Our story

Real Lives, Real Food

Just like our food, co-founder Anshul Doshi’s story begins in the heart of Mumbai. Growing up in this bustling Indian metropolis, Anshul thrived amid the aromatic smells, broad flavours and bright sizzling sounds of the city’s street food stalls. Flavours so deep, the joy of savouring the medley of genuine Mumbai street foods became an integral part of who he is today.

After he moved to the UK, Anshul struggled to find the taste of home. Traditional recipes were adapted, chutney’s watered down, the masala kick missing completely. Poor quality of ingredients and small portions served at high prices, triggered his quest to bring the taste of his younger days to the streets of London.

To say Rajat Sood is a foodie, would be the understatement of the century. Raised in a restauranteur family, Rajat breathes, eats, drinks and sleeps fine flavours. Born in London, schooled in both the UK and in the boarding schools of Mussoorie in India, Rajat’s family were the pioneers in offering genuinely authentic, flavourful vegetarian dining through the Woodlands chain of restaurants in London. With 40 years of experience in food, flavours and curating menu’s Rajat joined forces with Anshul to bring the vibrant foods, flavours and recipes of India’s bustling roadsides, and deliver them home to London.

And with that CANTEEN was born.