Embarking on a Culinary Journey of Priyasha Saluja: The Cinnamon Kitchen’s Genesis and Evolution 

May 14, 2024

3 Minutes

The Genesis of an Idea

Priyasha Saluja, a Delhi-born individual, founded The Cinnamon Kitchen, a culinary haven that specializes in crafting delectable dairy-free, gluten-free, and egg-free treats. The concept originated from her personal health journey, as she was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) at a young age. Determined to find a holistic solution, she turned to the kitchen and began experimenting with various dietary approaches.

Reclaiming Control Through Culinary Creativity

Guided by research on nutrition, Priyasha devised a personalized regime centered around wholesome ingredients and mindful cooking. She delved into the world of food and discovered the profound impact of diet on PCOS management. While pursuing her academic endeavors, she diligently implemented her dietary interventions and honed her culinary skills.

A Culinary Mecca in Mumbai

Every Sunday, she would meticulously plan her weekly meals, scouring supermarkets for the freshest produce and spending hours experimenting with different flavors. Salads, pancakes, sweets, and hearty meals became her daily repertoire. She prepared four meals a day, ensuring a balanced and wholesome diet.

Seed of an Idea: Sharing the Joy of Nourishment

As Priyasha shared her homemade creations with colleagues, their enthusiasm and positive feedback inspired her. She realized the growing demand for healthy and convenient food options. The seed of an idea began to take root: could she turn her culinary passion into a business?

The Birth of The Cinnamon Kitchen

Initially, The Cinnamon Kitchen existed solely as a passion project. Priyasha documented her culinary adventures on social media, sharing recipes and captivating food photography. However, she soon noticed a recurring request from followers: they wanted to enjoy her creations without the hassle of cooking.

This insight ignited the idea for The Cinnamon Kitchen as a brand. She understood the need for accessible, healthy food options that catered to the demands of modern lifestyles.

Embracing Risk and Unlocking Potential

With unwavering enthusiasm, Priyasha left her job in Mumbai and returned to Delhi, ready to embark on the entrepreneurial journey. While her parents initially expressed concerns, she was driven by a deep belief in her vision.

The fear of failure was undeniable, but she recognized the immense learning potential and the prospect of creating something truly special. Her solid foundation in marketing and management gave her confidence in her ability to navigate the challenges ahead.

A Culinary Oasis Takes Shape

The Cinnamon Kitchen commenced operations in a modest corner of Priyasha’s home. With a small oven as her trusty companion, she poured her heart and soul into crafting each dish. Six months later, the demand had outgrown her home kitchen. She relocated to a 2-square-foot facility, which eventually expanded to 5000 square feet.

Today, The Cinnamon Kitchen employs over 35 dedicated individuals, a testament to the unwavering support and enthusiasm that fuels their mission.

Revenue Growth: A Reflection of Passion and Execution

In its first year of operation, The Cinnamon Kitchen generated a revenue of ₹140,000. By 2023, the brand projected a revenue of ₹6 crores through sales on its website and partnerships with leading online platforms such as Blinkit and Amazon.

Shark Tank India: A Platform for Growth and Validation

As The Cinnamon Kitchen gained traction, Priyasha sought opportunities to accelerate its growth. The arrival of Shark Tank India on the entrepreneurial landscape presented an ideal platform to showcase their brand and secure funding.

With trepidation and excitement, she completed the application process and was selected to pitch her business to the Sharks. This was her first experience with business valuation and rigorous financial analysis.

Facing the Sharks: Nerves and Triumph

Pitching her business on Shark Tank was a surreal experience for Priyasha. She presented their products, shared their revenue projections, and outlined their vision. The Sharks were impressed with the quality of their offerings and their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Despite constructive criticism regarding packaging, Priyasha remained unwavering in her belief in the potential of her brand. She received offers from Vineeta, Anupam, and Aman, ultimately accepting Aman’s proposal due to his expertise in D2C marketing and growth.

Post-Shark Tank: A Surge in Recognition and Opportunity

The Shark Tank experience not only secured funding but also catapulted The Cinnamon Kitchen into the limelight. Their sales quadrupled, they received numerous investor inquiries, and the brand gained unprecedented recognition.

The platform provided invaluable exposure, enabling them to connect with a wider audience and spread the message of healthy indulgence.

Lessons Learned: Embracing the Journey

Priyasha’s journey with The Cinnamon Kitchen has been marked by unwavering enthusiasm, calculated risks, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace the unknown and take that leap of faith.

Even in the face of uncertainty, the potential rewards far outweigh the risks. The lessons learned along the way are invaluable, shaping their business acumen and personal growth.

Remember, failure is not an endpoint but an opportunity for learning and refinement. Embrace the journey, learn from your mistakes, and never lose sight of your vision.