Karan Puri
Walking into the café post-lunch, I found myself in a serene, slightly lean hour. There sat Vibhu, the café owner, meticulously inspecting a savoury dish in front of the chef. As a layman, it was evident that she possessed an unswerving commitment to quality and consistency, attributes that have contributed to her loyal customer base.
Recognising a familiar face, Vibhu approached me with her usual warm smile and began chatting about the new menu items. She was keen to get my opinion, knowing my background in the hospitality industry. As we started what became a long conversation, I shared stories of my interactions with various restaurateurs and expressed my admiration for her café’s inviting ambience. Despite its minimalist set-up, Belong exudes warmth, with board games in the corner and a diverse pile of books adding to its charm.
From HR to Café Owner: An Inspiring Journey
It was during this conversation that I got a glimpse into Vibhu’s inspiring journey. A firm believer in the almighty ‘Baba ji’, she credits her success to his blessings. The idea of opening a café had struck her during her adolescence, and even while working in HR departments of renowned corporates, she knew this was her true calling. Indeed, every element of the café, from the interiors to the artworks on the wall, was meticulously planned well in advance.
Vibhu takes immense pride in the fame and loyalty she has garnered—along with a stellar 4.9 Zomato rating. Remarkably, she has never resorted to complimentary blogger tables or approached influencers for promotion. Her success is purely a tribute to the quality of her café and the devotion to her craft.
I love folks who share interesting anecdotes of the places they travel to, and Vibhu shared one of a painting featuring a woman reading a book. Its origins lie in a café in Kashmir, where a guy sitting across her found poignancy in the moment; he sketched Vibhu and handed the painting to her. This instantaneous act became something to cherish, something to adorn a wall in her beloved café.
As I left Belong, I couldn’t help but feel motivated by Vibhu’s journey. Her story is a powerful reminder that following one’s passion, coupled with unwavering dedication, can lead to extraordinary achievements. Vibhu’s café is not just a place to dine; it’s a testament to the power of dreams and the beauty of seeing them come to life.
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