NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
New Braunfels TX, June 8, 2026 — A Texas restaurant owner has ignited an online debate after posting a viral Instagram video that opened with the statement, “I don’t hire Indians at my Indian restaurant.”
The video, posted by Rashmi Bhat, co-owner of 7 Monk’s Cafe in New Braunfels, Texas, quickly drew thousands of reactions, with viewers divided over issues of hiring practices, cultural authenticity, and diversity in ethnic restaurants.
According to Bhat, her hiring philosophy prioritizes attitude, work ethic, and a willingness to learn over ethnicity or cultural background. She said that when she and her mother opened the restaurant, they wanted to create opportunities for members of the local community, including high school and college students, single mothers, and retirees seeking employment.
Bhat also said the video was intended to challenge assumptions that employees at ethnic restaurants must belong to the culture represented by the cuisine. Many of her staff members, she noted, had never tried Indian food before joining the restaurant but became knowledgeable about the menu and capable of recommending dishes to customers.
The video, however, generated significant controversy.
Some social media users praised Bhat’s emphasis on inclusion and equal opportunity hiring.
Others questioned the message and raised concerns about authenticity. One commenter wrote, “I would prefer my Indian food made by an Indian individual lol,” a remark that received more than 1,200 likes. Another said, “I prefer my Indian food made by an Indian and my Italian food made by an Italian. It’s simple.”
Several commenters accused Bhat of discrimination, arguing that the original statement appeared to exclude a specific ethnic group. “How is it inclusive if you are excluding one race knowingly?” one user asked, while another wrote, “Your hiring policies are discriminatory and probably against the law.”
Others focused on culinary expertise rather than ethnicity. One commenter argued that restaurants should employ “a few key chefs who not only know how to make a dish but know the authentic taste,” warning that otherwise the restaurant risks becoming “the Starbucks equivalent of an Indian restaurant.”
The controversy reflects a broader debate about what constitutes authenticity in ethnic cuisine and whether cultural identity should play a role in hiring decisions at restaurants that represent specific culinary traditions.
While Bhat maintains that qualifications and character are the only criteria she considers when hiring, the viral discussion underscores the strong opinions many diners hold about who prepares and serves culturally specific foods.
Cover photo courtesy: Rashmi Bhat/Instagram.
