Addite Malik, known for her versatile roles on Indian television in shows like ‘Shararat’ and ‘Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki’, has made a mark as both an actor and an award-winning entrepreneur. She owns and operates successful restaurants and cafes in Mumbai and Bangalore, and her latest venture, Que Sera Sera in Andheri, showcases her knack for creating memorable and comfortable dining experiences. In her hospitality career spanning over 8 years, Addite’s story is one of self-made success, inspiring women along the way. We had the chance to sit down with her and delve into her entrepreneurial journey, thriving in the restaurant industry, and her return to acting.
How did your love affair with food begin?
My love affair with food has been a lifelong passion, dating back to my childhood, as I have been a foodie since I was a child. I’ve had a special connection with food from a very early age, and I was also the decision-maker in the family who decided which restaurant we would eat at as a family. Currently, I’m truly grateful to be able to pursue both my passions—acting and food. It’s a rare privilege to do what I love in two different fields.
What is the most memorable dining experience you have had?
Italy holds the key to my most cherished dining experience. In Milan, I dined at a place that felt like a dream. It was a cosy house where the owners joined us at our table, and we ended the meal by sharing an exquisite old bottle of wine. It was an unforgettable dining experience.
In an industry known for its challenges, what motivates and drives you?
What keeps me motivated in an industry filled with challenges is the constant flow of opportunities. People are drawn to our ventures, and that’s a testament to the value we bring. Seeing happy clients and guests in my restaurants is incredibly motivating. Their appreciation fuels my drive.
In a rapidly changing food industry, how do you stay ahead of trends and ensure your restaurants remain relevant?
Staying ahead of trends in the ever-evolving food industry is crucial. To do this, I keep myself updated with global food and restaurant trends. While travel became limited after COVID, I turned to food-related shows on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime for inspiration on world cuisine. Trusting my instincts and staying true to what makes me happy also guides my choices for staying relevant.
What career choice do you enjoy the most? Being an actor or an entrepreneur?
I have a deep love for both of my professions, acting and entrepreneurship. The camera has a special place in my heart, and you might have noticed that I occasionally share funny reels on Instagram because it reconnects me with the joy of acting. It’s challenging for me to choose between the two, as each has its own unique advantages and challenges.
Interestingly, I initially left my full-time acting career when I ventured into the restaurant business, and I could have never predicted that I would one day own seven restaurants. My dream has always been to create spaces where people can enjoy food, just like the memorable experiences I had in Italy, where the family I dined with made the meal extraordinary. That dream is what drives me.
Our journey began with the success of our first restaurant, ‘Homemade Cafe,’ located in Oshiwara, Mumbai, and from there, we expanded to more locations over the past six years. I derive immense satisfaction from the process of crafting, designing, and being deeply involved in every aspect of the restaurants, from the food to the service. The creative aspect is entirely my domain.
What’s next for you?
Looking ahead, we recently unveiled Que Sera Sera, a European eatery and conversational bar, just a month ago. I have a passion for bars with great music, as they provide the perfect setting for meaningful conversations over drinks and meals. There’s another exciting restaurant launch on the horizon, set to open by the end of this year. My professional journey is packed with exciting prospects, including a return to acting in 2024 and attending workshops to further hone my craft. So, there’s a lot to look forward to in the near future.
