Sunny Dua
In a city bustling with the aroma of various cuisines, Jammu has witnessed a culinary revolution with the emergence of Kaffberry. This self-effacing restaurant, adorned with minimalist design, has become a haven for food enthusiasts seeking pure vegetarian delights. Combining the best of a cafe and a bakery, Kaffberry has quickly made its mark as a go-to destination for gastronomic indulgence.At Kaffberry, taste buds are transported on a journey of delightful fusion.
From delectable pastries and sandwiches to aromatic coffees and teas, every item on the menu is crafted with precision and passion.Stepping into Kaffberry is like entering a realm of tranquility. The restaurant’s minimalist design aesthetic having white and gold combination creates an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and mindfulness. Clean lines, earthy tones, and subtle lighting combine to create an ambiance that is both contemporary and soothing.
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Whether you’re seeking a quiet spot to work or a place to unwind with friends, Kaffberry offers the perfect setting.Kaffberry’s unique blend of a cafe and bakery sets it apart from other dining establishments. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the scent of freshly baked bread, tantalizing your senses and leaving you craving for more. “We don’t use any preservatives in bread or cookies and the shelf life of later is almost one month”, claims Managing Director, of Kaffberry Srishti Nagpal.
In the heart of Jammu city, a pure vegetarian oasis has emerged, captivating the taste buds and hearts of its patrons which has also won appreciation from Deepinder Goyal, founder of Zomato, a multinational restaurant aggregator and food delivery company. “Kaffberry, a homegrown brand, stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of its Managing Director, Srishti Nagpal, who hails from a family deeply rooted in the hospitality business.As the second generation of the renowned Khana Khazana restaurant lineage, Srishti brings a refreshing caffe vibe to Kaffberry, starting with the beloved Kaffberry bakery, which specializes in delectable eggless treats.
The Nagpal family has garnered immense trust and loyalty from customers seeking eggless delights, a reputation solidified further by Kaffberry’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality.In in exclusive interview to this journalist, Srishti Nagpal said, “journey for Kaffberry hasn’t been without its challenges. The unfortunate impact of the Covid pandemic forced the closure of their previous establishment in Channi Hmmat. Undeterredwe emerged bigger, brighter and better, relocating to a new space that surpassed its predecessor in every aspect”.
The place today stays abuzz with food lovers and on weekends getting a table becomes herculean task, she claimed.Srishti’s educational journey, though diverse, played an instrumental role in shaping her vision for Kaffberry. Having done her schooling from Sacred Heart, Dalhouse she joined Hans Raj College in Delhi and then pursued her masters from Jammu, where she simultaneously delved into English literature and mastered the art of bakery.
Working alongside her brother, Maval Nagpal, who serves as the co-managing director, Srishti has been the driving force behind Kaffberry’s success.The name “Kaffberry” itself embodies their unique concept-a fusion of coffee and bakery. She goes on to add, “Kaff symbolizes caffeine, the essence of coffee, while Berry represents the luscious berries found in bakery creations, such as blueberries. Since its grand reopening during Christmas of 2022, Kaffberry has been an epitome of architectural finesse.
Though the services of an architect from Delhiwere sought yet Srishti’s another brother Ritin Nagpal, the main brain behind the project, rendered his knowledge and taste in designing the interiors which were meticulously done to create a vibrant and bright ambiance, appealing to a niche clientele. The basement, with its refreshing white and gold theme, exudes a soothing and calming aura, akin to that of a proper coffee shop.
The furniture, specially procured from Delhi and tailored according to the architect’s vision and the Nagpal family’s taste, perfectly complements the raised platforms and its unique layout. A dedicated round coffee bar, cabanas, defused lighting and warm lamp shades all ensure that every patron has their own private space, be it for a couple’s intimate evening or a lively kitty party. “Privacy was a significant concern, and Kaffberry addressed it with utmost care”, Srishti asserted.
With a seating capacity of 100 covers, Kaffberry prides itself on its professional chef from Delhi, who brings with him a wealth of experience from running major restaurant chains. The extensive menu spans seven cuisines: Thai, Continental, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Pan-Asian, North Indian, and Lebanese. Adapting to the discerning palates of their clientele, Kaffberry realizes the importance of serving dishes tailored to their tastes, if sought, ultimately ensuring repeat customers and survival in the competitive industry.
To cater to their diverse and targeted audience, Kaffberry has on its menu staggering 200 dishes, prices of which range anything between Rs 300 to Rs 450 and some even go up to Rs 800 thereby enabling two to have their dinner starting from just Rs 1000. Sushi, eggless desserts, coffee concoctions, Japanese cuisine and crepes are some of the most sought-after food which is prepared with utmost precision to enable food lovers enjoy most authentic food in the town.
The footfall is remarkable, with regular patrons gracing the establishment, and weekends being particularly bustling. Tuesdays, designated as Vegetarian Day, particularly in Jammu draws a steady crowd appreciative of the pure vegetarian offerings and we intend to serve them the best to make their day, she claimed adding that Eggless bakery products, she claimed in their Unique Selling Benefit (USB).
Kaffberry’s minimalist yet classy approach creates an inviting atmosphere, where formal dress codes are not mandatory. Patrons can walk in casually and enjoy a memorable dining experience. The café remains open until 1 am, ensuring night owls and late diners can satiate their cravings. The dedicated kitchen and serving staff besides maintenance and housekeeping count to 80 individuals who ensure that the food is prepared and served promptly, with a ready willingness to assist and provide a comfortable space for patrons.
Beyond their culinary prowess, Kaffberry has also made significant contributions to the local community in Jammu. Srishti and her team are determined to prove that they can bring their passion and expertise to their hometown, rather than seeking recognition elsewhere. Raised platforms, with wooden and marble flooring add warmth to the interiors and separate spaces created ensures privacy of guests and party goers as well.
While challenges may arise, they welcome the appreciation they receive from their customers and guests. Some visitors from Europe have marveled at the quality of Kaffberry’s offerings, comparing them favorably to European standards. From starters to top-notch dishes, the authenticity and taste have left a lasting impression on the guests. Another couple from Goa were delighted by the Mediterranean Kawarana, a Lebanese dish prepared with meticulous attention, as they praised the vegetarian cafe for achieving such culinary feats. Kaffberry’s bakery segment remains a major highlight, and their online platforms have further expanded their reach.
To cater to the growing demand for gifting options, Kaffberry offers enticing gift hampers, particularly during festive occasions like Rakhi, Diwali, and weddings. The last-minute gift seekers find solace in Kaffberry’s range of delightful treats. Srishti herself honed her bakery skills through a small course at ICA Delhi, allowing her to craft unique concoctions that blend coffee with various mocktails. One such creation, the Coffee-Cran, combines a coffee espresso shot with cranberry juice, resulting in a delightful fusion of flavors. The Nagpal family’s journey into the world of hospitality began with Rajan Nagpal’s ventures in the walnut business, which eventually led to the establishment of Khana Khazana and now the thriving Kaffberry. The attention to detail extends to the cutlery, which harmoniously syncs with the gold and white theme, creating a seamless and visually appealing dining experience. Even the furniture has been thoughtfully curated, sourced from different parts of Delhi and beyond, to elevate the ambiance.
In a city where vegetarian cafes may be considered a challenge, Kaffberry defies expectations and continues to thrive. The success of their bakery segment, coupled with the diverse menu offerings and warm hospitality, has captivated the hearts of Jammu’s residents and visitors alike. Kaffberry has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers in the city of temples. So, the next time you find yourself in Jammu, be sure to visit Kaffberry and let your senses be enticed by a gastronomic journey like no other.
(The writer is senior journalist and food blogger)
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