When Indore’s Spirits Soared

 

 

A Dream Brewed in Nostalgia

 

The year was 2018. Shrikant Singh had already dipped his hands in Indore's hospitality scene with his experience at R9, feeling a tug towards something different. He noticed a yearning for the "good old days" among the city's patrons, a desire for a space that offered more than just drinks – a space that offered a journey back in time. The idea of a restobar, brimming with the charm of yesteryear but equipped with the comforts of today, began to ferment in his mind.

 

He envisioned outdoor seating, the warm glow of fairy light and lamps, and the rhythmic pulse of classic rock and roll. Every detail, from the selection of rare single malts to the antique decor pieces, was meticulously curated to evoke a sense of comfortable nostalgia. This wasn't just about opening a bar; it was about crafting an experience, a story whispered through every brick and beam of House of Malts.

 

The Alchemy of Ambience

 

The challenge was significant: how do you blend the allure of the past with the demands of the present? Shrikant, with his innate understanding of his audience, knew it wasn't enough to simply play old songs. He delved deep into the aesthetics of the retro era, sourcing authentic artifacts, commissioning custom-made furniture that echoed vintage designs, and even designing a menu that paid homage to classic single malts, blended whiskies and cocktails while adding a modern twist.

 

The result was a sensory symphony. Stepping into House of Malts restobar is like stepping onto a meticulously designed film set from the 70s or 80s, yet with a vibrant, contemporary energy. The clinking of glasses, the murmur of conversations, and the carefully curated playlists create an atmosphere that is both familiar and exciting. It's a place where young professionals unwind after a long day, where friends relive old memories, and where new stories are forged against a backdrop of timeless charm.

 

The Spirit of Success: More Than Just a Bar

 

Shrikant’s experience in the industry began when he wanted to do more than just a job. Having worked in outdoor media and marketing in Mumbai, he wanted to try out something his own. However, wanting to settle down in Indore, he needed to understand the city first. He left his job and came down to Indore. He started understanding the hospitality industry through a childhood friend who gave him access to his own restaurant. This experience led to understanding people's perceptions and choices. 

 

The establishment of R9 was a success but there was a judgment by the Supreme Court that no liquor wine shops and liquor brands will be serving any liquor on national highways.  So because of that they had to drop off the grid with R9. Since revenues started diving low, the entire model vanished because the whole concept was to give the experience of a banquet with poolside along with restaurant bar and without liquor it didn’t float. So they had to shut it down. After that the House of Malts was established.

 

“We used to have only one or two outlets in Indore in 2018 that had at least about four or five single malts, ten blended scotches, and four or five different types of beer. Whenever I visited Mumbai, Bangalore, or Delhi, the bar there stocked at least 50/50 options in single malt and 50/50 options in blended squads.  So my intention was to have a space where all of these brands would be available at all times. That is how we came up with the space and also the name "House of Malts," which refers to the grain used to create whiskey.” 

 

 

House of Malts Restobar quickly transcended the definition of a mere drinking establishment. It became an evening hub, a sanctuary for those seeking an escape from the mundane office life and wanting to unwind well. Shrikant Singh's unwavering dedication to quality – from the premium selection of spirits to the impeccable service – solidified its reputation.

 

“Being recognized at the 'iBelieve Conclave and Awards' has certainly boosted my personal brand. It's a personal achievement that not everyone gets to experience. More importantly, it has significantly helped House of Malts and my other ventures over the past three to four years. The recognition provides a strong platform, allowing us to confidently launch new projects. We have built a loyal following and a positive reputation in the market, giving us an advantage over competitors.”

 

The bar became renowned for its themed nights, its live music performances featuring local talent covering retro hits, and its ability to consistently deliver an unforgettable experience. Word spread like wildfire, and soon, House of Malts became a must-visit destination in Indore, attracting patrons not just from the city but from surrounding areas as well. Shrikant's personal touch, his constant presence, and his genuine interactions with guests became an integral part of the bar's charm. He wasn't just an owner; he was the charismatic host, guiding his guests through a journey of delightful experience.

 

A Toast to the Future

Today, House of Malts Restobar stands as a shining example of entrepreneurial vision and passion. It's a testament to Shrikant Singh's belief that a business thrives despite the challenges thrown - pandemic or otherwise-  when it offers something truly unique and resonates deeply with its audience. The bar isn't just a place to enjoy a drink; it's a living, breathing narrative of Indore's evolving social scene, a place where the echoes of the past inspire the joys of the present.

 

“The failure rate in our industry is very high. 7 out of 10 outlets fail, either shutting down or undergoing complete concept changes. This presents a significant challenge but also an opportunity, as these closures reflect current industry trends. Established players in the restaurant business understand operational nuances. We adapt our menu, including cuisines and cocktails, to align with market demands and cater specifically to what Indore desires, giving us a competitive edge."

The future is being created now!

 

“Currently, our future plans are focused on two main directions. Firstly, we are moving towards franchising our existing models, with discussions already underway with potential partners. We anticipate franchising Ubud, Olio, and House of Malts very soon, and a comprehensive model, including all necessary SOPs, is being developed for this purpose. Our immediate next step involves franchising these three outlets as room properties. Secondly, we are keenly interested in opening a hotel property in Indore in the near future.”

 

And what if not in the F & B industry - Where would you be?

“I would have been doing something in real estate or fashion. I have an inclination towards these industries, though I am completely immersed in my restaurant business”.

 

 

Looking into the Crystal Ball… Shrikant predicts - 

 

“For the past 15 years, Indore has seen the evolution of its business landscape. I believe the new formats emerging in the city will revolve around specialty cuisines, such as Lebanese, Japanese, and Korean restaurants. These have already started gaining traction and are performing well. Many national brands have found success in Indore, and there's a growing demand for more authentic and specific culinary experiences. This area, I feel, holds significant potential for growth in Indore.

 

In line with national market trends, I believe the future lies in casual dining experiences. The era of clubs being guaranteed profit centers is likely over for the next three to four years, though a few exceptions might still thrive. The overall industry trend points towards dining establishments that offer a diverse range of options—places where you can enjoy coffee, beer, and a variety of food, be it Indian cuisine or multi-cuisine. Essentially, places that cater to everyone's preferences.”

 

As the lights dim and the music swells, one can almost hear the whispered tales of yesteryear mingling with the laughter and conversations of today. House of Malts restobar isn't just a success story; it's an ongoing saga, lovingly crafted by Shrikant Singh, proving that sometimes, looking back can indeed light the way forward.

 

What aspect of House of Malts restobar or Shrikant Singh's journey interested you most? 
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