Diners’ Cafe

The store,which opened in August last year,has worked hard to carve a niche for itself in a market that already has a Big Bazaar for everyday groceries and Foodhall for gourmands. By stocking up on aisles of national and international foods the two don’t offer — cans of Wazwaan food from Kashmir,several varieties of cereal and cereal bars,in addition to sushi-making kits and Korean chilly pastes — Dolce Vita offers products that are desirable to both Indian and expat clients,and are tough to find in one place.

Now,with the addition of the cafe,the store brings to Mumbai the comfortable shop-and-dine concept seen in the UK,US and Singapore. The cafe,which can accommodate 50,is located within the store,in a space that is comfortable and secluded.

The shop-and-dine concept also lures foodies looking for wine and food pairings. With 105 international wine labels and 45 brands of beer to choose from,customers can try a glass of wine at the cafe before picking up a bottle. “The cost of liquor in the cafe is obviously more because it comes under a different licence,” says Khanna.

Khanna has also ensured the space is interactive. “We’re not secretive about our recipes,” he says. “If customers want us to explain a dish to them,we’re happy to oblige,” he adds.