By Anirban Dasgupta
Welcome to Cafe Hawkers, where a unique fusion of street food and a luxurious yet stylish dining environment awaits you. The moment I stepped in there, the charming staff, cosy ambience made me fall in love with the place instantly. Café Hawkers takes you on a culinary journey through the vibrant street foods of India and the world. From the busy streets of Mumbai to the bustling alleys of Bangkok, Café Hawkers offers a delightful menu that tantalizes your taste buds with an explosion of flavours and spices. Not only does the food impress, but the cafe itself boasts a lovely decor that transports you to a lively world of gastronomy.
Rajat Kapoor, Director of Café Hawkers speaks with Travellers’ World on the story behind the concept, theme and special character of Café Hawkers:
- Why the name Café Hawkers?
The name “Café Hawkers” was carefully chosen to reflect the vibrant and authentic spirit of street food culture. Imagine the lively streets, the delightful aromas from food stalls, and the sizzle of various dishes being prepared by street vendors – that’s the essence we wanted to capture.
“Hawkers” brings to mind those dedicated individuals who skillfully create mouthwatering street food. With this name, we pay tribute to these culinary heroes who have delighted our taste buds for generations. Café Hawkers is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of the diverse world of street food.
When you step into Café Hawkers, we want you to feel like you’re entering a world where the streets come alive with the flavours of numerous cultures. Our name reflects this vibrant and immersive experience, inviting you to savour the rich tapestry of global street food in a welcoming atmosphere.
- What is the one thing that defines Café Hawkers?
Café Hawkers is defined by the magical blend of three essential elements: a diverse and tantalising global menu, an ambiance that exudes a lively and carefree vibe, and a commitment to affordability without compromising on quality.
Our menu is a passport to culinary adventures from around the world. It’s like taking a gastronomic journey without leaving your seat. We’ve carefully curated dishes that showcase the best of street food flavours from various corners of the globe. From comforting Indian chaats to zesty Chinese street snacks, we’ve brought these diverse tastes together under one roof, creating a truly unique and memorable dining experience.
The ambiance at Café Hawkers is designed to transport you to the bustling streets of a vibrant market. It’s colourful, quirky, and filled with energy, making it the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a meal with friends, or even study with a side of delightful food.
Affordability is a core pillar of Café Hawkers. We firmly believe that great food should be accessible to all, and our pocket-friendly menu reflects this belief. It’s a place where patrons can come hungry and leave not just satisfied but delighted, knowing they’ve enjoyed a top-notch meal that doesn’t break the bank.
- What made you launch this brand of chain?
Launching Café Hawkers was like embarking on a flavorful adventure. It all started with a keen understanding of the evolving tastes and lifestyles of the younger generation, especially millennials. We noticed that this demographic was yearning for more than just a meal; they sought an experience that resonated with their culinary interests and vibrant lifestyles.
Street food, with its rich tapestry of flavours and cultural significance, held a special place in the hearts of many. Yet, the traditional street food experience often lacked cleanliness and comfort. This is where Café Hawkers came into the picture. We envisioned a space where young and trendy millennials could indulge in their favourite street foods from around the world while enjoying a contemporary and vibrant atmosphere.
Moreover, being a part of The Gola Group, which boasts a strong legacy in the culinary industry, provided us with the expertise and resources needed to realise this vision. We believed that Café Hawkers could fill a unique niche in the market by offering an authentic yet modern street food experience, and this belief fueled our decision to launch this chain.
In summary, Café Hawkers was born out of a desire to bridge the gap between the beloved flavours of street food and the modern dining expectations of the younger generation, all while ensuring accessibility and affordability.
- What do you think is the status of the FnB industry in India today, and how optimistic are you about the future?
The Food and Beverage (FnB) industry in India is currently in a state of exciting transformation. It has evolved significantly over the years, propelled by shifting consumer preferences, urbanisation, and the increasing disposable income of the burgeoning middle-class population. It’s no longer just about sustenance; it’s an expression of culture, innovation, and lifestyle.
My optimism about the future of the FnB industry in India knows no bounds. While the industry faced challenges during the pandemic, it also witnessed the rapid growth of trends like food delivery and contactless dining, which are likely to continue shaping its landscape. As people become more adventurous with their food choices and look beyond traditional cuisines, there’s a growing demand for diverse and unique culinary experiences. Café Hawkers aspires to be at the forefront of this exciting culinary journey.
Furthermore, the Indian culinary scene is gaining recognition on the global stage, and there’s immense potential for further growth and innovation. With a rich tapestry of regional cuisines, India offers a treasure trove of flavours waiting to be explored. Café Hawkers aims to be a pioneer in bringing these flavours to a wider audience, combining the authenticity of street food with a modern twist.
I firmly believe that the FnB industry in India is poised for continued growth and innovation, and Café Hawkers is committed to being a key player in providing exciting and memorable dining experiences.
- What is the special menu of Café Hawkers, and how unique is it?
Ah, the heart of Café Hawkers lies in its special menu, a culinary masterpiece designed to transport your taste buds on a global journey while ensuring a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Our menu is a testament to the richness of street food culture and our commitment to infuse it with a modern twist.
Imagine sipping on a Lotus Biscoff Freak Shake, a delightful concoction that marries a classic cookie with a creamy shake. It’s not just a beverage; it’s a dessert-drink hybrid that’s both Instagram-worthy and incredibly delicious. Or consider the Pesto Chicken Pizza, a fusion of Italian classics with contemporary twists that tantalise your palate.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Café Hawkers offers an array of options that showcase the best of street food from around the world. From Afghani Chicken Momos that blend Indian and Central Asian flavours to shakes, waffles, pizzas, and Chinese delicacies, our menu is an adventure waiting to be explored.
What truly sets our menu apart is its ability to seamlessly blend flavours from different cultures, creating a harmonious yet exciting fusion that caters to a wide range of tastes. It’s not just about the dishes; it’s about the experience of discovering new flavours and combinations in every bite.
In essence, Café Hawkers’ special menu is a testament to our dedication to providing a dining experience that is not only delicious but also memorable and adventurous. We believe that food should be a journey of exploration, and our menu reflects this belief in every sense.
- Your future projects?
As we look to the future, Café Hawkers is gearing up for an exciting journey of expansion and innovation. Our vision extends beyond the confines of our current locations, and we’re eager to share our culinary adventures with a broader audience.
Expansion is a key focus for us. We’re actively exploring opportunities to bring the Café Hawkers experience to more locations, making it even more accessible to food lovers across the region. We want to ensure that more people can savour the unique blend of flavours and experiences that define Café Hawkers.
Innovation is at the core of our culinary philosophy. We’re constantly working on new dishes and beverages to keep our menu fresh and exciting. Expect to see more tantalising creations that push the boundaries of flavour and creativity. We want our patrons to be continually delighted and surprised
