Back in 2006, when young chef Nikhil Mittal launched the first outlet in Punjab’s Chandigarh Sector 9, the city was introduced to an exciting world of authentic Australian and European flavours and bakery delights previously unfamiliar to many.
For a generation whose occasional sweet treat meant a pineapple pastry or a Swiss roll, Nikhil brought a whole new menu — bruschetta, quiche, crepes, waffles — dishes many had only heard about but rarely tasted. His live baking demonstrations behind glass counters became an instant crowd-puller and set Nik Baker’s apart.
Nikhil’s passion for food was nurtured early on, inspired by his father’s vision. After completing Class 12, he enrolled in a one-year bakery course at Dr Ambedkar Institute of Hotel Management in Chandigarh and trained briefly at a five-star hotel in Delhi.
Determined to master his craft, Nikhil travelled to Australia, where he earned diplomas in Food Technology and Patisserie from Regency TAFE, South Australia. Known for its high standards and practical training, Regency TAFE helped polish his skills and gave him exposure to global culinary trends. Initially, Nikhil had no plans to return to India, but his father’s encouragement brought him back to build something special in his hometown.
Together with his father Vinod Mittal and brother Nitin Mittal, who now handles packaging and marketing, Nikhil established Nik Baker’s, growing it from a single outlet into a celebrated brand.
Today, Nik Baker’s operates 31 outlets across Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Jaipur, and Uttarakhand. Their sprawling, state-of-the-art production facility in Mohali supplies raw materials and finished products to all outlets, ensuring consistency in quality and taste.
Despite leading a team of 1,500 employees, Nikhil remains the sole head chef, personally training young talent he handpicks to maintain the brand’s high standards.
Beyond the kitchen, Nik Baker’s fosters a warm, family-like work environment. Just like Australian cafes, Nikhil’s facility includes a crèche where toddlers are cared for by nannies, recreational spaces for staff, and regular get-togethers to strengthen community spirit. This Aussie approach has resulted in a notably low attrition rate, with employees proud to be part of the growing Nik Baker’s family.
Nikhil’s wife, a Canadian with deep knowledge of bakery products, also contributes ideas and advice, helping keep the menu fresh and innovative. Together, the Mittal family continues to expand the brand’s offerings, which now include over 200 products spanning lavish desserts, cookies, cakes, and savoury delights.
The success of Australia-educated Nikhil’s bakery underscores how international education and local passion can combine to create something extraordinary. Nikhil’s experience in Australia gave him the technical expertise and global perspective needed to revolutionise bakery culture in India. Today, Nik Baker’s stands as a shining example of entrepreneurship, innovation, and family commitment — a crisp, golden dream baked to perfection, ready to conquer the world.
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