Mr. Gopal Kakshapati's 50-year journey as a restaurateur is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and adaptability. From a small grocery shop to a pioneering restaurant, his story reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and its potential for growth

A Half-Century Culinary Odyssey: The Story of Mr. Gopal Kakshapati

About Mr. Gopal Kakshapati and his journey:

 Mr. Gopal Kakshapati's journey in the restaurant industry spans an impressive 50 years, a milestone that he celebrates with great pride and enthusiasm. As a seasoned restaurateur, he attributes the reason for celebration to his unwavering dedication to a particular company and the passion that has kept him going all these years. Mr. Kakshapati's journey began in a humble manner, starting with a small grocery shop named Sam's Grocery Shop at Ratna Park. However, fate had a different path laid out for him as he, his elder brother, and a group of friends took a bold step into the world of restaurants by launching Café De Park at Ratna Park in 1973, marking the beginning of their adventurous foray into the business world.

In the early days, Mr. Kakshapati didn't possess a burning passion for the restaurant industry. Instead, as individuals with a strong background in business, they found joy in any venture they undertook. With time and experience, their interest in the restaurant business blossomed, driven by their willingness to learn and improve. This gradual evolution of passion reflects the mindset of entrepreneurs who are determined to succeed, regardless of the initial lack of zeal. Amidst the growing competition, Café D Park carved a niche for itself by becoming the first restaurant to introduce Western food to the public, a revolutionary step at the time. Hotdogs, burgers, cakes, and pizzas were a novelty, and the restaurant soon became a hub for students, professors, and commuters, transforming the restaurant landscape. With the changing times, the restaurant culture burgeoned, and today, restaurants have become an integral part of people's lives, with Kathmandu witnessing substantial spending on eateries.

 

One of the most defining moments in these 50 years:

 He stated, it was when Mr. Kakshapati's journey transitioned to Durbar Marg, where the family turned their business into a closely-knit, family-owned establishment. It was during this period that the foundation of Nanglo was laid, a successful venture that would leave a lasting impact on the culinary landscape. As he reflects on his business's growth, Mr. Kakshapati acknowledges the presence of both challenging and pleasant moments, each contributing to the rich tapestry of his 50-year journey. Looking ahead, Mr. Kakshapati contemplates the future of his business and the industry at large. Embracing the concept of infinite plans, he remains open to the endless possibilities that time may unfold. As he nears a new phase in his life, he envisions passing the baton to the younger generation, eager to infuse the business with fresh ideas and innovations. This sense of continuity and renewal is a testament to the dynamic nature of the restaurant industry.

 

Challenges you have faced during the period:

As with any industry, the restaurant business has its share of hurdles, and Mr. Kakshapati has experienced and overcome them throughout his journey. In the past, sourcing ingredients and beverages for Western cuisine posed challenges, but they persevered with the support of friends and family. However, the landscape of hurdles has transformed, and now, the scarcity of skilled human resources, particularly with increasing numbers of people seeking opportunities abroad, has emerged as a major challenge. Staff turnover and retention have become critical concerns for the industry.

Despite the hurdles, Mr. Kakshapati remains optimistic about the future of the restaurant business. He acknowledges that the industry's dynamic nature implies the constant opening and closing of establishments, and he draws parallels to the ever-evolving restaurant scene in New York. With every challenge, he believes, comes an opportunity for innovation and growth, and he is confident in the ability of entrepreneurs to carve their own unique paths.

 

Biggest Milestone achieved:

The milestones along Mr. Kakshapati's journey are a testament to his perseverance and willingness to experiment and evolve. The growth of Café De Park, the expansion to Durbar Marg, the birth of Nanglo, the addition of Chinese Rooms, and forays into food service management and bakery establishments have marked significant chapters in their business story. Their multiple outlets of Bakery Café further strengthened their presence in the market.

 

A keynote to take from his journey:

From Mr. Gopal Kakshapati's 50-year journey as a restaurateur, we learn the power of dedication, adaptability, and embracing passion through hard work. His success story teaches us the value of family, teamwork, and innovation. As he passes on his legacy, we're reminded to plan for the future and face challenges with resilience. Let his journey inspire us to pursue our dreams with courage and unwavering belief in ourselves, creating a path worth celebrating.