California Burrito founder relishes jolada rotti thali in Bengaluru, internet approves: 'More Indian than us'

The Instagram reel quickly went viral with users celebrating Mueller's genuine affection for Indian cuisine and culture.

Bert Mueller, the American entrepreneur and founder of the popular Mexican fast-casual chain California Burrito, was recently seen embracing Indian culinary culture as he relished a traditional North Karnataka thali at a well-known vegetarian restaurant in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru.

A video shared by the food platform Bengaluru Servd captured Mueller enjoying a Jolada Rotti meal at the iconic Kamat restaurant. The clip, which has since gone viral on Instagram, shows Mueller visibly delighted, praising the freshness and variety of the meal.

“I first came here in 2014 on the recommendation of my chartered accountant,” he recalled. “I was new to the city back then. The experience stuck with me.”

Describing the elaborate thali, Mueller said, “This plate is full of fresh vegetables, crispy salads, and vibrant flavours. The butter melting over the Jowar rotti is incredible, especially when paired with the eggplant curry.”

Despite being the brains behind a fast-food empire built around burritos and bowls, Mueller has developed a deep appreciation for Indian regional cuisine. He admitted to making two to three trips a year to Basavanagudi specifically to enjoy this meal.

“There are several places across Bengaluru serving similar food, but this one hits differently. It’s the best,” he said, adding with a smile, “After eating a meal like this, hitting the gym is out of the question.”

Mueller also highlighted the generous servings of buttermilk served with the thali. “We don’t usually get this kind of variety in thalis, especially this many vegetables. It’s healthy, filling, and flavourful,” he remarked.

While his love for the food was evident, Mueller was less enthusiastic about Bengaluru’s infamous traffic. “These days, I prefer taking autos to get around faster,” he said candidly.

The Instagram reel quickly went viral with users celebrating Mueller's genuine affection for Indian cuisine and culture. “Am I delusional or is everyone else actually seeing an American nail the pronunciation of Basavanagudi?” asked one user. Another added, “And he has definitely mastered the Indian nod with little little! Fab.”

“Bert you're more Indian than us Indians,” quipped one user, while another remarked, “Bro brought Mexican food to India and he’s enjoying our culture and food to the fullest.” Another popular comment read, “Lol my boy has mastered the art of the desi headnod.”

Mueller’s connection with India dates back to 2010, when he participated in a study-abroad programme in Jaipur. While staying with a local host family, a classmate introduced the group to homemade Mexican food, which received an enthusiastic response—unlike the American snacks Mueller had brought. That moment, he said, inspired the idea to launch a Mexican food venture in India.

In 2012, after completing his studies in the United States, Mueller returned to India with $250,000 (approximately Rs 2 crore) in funding from family and friends. He opened the first California Burrito outlet in Bengaluru, drawn to the city for its cosmopolitan character and IT-savvy population, which he believed would embrace global flavours.

Since then, the chain has grown significantly, with over 100 outlets across India and $23 million (around Rs 191 crore) in revenue reported last year, according to a CNBC report. Like many businesses, California Burrito faced major challenges during the pandemic, closing 19 of its 37 stores at the time. However, it bounced back with a Rs 100 menu campaign in 2021, heavily promoted by influencers. The initiative was a massive success, significantly increasing customer footfall and restoring momentum to the business.