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Still celebrity endorsement does not hurt,and Olive has got a lot of that right from the beginning. For most Bandra-based movie stars,models and socialites,Olive remains the restaurant of choice. “I won’t deny that celebrities helped create a buzz,” admits Singh,“But we’ve always stayed true to our philosophy — which is creating a home away from home for our customers. It’s a place where people can sit down for leisurely meals,chat,laugh,learn about wine and food,enjoy book readings and learn to appreciate art.” The ‘Mediterranean formula’,as Singh describes it,clearly hit a spot with customers.

There have been a few hurdles along the way,the biggest one being the government. “The advice I’d give to anyone who’s getting into the restaurant business in India is to know that the government plays a big role in how your business is going to shape up.” Olive’s Delhi branch,with its sprawling lawns and a fabulous view of the Qutb Minar,was shut down in 2006 when a neighbourhood committee complained about this being in the vicinity of a national monument. Singh is still sore about it. “We hadn’t violated any norms. We don’t buy their argument about a commercial establishment not being allowed in that area. After all,the government itself has opened restaurants near national monuments.”

But its hard to keep a successful brand down — after a successful launch in Bangalore,Olive went on to open on second locations in both Delhi and Mumbai. Eventually last year,the seal was lifted from the Mehrauli property as well. Now Singh is looking into further expansion of the brand. “The last few years we’d spend in consolidating and building our brand. Now,we’re looking at opening franchises in other Indian cities.”

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