Speak Greasy with Gauri Devidayal Food Matters Group | Magazine St. Kitchen

Welcome to Episode 7 of Magazine St. Kitchen x Thrive presents Speak Greasy with Gauri Devidayal Season 2! In this captivating episode, we are joined by Yahvi Mariwala, Co-Founder of Nandan Coffee and a third-generation coffee grower. Dive into the rich history and dynamic present of Nandanvan Estate, located in the picturesque hills of Kodaikanal. Yahvi's family has been growing organic coffee here since the 1960s, transforming a passion project into a thriving brand known as Nandan Coffee.

Gauri and Yahvi reminisce about their first encounter as stall owners at a farmers' market in 2017, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Yahvi's entrepreneurial journey. Yahvi shares her unique path, from taking a gap year to immerse herself in the family estate to now rebranding and marketing Nandan Coffee to Indian consumers. Despite not initially envisioning a career in entrepreneurship, Yahvi saw the potential in organic, Indian-origin coffee and took bold steps to establish the business, including creating a website and setting up distribution channels.

The conversation delves into the recent explosion of coffee culture in India. Yahvi draws parallels between the growing appreciation for coffee and the world of fine wines, attributing the rise to increased travel, better access to information, and the easing of business barriers. She also discusses the challenges she faced, from learning on the job through pop-ups and social media to cold calling restaurants and educating baristas about coffee processes and equipment.

One of the highlights of the episode is the collaboration between Nandan Coffee and The Table, sparked by an urgent need for a coffee hamper. Yahvi emphasises the importance of understanding a restaurant's needs — whether coffee is a main revenue generator or a defining aspect of the dining experience. The discussion also touches on whether expensive coffee equipment is necessary for a good cup of coffee and the varying levels of consumer knowledge about tasting notes.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into differentiating a coffee brand in a competitive market and the importance of maintaining organic certification for over 20 years. Yahvi introduces Nandan's cooperative model, "Friends of Nandan," aimed at supporting local farmers by helping them process and sell their coffee under the Nandan brand. This initiative empowers farmers and strengthens the local community.

The episode also explores the future of the coffee industry in India, highlighting the growth of coffee culture in tier 2 cities like Jaipur, which are far from the traditional coffee-growing regions in South India. Yahvi discusses barriers in the coffee retail industry, such as consumer hesitation to purchase coffee they might not like or know how to brew, and the importance of training.

Discover the different sub-industries within the coffee sector, from Nespresso and instant coffee to freshly roasted coffee. Yahvi shares exciting news about Nandan's plans to make coffee more accessible to a broader audience. too

Whether you're a coffee enthusiast eager to learn more about the Indian coffee scene, an aspiring entrepreneur seeking inspiration, or someone interested in the intricacies of growing and marketing organic coffee, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Nandan Coffee and the evolving landscape of the coffee industry in India. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful episodes!

Welcome back to Magazine St. Kitchen x Thrive presents Speak Greasy with Gauri Devidayal Season 2. In Episode 6, we're honored to be joined by two dear friends from The Soul Company: Somanna 'Som' Muthanna (CEO & Founder) and Diganta 'Diggy' Chakraborty (Head of Brand).

The Soul Company epitomises excellence in the F&B industry, curating unparalleled experiences that blend culinary artistry with cultural immersion. As we delve into their journey, listeners gain insight into the transformative power of food and its ability to unite communities across borders.

From intimate chef tables to immersive pop-ups, The Soul Company has redefined the dining landscape, setting new standards for innovation and creativity. Born amidst the challenges of the pandemic, they've emerged as trailblazers, pioneering trends that resonate with discerning audiences worldwide.

At the heart of their mission lies a deep commitment to fostering authentic connections within the F&B community. Through collaboration and camaraderie, they've built a relationships with a community of like-minded individuals that share a passion for culinary excellence and cultural exchange.

Throughout the conversation, we explore the evolving concept of exclusivity and intimacy in dining and the growing demand for accessible culinary experiences. From hidden gems in bustling metropolises to quaint eateries off the beaten path, The Soul Company showcases the rich tapestry of flavors that define each destination.

But our discussion goes beyond mere gastronomy; we also examine the role of culinary awards in recognizing excellence within the industry. While they serve as a benchmark for achievement, our guests stress the importance of integrity and transparency in such accolades.

The conversation also touches the strategic importance of restaurants and bars investing in pop-ups across the subcontinent. They emphasise how these ventures serve as potent PR tools, showcasing culinary creativity and amplifying brand presence. 2020-2024 has also seen the rise of alternative dining experiences like supper clubs and pop-ups, reflecting a shift in the Indian F&B scene. Furthermore, they discussed the growing acceptance of the Indian industry globally, and the increasing recognition of the value that chefs and bartenders bring to the table.

Finally, we tackle the complex question of pricing experiences, urging listeners to consider the true value of a memorable meal beyond its monetary worth. Through thought-provoking insights and engaging dialogue, we aim to inspire a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry behind every dining experience.

Join us as we embark on a journey of culinary discovery and cultural exploration in Episode 6 of Speak Greasy. Whether you're a seasoned epicurean or simply curious about the evolving world of F&B, watch now!

Welcome to Episode 5 of Magazine St. Kitchen x Thrive presents Speak Greasy Season 2, a captivating journey into the world of food commerce and innovation. In this episode, Gauri Devidayal sits down with the visionary minds behind Thrive – Karan Chechani (CMO), Krishi Fagwani (CEO) and Dhruv Dewan (COO) – to uncover the secrets of their success and the future of the food tech industry.

The episode unravels the intertwined journey of the founding team, from their professional collaborations at EY India to their shared educational backgrounds, weaving a narrative of synergy and innovation. They then embark on an enthralling exploration of Thrive's evolution from its origins as Hashtag Loyalty and delve into the intricacies of loyalty programs, drawing parallels from Starbucks' success to Thrive's mission of bringing a robust loyalty program to India's burgeoning food landscape.

The episode dives deep into the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing F&B businesses to rethink their strategies and adapt to the new normal. Thrive emerged as a beacon of hope, offering innovative solutions such as robust loyalty programs and support for restaurants grappling with the logistics of delivery aggregators.

A focal point of the conversation revolves around the pivotal role of logistics and the dependencies of restaurants on delivery aggregators like Swiggy and Zomato. From the debacle of colour-coded bags to the quest for 98% accuracy in logistics, the team shares candid insights into the intricacies of the industry and the tenacity required to thrive in the face of adversity. They discuss the role of digital marketing and delivery platforms in reshaping the landscape of food commerce, highlighting the importance of innovation and customer-centricity.

At the heart of Thrive lies a mission to transform food discovery and ordering through its conversation platform, seamlessly integrating content, community, and commerce. The dialogue extends beyond the present landscape, offering a glimpse into the future of food and tech, including the tantalizing prospect of drone deliveries and the evolving dynamics of takeaway versus traditional delivery models.

The episode sheds light on the ethos of innovation and disruption ingrained in Thrive's DNA, exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience required to challenge industry norms and pioneer transformative change. Learn firsthand from the founding team's experiences, as they share actionable strategies, invaluable lessons, and candid reflections on their entrepreneurial journey.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur seeking inspiration, a seasoned industry professional craving insights, or simply a food enthusiast with a penchant for innovation, this episode promises a captivating blend of storytelling, education, and empowerment. Join the conversation, ignite your imagination, and embark on a journey of discovery with Thrive and Magazine St. Kitchen.

Welcome to Episode 4 of Magazine St. Kitchen x Thrive presents Speak Greasy Season 2, where host Gauri Devidayal sits down with Anuradha Joshi Medhora, the visionary founder of Charoli Foods. In this captivating conversation, Anuradha takes us on a gastronomic journey through the royal cuisine of Madhya Pradesh, her hometown, specialising in Malwa cuisine and the history, geography and political power it holds!

Delving into the roots of her culinary expertise, Anuradha shares fond memories of learning to cook from her grandparents, who were the first non-vegetarian enthusiasts in their family. She reveals intriguing anecdotes about how her grandfathers maintained separate diaries for their recipes and stories, a tradition observed in many royal and influential families.

Anuradha's entrepreneurial journey began with her first pop-up at a furniture store, where she defied the odds of not having a kitchen to showcase her culinary creations. Despite facing challenges, including navigating the impact of Covid-19, Anuradha's resilience and passion for food shine through as she shares her experiences of using her neighbors' fridges for catering during the pandemic.

The conversation extends beyond culinary tales to encompass a rich tapestry of history, geography, and cultural influences. Anuradha provides insights into the diverse cooking styles inspired by neighboring states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Nepal, shaping the unique flavor profile of Madhya Pradesh food.

Explore the fascinating dynamics of royal kitchens, where food and medicinal properties intertwine, and learn about the art of hospitality practiced by India's royal families. Anuradha sheds light on the intricate balance of managing religious sentiments and food expectations within the kingdom, offering a glimpse into the culinary heritage of Madhya Pradesh.

In an era of burgeoning home chefs and supper clubs, Anuradha emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and upskilling in the F&B industry. Drawing from practical heirloom methods and tips, she highlights the significance of making food with love and the ease of starting an F&B home business.

The episode culminates with a spirited discussion on debunking myths surrounding veg biryani and unraveling the actual technique behind this beloved dish. Join us for an enlightening exploration of tradition, innovation, and the culinary treasures of Madhya Pradesh in this episode of Speak Greasy. Don't miss out on this immersive journey into the heart of Malwa cuisine!

Welcome to Episode 3 of Magazine St. Kitchen x Thrive presents Speak Greasy with Gauri Devidayal Podcast! Join host Gauri Devidayal as she sits down with the dynamic Anurag Arora, a designer turned cook who's been making waves in the culinary world. In this episode, Anurag shares the fascinating story of his journey from selling out home pop-up tickets in just one minute to challenging the notion of fine dining with his innovative concepts.

Listen in as Anurag discusses his upbringing in a vegetarian Punjabi family, his food obsessions, and the various phases that have shaped his culinary evolution. From his early days as a budding chef in his mother's kitchen to his adventures as the popular 'nanni' chef and his career in designing global UI/UX for companies like Uber, Anurag's story is one of creativity, passion, and relentless innovation.

Discover how Anurag navigated the changing F&B landscape post-COVID by experimenting with residential pop-ups and redefining the concept of restaurants with his latest venture, Apartment. Get ready for a hilarious and engaging conversation about design, breaking barriers, and the art of putting oneself out on a plate - both in branding and from the kitchen!

Tune in now to hear Anurag's inspiring journey and glean insights into the future of culinary innovation in India and beyond. Don't miss out on this deliciously entertaining episode of the Speak Greasy Podcast!

Welcome to Episode 2 of the Speak Greasy Podcast! Join us as we dive deep into the culinary world with the one and only Shriya Shetty, renowned as the Ghee Roast Queen of India and co-founder of Buttercream Co. AKA BuCo. In this episode, Shriya shares her fascinating journey from a B.Com graduate to a trailblazer in the F&B industry.

Listen in as Shriya discusses the challenges faced by women in hot kitchens, the delicate balance between sharing and guarding culinary secrets, and the importance of education and qualifications for aspiring chefs. Get ready to explore the vibrant food scene and rich culinary traditions of Karnataka, with a special focus on mouthwatering Mangalorean cuisine.

Discover Shriya's passion for researching lesser-known recipes in India and her dedication to preserving and promoting the authentic flavors of her hometown. From laughter to introspection, this conversation promises to inspire and enlighten, offering valuable insights for food enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Tune in now to learn from the wisdom of the Ghee Roast Queen herself and uncover the secrets behind the delectable dishes of Mangalorean cuisine! Don't forget to hit subscribe for more mouthwatering conversations on the Speak Greasy Podcast.