Customers like Luke Allen appreciate the customizable bowls offered at Rasa, allowing them to enjoy a variety of flavors and ingredients from both northern and southern India. The menu features chef-curated bowls with catchy names and the option to build your bowl with different greens, grains, and protein choices. Rasa has received accolades from various media outlets, recognizing its innovative concept and delicious offerings.
Overall, Rasa represents a new wave of Indian cuisine in America, blending tradition with innovation to create a culinary experience that is vibrant, flavorful, and accessible to all. Through their commitment to quality, affordability, and inclusivity, Sahil Rahman and Rahul Vinod are reshaping the landscape of Indian dining in the U.S.
