The word raahi is written in 3d letters on a white background.
The word raahi is written in 3d letters on a white background.
A red box with the word box written inside of it on a white background.
An aerial view of a large wave in the ocean.

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thinking inside
the box

enjoy a quick, satisfying meal that feels like home


Inspired by the vibrant Dhaba’s of India, our mission is to offer every nomad and traveler a welcoming respite where they can savor authentic, hearty dishes that embody the essence of Indian hospitality. Whether you're on a journey or exploring your own neighbourhood, we invite you to experience the rich tapestry of Indian culture.


Identity, Restaurant

An aerial view of a large wave in the ocean.

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enjoy a quick, satisfying meal that feels like home

Whether you're on a journey or exploring your own neighbourhood, we invite you to experience the rich tapestry of Indian culture

Identity, Restaurant

An aerial view of a large wave in the ocean.

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The design of Raahi is deeply rooted in the vibrant and eclectic culture of Indian trucking. In India, Dhaba’s serve as vital rest stops for long-haul truck drivers, offering not only a place to eat but also a slice of community and comfort.

A poster that says horn ok please on a map
An aerial view of a large wave in the ocean.

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Inspired by the vibrant Dhaba’s of India, our mission is to offer every nomad and traveler a welcoming respite where they can savor authentic, hearty dishes that embody the essence of Indian hospitality. The design of Raahi is deeply rooted in the vibrant and eclectic culture of Indian trucking. In India, Dhaba’s serve as vital rest stops for long-haul truck drivers, offering not only a place to eat but also a slice of community and comfort.

An artist 's impression of a restaurant with tables and chairs.

This spirit of warmth and hospitality is captured in the restaurant’s décor, which is heavily influenced by traditional Indian truck art. Brightly painted murals and intricate designs adorn the walls, reflecting the colorful and expressive style commonly seen on Indian trucks. The use of bold patterns, vibrant hues, and hand-painted motifs creates an immersive atmosphere that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Dhaba’s.

A collage of images with the words all india permit on the bottom
An artist 's impression of a restaurant with a counter and a refrigerator.
An artist 's impression of a restaurant with tables and chairs.

This spirit of warmth and hospitality is captured in the restaurant’s décor, which is heavily influenced by traditional Indian truck art. Brightly painted murals and intricate designs adorn the walls, reflecting the colorful and expressive style commonly seen on Indian trucks. The use of bold patterns, vibrant hues, and hand-painted motifs creates an immersive atmosphere that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Dhaba’s.

A collage of images with the words all india permit on the bottom
An artist 's impression of a restaurant with a counter and a refrigerator.

The walls are adorned with memorabilia and artifacts that celebrate the trucking culture, rustic corrugated metal, and maps outlining the long routes of travellers. This design approach not only enhances the dining experience but also educates and engages guests with the cultural significance of the Dhaba tradition.

The walls are adorned with memorabilia and artifacts that celebrate the trucking culture, rustic corrugated metal, and maps outlining the long routes of travellers. This design approach not only enhances the dining experience but also educates and engages guests with the cultural significance of the Dhaba tradition.

A table topped with plates of food and the words nomads and travellers welcome.
A table topped with plates of food and the words nomads and travellers welcome.
A sign that says thank you in a foreign language
A sign that says thank you in a foreign language
Two men are riding bicycles in front of a wall.
A woman wearing a conical hat is riding a bike down a busy street.
Two men are riding bicycles in front of a wall.
An aerial view of a large wave in the ocean.

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A close up of a palm tree leaf that looks like a fan

Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet
A woman in a green shirt is laughing with her mouth open

Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe
A close up of a sand dune in the desert.

Sands of Time

Stark beauty of desolate dunes
Looking up into a canyon with a white sky in the background

Beyond Boundaries

Visual odyssey across continents

With research done, we used learnings and service model concepts from the most popular and profitable fast-casual offerings to develop the Basil Box concept.

The customer needed to feel as though Basil Box is a healthier alternative to many of their competitors, but at the same time can be an indulgent treat. Above all, it must convey the Southeast Asian inspiration behind the concept, but in a very modern, North American execution.


The first Basil Box opened in the Square One food court in the spring of 2015, followed later that year by the opening of the flagship restaurant on Yonge Street, near Ryerson University and Yonge-Dundas Square. This flagship restaurant will drive trial and awareness for the brand.

A set of four menus for a restaurant with different types of food.
Three t-shirts are hanging on wooden hangers on a wall.
Four t-shirts are hanging on wooden hangers on a wall.

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A restaurant with tables and chairs and a mural on the wall.
A building with a sign that says bombay on it
A colorful poster with a woman 's face and the words masa wala.
A pepperoni pizza and a white pizza are on a table.
An aerial view of a large wave in the ocean.

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In this sleek environment, communication is streamlined to the essentials, while our branding exudes a minimalist and bold appeal.

The food is placed out front and lets the rich, warm colours and textures of the ingredients create a vibrancy in the space. The bamboo weave pattern on the wall represents the woven baskets that are prevalent in the street food markets of Thailand and Vietnam, taking textures, patterns, and materials from the Old World and employing them in a modern way in the environment.

An aerial view of a large wave in the ocean.

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It was critical not to over design the space, letting important consumer-focused elements like sustainable, biodegradable packaging and gluten- and allergen-free menu options resonate with customers.

Highlighting premium features like the custom drinks program set Basil Box apart from their competition in the food court and the fast-casual segment.