Two Good

While the careers of both Gauri and Hiten catapulted to success with the Balaji serial Kutumb,it was their pairing in Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi that consolidated their position at the top. After several years of work on television,it was Gauri who felt the need to do something creative,and hence zeroed-in on this project. “I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur. I never wanted to work under anybody. This restobar gives me that chance to be the businesswoman I always wanted to be,” says Gauri as she checks on the lighting of the place. It was also the birth of their twins,Nevaan and Kaatiya,that prompted Gauri into taking a break from television,and try her hand at something else. “I am happy in my space looking after my kids and now this place. I don’t miss being on TV,” she says as she calls for the menu.

The restaurant oozes a good vibe and the wooden seating and the glass doors lend the place a clean,casual feel. An equipped bar with an impressive variety is also there. Since it is a franchise of the popular Crepe Station chain,the menu more or less remains the same,with focus on food items like pastas,sandwiches,burgers and crepes. “All said and done,we are not from the hospitality industry. So we wanted to partner with someone who knows the business well,” says Hiten,who attributes his interest in the venture to his Sindhi genes. What is unique to the restaurant,however,is the Lunch and Dinner Box concept. “There are close to 50,000 offices around. People will naturally want to take a break from their regular food. We offer them an alternative,” says Gauri,who summons the waiter to place an order for bruschetta and mocktails.

Over the last two years,the audience has sorely missed watching the two on screen together. “I know we work best in partnership. But sometimes we do get bored of working with each other,” says Gauri. Hiten seconds the thought. “We are actors. We must get a chance to work with others.” Hiten also reveals that he has a big show coming up,which will challenge him as an actor. “The only reason I did not take up any TV projects was because I was not offered a good subject. I did Chhoti Bahu because I had a negative role in the show,” explains the seasoned actor.

Gauri is quick to add that he is not allowed to work long hours now. “If he comes home late,he will have to stay in the elevator.” Hiten smiles and adds,“I was given this ultimatum soon after our marriage.” For now,though,the couple is waiting for the business to pick up. “It is bound to take time,but the buzz is good,” says Gauri,who next plans to set up a store to sell paintings. “In fact,that was my first dream project. I did not find a suitable place then. Hopefully,it should now fall into place.”