I am pleased to see that Nikhil is taking this channel seriously and consistently producing high-quality episodes. Finally, there is an authentic podcast in India that delves deep into the nuances of topics.
I get what you're trying to say. But no need to shit on individuals. The industry moves forward because someone decides to break through walls. This show may be doing well because TRS demonstrates what to avoid. That said, TRS is not absolute trash. It just feels shallow. But the sheer grandness of his guests makes up for it.
@@boom_shankar No one is targeting the individual bro.. his content is being criticised, which definitely should happen to “move the industry forward”. His content is utterly superficial and often times cringe.
Two of the best People from the Hospitality Industry are Zorawar and Riaz. They both have done something in a Decade which people are not able to do in a lifetime in this Industry
I am a Polar bear from Antarctica and I love Nikhil's podcasts. Once my friend, an Indian penguin, was watching this and since then I can't stop listening to it.
Nikhil - I cannot tell you how much value you bring to us by using your influence and network to get us to listen to these folks. You do not just do a podcast for the sake of it but you make all your guests talk and bring value and insights to common people like myself. HUGE HUGE HUGE Thank you!
We have been running a small cafe and after running it for more than 15+ years, I can related to every point they have said. They have shared decades of restaurant and hospitality experience in just few hours. Hope people would understand the real pain behind running a restaurant. More power to nikhil and team for bringing this podcast!!
Yup! At times eating up time as well. Saw him representing restaurant industry at news channels during covid days and he seem to be in the same flow of 'selling' the F&B industry
I think maybe he wants to answer the question appropriately, without any deciet or half truths, that he has to go over the entire big picture. Business isn't built/run on 5 mark answers is it?🌚
Nikhil Kamath, wow ❗ you are taking business and its nuances in such a deep and subtle way... Every student should be shown your podcast in school, commerce college, and business college too. Mind you I am the Principal and Director of a school. First I hooked to it and now I am starting to show my grade 10/11/12 students. ❤
It's a treat to watch how Nikhil talks. It can be a learning platform for young and even grownups to project yourself so candid and cool while so much is going on inside you. To my mind he has mastered how wonderfully someone can build a bubble around oneself and strive alone within it.
I have to mention that Nikhil appears to be one of the calmest individuals on screen I've ever come across. The way he sets the ambiance at the beginning of the podcast and then proceeds is simply astounding. I hope this consistency remains as always.
I been watching all the episodes in this series. Its amazing that even when these are ~3 hour episodes, it never gets boring and time just flies watching Nikhil and his guests talk about their experiences and give us an insight and learnings about their industries! Bollywood movies have a tough competition with this channel, because given 3 hours to spend productively, I will definitely choose to watch and rewatch an episode here than sit for a movie 🫡
Riyaaz is definitely a superstar, at first i was kinda agitated with the way he spoke (thought a drunk guy was speaking) but loved grew as I went deeper into the podcast. Riyaaz, I loved your insights, loved the way you spoke, loved your sense of humour hahaha Thanks again Nikhil for inviting them
I just want to tell I am a hospitality final year student at IHM, just want to say doing this job is really hard you need to be there from morning till night 12 till it is closed. Mostly 6-7 days gets 8000 as an apprentice in a 5 star hotel. I have worked at Leela, le meridien, TAJ and some domestic 5 star hotels. When ever I have a quick chat with the chefs and the f & b staffs they actually hate it. This Friday I had a quick chat with a continental chef at taj he has been working there for 7 years and he gets paid 26000 a month for coming 11 in the morning and going 12 or 1 at the night. Considering Taj's the best payer in India. He says that he haven't seen his son for 7 months don't have time Or off to go home and has high mental stress, depression and that's why everyone is leaving the industry.
Because of all this most restaurants fail because they don't think about their staff and there families so the leave you for better opportunitys...if you treat them well and care for the most of them sticks to you for lifetime
As a young food business owner, I cannot begin to tell you guys how much this helps! Thoroughly enjoyed and learnt loads from this podcast. Nikhil, kudos to you.🙏🏼
Pooja - Right time at the right place with the right people supporting her, Zorawar - the flag bearer of the Indian food story to the world, Riyaaz - that Mumbai friend, judging his Delhi friend and thinking phek raha hai.😄 Good watch!
The guys, it seems are more about the business whereas she's about the craft. She may not be the best fit for this podcast as the discussion pertains more to the business side of the industry. On top of that, her niche is Cafes and Patisseries, not the casual restaurants that most of the people frequent.
00:06 The show is a crash course in opening a restaurant. 02:41 Overcoming societal restrictions to pursue a career in the F&B industry 06:36 Career growth is faster with an international degree, but salaries may not be significantly higher. 08:29 Pooja Dhingra started baking macaroons from her home kitchen and grew her business through catering and teaching baking classes. 12:36 Started multiple stores and cafes but had to shut down due to challenges 14:38 Pooja Dhingra talks about her new boyfriend and her podcast 'No Sugar Cat'. 18:37 The restaurant industry is a male-dominated field with cultural and societal barriers. 20:32 The importance of identifying key people in your life and focusing on their opinions 24:18 My dad started off as a journalist and became a food writer who put Indian food on the map. 26:10 Nikhil's father battled with stroke for 19 years 29:59 Inherited influence from his father and the impact on his career. 31:55 Zorawar Kalra transformed the perception of Indian food and made it popular again. 35:42 Bukhara is the most successful restaurant in India with an unchanged menu. 37:30 Discussion about personal relationships and the soft leadership style of a successful businessman 41:23 The restaurant industry requires multiple licenses to ensure safety and compliance. 43:23 Restaurants serve as public and cultural spaces. 47:26 The guests were born in a place with a Catholic community and had part-time jobs as DJs during college. 49:31 Growing up in a diverse community with unique religious practices 53:59 Restaurants are a multi-sensory experience and music can be an entry point into the tonality of the restaurant. 56:01 Restaurants monetize by displaying brands and selling merchandise. 1:00:00 Restaurants have the potential to become co-working spaces during the day to monetize their real estate. 1:01:57 90% of restaurants fail within the first year due to under capitalization. 1:06:01 Passion is the driving force, but it has its limits. 1:08:06 Premiumization trend in the Indian market 1:11:56 Starting a restaurant should begin with caution and frugality, possibly with a cloud kitchen or small cafe. 1:13:43 Key factors for creating a burger brand 1:17:19 Cloud kitchen allows for flexibility in location 1:19:01 The best way to gather market data is by observing the competition and counting the number of customers. 1:22:38 Restaurant density in India is 10% of China and 2% of the US 1:24:30 Overseas restaurant margins are either equal or higher due to lower occupancy costs. 1:28:26 Restaurants focusing on desserts have the potential to be successful, with desserts contributing a significant portion of revenue in some cases. 1:30:20 The search for a healthier sugar alternative is ongoing 1:33:56 Food spending is a significant part of consumption. 1:35:51 Labor cost in the hospitality industry has increased due to high demand and limited supply of labor. 1:39:41 Authentic storytelling drives better engagement than orchestrated content. 1:41:43 Indian food preferences vary by region and spice level. 1:45:34 The distinction between novel and traditional food products and the growing market for organized food sector in India 1:47:45 Quality and convenience are key factors in choosing a restaurant 1:51:31 Balancing food with ambiance and culture in restaurants 1:53:15 Quality of ingredients available in different locations affects the taste 1:56:49 Is there a market for ultra premium restaurants charging 5 times more for dishes? 1:58:42 India's food market is projected to be the third largest in the world by 2030, after the US and China. 2:02:37 Creating a buzz during restaurant launch is crucial for success. 2:04:27 Delivery commissions and additional costs can significantly reduce restaurant margins. 2:08:04 Restaurants are focusing on building their own delivery fleets and technology stacks to counter the dominance of aggregators. 2:09:59 Building a system based on discounts eventually harms consumers and restaurants. 2:13:43 Discovery and discounting are key factors driving users to aggregator platforms, but restaurants struggle to compete with the discounts offered. 2:15:35 Negotiate with aggregators by creating a strong product and demand. 2:19:15 The cost of delivery is coming down as we move into electric vehicles. 2:21:13 Cloud kitchens have high mortality rates and require strong branding and data-driven strategies. 2:25:18 Identifying underserved markets and differentiating your menu can lead to success in the restaurant industry. 2:26:59 Restaurants rely on individual vendors for supplies, but there are now alternatives like Hyperpure. 2:30:52 Invest time in understanding the market before starting a restaurant. 2:32:33 Knowing the footfall is crucial for capitalizing on business opportunities. 2:36:07 Implement strict audits and inventory management for effective restaurant operation. 2:37:58 Effective inventory and cost management through technology 2:41:42 Menu design plays a crucial role in enhancing average order values (AOVs). 2:43:28 Restaurant menus cater to different types of consumers based on price and vegetarianism. 2:47:16 Restaurant uses cameras to collect data on eating behaviors and reactions 2:49:19 Design plays a crucial role in creating a specific ambiance and feel in a space. 2:52:54 Uniqueness and user-generated content are important for attracting attention. 2:54:52 Instagrammable food and design are important for restaurant success. 2:58:48 The importance of maintaining the right bond with a chef in a restaurant business. 3:00:40 The success of a chef-based restaurant depends on how well the chef is managed. 3:04:36 Importance of having a talent acquirer with empathy training 3:06:28 Building culture is more difficult than building competence 3:10:11 Clear career path and support system provided to employees 3:12:02 Seasonality and festivals have a significant impact on restaurant businesses in India 3:15:44 The show is an educational exercise for entrepreneurs. 3:17:51 Assistance provided to young restaurants in starting up and mentoring 3:22:17 Importance of subscribing to the show
Nikhil greetings. I am a 72 year old retired, living in Los Angeles. Your podcast is world-class and bringing so much knowledge and entertainment and motivation to young people. If you ever come to Los Angeles, I am willing to be your personal chauffeur. You are an inspiring even to an old dog like me. God bless and keep up the good service to younger community. Regards, Babu Shankar.
Sumit, greetings. Be curious and learn something new as much as possible. Pick anything art, business, entertainment, and academics, not as a profession but as passion. When you choose something as passion ,practice practice, practice, and become the best you can be in your chosen field. Have a balanced life. Choose your friends who will uplift your life and challenge your beliefs. Find a good spouse that will be your life partner. Make a commitment, do your best, and leave the result to the universe . Read bios of people like AR..Rahman, Steve Jobs , Elon Musk and Sundar Pichai. Wishing you all the best and God's blessings. Regards, Babu Shankar.
Since you are an Indian, which I am assuming who lives in the USA, what's the fundamental difference you see, when it comes to talent, startups, running a new business and in general people's attitude towards spending money on things like food, art, fashion etc I would like to know your view .
@@me_and_theother_me Greetings. I have been living in this country for the last 54 years. I haven't forgotten my roots and very happy with the economic and life quality progress that India has been making in the last 25 years or so. I am very grateful and patriotic because this is the country that gave me the opportunity to live the life that I am leading. I would say that maybe 20% of the population is deeply involved in the political conversations, like progressive, liberal, conservative, social Justice, etc, 80 percent of the people just go about their daily living either alone or with their families. The concerns for the educated, middle class and upper middle class is very similar to India, comfortable lifestyle, a house of your own, better education for the children, self identity and a sense of community are pretty much Universal concerns. Talent: Even though you read and so much about young people's depression, addiction and a loss of purpose, there are lot of talents that are produced every year, because this country is a melting pot of so many immigrants that are trying to better their lives. There are so many talented young and old people doing amazing research to better ordinary citizen's life. With all the technical wizardry, that I am surrounded with, I feel that I am living in a golden time. Start ups: You may be reading about so many young talented Indians starting so many startups and living the life of Multi Millionaires. That is so true In the state Of California. If you have a true talent and a new product, you will find a way to be funded. Running a New Business. Just like anywhere in the world, running a new business and making it profitable is a challenge. Problem with the regulations, government red tape, labor challenges make it difficult. But still so many immigrants thrive and make a good living, both small and big. Unlike Indians, Americans, in majority numbers do not save well. People live and enjoy the present, by eating out attend movies, concerts, theaters and major league Sports. They are sure to take vacation every year and enjoy their free time. They are not into saving legacy wealth for future generations, like Indians. My feeling is that I live in a great country. We have our own problems. but the life that I live is meaningful. I hope that I answered your questions in some small way.. Wishing you all the best. Babu Shankar
Is it just me or do you also see the table a bit tilted towards the centre from the edges? 😅 The glasses across the table have the same water level inclination.😅
One thing this podcast never fails to show are some eloquent ,confident speakers. Their way of interacting is actually infectious. ZORAVAR here AND KARTHIK REDDY from venture podcast are 2 such classy ppl
My goodness! Quite a podcast, and Zorawar has some lion-spirit in him. Love how Riyaaz is laid back like a polar bear and still drives his point. I think Pooja didn't get in a lot of her views, but much respect for all that she does! And Nikhil... man, he can get people to talk! Cheers and best wishes. Good to see the back-end getting some footage as well. Cheers!
I don't think people understand how successful Riyaaz is. This guy is a god when it comes to Indian hospitality. I've been following him since he started the first Smoke House Deli in Mumbai.
Riyaaz has some beautiful insights to share. He knows what he is talking about. Very articulate and to the point, and as always Nikhil knows how to make conversations interesting by asking some really great questions.
I think there is an interesting comment by one of the chef's name Joshua, he said that in a Michelin restaurant, the chef might be getting paid minimum wage but the waiter would be rich because of tips. Only celebrity chefs actually make decent money coz they are owners of a joint.
@@darnaramthat’s bullshit. Waiter in india gets fixed salary+tips. In US waiter doesn’t even get minimum wage because the owner tells him the customer will pay his wage through tips. This only works for restaurants where the owner pays a fixed hourly pay and on top of that the waiter makes money from tip.
@@stockbro1997 i was mainly talking about chefs not about waiters, and for waiters yes i do know that in US waiters are paid through tips but for Michelin restaurants their tips are huge and mostly it only goes to waiters
What a podcast! The in-depth discussions and insights were both entertaining and informative. It was a well-spent 3.5 hours. Well done, Nikhil and guests!
Zorawar - Man of ingredients (I used to think) but the respect has increased to another level after watching this. Thanks to Nikhil for this session. Please do much such sessions
If a 22yr old requires 50lakhs and above to start a restaurant or begin a career in F&B industry More than 90% people don't even qualify or have a financial capacity to start off, Also appreciate the efforts and time Mr. Nikhil is trying to put in to help a aspiring young entrepreneur, i truly feel that he/she should not be given a sum of 50lakhs upfront assuming that he/she would sustain and make a successful business out of it is not a right approach, i suppose money is not the only problem but actually the experience and knowledge that comes with trial and errors and working through the years, To begin with a sum of 10-15lakhs should be allocated to 3-4 individuals to start a cloud kitchen or a QSR, and let them prove themselves if they have the potential Would be great if Nikhil sir can acknowledge this
That is a great & safe approach unless you have a really good mentor in the same field to rely on for a solid business plan and insights. Even 15 lacs can be burnt really quickly without any fruitful returns if there is no proper experience or knowledge. As easy as it seems, hospitality especially the restaurant industry is a rather tricky field.
Just had an unforgettable dining experience at 'This Podcast' restaurant! Every dish was a culinary masterpiece, from starters to desserts. The ambiance blends sophistication with a cozy touch, perfect for any dining occasion. A big shoutout to Pooja, Riyaaz, and Zorawar for their exceptional service and making our evening special. This place has a unique charm, making every visit memorable. Highly recommend it to everyone!
I am into restaurant business since more than a decade & doing markets as well, very much relatable, experience speaks, each & every point was perfectly explained, just loved this podcast, Kudos to all ❤
Listening to all these amazing insights for free feels like a crime. Can't remember how I started watching these podcasts but now I sit with a notebook and try and finish them in 2-3 sittings. Although being in a tier 3 city we face so many other challenges that were not discussed here. But I learn so much from each and every episode. Great initiative guys. Really grateful for all the insights shared here on this platform.
Nice one, Nikhil. This EP was a surprise coming from you. Mazaa aya. Good to spend time listening to smart, accomplished people for free . It's priceless. Nikhil is gifted in a sense that he has a knack to break through the facade of otherwise reserved business folks, even complete stangers, and make it a candid conversation, which most other talk shows/podcasts fail to accomplish.
Nikhil, great work, man! You are publishing a 3-4 hours masterclass on every domain each month, and it's delivering a lot of value. Hats of to you 👏🏼 Please do an episode on "WTF is Climate Change?"
Nikhil should do one more episode with the Professionals.... chefs, managers, housekeepers and GMs.... people who really run the hospitality industry to do proper justice to this theme.....
What an episode !!Im a doctor ,pediatrician ,clinical Hematoncologist and bone marrow transplanter .Nothing to do with this particular podcast professionally at-least and ended up listening to it twice !!The host is a genius so calm and has such child like curiosity and all the three guests have such amazing stories to tell .Kuods !!!!!
Worth watching it, lots and lots of learning. Thanks Nikhil. Youths don't miss to watch Nikhil podcast. Its fully loaded with Passionated entrepreneurs
I work as a Startup Mentor for a Dubai based accelerator. I love the details and nuances of businesses and the humanization of the business founders. I learn so much listening to these talks. Thank yoi Nikhil.
You can also get people from healthcare and hospital business, maybe from the pharmaceuticals business. That industry is also hard to get into and mostly dominated by the giants. A detailed discussion like this into the hospital business would be appreciated.
I mean its hard for nikhil to ask for the good deed he asks for at the last of the episode everytime. Kudos to him for putting that emotional effort. It matters, what you do matters, its creating an impact in the ppl's life, keep going.
I live in Mississauga Canada and there is Farzi cafe right next to my building at square one mall.My experience was completely sub par,food and alcohol prizes were double compared to other resutatuents and small portion sizes of food.so I think it's one big overhyped cafe chain and there is nothing great about it.I am pretty sure they must be overpriced in India as well.
I'm absolutely hooked on. Despite the lengthy runtime of almost 3 and a half hours, each episode leaves me eagerly anticipating the next. The depth and breadth of the topics discussed are truly commendable, and the engaging delivery keeps me riveted throughout. It's clear that a lot of thought and effort goes into each episode, and it's paying off. The podcast just keeps getting better and better. Keep up the great work! Looking forward to the next episode.
I don't know how much of this content is useful to me, but trust me it was so informative and super interesting discussion that I could not skip it... Awesome content and will add lot of value to someone planning to start a restaurant.. keep making more like this Nikhil ❤😊
If there is one thing that stands out in all these podcasts, it is Nikhil's relentless curiosity! Such an amazing life lesson to keep asking "why". Kudos!
Every episode is a gem and the guest and topics in each episode is so priceless. Woooww .. Thanks for not shorting the content. Please keep as long as possible.. This was soo awesome..
Hit Like those who watched full episode without skipping. You guys will really achieve success. Anf Thanks from all our side to Nikhil sir. Hope someday i can meet you.
I started viewing this podcast because of Nikhil’s success, personality and approach towards life. It interested and gripped me more because of the first hand information that I’m getting from Nikhil’s guests which is rarely available on the internet. I have always loved long form contents and this has been on my top list since the time it has started. Love to see how Nikhil is starting his life all over again with a strong purpose. More power to you man 🙌. I hope we all get what we want in our lives.
Is there really coffee in Riyaaz’s mug? That smirk on everybody’s face when he said “coffee mug” suggests otherwise 😅 Brilliant conversation, I felt Mr. Kalra’s answers felt a little verbose but great insight from everyone. 🎉
Like how Nikhil asks personal/family questions, it really gives insights into life , psyche of a successful businessman/woman ,entrepreneur .It helps viewers compare their lives and assess where we stand in journey of life and it can help untie some knots in personal life.As humans the metric is always others lives.
Nikhil - We need a WTF for the real estate industry, i realized while watching this, how much real estate needs to be spoken about. I wish we could see what topics you have planned for the future! 😍 I am hooked.
Hi Nikhil, Great Job in calling all the knowledgeable guests to your podcast. I would request you to call professionals from the agriculture business catagory as well. It hearts when we see no podcaster broadly talk about agri business. Thanks again for giving us lot of knowledge about the businesses and entrepreneurship.
Top tier! This is the most accurate restaurant scenario which is happening in india in a global scale. Being a restauranteur myself I’d have died for such content years back. I’m glad new entrepreneurs learn from this podcast about the in and outs of the restaurant industry. Also Nikhil Kamat’s questions were on point, felt the genuine passion for him in the industry. Thank you for this 🙌
Should have let Pooja answer her questions 😐 Also maybe he could have brought in Kainaz Mesman of the Theobroma that would have done more justice to desserts and patisseries space
I am pleased to see that Nikhil is taking this channel seriously and consistently producing high-quality episodes. Finally, there is an authentic podcast in India that delves deep into the nuances of topics.
If TRS was the only viewing content in the world, I’d rather stare at the wall
I get what you're trying to say. But no need to shit on individuals. The industry moves forward because someone decides to break through walls. This show may be doing well because TRS demonstrates what to avoid. That said, TRS is not absolute trash. It just feels shallow. But the sheer grandness of his guests makes up for it.
@@boom_shankar
No one is targeting the individual bro.. his content is being criticised, which definitely should happen to “move the industry forward”. His content is utterly superficial and often times cringe.
❤
Some guests are good in TRS.. but the guy is so irritating. His hand movements and face movements I can't able to tolerate for 5 mins.
Two of the best People from the Hospitality Industry are Zorawar and Riaz. They both have done something in a Decade which people are not able to do in a lifetime in this Industry
@Oneway1629 Why is he a dirty guy?
@Oneway1629can you give some references, because I am not able to find it
@@harshjha9330leave him andhbhakt hai
yes and pooja is amazing as well!
I am a Polar bear from Antarctica and I love Nikhil's podcasts. Once my friend, an Indian penguin, was watching this and since then I can't stop listening to it.
typical marwari behaviour
I would have believed you only if there were polar bears in Antarctica! ;)
@@justketh4298 spike bhi marwari tha
Polar Bhai kem cho
@@shaxpx😂😂
Nikhil - I cannot tell you how much value you bring to us by using your influence and network to get us to listen to these folks. You do not just do a podcast for the sake of it but you make all your guests talk and bring value and insights to common people like myself. HUGE HUGE HUGE Thank you!
We have been running a small cafe and after running it for more than 15+ years, I can related to every point they have said. They have shared decades of restaurant and hospitality experience in just few hours. Hope people would understand the real pain behind running a restaurant. More power to nikhil and team for bringing this podcast!!
Zorawar Kalra is a guy who writes a 6 page answer to a 5 mark question
Yup! At times eating up time as well. Saw him representing restaurant industry at news channels during covid days and he seem to be in the same flow of 'selling' the F&B industry
@@AnkitSharma-el8hs😅
😂
I think maybe he wants to answer the question appropriately, without any deciet or half truths, that he has to go over the entire big picture. Business isn't built/run on 5 mark answers is it?🌚
That too with that accent!😂
Need a WTF episode with only Nandan Nilekani. Discussion from Infosys to Aadhar to ONDC
+1
+1
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Zoravar is one of the most eloquent speakers ever ......could hear him speak for hours. Ananth on your earlier pod, was great as well.
Not really. 😂
@@rune22143 For real.
Wtf! Are you real
I think I could listen to Riyaaz forever. He was so clear, to the point and so so wise with his inputs. Truly loved it
dude cheaped out on helping an young entrepreneur😏
Riaz Amlani is super knowledgeable about restaurant industry !
That is what you expect from president of restaurant association of the most populous country right ?
I think he had the most valuable insights, very no bullshit to the point answers
he is just a pathetic speaker though
The length of your episodes keep on increasing day by day BUT I'm not complaining. What a way to spend the weekend. 🥂
Restaurants are the last bastions of meaningful offline experiences. That's so so true and deep
Nikhil Kamath, wow ❗ you are taking business and its nuances in such a deep and subtle way... Every student should be shown your podcast in school, commerce college, and business college too.
Mind you I am the Principal and Director of a school.
First I hooked to it and now I am starting to show my grade 10/11/12 students. ❤
It's a treat to watch how Nikhil talks. It can be a learning platform for young and even grownups to project yourself so candid and cool while so much is going on inside you. To my mind he has mastered how wonderfully someone can build a bubble around oneself and strive alone within it.
I have to mention that Nikhil appears to be one of the calmest individuals on screen I've ever come across. The way he sets the ambiance at the beginning of the podcast and then proceeds is simply astounding. I hope this consistency remains as always.
I didn't even learn 1/4th of this during my MBA. Thank you Nikhil for bringing Zorawar to this show
What's your B-school?
Zor-A-War@@samratyadav9268
Kaha se MBA kiya?
Did you MBA from prestigious university or local ones? Just info I'm planing to do MBA 😅😅😂
I been watching all the episodes in this series. Its amazing that even when these are ~3 hour episodes, it never gets boring and time just flies watching Nikhil and his guests talk about their experiences and give us an insight and learnings about their industries!
Bollywood movies have a tough competition with this channel, because given 3 hours to spend productively, I will definitely choose to watch and rewatch an episode here than sit for a movie 🫡
Nikhil is such an amazing interviewer, calm, letting everyone speak, good listener, loved his style of doing this.
Riyaaz is definitely a superstar, at first i was kinda agitated with the way he spoke (thought a drunk guy was speaking) but loved grew as I went deeper into the podcast. Riyaaz, I loved your insights, loved the way you spoke, loved your sense of humour hahaha
Thanks again Nikhil for inviting them
I just want to tell I am a hospitality final year student at IHM, just want to say doing this job is really hard you need to be there from morning till night 12 till it is closed. Mostly 6-7 days gets 8000 as an apprentice in a 5 star hotel. I have worked at Leela, le meridien, TAJ and some domestic 5 star hotels. When ever I have a quick chat with the chefs and the f & b staffs they actually hate it. This Friday I had a quick chat with a continental chef at taj he has been working there for 7 years and he gets paid 26000 a month for coming 11 in the morning and going 12 or 1 at the night. Considering Taj's the best payer in India.
He says that he haven't seen his son for 7 months don't have time Or off to go home and has high mental stress, depression and that's why everyone is leaving the industry.
ohhh 🥲🥲
Because of all this most restaurants fail because they don't think about their staff and there families so the leave you for better opportunitys...if you treat them well and care for the most of them sticks to you for lifetime
It actually filters the cream from the wannabes who see only the glamourous mask. No one less serious can just 'hang out ' in a restaurant.
Which IHM, can you be more specific?
Taratala, Pusa, Dadar or any other.
I would hate this job too
As a young food business owner, I cannot begin to tell you guys how much this helps! Thoroughly enjoyed and learnt loads from this podcast. Nikhil, kudos to you.🙏🏼
Pooja - Right time at the right place with the right people supporting her, Zorawar - the flag bearer of the Indian food story to the world, Riyaaz - that Mumbai friend, judging his Delhi friend and thinking phek raha hai.😄 Good watch!
Pooja is ananya Pandey of this industry 😂
not sure why she had been dodging most of the questions, felt like she doesn't know her business that well and is simply the face of her brands
Zorawar is the son Jiggs Kalra, which is a big deal.
@@KaustuvMitra88I am sure he is not going around saying tujhe pata hai mera baap kaun hai
The guys, it seems are more about the business whereas she's about the craft. She may not be the best fit for this podcast as the discussion pertains more to the business side of the industry. On top of that, her niche is Cafes and Patisseries, not the casual restaurants that most of the people frequent.
So relate to Nikhil's questions to understand Pooja. Other people may find it odd but this curiosity comes with completely positive intentions.
"what part of current journey is his journey that you're trying to complete?"
the quality of questions of this podcast is on another level
00:06 The show is a crash course in opening a restaurant.
02:41 Overcoming societal restrictions to pursue a career in the F&B industry
06:36 Career growth is faster with an international degree, but salaries may not be significantly higher.
08:29 Pooja Dhingra started baking macaroons from her home kitchen and grew her business through catering and teaching baking classes.
12:36 Started multiple stores and cafes but had to shut down due to challenges
14:38 Pooja Dhingra talks about her new boyfriend and her podcast 'No Sugar Cat'.
18:37 The restaurant industry is a male-dominated field with cultural and societal barriers.
20:32 The importance of identifying key people in your life and focusing on their opinions
24:18 My dad started off as a journalist and became a food writer who put Indian food on the map.
26:10 Nikhil's father battled with stroke for 19 years
29:59 Inherited influence from his father and the impact on his career.
31:55 Zorawar Kalra transformed the perception of Indian food and made it popular again.
35:42 Bukhara is the most successful restaurant in India with an unchanged menu.
37:30 Discussion about personal relationships and the soft leadership style of a successful businessman
41:23 The restaurant industry requires multiple licenses to ensure safety and compliance.
43:23 Restaurants serve as public and cultural spaces.
47:26 The guests were born in a place with a Catholic community and had part-time jobs as DJs during college.
49:31 Growing up in a diverse community with unique religious practices
53:59 Restaurants are a multi-sensory experience and music can be an entry point into the tonality of the restaurant.
56:01 Restaurants monetize by displaying brands and selling merchandise.
1:00:00 Restaurants have the potential to become co-working spaces during the day to monetize their real estate.
1:01:57 90% of restaurants fail within the first year due to under capitalization.
1:06:01 Passion is the driving force, but it has its limits.
1:08:06 Premiumization trend in the Indian market
1:11:56 Starting a restaurant should begin with caution and frugality, possibly with a cloud kitchen or small cafe.
1:13:43 Key factors for creating a burger brand
1:17:19 Cloud kitchen allows for flexibility in location
1:19:01 The best way to gather market data is by observing the competition and counting the number of customers.
1:22:38 Restaurant density in India is 10% of China and 2% of the US
1:24:30 Overseas restaurant margins are either equal or higher due to lower occupancy costs.
1:28:26 Restaurants focusing on desserts have the potential to be successful, with desserts contributing a significant portion of revenue in some cases.
1:30:20 The search for a healthier sugar alternative is ongoing
1:33:56 Food spending is a significant part of consumption.
1:35:51 Labor cost in the hospitality industry has increased due to high demand and limited supply of labor.
1:39:41 Authentic storytelling drives better engagement than orchestrated content.
1:41:43 Indian food preferences vary by region and spice level.
1:45:34 The distinction between novel and traditional food products and the growing market for organized food sector in India
1:47:45 Quality and convenience are key factors in choosing a restaurant
1:51:31 Balancing food with ambiance and culture in restaurants
1:53:15 Quality of ingredients available in different locations affects the taste
1:56:49 Is there a market for ultra premium restaurants charging 5 times more for dishes?
1:58:42 India's food market is projected to be the third largest in the world by 2030, after the US and China.
2:02:37 Creating a buzz during restaurant launch is crucial for success.
2:04:27 Delivery commissions and additional costs can significantly reduce restaurant margins.
2:08:04 Restaurants are focusing on building their own delivery fleets and technology stacks to counter the dominance of aggregators.
2:09:59 Building a system based on discounts eventually harms consumers and restaurants.
2:13:43 Discovery and discounting are key factors driving users to aggregator platforms, but restaurants struggle to compete with the discounts offered.
2:15:35 Negotiate with aggregators by creating a strong product and demand.
2:19:15 The cost of delivery is coming down as we move into electric vehicles.
2:21:13 Cloud kitchens have high mortality rates and require strong branding and data-driven strategies.
2:25:18 Identifying underserved markets and differentiating your menu can lead to success in the restaurant industry.
2:26:59 Restaurants rely on individual vendors for supplies, but there are now alternatives like Hyperpure.
2:30:52 Invest time in understanding the market before starting a restaurant.
2:32:33 Knowing the footfall is crucial for capitalizing on business opportunities.
2:36:07 Implement strict audits and inventory management for effective restaurant operation.
2:37:58 Effective inventory and cost management through technology
2:41:42 Menu design plays a crucial role in enhancing average order values (AOVs).
2:43:28 Restaurant menus cater to different types of consumers based on price and vegetarianism.
2:47:16 Restaurant uses cameras to collect data on eating behaviors and reactions
2:49:19 Design plays a crucial role in creating a specific ambiance and feel in a space.
2:52:54 Uniqueness and user-generated content are important for attracting attention.
2:54:52 Instagrammable food and design are important for restaurant success.
2:58:48 The importance of maintaining the right bond with a chef in a restaurant business.
3:00:40 The success of a chef-based restaurant depends on how well the chef is managed.
3:04:36 Importance of having a talent acquirer with empathy training
3:06:28 Building culture is more difficult than building competence
3:10:11 Clear career path and support system provided to employees
3:12:02 Seasonality and festivals have a significant impact on restaurant businesses in India
3:15:44 The show is an educational exercise for entrepreneurs.
3:17:51 Assistance provided to young restaurants in starting up and mentoring
3:22:17 Importance of subscribing to the show
Thanks man!
Everybody needs a Gaurav_Chaudhari613 at their workplace.
Bhai, why do you do this?
Don’t have anything better to do?
What you get out of it?
I guess you have a algo who writes it for u
Bro you are doing great job thanx may God bless you 🙏with more prosperity
Nikhil greetings. I am a 72 year old retired, living in Los Angeles. Your podcast is world-class and bringing so much knowledge and entertainment and motivation to young people. If you ever come to Los Angeles, I am willing to be your personal chauffeur. You are an inspiring even to an old dog like me. God bless and keep up the good service to younger community. Regards, Babu Shankar.
What you would have advised to 35your old version of you.. I am 35
Sumit, greetings. Be curious and learn something new as much as possible. Pick anything art, business, entertainment, and academics, not as a profession but as passion. When you choose something as passion ,practice practice, practice, and become the best you can be in your chosen field.
Have a balanced life. Choose your friends who will uplift your life and challenge your beliefs. Find a good spouse that will be your life partner.
Make a commitment, do your best, and leave the result to the universe .
Read bios of people like AR..Rahman, Steve Jobs , Elon Musk and Sundar Pichai.
Wishing you all the best and God's blessings. Regards, Babu Shankar.
@@bshankar52 Thank you Sir for the reply. Will try to implement suggestions.
Since you are an Indian, which I am assuming who lives in the USA, what's the fundamental difference you see, when it comes to talent, startups, running a new business and in general people's attitude towards spending money on things like food, art, fashion etc I would like to know your view .
@@me_and_theother_me Greetings. I have been living in this country for the last 54 years. I haven't forgotten my roots and very happy with the economic and life quality progress that India has been making in the last 25 years or so. I am very grateful and patriotic because this is the country that gave me the opportunity to live the life that I am leading.
I would say that maybe 20% of the population is deeply involved in the political conversations, like progressive, liberal, conservative, social Justice, etc, 80 percent of the people just go about their daily living either alone or with their families. The concerns for the educated, middle class and upper middle class is very similar to India, comfortable lifestyle, a house of your own, better education for the children, self identity and a sense of community are pretty much Universal concerns.
Talent: Even though you read and so much about young people's depression, addiction and a loss of purpose, there are lot of talents that are produced every year, because this country is a melting pot of so many immigrants that are trying to better their lives. There are so many talented young and old people doing amazing research to better ordinary citizen's life. With all the technical wizardry, that I am surrounded with, I feel that I am living in a golden time.
Start ups: You may be reading about so many young talented Indians starting so many startups and living the life of Multi Millionaires. That is so true In the state Of California. If you have a true talent and a new product, you will find a way to be funded.
Running a New Business. Just like anywhere in the world, running a new business and making it profitable is a challenge. Problem with the regulations, government red tape, labor challenges make it difficult. But still so many immigrants thrive and make a good living, both small and big.
Unlike Indians, Americans, in majority numbers do not save well. People live and enjoy the present, by eating out attend movies, concerts, theaters and major league Sports. They are sure to take vacation every year and enjoy their free time. They are not into saving legacy wealth for future generations, like Indians.
My feeling is that I live in a great country. We have our own problems. but the life that I live is meaningful.
I hope that I answered your questions in some small way.. Wishing you all the best. Babu Shankar
At ~34min, Nikhil's questioning to Zorawar about his father reminds me of something like Sherlock would do. Crazy awareness. Killer episodes, all!
Asking thought-provoking questions with a sense of purpose and curiosity is the key to this podcast. Nikhil has become a pro at this.
as a person who enjoys cooking and loves food, this is like a nat geo documentary! absolutely amazing episode.
Rest all things kept constant ..I really like how the video editing is done for the podcast and how the meaning of certain words is shared
Is it just me or do you also see the table a bit tilted towards the centre from the edges? 😅
The glasses across the table have the same water level inclination.😅
One thing this podcast never fails to show are some eloquent ,confident speakers. Their way of interacting is actually infectious. ZORAVAR here AND KARTHIK REDDY from venture podcast are 2 such classy ppl
My goodness! Quite a podcast, and Zorawar has some lion-spirit in him. Love how Riyaaz is laid back like a polar bear and still drives his point. I think Pooja didn't get in a lot of her views, but much respect for all that she does! And Nikhil... man, he can get people to talk! Cheers and best wishes. Good to see the back-end getting some footage as well. Cheers!
I don't think people understand how successful Riyaaz is. This guy is a god when it comes to Indian hospitality. I've been following him since he started the first Smoke House Deli in Mumbai.
OMG, what an episode.
Great work Nikhil. Thanks to Riyaaz, Zorawar, Pooja for being unfiltered. Will watch this again and again.
Riyaaz has some beautiful insights to share. He knows what he is talking about. Very articulate and to the point, and as always Nikhil knows how to make conversations interesting by asking some really great questions.
I think there is an interesting comment by one of the chef's name Joshua, he said that in a Michelin restaurant, the chef might be getting paid minimum wage but the waiter would be rich because of tips. Only celebrity chefs actually make decent money coz they are owners of a joint.
By the way the comment is for US but yes try are similarities in India
@@darnaramthat’s bullshit.
Waiter in india gets fixed salary+tips.
In US waiter doesn’t even get minimum wage because the owner tells him the customer will pay his wage through tips.
This only works for restaurants where the owner pays a fixed hourly pay and on top of that the waiter makes money from tip.
@@stockbro1997 i was mainly talking about chefs not about waiters, and for waiters yes i do know that in US waiters are paid through tips but for Michelin restaurants their tips are huge and mostly it only goes to waiters
Episode Frequency has been increased.. Really great to see. Once a month to twice is great and also perfect balance of exotic yet not looking too far.
These podcasts seem very authentic. Nikhil is such a calm person and very good listener. Love his style of doing these podcasts.
What a podcast! The in-depth discussions and insights were both entertaining and informative. It was a well-spent 3.5 hours. Well done, Nikhil and guests!
This was incredible!! I can't believe that I didn't get bored listening to a 3hr+ podcast!!
Zorawar - Man of ingredients (I used to think) but the respect has increased to another level after watching this.
Thanks to Nikhil for this session. Please do much such sessions
If a 22yr old requires 50lakhs and above to start a restaurant or begin a career in F&B industry
More than 90% people don't even qualify or have a financial capacity to start off,
Also appreciate the efforts and time Mr. Nikhil is trying to put in to help a aspiring young entrepreneur, i truly feel that he/she should not be given a sum of 50lakhs upfront assuming that he/she would sustain and make a successful business out of it is not a right approach, i suppose money is not the only problem but actually the experience and knowledge that comes with trial and errors and working through the years, To begin with a sum of 10-15lakhs should be allocated to 3-4 individuals to start a cloud kitchen or a QSR, and let them prove themselves if they have the potential
Would be great if Nikhil sir can acknowledge this
That is a great & safe approach unless you have a really good mentor in the same field to rely on for a solid business plan and insights. Even 15 lacs can be burnt really quickly without any fruitful returns if there is no proper experience or knowledge. As easy as it seems, hospitality especially the restaurant industry is a rather tricky field.
Just had an unforgettable dining experience at 'This Podcast' restaurant! Every dish was a culinary masterpiece, from starters to desserts. The ambiance blends sophistication with a cozy touch, perfect for any dining occasion. A big shoutout to Pooja, Riyaaz, and Zorawar for their exceptional service and making our evening special. This place has a unique charm, making every visit memorable. Highly recommend it to everyone!
Atleast you tried 🤓
I am into restaurant business since more than a decade & doing markets as well, very much relatable, experience speaks, each & every point was perfectly explained, just loved this podcast, Kudos to all ❤
Listening to all these amazing insights for free feels like a crime. Can't remember how I started watching these podcasts but now I sit with a notebook and try and finish them in 2-3 sittings. Although being in a tier 3 city we face so many other challenges that were not discussed here. But I learn so much from each and every episode. Great initiative guys. Really grateful for all the insights shared here on this platform.
Mr Zorawar is the guy you wouldn't get bored to even after listening for hours
Nice one, Nikhil. This EP was a surprise coming from you. Mazaa aya. Good to spend time listening to smart, accomplished people for free . It's priceless. Nikhil is gifted in a sense that he has a knack to break through the facade of otherwise reserved business folks, even complete stangers, and make it a candid conversation, which most other talk shows/podcasts fail to accomplish.
Interesting - 3.5 hours of high quality insights and really loved the way how Nikhil calmly nudges other person to talk
It's literally a crash course in restaurant business. Thanks a ton for doing this.
i have seen multiple podcasts but have never seen any team up front. I love how each and everyone came in the end to introduce.
Kudos guys !!!
Nikhil, great work, man! You are publishing a 3-4 hours masterclass on every domain each month, and it's delivering a lot of value.
Hats of to you 👏🏼
Please do an episode on "WTF is Climate Change?"
I think nikhil has mastered the art of asking questions
I’m going to be sitting in Lavonne every weekend , trying to get some funding for my restaurant
Haha
Shut Up Bro! Leave him alone
Probably the best Podcast so far for the sheer enthusiasm with which Zorawar and Riyaaz shared all those insights.
Riaz butts in between without waiting for the other person to finish his point. Other guys showed a lot of tolerance.
Saturday Night Sorted as usual ❤❤❤
Never stop making these videos Nikhil. These videos are super helpful for young guys like me. Appreciate the effort you put!
Zorawar Sir I worked with you during Jhalak Dikhlaja and Aap bahut talented, humble aur understanding hain.
I salute you and I look upto you 🫡
Respect for Zorawar Sir
Your knowledge and humility make you a role model Zorawar sir 👏👏👏
I can’t possibly imagine paying 75 lakhs a year for any course let alone something in baking or hospitality ☠️
Habibi come to medical colleges
@@hrishabhdudeja7523 I study medicine only bro, my entire course will be done within 7.5 lakhs, even management seat students pay 35 lakhs per year.
And not being hired also 😂
Broaden your horizons perhaps 🤷🏽♂️
Medical students crying in morgue
Respect button for Zorawar Kalra
He's a good son, uncle must be watching him from sky and feeling proud
Nikhil should do one more episode with the Professionals.... chefs, managers, housekeepers and GMs.... people who really run the hospitality industry to do proper justice to this theme.....
What an episode !!Im a doctor ,pediatrician ,clinical
Hematoncologist and bone marrow transplanter .Nothing to do with this particular podcast professionally at-least and ended up listening to it twice !!The host is a genius so calm and has such child like curiosity and all the three guests have such amazing stories to tell .Kuods !!!!!
Didn't expect this episode to be this great
Worth watching it, lots and lots of learning. Thanks Nikhil. Youths don't miss to watch Nikhil podcast. Its fully loaded with Passionated entrepreneurs
I work as a Startup Mentor for a Dubai based accelerator. I love the details and nuances of businesses and the humanization of the business founders. I learn so much listening to these talks. Thank yoi Nikhil.
Hey, how can I connect with you ? I’m based in Dubai and have a business plan.
2:11:05 - the adjusted EBITDA comment, easily my favourite moment in the episode 😂😂😂😂😂
Why so ?
You can also get people from healthcare and hospital business, maybe from the pharmaceuticals business. That industry is also hard to get into and mostly dominated by the giants. A detailed discussion like this into the hospital business would be appreciated.
I think there’s one with Kiran Mazumdar Shaw on Biotech industry already
Anyone else planning to have avocado toast in Lavonne every weekend?
Lmaoo
Lmao we will meet nikhil
I know this might come out weird but very very cool triumph
I mean its hard for nikhil to ask for the good deed he asks for at the last of the episode everytime. Kudos to him for putting that emotional effort. It matters, what you do matters, its creating an impact in the ppl's life, keep going.
I live in Mississauga Canada and there is Farzi cafe right next to my building at square one mall.My experience was completely sub par,food and alcohol prizes were double compared to other resutatuents and small portion sizes of food.so I think it's one big overhyped cafe chain and there is nothing great about it.I am pretty sure they must be overpriced in India as well.
I'm absolutely hooked on. Despite the lengthy runtime of almost 3 and a half hours, each episode leaves me eagerly anticipating the next. The depth and breadth of the topics discussed are truly commendable, and the engaging delivery keeps me riveted throughout. It's clear that a lot of thought and effort goes into each episode, and it's paying off. The podcast just keeps getting better and better. Keep up the great work! Looking forward to the next episode.
I don't know how much of this content is useful to me, but trust me it was so informative and super interesting discussion that I could not skip it... Awesome content and will add lot of value to someone planning to start a restaurant.. keep making more like this Nikhil ❤😊
If there is one thing that stands out in all these podcasts, it is Nikhil's relentless curiosity! Such an amazing life lesson to keep asking "why". Kudos!
ZK you make the pursuit of knowledge look effortless 💯
Every episode is a gem and the guest and topics in each episode is so priceless. Woooww .. Thanks for not shorting the content. Please keep as long as possible.. This was soo awesome..
In love with nikhil..... billionair yet so humble and calm.
Billionaire in rupees terms?
@@Fit_n_Tall $
@@Fit_n_Tall no Sudanese currency.
@@LastBencher14 hmm ok, is that a currency from your country?
@@Fit_n_Tall it is currency from where your GK comes.
Hit Like those who watched full episode without skipping.
You guys will really achieve success. Anf Thanks from all our side to Nikhil sir. Hope someday i can meet you.
Nikhil able to pull out the intricacies of every person is seriously so admirable. That too With genuine curiousity
Nikhil Kamath and his team are doing hell of a job with podcasts. thanks a lot guys.
fantastic insights! Had my own cafe in a very high end street in Bangalore- can totally relate to every single challenge and POV from these veterans.
I started viewing this podcast because of Nikhil’s success, personality and approach towards life. It interested and gripped me more because of the first hand information that I’m getting from Nikhil’s guests which is rarely available on the internet. I have always loved long form contents and this has been on my top list since the time it has started. Love to see how Nikhil is starting his life all over again with a strong purpose. More power to you man 🙌. I hope we all get what we want in our lives.
Related so hard to Zorawar's take on food. Food IS Love!
Also so nice to see Pooja be praised by these stalwarts! 💯
Zorawar Kalra should come back for another episode!
Is there really coffee in Riyaaz’s mug? That smirk on everybody’s face when he said “coffee mug” suggests otherwise 😅
Brilliant conversation, I felt Mr. Kalra’s answers felt a little verbose but great insight from everyone. 🎉
Like how Nikhil asks personal/family questions, it really gives insights into life , psyche of a successful businessman/woman ,entrepreneur .It helps viewers compare their lives and assess where we stand in journey of life and it can help untie some knots in personal life.As humans the metric is always others lives.
Nikhil - We need a WTF for the real estate industry, i realized while watching this, how much real estate needs to be spoken about.
I wish we could see what topics you have planned for the future! 😍 I am hooked.
I now know that nikhil always posts podcast on Saturday night. Cant wait to watch it
As always, Nikhil being as amazing as David Rubenstein.
Being in the same industry, this was a master class with some finely learned maestros. Beautiful 🙌🙌
Hi Nikhil, Great Job in calling all the knowledgeable guests to your podcast. I would request you to call professionals from the agriculture business catagory as well. It hearts when we see no podcaster broadly talk about agri business. Thanks again for giving us lot of knowledge about the businesses and entrepreneurship.
Top tier! This is the most accurate restaurant scenario which is happening in india in a global scale. Being a restauranteur myself I’d have died for such content years back. I’m glad new entrepreneurs learn from this podcast about the in and outs of the restaurant industry. Also Nikhil Kamat’s questions were on point, felt the genuine passion for him in the industry. Thank you for this 🙌
Should have let Pooja answer her questions 😐 Also maybe he could have brought in Kainaz Mesman of the Theobroma that would have done more justice to desserts and patisseries space
Thanks Nikhil and all the guests.
I found it interesting how tech and AI is being used in restaurants business
She was in Bombay Scottish 😮 She went to swis, francs and Australia for studies...sorry Ananya pandey for your struggle😅
Very very excited for this one! I've always been passionate about restauranting so this one's big!
Amazing content..never stop making these
Only continued the episode for Zorawar kalra 🔥🙌🙌
Zorawar Kalra is human version of chatGPT