An interview with Ashish Thadani, a visionary entrepreneur and the Director of Ciclo Café, best known for pioneering India’s first cycling café
In the vibrant world of entrepreneurship, Ashish Thadani stands out as a visionary leader, redefining the café experience in India.
As the Director of Ciclo Café, he has successfully merged the love for cycling with a passion for coffee, creating a unique space that fosters community and wellness.
In this interview, we delve into Ashish’s journey, exploring the inspiration behind Ciclo Café and his vision for the future of cycling culture in India.
Can you share the inspiration behind the creation of Ciclo Café and how it reflects your personal passions?
Ashish Thadani: As a recreational cyclist, the opportunity to co-create India’s first cycling café in Chennai was incredibly exciting—something we embraced without hesitation.
Leading an active lifestyle has always been a core belief of mine, and Ciclo Café perfectly blends my passion for food with the spirit of movement and community.
Ciclo is more than just a café; it’s a space that encourages people to embrace an active way of life while enjoying great food and company.
What challenges have you faced in the café industry, and how have you overcome them?
Ashish Thadani: Challenges are an inherent part of the café industry—there’s never a point where you can say they’ve been completely overcome. This business is deeply personal and hands-on, relying entirely on the right people to bring the vision to life.
One of the biggest challenges has been finding and retaining a strong team. Fortunately, we’ve been lucky to build a passionate and dedicated team, and we’re now focused on growing the business with them.
Can you discuss any unique events or initiatives that Ciclo Café has hosted to connect with customers?
Ashish Thadani: Ciclo Café has hosted numerous events tailored for both seasoned cyclists and those new to the sport, creating an inclusive space for the cycling community.
Notably, we played a key role in promoting India’s first professional cycling team, encouraging young athletes to take up the sport.
Beyond cycling, our café regularly opens its doors to various events that foster an active lifestyle, bringing together enthusiasts from different backgrounds to celebrate fitness, community, and the joy of riding.
What trends do you see shaping the future of the café and restaurant industry?
Ashish Thadani: I see a balance emerging between mindful eating and indulgence—while health-conscious dining is gaining momentum, people still want to treat themselves when they go out.
Dining is becoming more experience-driven, with customers seeking unique flavours, personalized service, and engaging atmospheres.
While food delivery will continue to thrive, I believe people will always crave the social aspect of dining out—stepping out, interacting, and enjoying a meal in a vibrant setting will remain essential.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the food and beverage sector?
Ashish Thadani: Entering the food and beverage industry is challenging, so it’s crucial to be certain that this is the path you want to pursue.
Be prepared to sacrifice weekends and holidays—this is not a typical 9-to-6 job. Success in this field requires dedication, hard work, and a true passion for hospitality. Even if you’re not a “food person,” you must be deeply invested in the service aspect to create a memorable experience for customers.
Ashish Thadani’s innovative approach at Ciclo Café not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also cultivates a sense of community among cycling enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike.
His dedication to blending these two passions has set a new standard in the café industry. As we conclude our conversation, it’s clear that Ashish’s journey is just beginning, and his vision will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and cyclists across India.
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