Selling NOSTALGIA in the form of FOOD
Reshmi & Parth: Co-founders - The Bhukkad Cafe
In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Reshmi and Parth, the dynamic duo behind The Bhukkad Cafe. This unique culinary venture has captured the hearts of food lovers in Dubai. Their journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship is inspiring and a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and the desire to create something monumental.
The Spark of Entrepreneurship
Reshmi and Parth's journey began in the bustling city of Mumbai, where they attended college. Their college years were marked by a love for food exploration, often spending more time outside the classroom than inside. They indulged in street food, sampling everything from Chinese dishes to dosas, unknowingly laying the groundwork for their future culinary venture.
After graduating as mechanical engineers from BITS Pilani Dubai, both found themselves in the corporate world. However, it didn’t take long for them to realize that corporate life wasn’t for them. Reshmi expressed, “We quickly understood that working for somebody else wasn’t fulfilling. We wanted to create a legacy brand.” This realization led them to leave their corporate jobs within a year and a half to pursue their passion for food and community.
The Birth of The Bhukkad Cafe
The idea for The Bhukkad Cafe was born out of a desire to combine their love for food with a sense of community. They recognized a gap in the market for authentic Indian street food in Dubai, which inspired them to create a space that not only served food but also evoked nostalgia for their homeland.
Reshmi and Parth emphasized that at The Bhukkad Cafe, they don’t just sell food; they sell nostalgia. “We want people to be transported back to India,” Parth explained. This philosophy is reflected in their tagline, “Stay Hungry, Stay Bhukkad,” which encourages customers to explore and indulge in their culinary offerings.
The Concept and Design
When it came to designing The Bhukkad Cafe, Reshmi and Parth drew inspiration from their roots in Mumbai. They aimed to capture the vibrant essence of Indian culture through the cafe’s decor. The interior features rustic elements, colorful designs, and nostalgic touches that remind patrons of India’s rich culinary heritage.
Reshmi shared, “We wanted to create an ambiance that feels like home, where people can gather, enjoy good food, and create memories.” The cafe includes elements like clothes hanging from lines, cement seating, and a tree in the middle, all contributing to a unique dining experience.
Navigating the Restaurant Business
Starting a restaurant is often seen as daunting, with many fearing the high costs and risks involved. However, Reshmi and Parth approached the venture with a passion for food and community rather than focusing on profitability. “We didn’t think about the financial aspects initially; we just wanted to create something we loved,” Parth noted.
Their dedication paid off. Within the first year of operations, they received numerous inquiries about franchising, prompting them to develop a franchise model. This shift in perspective allowed them to expand their vision and scale their business effectively.
The Importance of Authenticity
One of the critical aspects of The Bhukkad Cafe is its commitment to authenticity. Reshmi and Parth believe that to capture the essence of Indian cuisine truly, every detail matters. From the food to the ambiance, they strive to create an experience that resonates with their customers.
Reshmi explained, “Authenticity is about thinking through every element. It’s not just the food; it’s the music, the decor, and the overall vibe.” This attention to detail has helped The Bhukkad Cafe stand out in a competitive market, attracting a loyal customer base.
Overcoming Challenges
Like any entrepreneurial journey, Reshmi and Parth faced their share of challenges. The restaurant industry is known for its unpredictability, and it has had to navigate various hurdles, including staffing issues and the complexities of managing a busy kitchen.
They were hands-on during the initial launch phase, often working in the kitchen and engaging directly with customers. Parth recalled, “I was in the kitchen from morning till evening, chopping onions and guiding the staff. It was chaotic, but it was also incredibly rewarding.” This hands-on approach allowed them to understand every aspect of the business, which has proven invaluable as they expanded.
The Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for the restaurant industry, and The Bhukkad Cafe was no exception. During the initial lockdown, they faced complete closure and a significant loss of revenue. However, Reshmi and Parth’s resilience shone through during this difficult time.
“We still ended up paying salaries to our staff, and we had support from the government and landlords,” Reshmi explained. Their marketing agency also provided a financial cushion during this period, allowing them to keep The Bhukkad Cafe afloat. The couple’s determination to support their team and maintain their brand’s integrity was a driving force throughout the pandemic.
The Power of Community
A significant part of The Bhukkad Cafe’s success can be attributed to its strong sense of community. Reshmi and Parth have cultivated a loyal customer base that feels connected to the brand. They actively engage with their patrons, encouraging feedback and fostering a welcoming atmosphere.
Parth shared, “We wanted to create a space where people can come together, enjoy good food, and feel at home.” This community-driven approach has helped them weather challenges and contributed to their brand’s growth.
The Future of The Bhukkad Cafe
As The Bhukkad Cafe continues to thrive, Reshmi and Parth are focused on expanding their franchise model. They recognize the importance of scalability and are committed to providing ongoing support to their franchisees. “We want to ensure that our franchisees have the tools and resources they need to succeed,” Reshmi stated.
Their vision includes opening express locations to cater to a broader audience, making their unique offerings accessible to more people. By leveraging their marketing expertise and commitment to quality, they aim to solidify The Bhukkad Cafe’s position as a beloved brand in the culinary landscape.
Lessons Learned
Throughout their journey, Reshmi and Parth have learned valuable lessons that can inspire aspiring entrepreneurs. Here are some key takeaways from their experience:
Follow Your Passion: Reshmi and Parth’s decision to leave corporate jobs and pursue their passion for food has driven their success. They emphasize the importance of doing what you love and creating something meaningful.
Embrace Authenticity: Authenticity is crucial in building a brand that resonates with customers. Attention to every detail, from the food to the ambiance, can create a memorable experience.
Be Hands-On: Understanding every aspect of your business is essential for success. Being involved in the day-to-day operations allows entrepreneurs to identify challenges and opportunities for improvement.
Build a Community: Fostering a sense of community can lead to loyal customers who feel connected to your brand. Engaging with patrons and encouraging feedback can enhance the overall experience.
Adapt and Overcome: Challenges are inevitable in any entrepreneurial journey. Resilience and adaptability are crucial to navigating obstacles and emerging stronger.
The episode featuring Reshmi and Parth was a captivating exploration of their journey with The Bhukkad Cafe. Their passion for food, commitment to authenticity, and dedication to building a community have set them apart in the competitive restaurant industry. As they continue to expand their brand and inspire others, their story serves as a reminder that it’s possible to turn dreams into reality with determination and creativity.
Whether you’re a food lover or an aspiring entrepreneur, the lessons learned from Reshmi and Parth’s journey are invaluable. The Bhukkad Cafe is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and the love of food. As they say, “Stay Hungry, Stay Bhukkad.”