Ankit Patel always had his eye on Cambridge as a location for his egg-based restaurant.
Patel, a co-owner of Eggholic on Bishop Street North with close friend Lay Patel, will finally turn his vision into a reality tonight when the franchise opens its latest location to the public.
Just like the name indicates, the restaurant uses eggs as a key ingredient in each menu item from breakfast to dinner, but with an Indian twist.
"We eat eggs in India after dinner time," Patel said.
"This is an Indian street food franchise. We combine eggs with different types of curry. People are mostly missing that stuff from back home."
Inspired by the idea of a Lahri street cart, Patel wanted to bring a taste of his culture to a community that he believes is becoming more diverse.
A variety of sandwiches, rice, paneer dishes, chicken, lassi, wraps and chaat can all be found on the menu of the city's newest eatery.
Patel said customers who enjoy eggs will like his team's variety of options.
"Anyone who's an egg lover should come and try it out," he said.
"Everybody eats eggs. We have omelettes, french toast, a whole menu all day long."
The growing population, proximity and easy access to the 401, and nearby large cities made the the Bishop Street location an ideal choice for expansion.
"I loved Cambridge since day one but didn't have the opportunity to open a location until now," Patel said.
"People can see that we're here. The city is growing with more industry coming in. It's good for business. If industry is here, people will come."
While based around Indian cuisine at its core, Lay emphasizes people can still expect something unique.
"We are a very different type of Indian restaurant," Lay said.
"Stop by and experience that difference and the authentic flavours of our food."
Both Ankit and Lay are excited to integrate themselves into the community and hope their food speaks for itself.
"Cambridge is a thriving metropolitan area with an active and diverse population and we believe that our cuisine will be well received and enjoyed," Lay said.
"We're excited to be a part of the growing Cambridge community."
The grand opening is scheduled for 5 p.m. with the first 50 customers receiving a $25 gift card.
