Opening a restaurant is a dream that many people share, but only a few are able to turn it into a successful reality. The restaurant industry is known for being tough, with high failure rates and intense competition. Despite these challenges, owning a restaurant can be incredibly rewarding both personally and financially.
Alok Badoni, a seasoned restaurateur in Kampala, understands this journey better than most. With more than 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has built a strong reputation for excellence. Before launching his own business, Badoni served as the General Manager of Haandi Restaurant, a well-known Indian restaurant group with locations in Uganda and Kenya.
In 2009, after 13 years with the Haandi Group, Badoni decided to follow his dream. He founded Aangan Restaurant, which has since grown into a successful chain under the name Aangan Limited. Known for its authentic Indian cuisine and high-quality service, Aangan has earned its place in Uganda’s competitive hospitality sector.
Aangan’s growth and long-term stability have not only come from culinary excellence and strategic management but also from having the right financial partner. From helping to finance expansion plans to providing working capital solutions, I&M Bank has played a key role in Aangan’s journey.
Speaking on the Tukikube ne I&M Bank podcast, Badoni shared insights about his journey, the challenges of running a restaurant, and the importance of strong financial partnerships.
“When I started Aangan in 2009, I&M Bank supported me in the early days of the business, and we’ve continued our partnership ever since. Trust is very important in any business relationship, and I&M Bank has been a great partner throughout the journey,” he said.
Currently, the company operates a mix of hospitality outlets, including a restaurant and bar at Rotary Avenue along Lugogo By-Pass, Kalungi Aangan Guest House in Entebbe, Aangan at Acacia, and the newly opened Aangan Delight in Bukoto, which mainly serves fast food.
For Badoni, the success of Aangan has been built not just on good food but on a strong belief in quality, consistency, and people. According to him, when you open a restaurant, it’s not for one or two years, it’s for decades. This long-term mindset guides everything from investing in durable kitchen equipment to choosing prime locations that offer safety, secure parking, and reliable infrastructure.
Location selection, Badoni explains, is based on research and understanding the local market.
“You must know where your customers are, what kind of food they want, and make sure you have the basics right like parking, security, and utilities,” he says. This approach has helped Aangan grow to several branches across Kampala, serving both walk-in guests and corporate clients.
Flexibility has also been key to Aangan’s success. While the brand is known for Indian cuisine, the menu includes Ugandan favorites including even ‘rolex’ and masala-spiced chips.
“We listen to our customers and adapt. Whether it’s a big family meal or a quick bite, we have something for everyone,” Badoni noted.
Handling large events is another strength of the business. The restaurant regularly hosts weddings, baby showers, and company functions, made possible by strong kitchen planning and well-trained staff.
“It’s all about preparation. We plan ahead, train our team, and make sure everything is ready. That’s why our clients are always satisfied,” he says.
At the core of Aangan’s operations is a focus on people. Badoni puts staff welfare first, even during tough periods like the COVID-19 lockdown.
“During that time, we were closed but I still paid staff salaries. Some had not worked for months but I supported them because I believe when you take care of your staff, they will take care of your customers.”
Through all the ups and downs, I&M Bank has been a trusted financial partner.
“In COVID, when everything was uncertain, I&M Bank stood by me. They trusted me and supported me when I needed it most. That trust means everything,” Badoni revealed.
As a message to aspiring business owners, Alok Badoni highlights the importance of preparation, focus, and understanding. He believes that before taking a loan, one should have a clear plan and deep knowledge of the business they are entering. Success, in his view, comes from doing thorough research, staying committed, and building a business based on expertise rather than following trends.
Watch Alok Badoni’s story on the I&M Bank YouTube page via: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7ocemIxYAU&t=13s
