Chef Suresh Pillai opens cafeteria for staff at his Bengaluru restaurant

Chef Suresh Pillai has charmed the food lovers in the country and abroad with his incredible recipes and unique dishes. His brand-new restaurant at Bengaluru, which serves authentic Kerala cuisine, has become hugely successful. Now, it is gaining attention on social media for opening a separate cafeteria for the staff.

The video of the cafeteria that was posted by Chef Pillai has already become viral, with netizens showering praises for not just the concept but for being so considerate to the staff. Chef Suresh Pillai speaks about the cafeteria and why he had decided to start one.

Many companies have opened such cafeterias for its staff. However, it must be rare in a restaurant. Why did you decide to open a separate staff cafeteria?
I am someone who came into this field as a staff member. So, I clearly know the struggles and hardships that an ordinary staff member face. Often, there aren’t any facilities for the staff to sit peacefully and have food. Even if there is, the staff members hardly use it. Usually, the restaurants experience lunch rush between 12-3 pm. Most staff members have lunch only after this, due to lack of space or other facilities. I have seen and experienced all these. So, I was determined to open a cafeteria like this when I decided to open my own restaurant.

How does the cafeteria function?
We couldn’t start the cafeteria, three months ago when we opened the restaurant. There wasn't enough space in the restaurant for that. We purchased some land near the restaurant and began the construction later. There are 60 staff members at the restaurant. The cafeteria has 25 seats and 4 wash rooms. It is my responsibility to take care of my staff members’ health. Two chefs have been appointed here to cook. Besides, a committee has been formed among the staff members. They are the ones who plan the menu and manage the cafeteria.

Why did you post the video?
I had posted this video on social media because I would be happy if someone gets inspired by it. There are lots of youngsters who wish to open restaurants. Many of them had messaged me after watching this video. Some people post negative comments under my posts or video. However, I didn’t receive a single negative comment under this one.

Will there be a staff cafeteria in the new restaurant too?
Yes, there will be a cafeteria facility at the new restaurant too. I will make sure that separate staff cafeterias are opened at the forthcoming restaurants too. I believe that it is one of the most significant needs of the staff.