Acapella Hospitality’s Founder - Shaan Gidwani Bags Restaurant of the Year, For Cafe Panama

A mid-day recognition for this special category. What does it mean to you?

It has been an honor to be the recipient of Mid Day - Restaurant of the Year Award. I’d like to dedicate this award to the 100 + staff that have collectively played a paramount role establishing our newly formed F&B organization. Apart from being a genuine milestone in my company’s 3 year long journey, this is an achievement that each and every member of our team can cherish and celebrate. Attaining a prestigious recognition like this is a motivator and a reminder to keep working towards our collective goal of being a remarkable F&B organization that builds a strong legacy.

Cafe Panama - Interior

What do you think are the redeeming features of your services that sets you apart from the rest?

Creating a tropical haven in the heart of a bustling city like ours is what has allowed us to set ourselves apart from many other competitors in the industry. A diversified Latin American Food and Beverage selection, with a plethora of items ranging from

decadent soft shell tacos, patatas bravas, cuban sandwiches, jerk chicken, chocolate cigars to old school tequila and mezcal based cocktails, our USP truly lies in our distinctive concept and cuisine. Latin Music, Salsa and Jazz Focused Brunces, Themed Events and an enriching F&B offering have propelled us towards carving our own niche.

What have been the challenges and triumphs (if any) that the Pandemic has posed for your sector which according to you will have a lasting effect?

The pandemic has allowed me to be cognizant of my time as well as that of others. Prioritizing work that I need to get done, along with the manner in which I need to do it, is something that the pandemic has taught me. Valuing and taking care of the entire talent pool in my business is also something that I’ve started to see the importance of, post pandemic. Lastly, taking

calculated risks and making swift decisions is also another fundamental learning of mine, after experiencing the pandemic.

Do you think you have achieved your vision or is there still more to achieve — what are your future goals?

I have definitely not fulfilled my vision with regards to my business and my career yet. I’ve barely begun my work life and I have a lot left to experience, learn and achieve. Enhancing my professional skill set, taking risks and learning as much as possible is my focus at the moment. I’m at a stage where I’m sowing the seeds for a larger dream of building an F&B organization that

celebrates unity, diversity and prioritizes an end user experience without any compromise.

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