Indian cricketers have long been known for their prowess on the field, but many have also ventured into the hospitality industry, opening restaurants that reflect their passion for food and culture. Here are the top 7 restaurants owned by Indian cricketers, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit and love for culinary delights:
- Virat Kohli – One8 Commune: Virat Kohli – One8 Commune is a chain of upscale restaurants and bars owned by the Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli. Located on the 6th, 7th, and 8th floors of a building in Bengaluru, overlooking the Chinnaswamy cricket stadium. One8 Commune also has outlets in North Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, Gurugram (Aerocity) and Banglore. Overall, One8 Commune represents Virat Kohli’s venture into the hospitality industry, aiming to create vibrant social spaces that combine good food with a lively atmosphere.
- Kapil Dev’s – Elevens: Kapil Dev’s Elevens is a well-known establishment in Patna, India, associated with the legendary cricketer Kapil Dev. It operates both as a banquet hall and a restaurant, offering a variety of cuisines. Located at Lower Ground Floor, Dumraow Kothi, Frazer Road, Patna with another branch in Bander Bagicha. Serves Indian, Asian, Chinese, Continental, Mughlai, and desserts. Generally well-received for its food quality and ambience, though some reviewers have noted inconsistent service. Overall, Kapil Dev’s Elevens is a popular venue for both dining and events in Patna.
- Ravindra Jadeja’s – Jaddu’s Food Field: Jaddu’s Food Field is a restaurant owned by Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja, located in Rajkot, Gujarat. The restaurant is themed around cricket and features elements related to the sport, including cricket bats and balls signed by the cricket team. The restaurant serves Indian cuisine and is vegetarian-friendly. The restaurant’s cricket theme is a unique aspect, but the inconsistent reviews suggest that improvements are needed to enhance the dining experience.
- Zaheer Khan – Zaheer Khan’s Dine Fine: Dine Fine is a restaurant located in Pune, India, known for its fine dining experience. The restaurant is situated in Lulla Nagar-Wanowrie, near Sahani Sujan Park and NIBM, Kondhwa, Pune. Zaheer Khan’s Dine Fine serves Indian and international dishes, with a focus on North Indian cuisine. Popular dishes include Malai Chicken Tangdi, Galauti Kabab, Paneer Khurchan, Shahi Paneer, Chicken Rara, and Shahi Tukda. They also offer seafood options like Fish Tikka Masala. Zaheer Khan’s Dine Fine offers a unique dining experience with its blend of cuisine and cricket-themed ambiance, though service consistency can be an issue.
- Suresh Raina – Raina Indian Restaurant: Suresh Raina, the former Indian cricketer, has opened an Indian restaurant in Amsterdam named Raina Indian Restaurant. Located at Admiraal De Ruijterweg 468, 1055 NH Amsterdam, the Netherlands. This culinary venture is a tribute to the diverse culinary heritage of India, offering a wide range of authentic Indian dishes from North to South India. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including starters like Chicken Chaat, Mix Pakora, Zaituni Paneer, and vegetarian options like Dal Makhani and Paneer Butter Masala. Suresh Raina expressed his passion for food and cricket, stating that opening this restaurant is a dream come true. He aims to share the authentic tastes of India with people worldwide. The restaurant has received support from fellow cricketers, including Virat Kohli, who expressed his intention to visit the restaurant.
- Shikhar Dhawan – The Flying Catch: Shikhar Dhawan – The Flying Catch is a sports-themed restaurant located in Jumeirah 1, Dubai. It is owned by Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan and offers a unique dining experience that combines cricket with delicious food. The restaurant features a cricket-themed ambiance with multiple LED screens and a giant video wall, making it an ideal spot for cricket enthusiasts to watch matches while enjoying their meals. Located on Al Hudaiba Road in Jumeirah 1, the restaurant is easily accessible and occupies a spacious 3,000-square-foot area. Visitors appreciate the restaurant’s hospitable staff, tasty food, and lively atmosphere. It’s a popular spot not only for cricket fans but also for those looking to enjoy good Indian cuisine in a vibrant setting.
- MS Dhoni – Shaka Harry: MS Dhoni, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, has invested in Shaka Harry, a plant-based protein startup. This investment was announced in October 2022, shortly after Shaka Harry raised $2 million in seed funding from investors like Better Bite Ventures, Blue Horizon, and Panthera Peak Ventures. Offers a wide range of meal and snacking products, including snackable and meal accompaniments, designed to cater to Indian cuisine and palate. Shaka Harry has expanded its operations to Singapore, marking its first international market. The company plans to introduce 15 innovative products at Mustafa Centre in Singapore. Initially serving over 30,000 customers across 10 cities in India, with plans to triple this number.
These ventures not only highlight the cricketers’ business acumen but also provide fans with unique dining experiences.
