Puja Sahu

Puja Sahu is the founder of The Potbelly, one of India’s pioneering restaurants dedicated to authentic Bihari cuisine. What began in 2011 as a small experimental space tucked away in Shahpur Jat, New Delhi, has today evolved into a cultural dining destination that challenges long-standing perceptions around Bihar and its food.

Entering the F&B industry with no precedents for mainstream Bihari dining, Puja took on the dual challenge of building both a brand and a narrative. At a time when regional cuisines were often simplified or overlooked, she championed authenticity- working closely with her mother, who played a pivotal role in training local cooks and preserving traditional recipes, ensuring that every dish stayed true to its roots.

With nearly 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Puja brings a sharp understanding of evolving consumer behaviour and dining trends. She has witnessed- and contributed to- the shift toward more experiential, story-driven dining, where authenticity, quality, and consistency are as important as innovation. Under her leadership, The Potbelly has continuously balanced cultural integrity with contemporary relevance, even in an increasingly competitive and fast-paced market.

As a woman entrepreneur in a historically male-dominated industry, Puja’s journey has been defined by resilience and determination. She has navigated structural biases to build a respected brand, earning the trust of her teams and contributing to the growing presence of women leaders in the restaurant ecosystem.

Puja is also a strong voice in the conversation around India’s regional food revival. Having introduced Bihari cuisine to urban diners long before it became a broader trend, she has firsthand insight into the challenges of building awareness, shaping consumer perception, and sustaining authenticity as a viable business model.