Copyright timesnownews
When a man known for his sharp cover drives and century-making consistency decides to step into the hospitality business, you know it’s not going to be an average venture. Virat Kohli—cricket’s golden boy and India’s poster child of fitness—has once again shown that his flair extends beyond the field. And this time, it’s into the heart of Mumbai’s glamorous Juhu, where his restaurant One8 Commune has taken over none other than Kishore Kumar’s legendary bungalow, Gouri Kunj. The move has created quite the buzz—not just because Kohli has swapped his bat for a business apron, but because the menu has sparked a fiery debate online. After all, when a tandoori roti costs Rs 118 and steamed rice goes for Rs 318, the internet is bound to raise its eyebrows. But as Kohli himself might say, “quality always comes at a premium.” The One8 Commune Juhu outlet isn’t just another celebrity-owned restaurant—it’s an ode to nostalgia and artistry. Set in the very bungalow that once echoed with Kishore Kumar’s timeless melodies, Kohli’s decision to open here feels like a cross-generational handshake between two Indian icons. According to a report by The Times of India, Kohli chose the location as a tribute to Kishore Kumar, whom he has long admired. The restaurant retains a vintage charm, with subtle design nods to the singer’s legacy—old photographs, soft retro music, and an ambience that mixes old-world charisma with contemporary chic. In a video shared on One8 Commune’s YouTube channel, Kohli took television host and actor Manish Paul on a guided tour through the restaurant, reminiscing about his love for food and revealing his personal touches across the menu. The space radiates warmth and simplicity, much like Kohli’s personality off the field—a perfect balance between community and comfort. A Menu That Matches The Man Now, let’s get to what everyone’s talking about—the food. The One8 Commune menu offers an impressive spread of global flavours, fusing comfort classics with conscious choices. Think of it as Virat Kohli’s plate on a Sunday evening—wholesome, balanced, and a bit indulgent. There’s a dedicated section called “Virat’s Favourites”, featuring tofu steak, mushroom dumplings drizzled with truffle oil, and a vibrant superfood salad—reflecting his vegetarian lifestyle. But vegetarians aren’t the only ones treated here. The menu also celebrates meat and seafood lovers, offering everything from grilled prawns to perfectly spiced kebabs. According to Zomato, however, you’ll need to shell out a decent sum for the experience. The prices have caused quite a stir online— Steamed rice: Rs 318 Salted fries: Rs 348 Tandoori roti or baby naan: Rs 118 Mascarpone cheesecake: Rs 748 And here’s a quirky twist—pet food is also on the menu, priced between Rs 518 and Rs 818. So if you’re planning to bring your furry friend along, they’ll dine in style too. From Jersey No. 18 To Restaurant No. One8 For those wondering about the name—One8 Commune is a nod to Kohli’s iconic jersey number, 18. It’s more than just branding; it’s a piece of his cricketing identity carried into his new innings as an entrepreneur. A huge “18” is emblazoned across one of the walls, seamlessly merging his sporting spirit with the restaurant’s vibe. The interiors mirror Kohli’s energy—minimal yet full of life. A glass roof floods the space with natural sunlight, giving it a breezy, open feel. The design invites guests to linger, to laugh, to share—exactly what Kohli envisioned when he said the place was meant for “every community to feel at home.” Fun Fact: Kohli once said that while he loves a good ambience, it’s the food that should do the talking. Every dish is tested, tasted, and perfected to his exacting standards before making it to the menu. Beyond Juhu: A Growing Food Empire The Mumbai restaurant may be the latest jewel in Kohli’s culinary crown, but One8 Commune already has a strong presence across India—with outlets in Delhi, Pune, and Kolkata. Each one captures a slightly different essence, but they all carry the same message: togetherness through food. With Juhu, Kohli’s foray into Mumbai’s food scene feels like a homecoming of sorts—a mix of glamour, nostalgia, and modern charm that fits perfectly in a city that loves its celebrities as much as its cuisine. Virat & Anushka: The Power Couple Keeping It Private Away from the spotlight of his business ventures, Kohli remains the devoted family man. Married to actor Anushka Sharma since 2017, the couple are parents to two children—Vamika and Akaay. Despite their fame, they’re known for fiercely protecting their privacy. Anushka, who was last seen on-screen in Zero (2018), has been selective about her projects, focusing more on family and philanthropy. She recently shared a touching Diwali Instagram Story appreciating her sister-in-law Chetna Kohli’s commitment to yoga—a rare glimpse into their otherwise guarded personal life. The Business Side Of Virat Kohli Kohli’s entrepreneurial innings extend far beyond restaurants. His ventures include: One8 (lifestyle and sportswear brand) Wrogn (athleisure label) Chisel Fitness (gym chain) He’s also invested in several promising startups—Blue Tribe Foods (plant-based meat), Rage Coffee, Hyperice, Universal Sportsbiz, and most recently, Agilitas Sports, founded by former Puma India MD Abhishek Ganguly. Clearly, Kohli’s off-field strategy is as calculated and ambitious as his on-field batting—playing smart, long-term shots.
