Discover Uttarakhand Magazine

Just imagine, walking into a place where the air is thick with the aroma of spices, the ambiance whispers tales of tradition, and every bite feels like a journey into history. This is no ordinary dining experience, it’s a legacy, one that has been a cornerstone of culinary excellence for decades. For those who’ve wandered through the vibrant streets near Ram Jhula in Rishikesh, it’s a name that needs no introduction. 

Yes, we’re talking about Chotiwala,  a name etched in the hearts of food lovers far and wide. Now, this rich heritage takes a leap forward as Mayank Agarwal, joined by his brother Anuj, carries the family’s iconic story into a new chapter with QUA, an exquisite fine-dining venture in Dehradun. But before we explore this exciting evolution, let’s get back to the foundation and delve into the journey of the man whose vision started this culinary empire—Dinesh Kumar Agarwal.

Excerpts from the interview:

Can you share the story of how Chotiwala was founded and your role in shaping its legacy?

Our family has been in the food and beverage industry since the 19th century, a journey shaped by sacrifices and a commitment to service. Chotiwala was established in 1958 by my father and his younger brother, the sons of my grandfather, Bhagat Puranmal Ji. 

Moved by the plight of pilgrims visiting Swargashram who often went hungry, they started Chotiwala in a small hut to serve affordable, wholesome meals. The early days were challenging, but their dedication laid the foundation for Chotiwala’s legacy. 

I joined them at a young age, contributing to transforming Chotiwala into a welcoming space for pilgrims. We improved facilities, created local jobs, and streamlined operations to ensure every guest had a memorable experience.

What values and traditions did you emphasize while building Chotiwala into the iconic restaurant it is today?

Chotiwala was built on the belief that serving others is a sacred duty. We prioritized offering high-quality food at minimal cost, ensuring every guest felt valued and cared for. Cleanliness, quality, and hospitality were central to our operations, with every meal prepared as if for a divine guest. 

How does it feel to see your sons expanding the family legacy with ventures like QUA?

It fills me with immense pride and joy to see Mayank and Anuj carry forward our family’s legacy through their own vision. Their venture, QUA, represents a new chapter, blending tradition with modernity in fine dining. 

Seeing the dedication and values we instilled now flourishing in new directions reassures me that the legacy of Chotiwala is in safe hands. 

What advice or lessons have you passed on to your sons as they take the family business forward?

I’ve always told my sons that success comes through sacrifices and dedication. The essence of this business lies not in profit but in the satisfaction of serving others. 

Maintaining quality, cleanliness, and a personal connection with every guest is key. Treat every visitor as divine, and the blessings you receive will be immeasurable. I’ve also encouraged them to embrace innovation while staying rooted in the values of service and humility that have guided us through the years. 

Looking back, what has been the most fulfilling aspect of being part of this rich culinary legacy, and what are your hopes for its future?

The most fulfilling aspect has been the gratitude of the countless pilgrims we’ve served. Chotiwala has become a place of comfort and nourishment, and hearing travelers speak of it with affection brings immense joy. 

One of my proudest moments is our tradition of serving meals for just ₹2 on our foundation day, a reminder of our humble beginnings and purpose.

As tourism grows and the next generation carries the torch, I am confident Chotiwala will continue to thrive.

After exploring the rich history and legacy of Chotiwala through the eyes of Dinesh Kumar Agarwal, it’s time to turn the spotlight onto the driving force behind its next chapter.

Mayank Agarwal, in collaboration with his brother Anuj, is redefining dining in Dehradun with their fine-dine venture, QUA.With its sophisticated ambiance, exquisite menu, and a dining experience that blends innovation with tradition, QUA has quickly become a hotspot in the city. From intimate dinners to celebrations, it’s setting new benchmarks in hospitality.

Now, let’s delve into the journey, vision, and passion of Mayank Agarwal—the man leading this culinary revolution.

Can you tell us about your early life and upbringing? How did your family influence your journey into the hospitality industry?

I grew up in a family deeply rooted in the hospitality business, where exceptional service and care for others were the guiding principles. Watching my father dedicate himself to the business instilled in me a sense of pride, discipline, and purpose. These early experiences shaped my understanding of the industry’s demands and inspired my passion for hospitality. The values of hard work, attention to detail, and prioritizing customer satisfaction became integral to my journey in this field.

The legacy of Chotiwala is well-known. How does it feel to be a part of such a celebrated tradition?

Being part of a legacy like Chotiwala fills me with immense pride. It has been a privilege to witness the dedication my father has invested in this business over the last 50 years. Starting at a young age, my brother and I have embraced the responsibility of continuing this tradition. The legacy is a reminder of our roots, the struggles of past generations, and the importance of preserving the values that define us.

What challenges have you faced in maintaining the legacy of Chotiwala while adapting to modern dining trends?

Maintaining Chotiwala’s legacy while adapting to modern trends has been a delicate balancing act. Preserving tradition in an evolving market requires thoughtful decision-making and adaptability. The challenge lies in staying true to our roots while catering to the expectations of a dynamic customer base. It demands resilience and the ability to innovate without compromising the essence of our brand.

What inspired you to open QUA in Dehradun? How does it differ from Chotiwala in terms of concept and offerings?

The idea for QUA emerged from a gap in the market for family-oriented fine dining. Families often had to choose between regular restaurants and clubs, neither of which offered a complete experience. QUA was designed to bridge that gap, creating a space where families could enjoy exceptional food and a warm ambiance.

Unlike Chotiwala, which is rooted in tradition, QUA focuses on crafting unique experiences with live music, curated dishes, and a cozy environment. It’s more than just a dining venue—it’s a place to create memorable moments with loved ones, blending leisure, taste, and sophistication.

What is your approach to hospitality and creating memorable dining experiences for your customers?

At QUA, every detail—from branding to ambiance—is meticulously curated to ensure an exceptional dining experience. Our team of skilled chefs and professionals strives to deliver excellence in every aspect.

The journey begins the moment guests walk in, where they are welcomed into a family-friendly environment. Personalized service is key; each guest is assigned a dedicated waiter to ensure a seamless and relaxed experience. Complementing this is our live music, creating a soothing atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and enjoy.

Our mission is clear: to make every visit memorable and leave customers feeling valued and deeply connected to the unique experience we provide.

Who has been your greatest inspiration in life and business, and why?

My father has been my greatest inspiration. His dedication and work ethic in sustaining and growing our family business have profoundly influenced me. Watching him prioritize the business and our family’s legacy has instilled in me the importance of perseverance, discipline, and staying true to one’s principles. His relentless pursuit of excellence motivates me to strive for greatness in all aspects of my life.

How do you handle the pressures of running multiple restaurants and maintaining such a renowned legacy?

Managing multiple ventures comes with its challenges, but years of experience in the family business have equipped me to handle them. Observing my father’s resilience and problem-solving skills has been invaluable.

When embarking on new ventures, I was prepared for the complexities involved. The lessons learned from managing Chotiwala have provided a strong foundation, enabling me to navigate pressures with confidence and stay focused on achieving my goals.

What are your future plans for both Chotiwala and QUA? Do you see yourself expanding to other cities?

For Chotiwala, I envision expanding its presence to prominent religious destinations across India, turning it into a symbol of cultural and spiritual significance. I want Chotiwala to embody the values and traditions that resonate with people deeply.

For QUA, the goal is to establish it as a premier fine-dining brand in cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, and Gurugram. I aim to showcase QUA’s roots in Dehradun while scaling it into a national brand that reflects sophistication and excellence. Both Chotiwala and QUA are close to my heart, and I am committed to ensuring they grow while preserving their unique identities.

What advice would you give to aspiring restaurateurs who want to balance tradition with innovation?

Stay true to your roots. Tradition gives your brand its authenticity and soul, while innovation keeps it relevant. Growth should complement your core values, not overshadow them.

Reflect on the principles that define your journey and use them as a guide for expansion or creativity. Balancing tradition with innovation allows you to evolve while staying meaningful and connected to your audience. This harmony is the key to building a successful and enduring brand.

This brings us to an end of our conversation with Mr Mayank agarwal but the legacy story still continues.

His  journey through the hospitality industry is a remarkable blend of tradition, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. Raised in a family that deeply values service, he has seamlessly carried forward the legacy of Chotiwala while creating a unique space with QUA that redefines dining experiences in Dehradun. His vision of expanding both brands, while staying true to their roots, speaks to his deep understanding of the evolving demands of the market.

However, behind every success is a strong support system, and for Mayank, that pillar of strength has been his brother, Anuj Agarwal. Together, they form an inseparable force, working hand in hand to preserve their family’s legacy and elevate it to new heights. As we continue to explore their journey, let us now turn our attention to Anuj Agarwal, whose contributions have been pivotal in shaping their shared vision and success.

How did you become involved in this venture, and what role do you play in managing QUA?

The idea of opening a fine-dining restaurant in Dehradun emerged as a joint vision, recognizing a gap in this niche within the local hospitality market. I took on the responsibility of financial planning and have since become a critical behind-the-scenes contributor, serving as the backbone of this venture. My role encompasses managing the legal, financial, and regulatory aspects, which are vital to the restaurant’s smooth functioning. My elder brother and I work collaboratively, complementing each other’s strengths. While he handles the creative and operational aspects, I ensure that the structural and compliance-related dimensions are robustly managed. 

What was your vision for QUA when you and Mayank decided to bring it to Dehradun?

As the fourth generation of a hospitality legacy that spans over a century, my brother and I envisioned diversifying our core business into the luxury hospitality sector. Our goal was to bring the warmth, customer service, and culinary excellence that our family has been known for over the last seven decades into a contemporary setting. We wanted to establish a brand that resonates with Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, offering guests a memorable dining experience that reflects the same dedication and flavorful traditions. The vision for QUA was to become the “Talk of the Town” for family fine dining in Dehradun—a destination where tasteful food and an exceptional experience leave a lasting impression. We aspired to make QUA as iconic as Chotiwala, positioning it as a benchmark in the World Food Forum. 

How do you and your brother collaborate to ensure the success of both Chotiwala and QUA?

Our collaboration is rooted in teamwork and mutual respect, with each of us leveraging our distinct expertise to create a unified synergy. My brother takes charge of the front-end operations, focusing on product development, business growth, and strategic partnerships. In contrast, I manage the back-end operations, including legal compliance, financial management, and process optimization. This complementary dynamic allows us to focus on our respective strengths while working toward a common vision. Our schedules are distinct but aligned, ensuring the growth and success of both Chotiwala and QUA, continuing the family legacy of excellence for over seven decades. It’s more than a partnership—it’s a shared heritage that drives us forward. 

What unique elements do you bring to the business that complement the family legacy?

I bring a forward-looking perspective infused with energy and innovation, aligning with the visionary foundation laid by our forefathers. My grandfather established Chotiwala as a unique culinary destination for pilgrims, and my father expanded its legacy over five decades with his customer-first philosophy and transformative leadership. Today, I strive to carry this legacy forward, introducing modern elements that resonate with contemporary audiences while staying true to our core values. I describe this journey as “By the Generations, For the Generations,” symbolizing our family’s enduring commitment to excellence. 

What has been the most rewarding aspect of being part of this venture so far?

The most fulfilling aspect of this venture has been the opportunity for continuous learning and growth. Transitioning from catering to the masses with Chotiwala to serving a selective, elite clientele at QUA has been a transformative experience. Each day presents new challenges and lessons, enhancing my understanding and confidence in this industry. Embracing change and adapting to new dynamics have not only enriched my skills but also reinforced my belief in the power of innovation and perseverance in achieving long-term success. 

With this we come to an end of our conversation with the pioneers of hospitality and as we reflect on the inspiring journeys shared by these torchbearers of a century-old legacy, it becomes clear that QUA is more than just a fine-dining destination—it is a testament to visionary leadership, unparalleled dedication, and the seamless blend of tradition and innovation. From Mayank Agarwal’s creative brilliance and operational expertise to Anuj Agarwal’s meticulous financial stewardship and behind-the-scenes resilience, and the shared passion of this dynamic team, QUA stands as a beacon of excellence in Dehradun’s hospitality landscape. 

This may be the conclusion of their stories, but it marks the beginning of something truly extraordinary—an experience that redefines luxury dining in the region. We urge you to visit QUA, where every detail reflects the essence of a family legacy and a promise of culinary and experiential perfection. Come and witness the artistry, passion, and heritage brought to life by Mayank Agarwal, a true torchbearer of this illustrious legacy.